Opportunities to Lead

“There’s no way that you can get through Cardigan without practicing leadership,” says English teacher Alex Gray H’13, P’14,’16. “Given their socio-economic status, their health, and the educational level that most of them will attain, Cardigan’s boys will be leaders, so it makes sense that they should understand what it means to be a leader.”

From the very beginning in 1946, students have been invited to participate in the running of the School and given significant responsibilities both in formal and informal capacities. They have held jobs, taken care of the School’s livestock, fixed vehicles, cleared trails, and built shelters. They have organized dances and raised money for community needs. They have helped faculty oversee the dorms, enforce school rules, and determine fair punishments when students have made mistakes. 

What’s important to note about leadership at Cardigan is that it isn't limited to elected positions. “Cardigan is really good at providing voluntary leadership opportunities,” says Mr. Gray. “Take Polar Bear. The reason so many boys participate isn’t because it’s fun. It’s the older boys inviting the younger students to join them, turning something that’s fairly unpleasant into a joyful opportunity. Students feel safe taking a risk and putting in effort because there are always other students there supporting them.” Captains councils, peer tutoring, and peer mediation are other ways in which students are given opportunities to influence the culture of the School and be there for each other.

“Students feel safe taking a risk and putting in effort because there are always other students there supporting them.”

Alex Gray H’13, P’14,’16

While in traditional school systems students finish middle school in eighth grade, students remain at Cardigan through ninth grade, providing them with a unique opportunity to lead at a young age. School founder Hap Hinman recognized the benefits of these circumstances from the very beginning and in 1952 wrote: “Cardigan’s boys advance grade by grade up the ladder until they become known as ‘seniors’ in their last year, earning all of the prerogatives, honors and responsibilities that go with a 12th grade senior class anywhere. The result is that these youngsters, even though they are only of freshman grade age level, have acquired a maturity of mind and conduct and an acceptance of responsibility that are far beyond their years. They have looked forward eagerly to their senior year at Cardigan, they have accepted the leadership of the School, they set examples of conduct and study and work for the younger boys.” 

Boys helping boys; it’s a powerful formula for leadership development.