Q: What does it mean to you to be a Junior School Co-Captain of St Catherine’s?

Pearl: To me, it means a lot of pride, always being switched on to the things that you need to do. Taking responsibility and being there for others, representing your school well, and always doing what’s right. You should always listen to others and give everybody a chance to share ideas. It’s about giving them a voice and inspiring other girls here.

Catherine: To be school captain, I think it means having the sort of responsibility and leadership that will encourage girls to strive to be their best. It’s about being organised and responsible, taking pride in St Catherine’s while also being a kind and friendly person who others feel comfortable approaching. I also think it means leading by example—if I try something, maybe another girl will try it, and then she’ll inspire someone else. It creates a positive cycle that keeps going.

Q: What advice would you give to younger students?

Pearl: Always do what you think is right, not just what others tell you to do. It’s important to be true to yourself and never give up on what you want to be or what you’d like to achieve. Also, be proud to be a St Catherine’s girl and always put your best foot forward. My teacher used to say that, and it has really stuck with me.

Catherine: I try to live by my five C’s—creative, curious, courageous, confident, and caring. I would encourage younger students to always lead by these values. Another piece of advice is to become strategic thinkers, to make decisions as independent women, and to know that they have a strong future ahead of them. If you stay curious, creative, and courageous, you will always be on the right path.

Q: Who inspires you?

Pearl: My dad really inspires me. He was the Junior School Captain when he was younger, and he wakes up every day to do his best for our family. He sacrifices a lot to give us amazing opportunities like holidays, schooling, skiing during the winter and sports. My mum also inspires me—she organises everything for us and works so hard. Another source of inspiration for me is child actors. They work incredibly long hours to achieve their dreams, and I relate to that because balancing leadership, school, and life can be really challenging. But even when things get tough, I remind myself to never give up.

Catherine: My parents and teachers inspire me, but mostly my older sister. She was a Junior School Co-Captain when she was in Year 6, and she encouraged me to go for this role. She always told me to try my best because you never know what you can achieve unless you put yourself forward. She also taught me to think the smart way and not the long way and always strive to do my best.

Q: How do you like to spend your time outside of school?

Pearl: Spending time with my friends is really important to me. When I’m feeling overwhelmed with schoolwork or leadership responsibilities, I remind myself of the things I enjoy outside of school. I play a lot of sports, including netball and skiing in winter, and those activities help me stay balanced and happy. Having something to look forward to—no matter how big or small—really keeps me motivated.

Catherine: I love baking, and Sundays are usually my free days. I often catch up with a friend and do some baking, which helps me relax. It clears my head so that I can focus better on schoolwork and other responsibilities afterward. It’s a great way to recharge and get ready for the week ahead.