When I reflect on what has transpired each year I do so with a sense that it couldn't possibly mean another year has passed us by. Sitting down to write my final Thistle of 2014, (I can hear some sighs of reader relief!) confirms that yes another school year is now over.

When we commence each year we do so with both public and private aspirations for the year ahead. In essence we manifest these thoughts through the concept of "HOPE". It is a word we use to operationalise what we want to achieve; sometimes selfishly and sometimes altruistically.

On Friday 28 November we said our formal farewell to the Year 12 students at their Valedictory Chapel and Dinner. This evening is always so poignant and meaningful, especially for the boys and their immediate family. As Headmaster I love the evening because it is about the whole year group and not geared at individual prowess or success, but to the uniqueness of the cohort. It is a privilege and honour to listen to the boys and their parents speak about the journey they have had at Scotch and what it has meant to them. While I have no doubt the quality of teaching and learning is a strong sub text, the discussions usually centre around the formation of each boy and the shared emotional and personal experiences that helped shape and form them in preparation for leaving school and entering the next phase of their life.

The theme for the Valedictory was "HOPE". We chose this out of respect for the challenges faced by two of our families and the wider community with the tragedy of what is now simply referred to as MH17. Without a vision of hope, moving forward and understanding what took place on that fateful day would simply be just too hard. Martin Luther King said that we must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.

The Christmas story is indeed one based on hope with the birth of Jesus. In an ever rapidly moving and complex world it is critical that we instill in our young boys and men that no matter how hard some days may seem the concept of Hope is a message worth sharing. Desmond Tutu refers to hope as being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness. The reading used at Valedictory Chapel Romans 5:3-4 reinforces this:

"Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope."

There has been so much to celebrate at Scotch this year. Each sub-school continues to provide the boys with wonderful opportunities to be challenged and grow. The commitment of the teaching and non-teaching staff ensures that our College is highly sought after because it continues to place the boy at the centre of how we plan and what we offer.

I have just received the MMG survey feedback and the most pleasing on balance response is the overall satisfaction level by parents and boys. What is very pleasing is that the group of parents who have experienced the most, that is our Year 12 parents, rated 12 of the 13 areas measured as very high with the other being high. Premised on the MMG benchmarking, schools of first choice, strong advocacy and loyalty, positive word of mouth and strong conversion of waiting lists result from schools achieving overall "very high" status. Having said this there are still plenty of areas where we can review and enhance what we do. I will spend the summer fully analysing the responses to ensure the process of continual improvement is embed in our 2015 plans. I would like to personally thank everyone who took the time to complete the surveys.

In closing I cannot thank the community enough for the level of passion and support towards our College. Sometimes when you are very close to a school or have limited comparative benchmark, it is easy for staff and parents to assume what happens at Scotch is just commonplace. This could not be further from the truth. The level of participation, support and passion is what makes this College and its wider community so very special.

I look forward to seeing many of you and closing out our year at the Junior School Presentation Afternoon and the Middle and Senior School Speech Nights.

Thank you once again to the boys, parents, staff, OSC and the wider community for supporting Scotch in 2014.

May the peace and joy of Christmas and the hope of an even better 2015 be with you and your families.

Regards and God Bless

Dr A J O'Connell

Headmaster

End of Year Events

End of Year Events in the Dickinson Centre:

• Junior School Presentation Afternoon on Wednesday 3 December at 2.00pm (Pipe Band performance from 1.30pm)
• Middle School Speech Night on Thursday 4 December at 6.30pm
• Senior School Speech Night on Friday 5 December at 6.30pm

Parking will be available on the playing fields, entrance from the northern end of Stirling Road.

Quality Teaching Equals Quality Learning

The ongoing challenge for teaching staff at Scotch College is how to ensure that quality teaching directly impacts on quality learning in the classroom. In an educational paradigm that is shifting at light speed, the need for our staff to remain vigilant in their desire to provide the highest quality teaching to our students is a difficult, yet ultimately rewarding challenge.

Over November 18 and 19 leaders of teaching and learning from across Senior, Middle and Junior school participated in a series of workshops focused on one goal; improve the quality of teaching and learning at Scotch College. Within these two days our teachers focused on engaging with the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) Professional Standards for Teachers. The Standards provide a framework for teacher development and offer a structured way in which staff can reflect on their practice with a view to continually improve. The College mirrors AITSL in its aim to ensure that teachers, 'know what is expected of them; receive frequent, useful feedback on their teaching; and access high quality support to improve their practice'.

During these workshops the teachers grappled with questions such as 'How can teachers effectively collaborate with colleagues to share their professional learning?' Or other questions including, 'How could you help to develop a shared understanding of effective teaching at Scotch College?' By considering the way in which our teachers deploy their skill set in our classrooms, our aim is to support staff through their careers to develop into highly accomplished and ultimately leading teachers in their respective fields.

