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 11^th 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

Community and Service

Good Samaritan Bin

The College now has its own Good Samaritan bin in position and ready to receive good second-hand clothing. It is located in the Dining Hall car park, adjacent to the entry road to Junior and Middle schools, opposite the rugby field. You can't miss the flower bin' painted by our Year 2's! Good Samaritan Industries will welcome any support you can provide through your donations.

Disabled Surfing

The Disabled Surfing event on Saturday February 15 was another great example of community support for the disadvantaged of Perth. At least 200 volunteers turned up to assist around 70 disabled participants. While there was little surf at Leighton Beach on the day, the teams worked hard to enable the participants to enjoy the water and beach environment.

It is always difficult for Scotch boys to support a DSA event on a Saturday morning with PSA sport fixtures. Consequently, we had few current boys able to assist. However, it was gratifying to see six past students register at the beach to take part as volunteers. We always hope that our OSC's will continue their involvement with service once they leave school. Scotch was well represented by these fine individuals.

Year 10 Service Programme

The first afternoon of activities in the Year 10 service programme occurred in Week 2 of term with boys taking part in activities both on and off campus. The group that went to Tranby Day Centre in East Perth was given a talk by two clients, both homeless and recovering heroin addicts. The presentation was a powerful example of the impact of a service-learning programme. Another group of boys will be working with 'The Little Sisters of The Poor' in Glendalough and on their first visit learnt about the importance of accompaniment for the elderly as they approach their final days. These boys will be working to record personal histories, teach Wii games and eventually establish a kitchen garden to enable fresh herbs to be easily added to meals. A small group of boys worked in the recreation area of the ParaQuad Centre in Shenton Park and a group on campus learnt about the role of the Red Cross.

These and other activities, including rolling Street Swags, working at the Therapeutic Riding Centre, assisting The Friends of Lake Claremont rehabilitate the Lake environment, all highlight the relevance of the cornerstones of the Scotch College Service Model: INSPIRE; CONNECT; SUSTAIN and NURTURE.

Pancake Day

Once again senior boys from Scotch will be cooking and selling pancakes in West Perth in aid of UnitedCare West social services. This will take place on March 4 in the forecourt of the Ross Memorial Church at the corner of Colin and Hay Streets. Parents with business contacts in the West Perth area might like to order pancakes for morning tea! If you can assist by placing an order or by helping out with managing the event on the day, please contact Bill Cordner. wjcordner@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Matipwili (Tanzania)

The classroom furniture from the old Middle School reached Dar es Salaam late last year and has now been distributed to a number of government schools, including Matipwili Secondary School. The cost of the road transport from Dar es Salaam to Matipwili was covered by donations from the Scotch community. Thanks must go to the Honorary Consul to Tanzania, Mr Didier Murcia AM and his Australia Tanzania Association staff for facilitating this transfer of resources to some very needy schools in Dar es Salaam and Matipwili village.

There are a number of events coming up in March in support of our work in Tanzania:

• On 15 March, Year 7 and 8 boys are invited to a Games and Movie Night at PLC. Bookings can be made through the Book a Scotch Event link on the school web site.

• On 20 March, Scotch College is hosting a function to launch the Matipwili Trade Training Centre. This will feature a performance by a fabulous Tanzanian choir and a presentation of a short video and photographs to tell the story of our connection with Matipwili and the design of the facility. The function will be held in the Dickinson Centre commencing at 6.30pm. Entry will be $10 cash with all proceeds going to the material needed for the construction. All are welcome to attend.

Parenting Ideas

To further support the Scotch community the College has subscribed to Parentingideas, a leading provider of parenting education resources to Australian schools.

One of their latest articles is entitled- Parent involvement the secret ingredient.

Also available is the Parenting Ideas Magazine; visit the following link:

www.parentingideas.com.au/Parents/Parenting-Magazine

Student Wellbeing: Anatomy of Sleep

Sleep - in the context of not letting bedroom computers rob you of it - was looked at last issue, and we're reminded of just how important sleep is when we start looking at how it works. Instead of saying 'have a good day' we might then change it to it 'have a good sleep' because a good sleep tonight is one of the most essential components of a good day tomorrow.

As Clinical Psychologist Andrew Fuller puts it, 'not getting enough sleep really makes it hard to have a great day. If you sleep less than six hours, it is like having 0.5 blood alcohol.'

One week of restricted sleep does the same damage as being awake for 24 consecutive hours. It even affects weight and ageing processes by upsetting the regulation of blood sugar; nearly two out of three people who sleep less than five hours a night are obese.

When a sleeper's body is in shut down with its temperature at its lowest, typically around 3am, the brain remains 80% activated, consolidating memories through dream-sleep, restocking proteins, repairing damaged cells and brain connections. Then at the other end of the 24 hour cycle, attention peaks somewhere between 2.5 and 4 hours after waking, the optimum time for soaking up information you really need to learn.

At the end of the day, rather than trying to use your conscious mind to run with a problem, handballing it to the subconscious often works wonders. Telling someone to 'sleep on it' doesn't mean 'forget about it', quite the contrary. With more time and less stress, the sleeping mind is hard-wired to unravel intractable issues. John Steinbeck called it 'the committee of sleep' that was expert at resolving last evening's dilemmas.

So young men and boys can safely leave it to this committee to sort things out for them during the night. They can also learn to understand what phases of the wake-sleep cycle offer them best use of their waking time. But all this is academic without the discipline of making time for the sleep they need, the good night that's essential for a good day.

Shauna Lipscombe

Senior School Psychologist

Year 12 Perspectives 2013

Art Perspectives

Charlie Yin's and Louis Eastaugh's art work has been selected for the Art Gallery of Western Australia's annual Year 12 Perspectives Exhibition. On display will be Charlie Yin's impressive large hand thrown vases finished with technically sophisticated crystalline glazes, collectively, a visual knockout - and Louis Eastaugh's wonderful lino prints combining refined technical skill, control over the medium of relief printing and engaging the viewer with his compelling compositions.

Perspectives is an annual showcase of Western Australian Year 12 Visual Art students selected from all sectors of the education system and displays the best student work for that particular year. Congratulations Charlie and Louis on your success.

