On Saturday 26 August St Margaret’s School for Girls in Aberdeen, Scotland’s oldest girls’ school, welcomed pupils from across Scotland to a conference aimed at equipping the next generation of female leaders with invaluable skills.
The event, organised through The Girls’ Schools Association (GSA), brought together the student leadership teams from all four Scottish Girls’ Schools: St Margaret’s, St George’s, The Mary Erskine School and Kilgraston School. A total of 24 students took part in the event. The Girls’ Schools Association champions girls and their teachers so that they have the best chances to excel in the lives they choose to lead.
Dr Susan Reid Elder of Aberdeen Business School, Robert Gordon University hosted a lively and interactive session on ‘Leadership in 2023 and beyond’ which explored the qualities and skill sets which are demonstrated by effective leaders. Students reflected on their own strengths and how they would maximise these over the year ahead.
Nimisha, from The Mary Erskine School said:
“Through this conference I have learnt about the importance of emotional intelligence and empathy in leadership through the session led by Dr Reid Elder. I also enjoyed the opportunity to practise my public speaking skills and meet other young women from other schools who are in leadership positions.”
Lexi, from St George's said:
"I have been able to meet other girls with similar ambitions and ideas, allowing me to collaborate and share suggestions that could help improve all our schools. I’ve been inspired to do some public speaking and have been given some tips on how to engage with my audience.”
Blessed, the new St Margaret's head girl, also gave her input:
“I have learned that a leader does not have to be perfect and it is ok to ask others for help.”
Ella, also from The Mary Erskine School found the experience valuable:
“I have found today incredibly empowering as we all discussed the valuable and unique qualities that we all shared and can work on in the coming year as strong, female leaders.”
Finally, Trixie from The Mary Erskine School said:
“Today, I have really noticed the impact that positivity and confidence can have. This was shown through meeting new people and having the right mindset to be approachable and easy to talk to. I have also really enjoyed hearing advice from former and current leaders about dealing with pressures and multitasking which comes with the position. Thank you so much. It has been so beneficial and will be useful for the future.”