Staff were fortunate to spend time with Professor Alec Cameron who holds the position of Deputy Vice Chancellor (Education) at the University of Western Australia. Professor Cameron is a Rhodes Scholar and among many other academic accolades, holds a University Medal from the University of Sydney. In a presentation to staff, Professor Cameron highlighted the changes that Universities were making regarding their teaching and learning models and how this translates to schools. He illustrated the shift away from traditional didactic style of teaching to a model based on self-directed learning and interactive experiential opportunities for students. The implications for organisations such as Scotch, who play a part in the preparation of students for tertiary institutions, is to equip our boys with the ability to thrive in this new teaching and learning environment.

It is of vital importance to recognize the already incredibly talented staff we have at the College, our aim is for continual improvement, as Professor Dylan William of the Institute of Education in London suggests, 'Every teacher needs to improve, not because they are not good enough, but because they can be even better,'.

Mr Peter Allen

Director of Teaching and Learning

Community and Service

Christmas Appeal

There is still a little time to contribute to the UnitingCare West Christmas Appeal. A truck will be arriving on Thursday 4 December to collect gifts of food and toys from our community. Non-perishable food items and new toys can be brought in to House Heads in the Senior School and class teachers in Middle and Junior Schools. The UnitingCare West Christmas Appeal provide hampers of food and toys to needy families in the Perth area. Scotch parents and boys have always given generously and it looks like this year will be the same.

Disabled Surfing Event

The next Disabled Surfing Event will be on Saturday 13 December at Leighton Beach, commencing at 9.00am. Any boy who is interested from the Senior School is welcome come along and join in as a volunteer. Volunteers work in a team to manage one disabled participant at a time. The event is quite special for all involved and for Scotch boys it is a good way to give back to the broader community in an enjoyable activity where the emphasis is on having fun and staying safe.

Boys interested in being a part of this wonderful service activity should return the slip attached to the Information letter.

Good Samaritan Clothing Bin

With summer upon us and Christmas approaching, now is a good time to donate clothing to Good Samaritan Industries. We have a Good Sammy bin on campus - beautifully decorated by Year 3 boys - located in at the corner of the Dining Hall car park. Before the end of term, it would be good to fill this bin with good quality clothing.

A Year of Service

The past year has seen the growth in both the number of boys throughout the College undertaking a service activity and also the number of partner agencies willing to work with us to offer our students experiences in service. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many boys, parents, staff and friends for helping to CONNECT, INSPIRE, SUSTAIN and NURTURE our boys. These terms are the cornerstones of the Scotch Service Model and provide the structure within which service learning can take place. Without the participation of many adult volunteers and the patience of professions working in the service area, our boys would not have as rich an experience as they have had this year.

Volunteers Required for Food Rescue

The UnitingCare West (UCW) agency - Food Rescue - is asking for volunteers to assist with the collection of food to be rescued from cafes in the Perth central area. UCW has proposed that parents who work in the CBD volunteer, along with one or more of their teenage children, to collect food using a 'Cargo Cart' (picture below), housed in the ENEX100 building at 100 St Georges Terrace. Volunteers would be assigned a 'run sheet' of cafes when a spot becomes available on the corporate volunteer roster.

Food collected would be brought back to 100 St Georges Terrace to be taken by Food Rescue vans to homeless centres for those who are hungry and in need. Volunteers would be required for a maximum of two hours. This is a wonderful activity for parents to do with their children, particularly in the run up to Christmas during the holidays. If you are interested, please contact Julie Broad at Food Rescue directly on 9277 8851. Mobile: 0437 245840 julie.broad@unitingcarewest.org.au.

Mr Bill Cordner

Director of Community and Service

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: http://www.parentingideas.com.au/Parent_Magazine.html

Music Department

"Music is the art of thinking with sounds." - Jules Combarieu

Instrumental Music 2015:

During the past month emails have been sent to a variety of family groups advising of the enrolment procedure for learning a musical instrument in 2015. Please note that for existing Scotch families, a new enrolment process will be in place - an online system that utilises Parent Connect logins. For new Scotch families without a Parent Connect login, an enrolment form that covers different year levels will be made available. For all Instrumental Music enquiries, please contact Music Administrator, Julia Robinson (9383 6841) music@scotch.wa.edu.au

Instrumental Music enrolments should be submitted as soon as possible.

The 2015 Music Handbook is available on the Scotch College website by following Our School / The Arts / Music, or by clicking this link: Music Handbook 2015

As this is the final edition of the Thistle for 2014, I would like to thank all boys who have participated in the Music Programme this year. There have been many performances in a variety of settings and these concerts have been enthusiastically supported by parents and friends. The classroom programme has been steadily expanding and more and more boys are improving their analysis, aural and theory skills, along with composition and solo performance proficiencies. As we enjoy the final week of 2014, we look forward to the musical performances scheduled as part of the three Presentation Assemblies and Speech Nights and know as classes conclude for the Christmas holidays, that everyone has performed to their very best.

