The year 11 student suited up as part of the student principal for a day program, which allows one student from each of the 200 participating schools Australia-wide take charge of their classrooms and playgrounds for a day.

Jacob is a high achiever at the school, is an active member of the student representative council and he has represented the South Coast at the YMCA NSW Youth Parliament.

School principal Denise Lofts said the aim of the role exchange was to give students the opportunity to learn about leadership and develop confidence.

“I think Jacob said it best when he spoke to the assembly about the opportunities that students get for leadership,” Ms Lofts said. 

“It’s a great opportunity for him to learn about making decisions and also coming back and answering 150 emails as well.” 

Ms Lofts planned a variety of tasks for Jacob including assembly, overseeing the year 7 Environment Day activities, judging a year 10 cake competition, overseeing the year 12 formal committee meeting and writing an article for the school newsletter. 

Jacob admitted the life of school principal was a busy one. 

“We don’t have time for a coffee break we just keep moving,” he said. 

“I’ve enjoyed the experience, it’s busier than I thought it would be but it’s great. 

“My favourite task was talking in front of the year 11 and sharing that experience.”