Much has happened over the last fortnight across our three sub-schools. Most importantly I trust that our new students and parents are feeling more at home as they commence their journey at Scotch College.
As you read this edition of The Thistle you may wish to take note that there are only 12 sleeps to what is one of our major community functions of the year - "Symphony by the Lake". A world class programme of events has now been finalised; including a combined programme of 20 items. Such variety and quality is rarely compiled into one evening. As you may be aware the Perth Symphony Orchestra has just finished a magnificent performance at Leeuwin Estate where Grammy Award winning soloist Diana Krall rated them "The best orchestra I have ever played with" and The West Australian noted Perth Symphony was "outstanding" in their review of the concert. So we are indeed fortunate to be called the home of such a great orchestra. While I do not wish to give away too much before the night, following is a taste of what is to come, and this is only 30% of the total programme!
- Bernstein Tonight from Westside Story (Amy Manford, Soprano and Jay Weston, Tenor)
- Olivia Davies Ferchensee (Ferchen Lake) - WORLD PREMIER
- Webber / Rice Don't Cry for me Argentina (Lizé Heerman, vocals)
- Allen Still Call Australia Home (Mark Underwood, Lizé Heerman and the Combined Scotch College and PLC Vocal Ensemble)
- INXS Never Tear Us Apart (Justin Burford, vocals)
- Roever/Korb/Hindle/Stewart/Simpson Highland Cathedral (Scotch Pipe Band and the Combined Scotch College and PLC Vocal Ensemble)
Make this an evening to remember by inviting family and friends to what is a great family focussed event in our local community. To find out more or book your ticket go to www.perthsymphony.com.
Two weeks ago we hosted Dr Stuart Shanker and Mr Mike McKay at a public seminar. Many families contacted me requesting further information on self-regulation. We have been directed to the CSRi website using the following link www.self-regulation.ca. I would encourage parents to tune into the CBC radio podcast (you will see it on the main page). There are two CBC pieces, one is a longer piece featuring Dr Shanker. It is interesting for those wanting to do a deeper dive, while the other is about the story in Cindrich Elementary. It gives a nice "on the ground" picture of what is happening and the difference it is making. The webinars are very instructive (under the resources tab). The articles and downloads that you can see on the main page are also useful references.
I am looking forward to the end of this week when I will join some of our Year 12 Boarders on the last stage of their End to End journey on the Bibbulmun Track, this year will see the 11th group of boys to do the walk in 15 years. The Scotch Outdoor Education department has won 2 ACHPER awards for the Bibbulmun track initiative and the boarding house has won a separate national award in 2012 for innovation in boarding. We should all be proud of the programme run by staff and the 100 boys who have completed the journey.
Speaking of great nights, congratulations to all of the parents who helped make the Year 12 Ball such a great success. The theme ensured it was a cultural and colourful extravaganza. In particular I would like to thank all of our Year 12s for the way they represented their College and family on the night. I hope the ball will remain in their psyche for years to come as a special evening in their life at Scotch College.
Have great fortnight.
Dr A J O'Connell
Headmaster