Finally, my thanks to all instrumental tutors and music staff who have worked with the boys this year, with a special mention of Mrs Palmyre who left us mid-year, and Mrs van de Ploeg who departs at the end of this year. We wish them all the very best for their future contributions to music education.

Many of the events listed above are supported by FOSM. If you would like to join the Friends of Scotch Music (FOSM) - a group of parents who enthusiastically support the work of boys and staff in the Music Department, the process is very straight forward via the FOSM email below. 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. The next FOSM Meeting is to be held Monday, 9 February 2015.

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.

Mr David Coughlan

Head of Music

Uniform Shop

Holiday Opening Times

There will be appointment-only opening days for new boys during the holidays. Please contact the uniform shop for details (uniform@scotch.wa.edu.au).

The Uniform Shop opening hours for the general school community during the holidays are as follows:

Summer Holiday Opening Hours (9.00am - 12.00pm and 1.00pm - 4.00pm)

• Wednesday 28 January
• Thursday 29 January
• Friday 30 January
• Saturday 31 January
• Monday 2 February

Normal trading hours resume on Tuesday 3 February 2015:

Tuesdays 8.00am - 5.00pm

Thursdays 7.30am - 11.30am

Fridays 7.30am - 11.30am

Secondhand Exchange

The Uniform Shop accepts all current items of uniform for resale. All items should be clean. Blazers must be dry cleaned and in good condition. A frayed cuff, worn elbows, very old crests, rips and tears on blazers make them unacceptable for resale. Items will be purchased from you outright as long as they are in good condition and the shop is not overstocked. Bathers, hats, socks and restricted sportswear are not accepted for resale, but will be donated to charity if handed in.

The Raven - Holiday Reading!

The Spring Term edition of The Raven is now available and the student work in this edition makes for great holiday reading. The Raven can be found on Home.Scotch homepage http://home.scotch.wa.edu.au

Remember Junior, Middle and Senior School students - if you have any good creative writing that you would like considered for publication in The Raven, please send an electronic copy to JJWeeda@scotch.wa.edu.au or JEmills@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Sustainability

Vice-Captain of School, Bailey Banfield has arranged an initiative which saw the Year 11 boys who presented at the International Kids Teaching Kids conference at the end of October (http://www.scotch.wa.edu.au/view/news-archive-2014/20141105105552) engage with Year 6 students. Last Wednesday Thomas Gooch (Keys), Rory O'Sullivan (Ferguson) and Denver Quantrill (Shearer) delivered their powerful message to the group of attentive Middle School boys. The older boys delivered a strong and well prepared message on sustainability which they successfully supported with group activities. They moved around to each group, which really connected the younger boys to the task, demonstrating the hallmarks of good teaching. This was a great example of how student leadership can be a powerful role model for other students, ­ the older boys are who the younger boys hope and aspire to be in the future. When they modelled and demonstrated the values that underpin the College ethos it was a powerful message that was well received.

Denver Quantrill engages with the boys

Tom Gooch explains an issue

Mr Chris Menage

Sustainability Coordinator

Scotch College amongst the best in the world at the Tournament of Champions at Yale

Last Thursday afternoon, the Scotch College World Scholar's Cup team touched down at Perth International Airport after competing in a four-day academic competition that featured some of the brightest young minds across hundreds of schools from around the world. The team comprised Solomon Little (Year 11, Anderson), James Naylor-Pratt (Year 11, Anderson) and Drummond Orr (Year 11, Ferguson), who earned their place at the exclusive Tournament of Champions at Yale University following outstanding results in the global round in Singapore earlier in the year.

Having placed first in the Commonwealth and 19^th in the world group from 400 teams at the global round, the boys went to Yale well prepared and looking forward to testing themselves against the very best. Their ability and efforts were rewarded!

Scotch College placed 17^th from 89 teams and came 7^th in the team challenge where each student completed a 120 item multiple-choice test on abstract and specialised knowledge. The team also placed on the Writing Honour Roll.

Individual highlights included:

Solomon Little won the History section within the individual challenge and was listed on the Honour Roll for Social Studies.

Drummond Orr - Writing Honour Roll

James Naylor-Pratt placed second in the academic challenge and 10^th overall from across all events from 265 students. James was also listed on the Debating Honour Roll; Writing Honour Roll; and Social Studies Honour Roll.

The outstanding results achieved at the highest level in the World Scholar's Cup are thoroughly deserved and are a testament to the ability and effort of James Naylor-Pratt, Drummond Orr and Solomon Little.

Dr Rob McEwan

Head of Senior School

Looking Back and Looking Forward

We are approaching the end of another successful year in the Junior School. There have been many events that stand out for me including NAIDOC Week, the Ice Bucket Challenge for MND and the Year 5 PYP Exhibition. Our new Junior School Captains have been outstanding. As predicted, they have been trailblazers in their new positions and have been outstanding role models in our school. The work the teachers have engaged in to raise boys' attainment in Mathematics and writing has greatly impressed me, as has the commitment and positive attitude of our boys and the support of our parent community.

