Head of Middle School

Thank you for presence and support at our Inter-House Swimming Carnival last week and then for joining us at one, or in some cases multiple Parent Information Evenings. The Swimming Carnival consistently showcases some impressive displays of sportsmanship. I have to admit it was hard to contain the emotion in watching Eli Blackburn and Rupert Arbuckle complete their 50m freestyle races. Knowing they would be last even before they dived in, they toughed it out to the very end. In doing so we all learnt something about perseverance; how satisfying it can be to do something to the best of your ability, regardless of extrinsic reward. How you feel on the inside, being able to say you gave it your best shot is so important to ones self-esteem and self-worth. Having the crowd of students in all of the Houses rise to their feet and acknowledge Rupert and Eli's efforts was equally rewarding for me and gave me a snapshot of the type of character that lies within our boys, your sons.

Parent Information Evenings held in Week 2 marked another phase in the sharing of information about life at Scotch College and in Middle School. From Open Day, to Orientation Day, Handbooks, Newsletters and Parent Connect, First day addresses and Information Evenings, there has been a lot of information distributed and shared. The problem we can create for ourselves is if we assume all of the communication has taken place. Parent Teacher Interviews for Year 6 & 7 are a vital next step in the communication process whereby we hope to give parents an insight into how their son has commenced the school year from social, organisational, interaction and engagement perspectives. It is also a perfect opportunity for you to ask us about anything, if you need further explanation or clarification, or to share information about your son that will benefit us all. Our communication emphasis regarding Year 8 students and families who have been in the Middle School system for at least 12 months, shifts to a more academic focus with the issuing of Interim Reports at the end of this Summer term. Interim Reports will highlight your son's engagement and interaction within each subject and provide a basis for goal setting for the second half of the semester.

Finally, the weather is looking perfect for our planned Middle School Parent Sundowner this Friday 24 February. It is a BYO affair, on the grassy bank in front of the Gooch Pavilion. It is informal and relaxed and a great opportunity to meet new parents. Come for half an hour or stay awhile - unless you are a Rotto swimmer heading off early the next morning. I look forward to seeing you there.

Mr Richard Ledger
Head of Middle School