Headmaster's Reflections

I am writing this newsletter article having just returned from the PLC Centenary Concert held on Sunday afternoon 13 September at the Perth Concert Hall. I mention this for a couple of reasons. Firstly, I would like to congratulate our sister school on conducting such a wonderful concert that highlighted the talents of so many students from three schools PLC, Scotch and Trinity. Secondly, because it was yet another reminder of the value Scotch and PLC derive from the memorandum of understanding between our two schools. This was evident for Scotch as I watched some of our boys perform in a combined ensemble and choir. If Sunday night wasn't enough of a reminder about how our students contribute to the wider community, on Saturday I also attended the John XXIII Gala Concert also held at the Perth Concert Hall. I was taken by surprise to see Dylan Flecker(St Andrews); one of our Year 12 students, enter the stage to perform the pipe section of the song 'The Voice'. Both events highlight just how much our boys do and the value that can be derived from working in multiple settings other than at Scotch.

Last week was Arts Week at Scotch and I cannot express just how impressed I was at the many and varied activities that were conducted across our College throughout the week. For me a highlight is the Inspirations art expo. I say this because it showcases the talents of our boys across the whole School. Seeing the work of Year 1s alongside of Year 12s is truly inspiring. It shows how our boys can be developed throughout their schooling. Congratulations to all of the students and staff who put so much work into ensuring that Art, Media, Film, Drama and Music were given such a high profile across the College.

While we were in the midst of celebrating Arts Week we were also participating in both the JPSSA and PSA Athletics Carnivals held at Perry Lakes on 10 and 11 of September respectively. Congratulations to all of the athletes, their coaches and the staff who supported these marvelous events. These carnivals are highly competitive and Scotch came away from both having secured first place. This was the second year in a row for our JPSSA team and the fourth victory in five years for the PSA team. Our boys continue to demonstrate a genuine desire to participate in athletics and perform at a standard to be admired.

Finally, I am very pleased to report that the College's Re-Registration visit from the Department of Education Services on Thursday 10 September went very well. Once again I must congratulate our students who were a significant part of our visit. I would like to thank everyone who assisted before, during and after the registration visit. This is an important milestone for our College and I look forward to being able to share the outcome of the visit once the Minster of Education has reviewed the external report and determined our registration status.

Have a great fortnight.

Dr Alec O'Connell

Headmaster