Farewells

We say farewell to members of the Junior School teaching staff. Miss Tapscott is moving back to Melbourne to join her partner and will be recommencing at her previous school, Mt View Primary School. Mr Dickson has been appointed as a new secondary Mathematics teacher at Tranby College. A move that will bring him closer to where he lives and provide him the opportunity to further develop his love of teaching Mathematics. Mr Mann is relocating to Dunsborough with his family and will be teaching at Dunsborough Primary School. Mr Caniglia has recently been appointed to be Head PE and Sport for Year 3 to 6 at Cranbrook School in Sydney. The work of Mr Caniglia has been outstanding. He has skillfully developed and led the sporting programme of the Junior and Middle School and assisted many of our boys in developing their abilities as sportsmen and athletes. Mr Caniglia's organising of the always-successful Inter-House events remains as highlights of any school year. I wish to thank these four fine educators for their outstanding contribution to our school. They have been excellent teachers and wonderful colleagues. I have greatly appreciated their dedication to the boys and their commitment to providing the very best educational experiences each and every day.

Mrs Kim Lorimer, our School Psychologist, is moving to work fulltime in the Middle School. I wish to thank her for her excellent work and support of our boys and families. Mrs Daniela Jasper has been appointed as the new Junior School Psychologist. Mrs Jasper joins us from the Catholic Education Office and the Non-Government School Psychology Service where she was a Consultant Senior Psychologist.

New Staff

In 2015 we will welcome new members of staff to our talented team. Mrs Tara Fowles has worked at Newman Junior College, Loreto Nedlands, Holy Spirit Primary School and John XXIII. She is a very experienced teacher who has worked in both the independent and state sectors. Tara has a passion for education in the younger years and effectively uses iPads to engage and motivate learners.

Ms Liza Richardson joins us from Canberra Girls Grammar School. Liza had a long career at Price Waterhouse Coopers before deciding to follow her passion for education. She is an experienced PYP teacher with a passion for inquiry learning and the integration of information and learning technologies into her classroom.

Mrs Larree Springall has recently moved to WA from Victoria where she taught at Kororoit Creek Primary School. She is experienced with the PYP and engages wonderfully with her students. Mrs Springall combines her love of inquiry learning with the use of technology to provide excellent learning experiences for her students.

Our final appointment is Mr Andrew Wells. Mr Wells is an experienced teacher who has spent the last four years working at Sacred Heart Primary School in London, UK, a school I know well. He has taught in Year 6 and excelled in the teaching of Mathematics. He has led professional development into the integration of Information Technology into teaching and learning for 44 schools. He has also introduced coding into the curriculum and he ran a coding club at Sacred Heart. Mr Wells in originally from WA and has recently returned home from the UK.

Below are the class teacher assignments for 2015.

Semester 2 Reports

Semester 2 reports will be sent home next week. Teachers will be available to answer any queries parents may have regarding the reports. Please email your son's teacher/s if required.

2015 - Meet the Teacher Evening

We are making some changes to our approach to the Meet the Teacher Evening for 2015. All parents are invited to attend a session with me in MacKellar Hall starting at 6:00pm to hear about our goals and programmes for the school year. Ms Derrick will talk about our developments and initiatives in our teaching and learning programme and Miss Hooper will talk about pastoral care. This session will be followed by time in your son's class to hear about expectations and procedures for the school year from his new class teacher. Meet the Teacher Evening will take place on Wednesday 4 February beginning at 6:00pm.

I wish to thank the teachers for their outstanding work this year. Their commitment, professionalism and determination to provide the very best education for the boys is inspiring. I thank the boys for their positive attitude and wonderful personalities. Finally, I wish to thank our fantastic parent community. Your support and engagement with us this year is greatly welcomed and appreciated.

I wish all families, boys and staff a wonderful Christmas and summer holiday. I look forward to the 2015 academic year and seeing the many refreshed faces as we begin what will be an exciting school year.

Mr John Stewart

Head of Junior School

African Safari here at Scotch

This term Year 2 students have been involved in a How We Express Ourselves unit of inquiry, with a line of inquiry "How celebrations can strengthen our Identity." In Art classes, boys have researched " Why people make masks" and "Masks as part of celebrations in different cultures".

We decided to make African animal masks and played with some pattern making and close observation of animal patterns, to use when decorating our masks. They looked amazing! Thanks to all the parent helpers for bravely assisting during the construction and decoration phase of this project.

Today was a wonderful link to Visual Art, when the boys accompanied by their class teachers and Art teacher went on an African Safari through the school grounds and up to the Middle School. They snuck up to the windows, and marched to the beat of some drums to surprise the Year 7 boys hard at work in class, wearing their convincing African animal masks. The Year 7 boys and teachers were very obliging and played their part perfectly with screams of fright and amazement at these marching animals. We even went into the classrooms and had some photos taken.

