Although we are now entering week two of the term, given this is our first Thistle it is appropriate to welcome everyone back after our inaugural three week break. Having spoken to a number of staff, students and parents, the concept of the longer break in mid-year appears to have been well received. A main driver for this change was to build into the year another opportunity for our Year 12s to recharge so that they are ready for the run home to their final assessment and exams. Speaking of this I ask that all families keep our Year 12s in their thoughts and prayers as they face what is the most challenging part of their schooling.
Last Saturday I was at the airport to farewell the boys in the Pipe Band who are representing Scotch as part of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. As I said to the boys at Assembly, there are moments in history which will not be repeated and this group of boys will forever be the first group from Scotch College to play in the Edinburgh Tattoo. On behalf of our community I wish them well and know that they will do the College and their families proud.
The first couple of weeks is proving to be very special for many reasons. On Friday last week I had the privilege to present our 2015 winning First VIII rowers with their oars to commemorate their place in history. On Monday 11 August 29 Year 9 and 10 boys fly to Stanford University to commence a two-week live-in extension programme. The boys will be accompanied by Dr McEwan and Mr Sterrett. We look forward to hearing about how their course went and what the boys will bring back as a result of their experience in a University that carries so much status on the world stage.
Congratulations to all of the Junior School students who were commissioned into their new leadership positions. I look forward to seeing and experiencing the great things they will do this semester.
To all new families and staff welcome to our community. Whether you are new or returning do not hesitate to come up and say hello wherever you see me. It is always great to be able to catch up with families during the course of my work. Speaking of work you will not see much of me over the next couple of weeks. I will be travelling to Stanford, Edinburgh and London from 10 August to 26 August. The first two are to be with the students. We are also hosting an Old Scotch Collegians reunion in both Edinburgh and London. These are great ways to reconnect with our network of ex-students who are so important to who we are at Scotch.
Have a great fortnight and I look forward to seeing you all on my return.
Dr A J O'Connell
Headmaster
