Australia’s Top 100 Private Schools: Meet the student leaders at Queensland’s best-ranking colleges
Queensland's next generation of leaders reveal what it really takes to guide thousands of students within their schools, while chasing their own extraordinary dreams.
QLD Education
Don't miss out on the headlines from QLD Education. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Queensland's next generation of leaders reveal what it really takes to guide thousands of students within their schools, while chasing their own extraordinary dreams.
REDEEMER LUTHERAN COLLEGE
Sahil Kumar, 17
Responsibilities: As a captain, my responsibilities lie as being an exemplary member of the community, assisting with college events and activities. But it also entails being an inclusive, and approachable person who can relate with students, and can help with any queries and problems. Ultimately, we captains are tasked with furthering and enhancing the community that served us in our previous years.
Reasons for taking up the role: There are very few roles at the age of 17 which allows one to serve his community, make a difference, collaborate with students/teachers, and intersect with my qualities and vision for a better, more robust, and tolerant community. For this reason, the role appealed to me. It was an opportunity for me to give back to my community, and to the students and teachers who moulded me into who I am today. The role allowed me to fulfil the greatest act of service and stewardship, something that greatly aligned with my personal goals and aspirations.
Skills developed as captain: In my time as college captain, I have improved in my ability to relate to younger students, and to work towards achieving just outcomes for their needs. This has coincided with the development of oral advocacy, and project management which has shaped me into a punctual and efficient individual capable of impact in the community.
How being captain feels: College captain is a privilege enjoyed only by a few members of the community. This fact alone brings me a sense of gratitude to the College and community who have placed me in such a position. I also feel great personal satisfaction, knowing that I am working in a position of direct influence, that allows me to further my community, and its members. The rather tedious jobs, and sustained workload, both bring me a sense of pride, knowing that through these adversities, I am developing into a better leader, better able to help his community.
After school goals: My aspirations after school, lie in the world of corporate law, with specialty in mergers and acquisitions, solvency structuring, and taxation law. I hope that I may use my skills as captain and further develop them so that I may own and run a magic circle law firm.
Rory James Ryan-Southward, 17
Responsibilities: As a captain, I take on the responsibility of leading by example in everything I do, whether it’s in the classroom, during events, or around campus. I aim to be someone others can rely on, not just for guidance, but also for support and encouragement. It’s important to me to stay approachable while having the ability to listen to the concerns of my peers and represent their voices when needed.
Reasons for taking up the role: I wanted to become a college captain because I felt the need to give back to the community that had helped shape me as a student and a person. I’m passionate about making a positive difference, supporting others, and helping create an environment where every student feels valued and heard. This role gave me the opportunity to grow as a leader while contributing to something bigger than myself.
Skills developed as captain: As a college captain I have developed skills related to communicating with others in a way that I thought would be unrealistic for a school. In addition to this, my time management skills have improved, including meeting deadlines and punctuality.
How being captain feels: Being a college captain feels rewarding and meaningful. It yields me a sense of pride and connection, while simultaneously providing the opportunity to be responsible through leading by example and supporting others. This role helped me grow as a person and offered me the chance to give back to the College community in a positive and lasting way.
After school goals: After finishing school, I plan to travel overseas to compete in one of the top track and field competitions outside of the Diamond League. While attending college, I hope to study a degree in sports science to gain the skills and knowledge needed for a career in the sporting industry after I retire. Before then, my ultimate goal is to compete in shot put at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
Christine Kim, 17
Responsibilities: As college captain, I represent our student body, lead assemblies, support school events and work closely with staff and students to create a strong sense of community. I’m also involved in several co-curricular groups including Chamber Strings, Bella Voce, Senior Singers, Senior GBC Football and the Musical Theatre Troupe, so my blazer’s heavy, but my heart is full.
Reasons for taking up the role: Growing up, I looked up to the older students, they’ve had a big impact on who I’ve become and now that I’m in their shoes, I want to do the same. Being college captain gives me the opportunity to be that positive influence and to help shape a culture where everyone feels seen. Through co-curriculars, I’ve built friendships and connections across different year levels, which makes Redeemer feel more like a family than just a place we go to learn.
Skills developed as captain: Stepping into this role has helped me grow in so many ways. I’ve learnt how to communicate clearly, work closely with others, manage my time, and stay steady when things get stressful. These aren’t just leadership skills; they’re life skills I’ll take with me wherever I go.