Thanks to Richard Ledger and the teachers for allowing this invasion. It is a really important aspect of art learning, for the boys to be able to showcase their artwork in different forums with various audiences. They definitely had strength in their identity when wearing the masks and from this positive feedback, will have gained confidence in their identity as an artist.

Ms Karen Sabitay

PYP Visual Arts

Performing Arts News

Can you believe that the year is almost over? Spring Term seems to have flown by which makes me think of the saying 'time flies when you're having fun!'. It has been a particularly fun (and busy!) term in Performing Arts, with many concerts, soirees and extra rehearsals scheduled as we celebrate a fabulous year drawing to a close. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support throughout the year. I am already looking forward to what I know will be a very exciting year for Performing Arts in 2015.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Ms Phebe Samson

Performing Arts Teacher

French News

Bonjour! The Year 5 boys made "Boules au Chocolat" during French class this term. They had to follow a recipe written entirely in French in order to make their delicious biscuits. This work allowed us to look at the use of the imperative verbs in French that are often used when writing steps to follow in a recipe. The boys also watched a video with a French chef using a recipe. They had to listen closely to pinpoint the verbs and ingredients that were being used. It was a messy but wonderful experience and I can say that the boys and I had a wonderful time. Bon appétit!

Madame Edwards

French Specialist

Year 4 to 5 Laptops

Last week was a very exciting week for the Year 4 boys. The boys handed in their iPad's and moved to Macbook Airs. The Laptops are perfect for the added demands of Year 5 and the PYP Exhibition.

The Year 4 boys began the transfer process with a 1:1 Laptop information session presented by Dr Nick Spadaccini. The boys and their parents heard all of the important information about using and looking after their new machines before moving off to receive the new MacBook Air notebooks.

The boys transferred their iPad camera rolls to their laptops to be able to refer to their work completed on the iPad in the future.

All Junior School boys get to take home their iPads and laptops over the summer holidays to continue their learning at home. The Junior School Wiki has helpful tips for parents regarding managing 1:1 devices at home.

Ms Amanda Ritchie

ILT Coach

Friendship and Social Support

A child with more than one good friend is less likely to be bullied than a child who is often alone or who has only one friend. Children who bully others are careful to avoid those children who have assertive and supportive friends.

How can families help their children to make friends?

• Make sure that your children play with other children at school, at home and in your neighbourhood.
• At home, encourage your children to talk and maintain contact with their extended family - uncles, aunts, cousins and grandparents and to talk with adult family friends.
• Invite other children to your home for visits, and show your children how to make their guests feel welcome.
• Help your children to make new friends by encouraging them to develop other interests and hobbies, such as sport, Scouts, dance, drama or music.
• Take your children on holidays to places where there are other children of a similar age.

Mr Warwick Norman

Friendly Schools and Families Coordinator

Year 1P News

Christmas came early in the Junior School when the Year 1P boys re-enacted the Nativity scene at last week's Assembly. The boys had been practicing their lines and rehearsing in full costume weeks leading into the big day. Mary (Jonathan) had a safe and speedy birth and the Three Wise Men (Daniel, Euan and Alex J) were very pleased to be in Bethlehem for Jesus' arrival.

Mrs Sue Phillips

Year 1 Teacher

A time to celebrate!

A full academic year is almost behind us, it's time to pause, reflect and celebrate. 2014 was action packed: Where did the year go?

The boys have grown so much in so many ways: academically, physically, socially and emotionally, (parents, please remember; tiredness associated with this time of the year has an impact on emotions, particularly in the home environment).

It is such a privilege to work with your sons, to work with a staff as dedicated and passionate as the team at Junior School and to work with you all in our common goal to ensure every one of our boys reaches their full potential. It is a pleasure to work together, towards our boys becoming life-long learners who are caring, inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, risk-takers, balanced and reflective, amongst other attributes; community and global citizens, who are empowered to take action.

Reflecting on our Year 5 boys and their achievements this year, we know we are well underway with our goal. I would like to take this opportunity to wish each boy in Year 5 all the very best for the exciting journey into Middle School.

Ms Kathy Derrick

Deputy Head of Junior School - Curriculum

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 5^th 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 2^nd 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

Middle School Speech Night 2014

This Thursday 4 December is our Middle School Speech Night. The evening commences at 6.30pm in the Dickinson Centre. A unique feature of this year's Speech Night will be the presentation of Book Awards to boys across the curriculum. Perhaps different to Book Awards in other settings, our book awards are a reflection of the IB Learner Profiles and Attitudes and their importance in our curriculum and the Middle School philosophy. Book Awards are presented to students who typically show the following: sustained enthusiasm, willingness to collaborate, are curious, have a love of inquiry and are self-motivated. They take some risks and are willing to communicate the processes and findings of their learning. These students are not necessarily the highest achieving student in each curriculum area, although sustaining the above attributes, in many cases, it can often be the case.