Stuart Earnshaw

Acting Curriculum Leader - Art

Drama Perspectives

2013 leaver Rupert Williamson is headed for the main stage, selected to perform at the annual 'Performing Arts Perspectives' at His Majesty's Theatre on 26 and 27 of March. The event showcases the highest standard of student performance and provides benchmarks of excellence in dance, drama and music for students and teachers from the Public, Independent and Catholic education systems.

Rupert was invited to audition for the 'Perspectives' after achieving in the top 0.5 percent of students who studied Drama in 2013. He was not only successful in being chosen to perform at the evening, but has been asked to showcase both his scripted and original monologues - an outstanding achievement.

Congratulations Rupert.

Tickets for Performing Arts Perspectives can be purchased using this link: http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=PERFORMI14&v=HMW

Kathryn Shaw

Head of Drama

Media Perspectives

Congratulations to David Atwell, Nicholas Fernandez and Albert Giglia (OSC 2013) whose film Under One Roof has been selected to be screened as part of Media Perspectives 2014 to be held at Event Cinemas, Innaloo on 2 April, 2014.

Media Perspectives is a screening of the top films produced by Year 12 students studying Media Production and Analysis Stage 3. David, Nick and Albert wrote and produced an impressively crafted heartfelt family drama. The narrative is an exploration of tensions and identity issues that have arisen due to generational family dysfunction provoking social comment on what makes us who we are. Stylistically, it featured complex set design aided by dynamic camera work, and outstanding editing techniques showcasing the shift through different time periods.

Celena Mecham

Head of Media

Music Department

"Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent." Victor Hugo

As we commence Week 4 all music ensembles are now rehearsing diligently in preparation for their various performances and tours and it was great to have so many boys on stage to perform as members of the full Scotch College Concert Band as they joined together to perform at the first Senior Assembly of 2014.

Supporting the musical activities is Friends of Scotch Music (FOSM) a group of parents who enthusiastically support the work of boys and staff in the Music Department. They met on Monday of Week 2 and planned the upcoming Quiz Night for all Musicians in Years 8 - 12. FOSM meets once or twice each term with all meetings beginning at 7.00pm. Meetings go for approximately one hour, and are held in the Senior School Music Room with everyone welcome. Please consider becoming involved in the FOSM Parent Support group as an excellent way to support your son and the Music Programme at Scotch College.

Other upcoming musical events organized for the term including the following:

Upcoming Dates

8 March, Symphony By The Lake

14 March, Open Day

21 March, Music Department Quiz Night

30 March, Wednesday, Quarry Performance for Combined Ensembles as guests of PLC

4 April, Thursday, Senior Summer Concert

2014 Symphony by the Lake

I would like to take the opportunity to invite everyone to the 2014 Symphony by the Lake. The performance in 2013 saw over 2000 audience members enjoy fantastic music on our magnificent playing fields and this year is shaping to be even bigger! Below is a quick link to TryBooking and an overview of the performance.

I know that this event will be a highlight of the musical year and given the high praise that the orchestra has received from its performance at the Leeuwin Estate with Diana Krall and James Morrison last weekend, Symphony by the Lake should be amazing!

http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/entertainment/music/a/21514369/krall-nails-the-classics/

Symphony by the Lake is back! And it promises to be yet another remarkable evening of orchestral music on an epic scale. This signature gala concert will showcase the exciting Perth Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Jessica Gethin in full force joined by many special guest artists including singer Justin Burford, and soprano, Amy Manford.

Family, Group, VIP and U18 tickets available. Children under 5 years are FREE.

Sponsorship and corporate packages are available. Please email Concert Director, Bourby Webster, for more information.

Contact Details

The Instrumental Programme is administered by the Senior School Music Department and all queries should be directed to the Music Administrator, Julia Robinson (9383 6841) music@scotch.wa.edu.au

Alternately, please contact Mr David Coughlan, Head of Music, via email DGCoughlan@scotch.wa.edu.au or phone 9383 6842.

If you wish to become more involved in supporting the Music Department by receiving information about the work of FOSM, please contact FOSM@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Uniform Shop

Opening Hours for Winter Uniform Changeover

No appointments are necessary. The Uniform Shop will be open extra hours over and above the normal opening times, as follows.

Summer Term Extra Opening Hours

Wednesday 2 April 7.30am to 9.00am

Wednesday 9 April 7.30am to 9.00am

Holiday Opening Days

9 am to 4 pm (lunch: noon - 1 pm)

23 April Wednesday

24 April Thursday

28 April Monday

Head of Junior School

Homework and Cards on the Table

Homework can usually be described in one of two ways, a joy or a battle. These descriptions would more often than not come from parents. Homework is an opportunity to consolidate learning and success from school. It should make the child feel good about their learning and their success. It should not always be easy; struggling on occasion is good for a child. It helps develop the work habits required for ongoing and future success at school and beyond. Homework supports the development of perseverance, self-management and resourcefulness. As a child gets older the responsibility for completing homework needs to become theirs.

Many children are very busy with commitments outside of school hours. Sports training and matches, music lessons and practice can take up several nights after school per week. To assign daily homework is not always practical and may cause undue stress and tension.

In Junior School we have homework expectations to assist the boys in their learning and development. Children need time to play, run and jump in an unstructured manner with family and friends. Children need time to be children.

The one area of homework that we firmly believe must be done every night is reading. Reading with and to a parent, as well as independently is essential. Anderson, Wilson, and Fielding (1988) led one of the most extensive studies of independent reading in which they investigated the relationship of reading time to reading achievement. The study found that the amount of time students spent reading independently was the best predictor of vocabulary development and reading achievement gains.

The research indicates that independent reading is probably the major source of vocabulary acquisition beyond the beginning stages of learning to read. Students who read more can learn the meanings of thousands of new words each year.

The chart below shows the high impact of independent reading time to word exposure and the percentile of reading achievement. (Developmental Studies Center)

Our approach to homework focuses on the development and consolidation of basic skills. We advise achieving this through games that make learning fun. Often games can keep the learning hidden and provide opportunities for parents and children to play and learn together. Our upcoming Parents Engagement Workshops on mathematics card games (Cards on the Table, 4 March) and Numero (12 March) will provide parents with a range of fun games they can play with their child and at the same time help them learn key maths skills. On 20 March our Year 1 teachers will lead a session for Year 1 parents entitled "Reading with your child" and will provide practical strategies to assist with homework for younger boys.

