While prefects and monitors are nothing new to the school, the induction of 17 prefects came following a selection process that included an application phase that was open to Forms 4 and Five students only. Interviews were then conducted and, following a shortlisting, the names were taken to a vote among teachers.

The Head Boy and Girl as well as their Deputies were chosen based on their response and articulation in the interview process.

The 24 monitors were selected by the class teachers.

Leadership training

The successful applicants for prefects, in December 2021, were also required to participate in a programme titled ‘Students Leadership Training’, which saw presentations from Permanent Secretary Mrs Sharlene Debreo-Lettsome, who spoke about ‘Being an Exemplary and Extraordinary Leader’.

Other presenters were Mrs Dawn U. Leonard, who presented on the topic: ‘Be Polite, Be Proud of Yourself and Your School’; Mr Pete Smith on ‘Balancing Your Time’; and Mrs Sarah Bevans on ‘The Importance of Ethical Behaviour and Conduct’.

‘Creating conscientious & responsible global citizens’

According to Prefect Council Coordinator Monica Prendergast-McDonald, the Prefect Council is a team of students elected to help the faculty and staff regulate and maintain discipline in school.

“As student leaders, they will learn the valuable lesson of becoming extraordinary leaders in dealing with challenges. The Prefects' Council is the first step towards creating conscientious and responsible global citizens.”

Prendergast-McDonald added that the prefect body is expected to be role models for the younger students. “Our primary goals are to discipline, encourage, equip, train, inspire students to serve as they challenge other students in their pilgrimage as disciples of Jesus Christ.”

The Head Prefects inducted were Mr Ronaldo E. Stoby and Asaunia Simms and Deputy Heads were Mr Khemoe Foy and Angelique Gurley.

The Prefects and Monitors were given their charges by Principal Wade W. Tobin, who noted that the BVI SDA School prides itself in discipline among students and cooperation among students, teachers and parents.

Among those present at the Induction Ceremony were parents of the inductees and Chairman of the School Board, Pastor Leriano R. J. Webster.