Whilst Book Awards are a central feature of the evening, so too are the four fantastic musical performances. One of the performances, the Virtual Choir, had its global debut only 2 weeks ago. I look forward to sharing this special event with you.

UnitingCare West Christmas Appeal

Thank you for your generosity in donating to the UnitingCare West Christmas Appeal. As you can see from the photo, we received a large assortment of food, gifts and household products that will be arranged into Christmas hampers for families in need.

Important Dates in Middle School

Term Dates for 2015

Last Friday night we said thank you and farewell to our leaving Year 12s at the Valedictory Dinner. It was a wonderful night that began with a chapel service before entering the Dickinson Centre for dinner. The venue had been transformed into a spectacular dining room featuring large floral displays throughout. The meal was prepared by our own Scotch catering staff and served by 70 boys in the current Year 12 cohort. The highlight of the night was an inspiring speech from Mr Hales. He shared with us some of his own experiences and life challenges and likened life's experiences to a rugby game. He made us laugh and he made us think. The Valedictory Dinner was a night enjoyed by well over 400 guests and made possible through the efforts and planning of the Mothers' Auxiliary who continue to give tirelessly to school events throughout the year.

As we commence the last week of school for this calendar year, I look back at the year passed with much pride and admiration of the efforts of the large majority of boys in the Senior School. Boys have forged new ground in academic competitions, embraced the new opportunities that have become available through the Round Square and most importantly, acted thoughtfully and considerately for the benefit of others. 2014 has been a year filled with highlights and will remain one many will remember fondly.

I wish all families a joyous Christmas and a safe and restful holiday period.

Dr Rob McEwan

Senior School Speech Night

All parents are invited to attend the 118^th Speech Night on Friday 5 December at 6.30pm in the Dickinson Centre. Please be seated by 6.15pm in preparation for a 6.30pm start.

While this event is not compulsory, all boys are welcome to attend.

Uniform Requirements:

Winter uniform for Prize Winners

Winter uniform for Leaving Year 12 boys

Summer uniform for all other boys

Senior School Lockers/Locks

At the end of each calendar year boys are expected to clear out their lockers prior to lockers being locked by the Maintenance Staff during the holidays. It is important that parents are aware of this as many uncleared items are removed and can be returned to the owners the following year only if they have been clearly marked. Some items go into lost property and others are discarded. This causes a considerable amount of extra work for those involved and possibly the loss by boys and parents of some unmarked items. It would be helpful if parents were to ensure their sons had cleared out their lockers and removed the padlocks by the end of term. Boys should retain their school supplied padlocks for use in 2015.

Finishing Time

A final Senior School assembly will be held at 8.30am on Friday 5 December after which the boys return to normal classes. Senior School will finish for the term at 1.00pm. Boys must clear their locker by this time.

Boys' Achievements

Ruan Greyling (Year 12, Brisbane) - Athletics Colours

Joshua Bennett (Year 12, Brisbane) represented Scotch in the All Schools Athletics Championships. He ran two personal bests in the 1500m and 3000m and has been chosen to represent WA at the All Schools Australian Championships in Adelaide in early December.

Adam Brenz-Verca (Year 9, Stuart) was recently selected in the state squad for sailing after finishing third behind the current national first and second champion in the 420 class state youth championships.

Toby O'Keeffe (Year 10, Stuart) has been chosen as one of 15 finalists nationally, out of approximately 300 films, in the junior division of "the worlds largest short film festival" Tropfest. This junior division is called TropJr (http://international.tropfest.com/tropjr/) and requires that participants be 15 years or younger. TropJr films must include the TSI (TropJr Signature Item) for the year and must be suitable for children and fit within a timeframe of no longer than seven minutes. Toby is the Director/Editor/Cinematographer of a film titled "Why Do Parcels Arrive Late?" starring James Irving (Year 10, Anderson) and Tim Utama (Year 10, Ross). The film queries what happens when a parcel does not arrive on time, through an exaggerated, slapstick-like and quirky film style. I have recently flown to Sydney for briefings and press events and will return for the Festival after Speech Night on the last day of term. At the festival the 15 Jr films will be shown and the winners announced in the early afternoon followed by the Tropfest films. The festival attracts an average of 100,000 people to Centennial Park and is also broadcasted to an audience of approximately 150,000 via SBS. We wish Toby well and he encourages boys to attend the local screening at Kings Park and for those young enough, to enter a film themselves next year.