Other ways that parents can assist their children's learning is to provide opportunity for younger children to develop their fine motor skills which impact on their ability to control a pencil and write. Colouring activities and cutting with scissors can develop the muscles needed for writing. In addition to this the learning of the key high frequency words will greatly assist a child to develop his independent reading ability.

Engage with your child in fun homework activities. If they see it more as something they can do with parents and siblings it will become less of a chore to do. Your son's teacher can provide more advice on homework, and attending the Parent Engagement Workshops will help you gain more ideas on how to make homework 'fun'.

John Stewart

Head of Junior School

Important Dates to Remember

Primary Years Programme (PYP)

All Junior School staff have been busy collaboratively mapping the curriculum for this academic year. All subject areas are mapped to ensure students are exposed to all content areas reflected in the Australian/West Australian Curriculum. This process is overlaid at Scotch with the mapping of the remaining four IB essential elements: key concepts, attitudes, approaches to learning (formally referred to as the transdisciplinary skills), and action, both planned and potential. This mapping ensures academic rigour across the school.

The IB have recently published and made some changes to the Programme standards and practices. The Programme standards and practices provide a set of criteria against which both IB World Schools and the IB can evaluate success in the implementation of the four programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme (DP), and the IB Career-related Certificate (IBCC). The changes are in relation to the IBCC and the MYP areas. There are no changes to the PYP.

The Australian Curriculum and Reporting Authority (ACARA) recently made available new phase 2 and 3 curriculum documents. Curriculum for the arts, health and physical education, technologies, economics and business, and civics and citizenship for Foundation - Year 10 is now available on the Australian Curriculum website 
http://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/. States and territories, and education authorities will determine implementation timelines for schools.

Kathy Derrick

Deputy Head of Junior School - Curriculum

1P News

A Wonderful Beginning

The Year One boys have had a wonderful start to the year. We have really bonded well and settled into the daily routines of the school. We have been busily exploring our Unit of Inquiry, 'Who We Are', where we have been looking at our friends, our family, and ourselves through stories, writing and artworks. The boys have drawn and water-coloured beautiful portraits of family, friends, and themselves.

We have been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to experience two amazing events already. The first was within the first week, where we watched the Pipe Band and the Senior School Boys march, and fall out, right in front of us!

Our second was last Monday when we went on an excursion to the interactive installation, 'The House Where Winter Lives' at His Majesty's Theatre. The boys were taken on a magical journey through a snowy forest to find a key. The key was lost and another magical key was found, the key to your imagination!

Sue Phillips

Year 1 Teacher

Performing Arts News

The Year 5's have commenced the year with gusto, diving head first into a drama unit that is integrated with their current unit of inquiry. This unit is based on a real event that occurred near the village of Nabune on the Noto Hanto Peninsula in Japan in 1576, where villagers outwitted armed samurai who were coming to attack them, without the use of weapons. How did they do it? The boys will find out - after they have developed their own characters (to suit the time and context) and devised their own plans in teams!

The boys have been engaged in a range of activities to get them thinking about what role they might like to take on and what skills each character might bring to the team. I have been very impressed with the boys who have, on their own accord, researched and shared knowledge about Japanese food, culture, customs, and the environment, allowing them to create more authentic characters. Here are a couple of photos from an activity where the boys were asked to create a still-frame image, focusing on facial expression, gesture and body language.

Phebe Samson

Performing Arts Teacher

Information Learning Technology

1:1 iPad rollout for Years 1 to 4

This week will be a very exciting week for the Year 1 to 4 boys. Boys and parents will attend an iPad rollout session, detailing all of the important information about using and looking after their new devices.

There is much to learn about these devices, both for the students and parents alike. For the students we have the 1Degree staff to assist the teachers and students directly when issues arise. We will run Parent Education Workshops (PEW's) throughout the year to help parents navigate the iPads as confidently as their sons soon will! These will be advertised in coming newsletters and the Junior School weekly wiki.

We look forward to updating the community with our progress as the boys become familiar with using their new iPads to enhance their learning.

Amanda Ritchie

ILT Coach

Physical Education News

The Inter-House Swimming Carnival is over for another year. The day was very successful with all boys getting a swim and having an opportunity to represent their respective houses. The sportsmanship, house spirit, and collegiality shown by all the boys was first-class. Every boy should be proud of the way he conducted himself throughout the day.

A big thank you must go out to all the staff who helped out on the day, as well as to the parents of the mothers auxiliary who worked tirelessly throughout the day. A thank you must also go out to Challenge Stadium who once again hosted a fantastic event. Their preparation and assistance in running our carnivals is greatly appreciated. To our grounds department here at Scotch College, a thank you to you also.

Wednesday was a warm day, which bought even hotter competition. The standings for the day are:

1^st - Gordon - 725

2^nd - David - 600

3^rd - Bruce - 576

4^th - Robert - 495

5^th - Andrew - 481

6^th - James - 266

From the results of the Inter-House Carnival a team will be selected to represent Scotch College at the JPSSA Inter-School Swimming Carnival, which will be held on Thursday 6 March. Parents of boys selected will be notified. Champion Boys and Runner Up Champions will be presented officially at our Junior School assembly.

Jason Caniglia

Head of Junior School Physical Education

Junior School Resource Centre

We have had a very busy first couple of weeks. Boys are enjoying the Browsing Room, chess, drawing, Lego construction, and just reading at lunchtime in the air-conditioned Library, which has given the Library staff a great opportunity to get to know quite a few of the newer boys. It has been a pleasure to make contact with parents who have called in to pick up their boys, choose books with their sons, or just make themselves familiar with the place.

Miss Mewett, our Library Services Specialist, has been very busy making displays with some very interesting selections of books.

Reading is Magic has some intriguing books displayed:

Amazing Magic Tricks by Dave Brown

My First Magic Book by Lawrence Leyton

Let's Make Magic by Jon Day

Rainy Days Card Tricks

Mystery Stories are disappearing daily with a few that are left being:

The Merlin Mystery by Jonathan Gunson and Marten Coombe

Shock for Secret Seven by Enid Blyton

39 Clues series by Patrick Carman

Historical Mysteries set in Rome and Eygpt by Caroline Lawrence

Operation Gadgetman! by Malorie Blackman

By Royal Command by Charlie Higson

All of the books mentioned are available to borrow.

Kaye Turner

Junior School Teacher Librarian

Your Support is Appreciated

We have had two very big events during the past fortnight that have had outstanding support from you; the Parent Information Evening in Week 2 and again at the Middle School Swimming Carnival in Week 3. Thank you once more for your participation and encouragement.