How being captain feels: It’s honestly a mix of pride, pressure, and a lot of gratitude. Some days it still feels surreal to wear the badge, but more than anything, it’s a privilege. I get to represent people I care about, give back to a college that’s shaped me, and hopefully make a difference, even in the small things.
After school goals: After school, I hope to study medicine and pursue a career in healthcare. I’ve always loved science, but what draws me to medicine is the chance to use that knowledge to help real people. It feels like the perfect balance between what I’m
passionate about and the kind of impact I want to make.
Abi Thie, 17
Responsibilities: As captain, one of my biggest responsibilities is being an active presence around the college. Whether it’s at rehearsals, sports trainings, or other events, I make it a priority to show up and be involved. I try to lead by example in everything I do – encouraging others in my community to step out of their comfort zones and give new things a go. To me, leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room – it’s about showing up consistently, supporting others, and being someone people can count on.
Reasons for taking up the role: To be honest, I didn’t submit my captaincy application with the goal of becoming college captain. I only listed the role to fill in more boxes on the form! But after getting so much encouragement from friends, teachers, and peers, I started to see the potential in going for it. I ended up fully embracing the campaign process and found a real passion for what the role could mean. A big part of why I stepped up was to continue the legacy of leadership in my family — my sister once held a leadership position at this college, and I’ve always admired the way she carried herself and gave back to her community.
Skills developed as captain: As captain, I want to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way. I hope to keep growing by finding ways to make each day better — not just for myself, but for everyone around me. Whether that’s by improving communication, building stronger connections, or simply being more present, I want to continue developing as a leader who serves others and lifts those around me.
How being captain feels: Being college captain feels incredibly special. I see this position as a chance to be a role model for others — not someone who is perfect, but someone who listens, grows, and serves. I want to be the kind of leader who leads with humility, who others feel they can come to, and who always puts the team and community first.
After school goals: After school, my goal is to obtain a volleyball scholarship to a college in USA and compete within the NCAA divisions while studying. Long term, I’m striving to play professionally in Asia and represent Australia at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
BRISBANE GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Luke Saywell – captain
Responsibilities: As school captain, my primary task is to embody the values of our school: respect, leadership, endeavour, community, and learning. I looked up to captains in the past as role models, so I know that it is my responsibility to inspire future Grammar men. In addition to this, I represent our school at events, decide on our Year 12 vision for the year, and deliver messages at assemblies that students can put into action in their own lives.
Reasons for taking up the role: I wanted to take up the role of school captain to build on the legacy of the school. My goal is not to be remembered or to add my own ‘personal touch’; my goal is to leave the culture of BGS even better than we found it so that future generations can thrive. I believe that I can contribute to making our community a place where any student can strive to achieve success.
Skills developed as captain: I would like to be a better servant leader. It’s easy to be encouraging and supportive of others when you feel like it, but when you’ve had training in the morning and an assignment due, it’s a lot harder to put others before yourself. My goal is to commit to serve others regardless of what I feel like doing, whether it’s helping someone with schoolwork or supporting a mate through a tough time. I have noticed that cultivating this mindset has helped me to be even more loving towards my own family and friends.
How being school captain feels: The importance of my role was initially very daunting, but I have grown to truly appreciate the impact I can have on others. Knowing this has motivated me to become the best version of myself. I am continually humbled by all the people who put in so much effort to make our experience at BGS so amazing, so I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to my school.
After school goals: My current plan for after school is to go into finance and business because I want to do things that allow me to deal with people and work hard on collaborative projects. I am going to use my time in university to not only prepare myself for my career, but also to become more like Jesus with like-minded people.
Harper Enasio – boarding captain
Responsibilities: Being boarding captain, my main responsibility is to help create a supportive and positive culture where every boy can thrive and feel connected. I strive to be someone who sets the standards and expectations within the house, modelling the values that underpin our boarding community. My favourite part of this responsibility is helping boys reach their full potential and become better versions of themselves.
Reasons for taking up the role: The Grammar community has provided me with many opportunities which I am greatly appreciative of, and this role was a way in which I could give back. I also vividly remember when I first joined Brisbane Grammar, and the way the seniors and especially the captains at the time made me feel, and I thought I could
possibly have the same impact on others.
Skills developed as captain: I think that some of the skills I would like to develop aren’t necessarily the over the top ones, but the small, everyday skills that go unnoticed. Whether it’s improving my time management, becoming a better listener or just consistently showing up for others, I want to develop in ways that not only help me lead more effectively, but also positively influence those around me. I believe these are the kind of skills that shape not just good leaders, but good people.