Rowing Leadership Positions:

Captain of Boats - Harry Sinclair (Keys)

Vice Captain of Boats - Oliver Heath (Cameron)

Year 11 Academic Excellence Certificates - 2014 Semester 2

Mathematics Enrichment

Following on from our success in the Western Australian Junior Mathematics Olympiad, results have arrived from other competitions that our best young Mathematicians have been involved with. The Mathematics Challenge for Young Australians Enrichment Stage, a programme from the Australian Mathematics Trust (AMT), was run throughout the year before school for a number of our most enthusiastic young mathematics students from Years 7, 8, 9 and 10. The Enrichment stage requires students to work through a text of challenging problems over the course of the year, culminating in the submission of a dozen competition questions. Congratulations to all boys involved in the programme and particularly to the following boys for their outstanding results:

Lewis Martin (Year 8, Anderson): Certificate of High Distinction Euler Series

Alexander Comstock (Year 8, Cameron): Certificate of Distinction Euler Series

Prentice Shepherd (Year 8, Ross): Certificate of Distinction Euler Series

Kartik Khanna (Year 9, Shearer): Certificate of High Distinction Gauss Series

Raghav Khanna (Year 9, Shearer): Certificate of High Distinction Gauss Series

The Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad (AIMO) is a four hour examination paper written by the AMT for students up to Year 10. The paper consists of eight questions with integer answers and two proofs, set from material in the Enrichment Programme to challenge the best mathematical minds in Australia. The following boys were invited by the Head of Mathematics to participate in the AIMO due to their outstanding effort in the Mathematical Enrichment Programme: Prentice Shepherd (Year 8, Ross), Luke Henderson (Year 9, Ferguson), Raghav Khanna (Year 9, Shearer), Kartik Khanna (Year 9, Shearer), Yuelin Shen (Year 9, Brisbane), Andrew Singh (Year 9, Anderson), Callum Jacobson (Year 9, St Andrews).

The boys below have been recognised for their achievement on the paper by receiving the following AIMO awards:

Kartik Khanna (Year 9, Shearer): Certificate of Distinction AIMO

Yuelin Shen (Year 9, Brisbane): Certificate of Distinction AIMO

Raghav Khanna (Year 9, Shearer): Certificate of Credit AIMO

Prentice Shepherd (Year 9, Ross): Certificate of Credit AIMO

Mr Raymond Hill

Curriculum Leader of Mathematics

Career Information

Year 11 and Year 12 Information

Year 11 and 12 Course Changes

With the Spring Term now concluding, it is an opportune time for students and parents to review student progress to date. In some cases students have already made course changes and these will be implemented ready for commencement in the Summer Term. During Spring Term teachers have had the opportunity to administer several tests and the results of these tests are an indication of possible success or otherwise in chosen courses. If a student is obviously failing in a course, it is highly recommended that he arranges to meet with Mr Frusher to discuss the reasons for this and to look at possible solutions eg change of course, change of level (mathematics), attend a study skills course during the holidays. To ensure a smooth start to Summer Term, it is recommended that any changes be made as soon as possible with Mr Frusher who will be available until Tuesday 16 December. Mr Frusher can be contacted via Email: PFrusher@scotch.wa.edu.au or Tel: (08) 9383 6830.

UWA We're here to help 2014 Year 12 graduates over the holidays

The UWA Admissions Centre and Prospective Students Office are available to answer any queries Year 12 graduates may have in regards to their university application - their contact details and opening hours over the holiday period (including the week ATAR results are released) are as follows:

19 December CLOSED*

24 December 9.00am to 12.00pm

25 December to 28 December CLOSED

29 to 31 December 9.00am to 4.00pm

1 January (New Year's Day) CLOSED

2 and 5 January 9.00am to 4.00pm

6 January Normal hours resume (9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday)

During these times they will be happy to answer queries by email, telephone or in person. At any time you can also refer to ask UWA (ask.uwa.edu.au) for answers to Frequently Answered Questions, or to submit an online query. Find out important dates and deadlines for applying to UWA for 2015.

* the Admissions Centre will be closed on Friday 19 December to facilitate our office's relocation to the new UWA Student Central building. Our telephone and email contact details will not change - refer to www.studyat.uwa.edu.au/contact for full details (the location map will be updated from 22 December)

Note: the remainder of the University will be closed from 12.00pm Wednesday 24 December and re-open Tuesday 6 January.

Summer Design Studio applications now open!

If you are passionate about design and interested in getting a valuable hands-on insight into the Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Visual Arts courses available at UWA, you are invited to join us for our 2015 Summer Design Studio.

The January Studio is aimed at current Year 11 students heading into Year 12 in 2015, and will focus on a design project in the grounds of the UWA campus.

Activities over the four and half day studio include talks by architects, landscape architects and visual artists at the Faculty; model making and drawing classes; tuition and design advice; a site visit; and an exhibition of all the students' work at the culmination of the studio.

Cost: $240 per student, which covers all materials and equipment, as well as access to a fully equipped workshop will be provided (note: fee may be waived on an individual basis to students from Aspire UWA Schools.)

Find out more or enrol online now!

Holiday Study Courses

Academic Task Force Year 7-10 Head Start Programme

A summer holiday preparation course for Years 7-10 students consisting of study skills and subject revision is being offered by Academic Task Force at venues north and south of the river from 19-22 January, 2015.

For further information contact 9317 4421 or learn@academictaskforce.com.au .