Headmaster's Commendations

Commencing this week and following in a fortnightly sequence after Middle School Assembly, a small group of Middle School students will visit the Headmaster to receive commendations. This is a new initiative in Middle School that links with an existing practice in Senior School. Teachers will be looking for a student who displays an action, simple or complex, that reflects the IBO Learner Profile and Attitudes, behaviours that lie at the heart of our curriculum.

A neat and interesting way of reading or understanding the intent of the Learner Profile and Attitudes is to read it this way: Take three words from the left hand columns and three from the right hand column and put them into the gaps in this sentence...

The IBO aims to develop students who are _______________ , _______________ and _________________ and who demonstrate __________________, ___________________ and _________________.

After checking with the Maths department they have confirmed that there are 26,400 variations in creating this sentence from the choices available!

Parent/Teacher Interviews

As mentioned at the Parent Information Evenings, the next time we have an opportunity to meet is at the Parent/Teacher Interviews, scheduled for Week 5A. These ten minute meetings have a pastoral focus and centre on our observations and feedback to you of your son's transition into Middle School or his new Year level. We will discuss attitude, collaboration, organisation skills and answer any individual questions you may have at the start of the year. This week you will receive an email from Middle School Administration with a link to a booking site. Follow the prompts to book your session with your son's homeroom teacher. If there are no slots suitable for you please contact the classroom teacher via email to arrange an alternative time.

Important Dates in Middle School Summer Term

Middle School Sport Update

Inter-House Swimming Carnival

Last Tuesday saw our boys take to the Scotch waters to test their house spirit and competition. Session one saw the boys battle it out for a spot to represent their house in a final. They had a short lunch break which allowed an opportunity for the boys to sit and have picnic with parents. Session two saw the boys compete in keenly contested finals and novelty relay races which allowed for big changes in the House points tally. A fun day was had by all with the final House standings and House Champions as follows:

1st James - 1694 points

2nd Gordon - 1371 points

3rd Robert - 1363 points

4th David - 1244 points

5th Andrew - 1206 points

6th Bruce - 1206 points

Year 6 House Champion: Julien Kyriakou (Robert)

Year 6 House Runners-Up: Giancarlo Cain (Gordon)

Year 7 House Champion: Charlie Castleden (Gordon)

Year 7 House Runners-Up: Jacob Jones (James)

I would like to express my thanks to all staff and parents for their enthusiasm and support during the day. The boys were well-behaved and have set the tone for a good year of sporting carnivals ahead.

Lawrence Felgate

Middle School Sport

Year 7 Champions Charlie Castleden & Jacob Jones | James House Wins

Year 6 Champions Julien Kyriakou & Giancarlo Cain

Headmaster's Commendations

Congratulations to the following Middle School boys who received a commendation from the Headmaster last Friday:

World's Greatest Shave

On Friday 14 March Mr Peter Tresise, Year 7T Teacher, will be shaving his thick curly locks for a fantastic cause - the Leukaemia Foundation's "World's Greatest Shave". To support Peter and donate please click on the link: World's Greatest Shave:

http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/petertresise

The term has begun well with boys quickly hitting their stride across a range of areas. In the past two weeks we have learned of our graduating boys being selected in a number Schools Curriculum and Standards Authority showcase events for outstanding work in the drama, visual arts and media across WA. Details of the boys' work can be found above in this newsletter. With Scotch College listed as one of the highest achieving schools in 14 WACE subjects, staff and 2013 leavers have been busy attending a number of award ceremonies in recognition of outstanding achievement in their respective curriculum areas over recent weeks.

Outside the classroom boys have been selected in State Cricket, Hockey, Athletics, Rugby and Sailing teams while others have performed in a National Choir or been selected to represent Australia in the Youth World Sailing Championships in Portugal in July of this year - an impressive list of achievements in only the first three weeks of the school term.

The breadth of achievement and experience on display at the beginning of this term has highlighted the opportunities available for boys both inside and outside the classroom. One of the common attributes of all boys who have achieved their personal goals has been the setting of high expectations and a persistent effort over an extended period of time. There is no better time for boys to reset their goals than at the beginning of a school term. Boys can occasionally underestimate the importance of goals. If you expect less, you will get less. Some boys have a tendency to overestimate what they can achieve in a short period of time, leaving tasks until tomorrow or next week when they could be done today. Conversely, some boys underestimate what they can achieve over a long period of time. Not realising that great achievements are often based on one task, performed to the best of your ability, at a time. Mark Donaldson, a Victoria Cross recipient describes this as "doing one thing properly, then the next thing properly and staying in the moment." Mark will be visiting Scotch College to share his experiences with boys in the Senior School during March.

Finally, I would like to congratulate and thank the boys for a great start to the year. The annual Inter-House Swimming carnival featured spirited competition and generous support for one another. The Year 8 Camp to Rottnest launched what I anticipate to be a rewarding five years in the Senior School for all Year 8 boys while at the other end of the Senior School journey, our Year 12 boys did themselves and the community proud in their presentation and behaviour at the Year 12 Ball.

It has been a busy and rewarding start to the term. Well done and thank you.

Dr Rob McEwan

Head of Senior School

Sports News

Inter-House Swimming

2014 SCOTCH COLLEGE INTER-HOUSE SWIMMING

OFFICIAL RESULTS

There were 2 new records set

Year 11 - 50m Breaststroke: Alex Milligan (Brisbane) 31.88 seconds. The old record was 32.56 seconds set in 2001 by Jamie Beadsworth

Year 10 - Freestyle Relay: Shearer House 1 minute 52.31 seconds. The old record was 1.54.63 set in 1988 by St Andrews

The senior students did a great job in running their teams and keeping the boys focused on the event. Thank you also to Mr Bridle and Mr Foster for the work they did in ensuring the event had a great atmosphere and ran very smoothly.

Inter-School Swimming

The Swimming "Quads" will be held on Thursday, 6 March, commencing at 6.00pm in the indoor pool at Challenge Stadium. This competition is between Scotch, Trinity, Christ Church and Wesley. There will be an entry charge for parents who wish to watch the competition. The team will be advised of transport arrangements nearer the time.

The P.S.A. Inter-Schools Swimming Carnival is on Thursday, 13 March at Challenge Stadium, with the first race to commence at 5.15pm (last race around 8.45pm).

