Middle School Seven Year Vision Finally Fulfilled
In five days' time, five school days that is, we will be fulfilling a seven year strategic vision initiated by Reverend Syme and the College Council, to conceptualise then develop a Middle School at Scotch College. In five school days, albeit the 5th day being the first day of school next year, that seven year plan will come to complete fruition with the enrolment, arrival and commencement of 540 boys in Year 6, 7 and 8. It will be a career highlight for me on day one next year when I welcome our full complement of boys into our brand new, purpose built, specifically staffed and philosophically relevant Middle School. It has been a challenging, exciting and stimulating 7 years. As we stand on the cusp of final completion and full commencement, there is little doubt of the merit of the vision to develop a Middle School that recognises and caters for the transitional needs of early teenage boys. The 2nd February 2015 will become a significant date in our College's history, as the next chapter begins in our new Middle School.
In a mix of recognising the timing and developing a Middle School identity, current Year 6 & 7 boys we given new ties last Friday at our Reflection Chapel Service. This is a gift from the Headmaster, Dr O'Connell. These ties are known as cohort ties, meaning the colour of the tie stays with the cohort as it moves through Middle School. It is a feature we hope will help with identifying students and will also foster a unity amongst all Middle School boys, creating a degree of cohesion and engagement for students at each year level. The excitement of next year was palpable last Friday as boys tried on and wore their new ties for the first time. Next year Middle School ties are to be worn on each Assembly Friday and during winter with the Winter uniform.
On behalf of all the staff here in Middle School, I thank all parents for their warmth, enthusiasm and support this year and wish you a peaceful and enjoyable Christmas.
Mr Richard Ledger
Head of Middle School