How being school captain feels: Being a captain is a very fulfilling and rewarding honour that makes me want to be better than the previous day, while also encouraging others to do the same. While there’s a sense of pride and responsibility, being a captain is a humbling experience, knowing that I’m part of something much larger than myself and having the daily challenge to live up to it. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity I have been given to lead at Brisbane Grammar School.
After school goals: Beyond school I hope to attend university and study medicine or something health-related, eventually moving into a career path that will enable me to help and serve those around me. Additionally, I would also like to continue on progressing in rugby, with aspirations of playing professionally one day.
BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Abigail Buck, 17
Responsibilities: Ultimately, as Head Girls, our responsibility is to be the voice of our year level and school, and to represent them. That means delivering speeches regularly, attending and organising various events. Our job is to listen to the cohort’s ideas and needs and to transform these into actions. To do this, we have weekly meetings with the Student Council and teachers to organise and decide on initiatives.
Reasons for taking up the role: I love being involved with my school and year level, and it is a great opportunity to develop some important skills and push myself.
Skills developed as captain: The main skills to be developed are, of course, public speaking and speech writing, but also organisation, communication, compromise, and perseverance.
How being school captain feels: Being Head Girl has made me feel respected, mature, empathetic, and like I am a part of something bigger than myself. I have definitely noticed confidence in myself improve as well.
After school goals: I would like to study medicine or engineering and maybe do some travelling.
Zoe McElwaine, 16
Responsibilities: Representing the school; chairing the Student Council, which champions school spirit and student voice; addressing the School at various assemblies, and the community at various events.
Reasons for taking up the role: I have always enjoyed the challenge and responsibility of having a leadership role, and I love public speaking.
Skills developed as captain: Public speaking, organisation, ability to work as a team towards a common goal.
How being school captain feels: I have really enjoyed it, and it is a big honour.
After school goals: At the moment, to become a doctor.
TOWNSVILLE GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Zarah Moller, 17
Responsibilities: As school captain, I work with my co-captain as well as the senior leadership team and the prefects at the school to help make the Grammar community the best it can be. I help to run initiatives, get feedback from other students, and attend events on behalf of the School.
Reasons for taking up the role: I believed it would give me valuable teamwork and leadership skills to take with me for the rest of my life, as well as an opportunity to try out new and exciting experiences for my senior year.
Skills developed as captain: As captain, I feel I have developed many important skills, such as teamwork, public speaking, leadership, and time management. It is a full-on job which has given me the chance to find the way to best manage my school captain duties as well as my school work and personal life.
How being captain feels: Being school captain is an incredibly rewarding experience, and I am very grateful for the opportunity. I’ve been able to experience many new things as well as be pushed out of my comfort zone, learning the importance of hard work, never giving up, and always doing your best. It requires dedication as well as good people and time management, however it has already taught me so much and given me many valuable skills.
After school goals: After school I am hoping to attend university for medicine and to eventually work in rural Australia, as I am incredibly passionate helping people, especially those in rural areas such as where I grew up.
Oscar Caniato, 17
Responsibilities: As school captain, I am responsible for leading school assemblies with my co-captain, Zarah, organising our prefects and setting positive examples for our younger students and cohort in general
Reasons for taking up the role: I have always gravitated towards positions of leadership and considering my long and cherished history with the school, I naturally took the chance to contribute to its community in a deeper way.
Skills developed as captain: Communication, organisation and the ability to set expectations through action.
How being captain feels: Challenging at times – there are a great many expectations to uphold and responsibilities to manage; however, for all its challenges, it feels incredibly rewarding
After school goals: Pursuing a degree in medicine, with the hopes of travelling after I graduate.
STUARTHOLME SCHOOL
Charli Woodard
Responsibilities: My responsibility as a school captain is more than just speeches and meetings. Being a school captain specifically at an all-girls, close knit school, is about being a big sister to around 700 girls. Truly the greatest privilege and experience I have ever had. The responsibilities within being a school leader definitely comes with a workload, that consists of community engagement, being a voice for my peers, and representing my school at many events. A significant part of these responsibilities involves a huge part of administrative tasks, emails, meetings, posts, forms, speeches, writing and more writing!
Reasons for taking up the role: I remember in my first year at the school, thinking how much I admired the school captain and how I wanted to model myself on her. As the years passed, this feeling never went away. It wasn’t about being a leader for the sake of a title – it was about being someone others could feel comfortable around. I wanted to be the kind of person any girl, in any grade, could come to for a laugh or a cry, or just someone to sit with. I saw the role as a chance to grow, to get better at things like public speaking, but also to learn from the people around me. More than anything, it felt like a way to give back to the school I’ve genuinely loved being part of for so long.