Tickets for the P.S.A. Inter-School Swimming Carnival

Scotch has limited seating for adult and family spectators. Tickets are $15 each (to be charged to your school account) and are to be picked up and signed for at Reception (tickets will not be posted). Parents who wish to attend can register their names with Reception at the School on 9383 6800. Tickets will be available on a first come first serve basis. We would therefore urge parents to make contact with the School as soon as possible. We look forward to seeing parents and family there to support the team.

Sports Notices

Parents are reminded that sport notices can be accessed from the Scotch College Homepage home.scotch.wa.edu.au by clicking on the Parent tab and then All Sports icon. The information includes details of fixtures, transport arrangements, PSA team results and summaries.

Teaching and Learning

Year 12 student Daniel Bloch (Ferguson) has been selected to travel to Madrid and Segovia, Spain from Monday April 7 to Friday April 11 to join IE University's 2014 Junior Advisory Board (JAB). The university received more than 140 applications from students from six continents and more than 30 countries.

In their response to Daniel, the university stated that his application shone through 'as being outstanding and inspiring' due to his 'creativity, earnestness and dedication to international education'. The selectors also recognised Daniel as having leadership potential. This is the first time Scotch has had a successful applicant to the Junior Advisory Board. Apart from the great opportunity to improve his fluency in Spanish, Daniel has hopes to study overseas and this experience will stand him in great stead.

UN Youth Western Australia News

United Nations Youth State Conference

When: March 7 at 1:00pm to March 9 at 4:00pm.

Each year UN Youth Western Australia runs its annual State Conference, bringing together young leaders from all over the state in a three-day residential conference. The conference provides a great introduction to international issues, global diplomacy and the workings of the United Nations. Each year we have several Scotch boys who attend and from there some are even selected to attend the National or International conference.

Expressions of interest are now open for Year 10-12 students. The theme for this year's State Conference is "In the Name of Democracy", focusing on the question of the legitimacy of democracy, its status as the 'right' system of government, and what other options there are out there. For more information go to http://www.unyouth.org.au/wa/conference/

Evatt Competition

Evatt WA is the State's round of the Australian UN Security Council Competition. The competition takes the form of model sessions of the UN Security Council. Teams are comprised of two students from the same school and each team is allocated one of the fifteen countries that currently sit on the Security Council. Together they share the work of researching their country's stance on prominent security issues and debate, amend, and vote on resolutions prepared by our facilitators, all the while pushing their national agenda. Scotch College has a proud record of success in this competition. There are several rounds to choose from, the first starting on March 27. You compete over one full day and then if successful go on to compete in Parliament House to be selected to compete nationally. In 2013 we had two teams selected in the top five teams from the State Final who went on to represent their School and State at the Evatt National Finals held in December. Success in Evatt can be considered when Colours or Honours are being determined for Debating. The competition is not open for registration yet but for more information go to http://www.unyouth.org.au/wa/evatt/

For more information about Evatt or the State Conference, contact Ms Skidmore or visit the relevant website.

2014 Student Review Meetings

Parents, please be advised that parent/teacher/student review meetings are planned for the following dates:

Year 8 - Tuesday 1 April

Year 9 - Tuesday 4 March

Year 10 - Monday 26 May

Year 11 - Wednesday 19 March

Year 12 - Monday 10 March

Boarders - Friday 11 April

Full details will be advised closer to the dates.

Jan Skidmore

Director of Teaching and Learning

The MYP - Going from Strength to Strength at Scotch College

Every year Scotch College submits samples of work from our Year 10 courses for evaluation by the International Baccalaureate Organisation. These samples contain course outlines, unit outlines, assessment tasks, assessment rubrics copies of support material and assessed student work. The purpose of this is for the IBO to ensure that the appropriate pedagogies are being employed, that the requisite academic rigour is being maintained and that their philosophical outlook is being upheld. Upholding the IBO's philosophy has never posed a challenge to us since there is no incongruence between our Mission Statement (and values) and theirs.

We have just received our annual IBO MYP moderation reports and were delighted with the positive commentary they provided on the MYP as it operates here at Scotch College. The quality of the assessment tasks our teachers design was lauded and it was recognised that these tasks enable all students to attain the highest levels of achievement. Our use of technology for recording student performances and reflection was also commended - as was our accurate application of the assessment criteria. The IBO moderators were highly complimentary about the overall quality of the sample packages submitted by the teachers at Scotch College with particular praise going to the Humanities Department for their rich collection of supporting documents.

The reports also presented a promising reflection of our students' academic performance with our students out-performing the global average in the vast majority of their learning areas.

Our teachers are currently developing a range of new and highly innovative units of work for the Middle Years Programme at Scotch - these units are specifically designed to 'prepare our boys for life' with input from both the community and industry in order to develop skills and understandings with real life application.

The future of the MYP at Scotch College looks very bright indeed and I am looking forward to seeing exactly what it holds for our students.

Charlotte Cook-Casey

Middle Years Programme Coordinator

Careers Information

University Information

Medicine, Dentistry & Podiatric Medicine 2015

Medicine is offered at UWA and Notre Dame as a graduate-entry study option only and dentistry and podiatric medicine is offered as a graduate-entry study at UWA. This means that there is no longer a requirement for students to sit the UMAT (Undergraduate Medical Admission Test) as following the completion of an undergraduate degree, students who are intending to complete postgraduate studies in either medicine, podiatric medicine or dentistry will be required to sit the GAMSAT (Graduate Medical School Admission Test).

However, UWA offers limited assured entry places to highly qualified school-leaving (Year 12) students when they commence at UWA. To secure one of these places, a student must sit the UMAT, attend the structured interview, achieve a 99+ ATAR and complete an undergraduate degree with a Grade Point Average of at least 5.5 (approx. 65%).

Students who are intending to study medicine or dentistry at an interstate university (except University of Melbourne) are still required to sit the UMAT to gain entry into undergraduate medicine or dentistry.

UMAT applications closing date: Friday 6 June 2014

UMAT date: Wednesday 30 July 2014

For more information please see umat@acer.edu.au or contact Mr Frusher at Scotch.

UWA Year 12 Information Sessions

Speak to staff about the range of courses offered, application process and new developments at UWA.

