General News
12 March, 2026
Ready to lead
THE support of a previous school captain was a driving inspiration behind Terang’s Daisy Sargeant making a push to serve as a school captain this year.
Daisy joins Wilbur Reid as the 2026 St Thomas’ Primary School captains after earning a nod of approval from students and staff.
She said school captaincy had long been an interest for her after looking up to someone who previously held the role.
“I’ve always wanted to be a school captain,” she said.
“When I was in prep my buddy, Charli Dillon, was a captain and I really looked up to her.
“I thought I would just go for it.”
Students vying for the spot went through a thorough interview process in hopes of earning the support of those around them.
“We had to write a speech which included why we thought we would be a good leader, which we had to read out in front of the Grade Four, Five and Six students,” Daisy said.
“I wrote about how I felt I would be a good leader and the respect I think we need as a school.”
School principal Matthew Uzkuraitis said all the students had made a positive impression as part of their interviews.
“The kids, after they’ve done their speeches, we do a vote for a boy and a girl student, and the staff have a bit of a vote too,” he said.
“It came out Daisy and Wilbur would be our school captains.
“We put a fair bit of onus on all the Grade Six students, regardless of if they have a badge or not, but it’s great for Daisy and Wilbur to have a few little extra things they can do around the school.”
Mr Uzkuraitis said the position not only helps the students to build their confidence while managing increased responsibility, but gives the school another avenue for hearing the voices of students to ensure the school is a safe environment for all.
“We go to them if we need some support,” he said.
“They’ve been great role models for our prep students who have started this year, which was something Daisy mentioned in her speech – wanting to be a good role model – which she has definitely done.
“As the course of the year goes they join in with the Junior School Council and have fundraising ideas for things they want to see done around the school.
“We’ve talked a bit about making sure we make the right choices and right decisions most of the time, which Daisy and Wilbur are certainly doing.
“We’re very pleased with them.”
Daisy said she was looking forward to her year as a captain, representing herself and fellow students in having a say in their education.
“It’s important for students to have a say in what they want to do and what they don’t want to do,” she said.
Keep an eye out for upcoming publications when school captains from other schools across the area will be announced.
Read More: Terang