Skills developed as captain: You NEED to be optimistic. The traditional compulsory skills like organisation, time management and communication are still essential but my key recommendation to develop would be learning to be optimistic no matter what because sometimes a cyclone hits and all your plans are literally blown away! No matter what happens your leading your school, so lead with positivity and that energy will be infectious.
After school goals: Every question a grade 12 student loves, just kidding! I am hoping to work in communications, journalism, marketing or public relations. So fingers crossed this won’t be the last article you will be reading written by me.
How being school captain feels: My journey as school captain has been so much more than I ever imagined, it’s hard to sum it up in just one word. I’ve felt excited, energised, supported, and really loved. But I’ve also had moments of doubt and feelings of being overwhelmed, because it’s a big role especially when you care so much.
Through all of it, one feeling has always stood out: gratitude. I’ve been so thankful to be given this opportunity and to represent a school that means so much to me. And if you’re thinking about being a school captain in 2026, just know that it’s okay to feel all the feelings. That’s part of it. It just means you care, and that’s a beautiful place to lead from.
Mae Carroll
Responsibilities: As a member of the Cor Unum Committee at Stuartholme School, I carry a range of responsibilities that are both challenging and fulfilling. Our primary role involves representing students of all grades by advocating from a student perspective. This means ensuring that the voices of my fellow students are heard and considered in important decision-making processes.
I take pride in promoting our school values and strive to embody Stuartholme principles in everything I do. As a member of the student leadership team we lead initiatives that foster community spirit, whether through fundraisers, or special dance-off Fridays, we love getting the whole school involved. Additionally, we find great joy in mentoring younger students, guiding them through their school experiences and encouraging their involvement in various activities. A big way we get all grades included is through the ’Lift Her Up‘ Awards, which aims to give special kudos to girls who put their friends first and lift up the people around them.
Reasons for taking up the role: I chose to take up this role on the Cor Unum Committee because I wanted to make a positive impact on our school community. This position offers me the opportunity to develop my leadership skills and engage directly with my peers to advocate for initiatives that promote inclusivity and support among students. I see this as a chance to foster a culture of empathy and action, which is vital for creating a supportive environment at Stuartholme. If even one girl feels as though her voice has been heard this year, I’ve done exactly what I signed on to do.
Skills to develop as captain: In my role on the Cor Unum Committee, I am focused on developing several key skills that will serve me well in future endeavours. I have been able to learn about conflict resolution, which involves mediating disputes and finding common ground among differing opinions. Teamwork and collaboration are vital, as I work closely with my three other committee members and students to achieve common goals. Additionally, I am honing my time management skills to balance my responsibilities on the committee with my academic workload and extra-curricular activities. Lastly, I am developing my critical thinking abilities, which will help me analyse situations and make informed decisions that benefit our school community.
How being captain feels: Being a member of the Cor Unum Committee feels incredibly rewarding. It is a privilege to lead and serve my peers, and I am constantly inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm of the students around me. While there are challenges, the experience has taught me resilience and the importance of empathy in leadership.
The emphasis on the Sacred Heart Goals has been particularly impactful, guiding my actions throughout my schooling career. I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to continue to make a difference in school and beyond.
After school goals: Looking ahead, my goals after graduating from Stuartholme are grounded in what I am passionate about. I plan to pursue further education in fields that align with my interests, particularly in law and politics. I am currently hoping to go to either Melbourne or Canberra for university. I also hope to remain active in community service and advocacy, using my skills to support causes I am passionate about.
ANGLICAN CHURCH GRAMMAR SCHOOL
George Samios, 17
Responsibilities: The role of school captain at Churchie undoubtedly comes with a vast range of responsibilities. On its surface, my role may seem like mostly logistics; writing speeches, attending meetings, and sending emails. However, I see these as just means to a greater goal. Fundamentally, I believe my duty is to help shape an ideal and enjoyable schooling experience for each and every boy, so that when they eventually walk out the school gates for the last time, they do so having written their own personalised Churchie Story. A story filled with memories, relationships and values that will last a lifetime.