Tue 11 March, 6.00pm, Alexander Lecture Theatre, UWA Arts Building

Wed 12 March, 6.00pm, Alexander Lecture Theatre, UWA Arts Building (repeat session)

http://www.studyat.uwa.edu.au/about/events/year-12-students/yr12-info

UWA Prospective Student Campus Tours

One hour tours where prospective student can view the facilities and collect course information and brochures.

Mon 3 March, 10.00am, Mon 2 June, 10.00am, Mon 7 July, 10.00am

http://www.studyat.uwa.edu.au/about/events/year-12-students/campus_tours

Australian Defence Force Academy

The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) will be holding an Information Session at Irwin Barracks, Stubbs Terrace, Karrakatta 12 March at 6.30pm.

This session in particular is an excellent opportunity for Year 10, 11 and 12 students to speak to officers to find out all the advantages of studying at ADFA. To reserve your seat please email cptwa@dfr.com.au .

Apply now for ADFA in 2015

The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), situated in Canberra is a university like no other, offering combined military and leadership training, with a world class degree from the University of New South Wales (UNSW). It has the best university student-to teacher ratio in the country, amazing sports and recreational facilities and is one of Australia's most respected universities. ADFA offers paid study with degrees in a wide range of disciplines, and best of all, you're guaranteed a job as an officer in the Navy, Army or Air Force. Applications are now being taken for ADFA 2015, with the next Officer Selection Boards being held in April 2014. Visit http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/education/Adfa/ for more information.

TISC Presentation for WA Students

TISC have released a presentation for all Year 12 students. The presentation covers all TISC aspects relating to Year 12 including admission requirements, ATAR, the mark adjustment process as well as the application and offer process.

http://www.tisc.edu.au/static/guide/download.tisc

Gap Year Opportunities for 2015

Rotary Youth Exchange 2015

Applications are now being accepted for Rotary Youth Exchange for 12 months commencing January 2015. School students who are currently 14-16 years of age are invited to apply

Details of the Exchange Program are contained in the initial application form downloadable from the website.

The anticipated countries of exchange for 2015 may vary, but typically include: Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Denmark, Germany, Finland, France, Italy, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, Taiwan.

Application forms are available from your local Rotary Club or may be downloaded from Rotary Youth Exchange website: www.youthexchange.asn.au

Applications close late March 2014.

Tutors Worldwide handles the recruitment of gap tutors for a good number of schools in the UK. Last year they offered 130 gap tutor placements in UK schools to Australian applicants from the age of 17 upwards. Full information regarding the programme offered by Tutors Worldwide can be found at the organisation's website www.tutorsworldwide.org. Please note that the closing date for applications for placements in 2015 is Thursday 10 April 2014.

One year that will change your life...Defence Forces Gap Year

Experience what it's like to work in the Army over 12 exciting months. No long-term commitments and no strings attached. Just great pay, new mates and world-class training that will set you up for a rewarding career in the Army and your future. Over 12 months you'll be paid to work in your chosen role. First you'll complete basic training, including physical training, weapon handling, first aid and field craft. You'll then continue to learn on the job as you're immersed in the active Army lifestyle. Working on challenging projects with a close team, you will make friends you'll keep for life. What's more, you'll be getting a competitive wage and great benefits like full medical cover and you may be eligible for rental assistance.

After completing the year, you can choose to continue your career in the Army or use the skills you have learnt during your training to secure a civilian job. Learn more at

www.defencejobs.gov.au/army/oneyearroles/

Lattitude Global Volunteering - 2015 applications now open!

Applications are now open for students interested in embarking on a volunteering placement in a new culture and community during their gap year in 2015. Lattitude is the original gap year organisation, having supported young Australians on worthwhile and challenging placements for over 40 years.

Placements are available within our region in Asia/Pacific, or further afield in Europe, the Americas and Africa. Exciting additions to the program next year include Japan as a country option, and Medical Assistant placements which will be ideal for those considering a career in a health profession. To help with costs, they have a number of scholarships available to assist with placement fees or flights to certain countries.

The Lattitude website explains all the details and includes an Application Form for students to download. Application deadline for all placement options this year is Friday 27 June 2014. Further information is also available from Mr Frusher at Scotch College.

WACE HELP Classes

Academic Task Force offers a variety of WACE HELP classes across Middle school ( English and Mathematics) and Senior school (Physics 2AB and 3AB, Chemistry 2AB and 3AB, English 2AB and 3AB, Mathematics 3AB, 3CD & Specialist 3CD) at a variety of venues.

Contact learn@academictaskforce.com.au or 9314 9500 for further details.

WACE Master Classes

Mastermind Australia offers a variety of classes to assist Middle and Senior school students to improve their understanding and depth in a variety of WACE courses.

For more information contact Dr Robert Hallam on 9486 1377 or 0488 102 907 email: academicpathways@mastermindaustralia.com.au.

2015 Upper School WACE Courses

The School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA) has recently released more information on the new courses that will be introduced next year for Year 11 students and the conditions for secondary graduation that will affect the 2016 Leavers cohort and beyond. For detailed information all parents are advised to go to SCSA website http://www.scsa.wa.edu.au/internet/Senior_Secondary/The_WACE/WACE_2016

Once there you can view the significant changes by clicking on any of the options below.

A brief summary of key features of the information is as follows:

To achieve a Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) a student will need to have demonstrated a standard of literacy and numeracy equivalent to a Year 9 Band 8 in the national testing known as NAPLAN. If a student does not achieve this they will be required to sit further tests until they are deemed to have met the standard. The test is called the Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessment (OLNA) and students will have several opportunities to take the assessment prior to completing their secondary education in Year 12. The first opportunity for Year 10 boys is in Week 6 and 7 of this term.

In Year 11 and 12 they will then be required to achieve at least 4 C grades in Year 11 and 3 C grades in Year 12 so careful consideration must be given to the choice of course.

The new courses, which will be known as ATAR and General, will be released by SCSA by the end of March and we will then prepare our course booklets for our Year 10 boys.

If a boy chooses to undertake the IB Diploma, there is no requirement for him to have a WACE. The Diploma takes the place of WACE for secondary graduation.

Mr Peter Frusher

Careers Advisor

Tour Information

2014 Cambodia Tour - Community Service

Expressions of interest for the 2014 Cambodia Community Service Tour are currently being sought. The tour will involve participating in service work at the primary school in Soun Sah Village, as well as travelling to Phnom Penh (to visit Khmer Rouge era sites) and Siem Reap (to visit ancient cultural sites such as Angkor Wat). The tour will run in the December school holidays and will be open to all current Year 10, 11 and 12 students. If you require more information, please contact Miss Kate Gooding in the English Department on 9383 6715 or kgooding@scotch.wa.edu.au. Please see the form attached for expressions of interest.