Specifically, this duty is about setting an example, being a dependable role model through my simple actions, words and interactions. It is about defining culture and school spirit, drawing from the traditions that have connected generations of boys to promote a positive and inclusive learning environment. Most importantly, it is about being engaged and present. I cannot claim to represent the ‘student voice’ if I am not truly immersed in it. Fortunately, it is often the most enjoyable part of my day; the intriguing conversations with young boys about their exciting weekend coming up, their new passion project, or whatever concerns are on their mind at the time. This is a connection that is instrumental for boys, and one that they will cherish forever.
As a leadership team at Churchie this year, we have emphasised how important it is to be ‘all in’; to be unified as a school, a family, a brotherhood. So, as school captain, my responsibility is to bring this to life, fostering a community where every boy feels valued, connected, and proud to be a part of.
Reasons for taking up the role: Last year, I put myself forward for school captain not because I was the loudest voice in the room, nor just because I wanted to one-up my older brother, who was vice-captain a few years ago, but because I genuinely care about the Churchie experience the boys around me have.
Having spent my entire 13 years of schooling here, I have had the privilege of witnessing and participating in all its opportunities, and have experienced plenty of struggles throughout. Though I may not always be able to relate to specific hardships or challenges that particular boys may face, I believe I have meaningful insight, encouragement and advice to offer, even if it only helps them by one per cent.
But other than feeling like I have something valuable to offer my peers, I also appreciate the opportunities for personal growth this position holds. Whether it’s learning to lead with empathy, managing competing priorities, or growing in confidence through public speaking and decision-making, this role constantly pushes me to become a better version of myself. The chance to contribute meaningfully to the school community while developing skills I’ll carry for life is a privilege I don’t take for granted.
Skills developed as captain: As school captain, I recognise that leadership is an ongoing journey of growth, and there have certainly been key skills I have focused on developing throughout this year. Though these may seem like simple traits on the surface, for teenage boys and girls in one of the most decisive and challenging years of their lives so far, these are instrumental. Most importantly, I have come to value integrity.
Within my role, I am often placed in the difficult position between the wants and actions of the young men who are my friends and the expectations and responsibilities entrusted to me as a leader.
In these moments, I often know what the right decision is and am relied upon to act with fairness and honesty, even if it is challenging or unpopular. That integrity is what founds a sustainable and successful leadership. Through these experiences, I have learned the importance of clearly and effectively communicating the reasoning behind my decisions, helping others not just accept, but understand and trust the direction I take.
Learning to balance my time and effort across responsibilities, while also leaning on a reliable team, has been key to having a more successful and enduring approach to leadership so far.
How being a captain feels: I wish the emotions of being school captain were as simple as a single feeling, but in reality, they are changing throughout every moment of every day. There are, of course, stressful instances; feeling overwhelmed by the conflicting priorities of academics and social life, struggling with the burden of a big decision, or possibly questioning the success of your leadership.
However, despite all these challenging emotions and uncertainties, the role of school captain is deeply and endlessly rewarding. For every difficult moment I experience, I am blessed with hundreds of great memories. The warmth that comes from boys recognising me and feeling comfortable to say hello during the day, the reliable support of a leadership team, and more impactfully, the reassuring embrace of a spirited brotherhood.
I cannot describe a greater feeling than seeing moments of school spirit and unity unfold, however they may manifest, knowing that my leadership in some small way has helped bring it to life. Ultimately, this is a feeling I wish everybody could have during their time at school, a culture I am passionate about cultivating.
After school goals: Beyond this year, I have high aspirations for myself, especially knowing that the valuable lessons I have learned as a school captain have set me up so well. In the short term, I hope to pursue studies in medicine, combining my passion for science and health with my love of human connection and the opportunity to make a genuine difference.
However, beyond my career path, my greatest hope is that the values I have embraced and the relationships I have formed during my time at Churchie do not just fade away but continue to shape who I am and how I lead. I intend to stay actively involved in community service and mentorship, and hope that regardless of how far I travel or what I pursue, I will remain connected to the brotherhood and culture that has given me so much. Overall, no matter where my future takes me, I am confident that leadership will remain a defining part of my journey, and I am genuinely excited to see what the future holds.
Got a story tip? Email education@news.com.au
Originally published as Australia’s Top 100 Private Schools: Meet the student leaders at Queensland’s best-ranking colleges
Co-ed versus single sex: Who wins at Australia’s top 100 private schools?
This is the first definitive list of the nation’s 100 best private schools – based on data, not opinions and reputation. And there was one clear winner when it came to co-ed versus single sex.
The elite Queensland schools ranked in Australia’s top 100
The top private schools of Australia have been ranked today and 20 Queensland colleges made the cut. See the full list and which ones made it into the national top 10.