Abrolhos Islands Trip

Reminder to Parents of Students attending the Abrolhos Islands Trip

In May, students from Marine and Maritime studies in Year 11 will be going on a Diving course to the Abrolhos Islands.

On the trip, students can apply their knowledge to an extended practice. The following information outlines the planned 2013 expedition which will give boys the opportunity to visit an area that only a privileged few ever get to see. This expedition is offered to the Marine and Maritime Studies programme and will be a great experience for the students. It will give them the confidence necessary to plan for such a trip in the future and will be a highlight of their school year. Marine safety skills will be reinforced and enhanced for life.

The first expedition (Mr Keatch's class) will depart from the College Pool car park at 6.00am on the Sunday 18 May and return at 3.00pm on the Friday afternoon, 23 May. The second expedition (Mr McLean's class) will depart from the College Pool car park at 6.00am on Sunday 25 May and return at 3.00pm on the Friday afternoon, 30 May. Please note that the second expedition will run into the first day of the long weekend.

The isolation and freedom the Abrolhos provides is exceptional. Students will be able to explore a coral atoll surrounded by nothing other than birdlife, some fishing shacks and the tide washing over the broken corals. This is a very unique trip because usually students would not be able to leave their charter vessel due to fishing laws. But fortunately we have been granted access to campsite, jetty and various islands which adds a whole different dimension to the Abrolhos that most travelers don't get to experience.

Please ensure that all forms are read and filled out appropriately and that the boys adhere to the equipment list that will be handed out to them in the booklet. It is also very important that the students complete their online learning package before going on the trip.

Any questions please ask Mr Ashley Keatch (email: AKeatch@scotch.wa.edu.au) and Stephen McLean (email: SAMcLean@scotch.wa.edu.au - Tel: 08 9383 6905 .

Clubs

The Clubs Programme for 2014 has commenced and once again there is a great array of activities on offer. All Year 8s take part in a club and it is optional for Years 9 to 12. Most Clubs operate during an extended lunchtime on Tuesdays. Senior students are encouraged to assist staff in running clubs.

Clubs which operated in recent years and are continuing are: Rocketeering, IT Club, Knitwits, Chess, HTML, Modelmaking, Helicopters and Electronics. Two new clubs that have started this year are the Lego Renewable Energy Club and Film Club.

We encourage boys in Years 9 to 12 to take up the opportunity of being involved in (or leading) a club. Parents are welcome to discuss the range of Clubs on offer with the co-ordinator, Mrs Marilyn Zuidersma tel: 9383 6833.

Boys Achievments

Charlie and Reece Grant (Year 12, Shearer) have been selected in the Western Australian Rugby U17's Junior Gold Squad to compete in the Junior Gold Cup in Queensland from 4 to 12 March.

Liam Seagreen (Year 11, Ferguson) was recently selected for the WA State Sailing Team in the 29er class.

Alistair Young (Year 11, Cameron) In the 2014 Australian Laser Radial Championship in January Alistair came 1st in the Under 17 and first in the U19 age groups as well as 2^nd overall behind a dual world champion. He has been selected in the Australian Youth Sailing team to participate in the Youth World Laser Championship in Portugal in July. With such outstanding results Alistair is now part of the Western Australian Institute of Sport sailing programme.

Cameron Green (Year, 10 Anderson) has again made it into the U15s State School Boys Cricket Team which goes to Canberra in two weeks time.

Oliver Scott-Morey (Year 10, Cameron) spent 13 days in Sydney in January at the annual Gondwana Choirs Choral School (his 3rd time). Gondwana is a highly selective national choir making this an outstanding achievement. Oliver has also been selected for WA Young Voices, based at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Nicholas Clarnette (Year 9, Alexander) (music scholarship student), also attended the Gondwana National Choral School in January. This is the third year in a row that he has been successful in auditioning for a place. In November Nicholas auditioned for the flute choir of the WA Youth Orchestra and has been awarded a place in this ensemble for 2014.

James Mandzufas (Year, 9 Shearer) competed as part of a duo which broke the State record in winning the under 14 boys WA Little Athletics Field Relay in January. He threw shotput and javelin.

Aim High Start Early

The term has begun well with boys quickly hitting their stride across a range of areas. In the past two weeks we have learned of our graduating boys being selected in a number Schools Curriculum and Standards Authority showcase events for outstanding work in drama, visual arts and media across WA. Details of the boys' work can be found above in this newsletter. With Scotch College listed as one of the highest achieving schools in 14 WACE subjects, staff and 2013 leavers have been busy attending a number of award ceremonies in recognition of outstanding achievement in their respective curriculum areas over recent weeks.

Outside the classroom boys have been selected in state cricket, hockey, athletics, rugby and sailing teams while others have performed in a national choir or been selected to represent Australia in the Youth World Sailing Championships in Portugal in July of this year - an impressive list of achievements in only the first three weeks of the school term.

The breadth of achievement and experience on display at the beginning of this term has highlighted the opportunities available for boys both inside and outside the classroom. One of the common attributes of all boys who have achieved their personal goals has been the setting of high expectations and a persistent effort over an extended period of time. There is no better time for boys to reset their goals than at the beginning of a school term. Boys can occasionally underestimate the importance of goals. If you expect less, you will get less. Some boys have a tendency to overestimate what they can achieve in a short period of time, leaving tasks until tomorrow or next week when they could be done today. Conversely, some boys underestimate what they can achieve over a long period of time. Not realising that great achievements are often based on one task, performed to the best of your ability, at a time. Mark Donaldson, a Victoria Cross recipient describes this as "doing one thing properly, then the next thing properly and staying in the moment." Mark will be visiting Scotch College to share his experiences with boys in the Senior School during March.

Finally, I would like to congratulate and thank the boys for a great start to the year. The annual Inter-House Swimming carnival featured spirited competition and generous support for one another. The Year 8 Camp to Rottnest launched what I anticipate to be a rewarding five years in the Senior School for all Year 8 boys while at the other end of the Senior School journey, our Year 12 boys did themselves and the community proud in their presentation and behaviour at the Year 12 Ball.

It has been a busy and rewarding start to the term. Well done and thank you.

Dr Rob McEwan

Head of Senior School

The Parents Association

Welcome BBQ - Monday 3 February 2014

A very enjoyable evening was held on the night before School term commenced. We had a fantastic turn out and provided BBQ and salads for over 600. The Bouncy Castle and Mad Cow rides proved to be a highlight. Our thanks go to Gordon Stewart for his behind-the-scenes work in organising parent volunteers and catering details.

Funding Approval

At our recent meeting held in February 2014, the Parents' Association agreed to fund the following expenditure requests:

• The purchase of five portable soccer goals for the Scotch College PE Department.
• Equipment for the formation of a robotics club in the Junior School.

Next Events:

Year 7 Parent Dinner

Date: Friday 7 March 2014

Time: 7pm

Venue: Scotch College Dining Room

Organisers: Karen Azzopardi and Sue Moffat

Year 8 Parent Dinner

Date: Friday 14 March 2014

Time: 7pm

Venue: Scotch College Dining Room.

Organisers: Melissa Harkins and Ian Knobel

Both dinners are lovely social occasions, which help to promote friendship between parents and to welcome new parents to the Scotch community.

Tickets for both events are available via the Scotch College Website www.scotch.wa.edu.au and click on the 'Book a Scotch Event 'icon.

Parents' Association Committee

Michelle Barrow - President

David Sones - Co-Vice President

Gordon Stewart -Co-Vice President

James Smith - Treasurer

Sharon Burvill - Secretary

Michelle Barrow

President

Parents' Association

Mothers' Auxiliary

Thank you to all who attended our Annual General Meeting today. Our new committee with their contacts will be uploaded onto the Mothers' Auxiliary page of the Parent Support section on the Scotch College website.

https://parentgroups.scotch.wa.edu.au/groups/mothersauxiliary/

Thank you to our newly appointed volunteers, we have another great team this year. I am looking forward to a big year, with numerous occasions to meet and become friends with many new Scotch parents.

The Year 12 Ball was held last Saturday night; 'The Year of the Dragon' came together with the help of many Year 12 parents, boys and Year 11 parents. Thank you to all that helped also thanks to Trent Harvey Venue and Events Co-ordinator and to Gregg and Claire from Catering, the many maintenance staff, security, teachers and cleaning staff for making the evening a wonderful success. Photos of the evening will be available on our web page.

Our next MA meeting is Monday 7 April at 9am at the Gooch Pavilion. All welcome, we hope to see many new faces.

Middle School Sundowner

Thursday 27 February

RSVP Monday 24 February -Please book your tickets today

6pm - 8pm

Gooch Pavilion

Cost $25 per person

BYO Drinks

Tickets are available via the Scotch College Website www.scotch.wa.edu.au and click on the 'Book a Scotch Event 'icon.

Headmaster's Year 8 Morning Tea

Friday 7 March

Scotch College Dining Room

9.40am (immediately following Assembly)

Please send in your RSVP by Tuesday 25 February or email mothersauxiliary@scotch.wa.edu.au

Year 11 Dance

Saturday 24 May

The Committee has been formed and planning is underway.

Year 12 Monthly Coffee Mornings

Friday 28 February -CANCELLED

Due to the Boarders' long weekend the first coffee morning for 2014 has been cancelled.

Notification of the new date will be issued shortly.

All enquiries contact Lyn Walsh 0407 773932

Jennifer Murray, Linda Arnold and Lyn Walsh

Year 12 Mothers' Auxiliary Representative

Clair Stanley

Scotch College Mothers' Auxiliary President

Rowing Report

A huge thank you to everyone for their support of the recent Scotch College Regatta held on 8 February 2014. To everyone who volunteered their time; barbeque and baking skills; decorating and photography expertise; who towed trailers and lugged countless boxes; who emptied their gardens of greenery and drove back and forth; and much, much more - your support of this event and of our boys is sincerely appreciated.

We have an assortment of containers awaiting collection in Senior School reception.

Heidi Locke

Mother of Captain of Boats

rowing@scotch.wa.edu.au

Sailing Report

Liam Seagreen (Year 11) Ferguson House was recently selected for the WA State Sailing Team in the 29er class

Pipe Band Parent Support Group (PBPSG)

The Pipe Band Parent Support Group (PBPSG) is a group of Pipe Band parents who meet once a month to support the Scotch College Pipe Band.
If you are a parent of a Piper or Drummer and would like to find out more about the Scotch College Pipe Band and the Parent Support Group, then come along to the Welcome Afternoon Tea on Tuesday 27 February at 2pm in the Dining room annexe.
Our next PBPSG meeting will be on Thursday 20 March in the Pipe Band Room.

Steph Debnam

PBPSG@scotch.wa.edu.au

Dear Fellow OSCs

Next month sees the OSC host the first of our Sundowners for the Year. Our "Beer & Tapas" Night is on Thursday the 27^th of March at 6:30 p.m. We will hold a very brief AGM, and, in a change of venue, we will be breaking out the Tapas and San Miguel at the Bunning Resource Centre. We think it's a great opportunity to get OSC's back onto the school campus, particularly if you haven't been there for a few years. You'll be surprised at how much has changed (and possibly how much hasn't!).

The AGM will consist of a short order of business where the Audited Accounts for the OSC will be presented along with nominations to the OSC committee and Headmaster, Dr Alec O'Connell, will give a short up-date on the school.

We've seen a marked up-turn in attendance at OSC functions (especially from younger OSCs) and these are great opportunities for you to catch up and network with fellow OSCs.

I'll also be taking questions without notice from the floor, so take this opportunity to voice how you see your association should evolve.

As a "Community for Life" your voice is invaluable in allowing us to determine new initiatives and events not only to the benefit of our membership association but also in support of the school.

So, join me and fellow committee members for a great evening, I look forward to meeting you on the night, enjoying a few cold beers and a quiet word with you.

Michael Silbert

President Old Scotch Collegians

Relationships Australia

Relationships Australia is holding several parenting seminars this term.

Fathering after Separation

Dads Raising Teenage Boys

Change and Loss - A Man's Way

Kids and Today's Technology

See flyer for more information.

Wembley Bright Blue Disco

The Police Commissioner's Fund for sick kids is holding the Wembley Bright Blue Disco on Friday, 21 February, 2014. See here for more details.