Academic Task Force Head Start Programme

This course runs from 15-28 January 2015 to help student prepare for their new WACE courses for students who started in October 2014, this programme will offer a valuable refresher and revision course for the start of the year. As well as a preview or revision of each WACE course, a Study Skills and Essay Writing course will be offered. For further information contact 9317 4421 or learn@academictaskforce.com.au.

ATARget

A Jump Start Programme will be held in the summer holidays 2015 at Christ Church Grammar School. These are small group classes for Years 10, 11 and 12 students who are seeking a structured learning environment that will better prepare them for the new academic year. The six hours of revision per subject will involve a comprehensive re-teaching of those important components of the 2014 syllabus as well as offering students a preview into what they can expect in their new subjects in 2015.

Note: These classes will also cater for students who have commenced stage three (3) and ATAR courses in fourth term of 2014.

Also included in this programme is a six hour Study Skills course designed to teach students sound study habits that will better prepare them for the rigours of the year ahead. Contact Dr Robert Hallam (08) 9486 1377 admin@atarget.com.au.

Mr Peter Frusher

Careers Advisor

Parents' Association

End-of-year Sundowner

A wonderful farewell cocktail party was held last Wednesday for six long-serving and dedicated Scotch staff members.

Those leaving Scotch include:

Steve Davey (18 years, Science teacher and sport);

Phil Williams (18 years, current head of Year 7 and 8 boarding);

Bernard Kerr (14.5 years, Art Department);

Andrew Tibbett (14.5 years, Economics);

Jan Skidmore (14 years, Director of Teaching and Learning)

Glennis Sinclair (10.5 years, laundress in boarding house)

The PA and the Development Office combined to host the end-of-year Sundowner, the purpose of which is also to thank Scotch parent volunteers. Despite the thunder and lightning and last minute change of venue to the Scotch Dining Room, a good time was had by all!

PA Biennial Ball - Save the Date - 14 March 2015

Don't forget about our Ball, as previously advertised!

Welcome BBQ Sundowner - Sunday, 1 February, 2015

Lastly, I would like to thank the PA committee for their efforts throughout the year and to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday period. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to School at our Welcome BBQ Sundowner on the Sunday afternoon of February 1, the day before School returns for Term One.

Gary Pyne

President

Parents' Association

Pipe Band Parent Support Group

At the final PBPSG meeting held on Thursday 13th November the following Office Bearers were elected for 2015:
President: Mandy Perrignon
Treasurer: Stephen White
Secretary: Kayla Sheridan
Fundraising and events: Cindy McLean ad Charmaine Regan

Congratulations to the new committee - we wish them well.

Basketball Parent Supporter Group

The Basketball Parents Support Group will be having a meeting:
Wednesday 3 December at 5.30pm in the upstairs class room of the Scotch Gym.
All interested parents are welcome to come along to discuss key dates and events for 2015.
We will be asking for Year representatives to remain on the committee as a point of contact for that year group.

The Basketball Support Group aims to:
• promote the Sport of Basketball within the College
• foster friendship and communication amongst parents
• support the coaches and players throughout the season
• organise social functions for parents and boys
• provide refreshments at home games (1sts, 2nds and 3rds)

The Basketball Support Group provides encouragement and assistance at games and offers a range of social events and activities at the School including:
• Annual Award night
• Sausage sizzle
• Morning Tea at home games

Queries to:
Karl Hombergen
President
Basketball Support Group
ktj@westnet.com.au
0432 373 305

Rowing Support Group

Information about catering and support rosters for the January rowing camp will be emailed out during the school holidays.

For any rowing support enquiries in the interim please contact Jenny Sinclair (Mother of Boats) on pf.jc.sinclair@gmail.com or 96548098/0428 548099.

Thank you.

Regards

Jenny Sinclair

Summer Cricket Skills Clinics

Mike Hirsch will be conducting coaching clinics for Primary and Secondary School students aged 8 to 16 during December 2014 and January 2015. For more details please see flyer attached.

Wembley Bright Blue Disco

To be held at the Wembley Community Centre, Alexander Street, Wembley on Friday 5 December 2014. See here for more information or visit www.brightblue.org.au/. Tickets available at the Community Centre on the day of the disco.

Junior Disco - Age 4 - 10 years

Music, games, prizes and free face painting (parents encouraged and welcome to stay)

Senior Disco - Age 10 - 15 years

Music, big screen prizes and more.

Parenting Courses

Behaviour Tonics are running the following courses at their rooms in Wembley.

1-2-3 Magic and Emotion Coaching Parent Course.

All 7.00pm to 9.30pm.

Monday 1, Wednesday 3 and Wednesday 10 December

Monday 8, Thursday 11 and Monday 15 December

Tuesday 20, Thursday 22 and Tuesday 27 January

Tuesday 10, 17 and 24 February

Thursday 19 and 26 February and 5 March

Engaging Adolescents (11 to 16yo)

Wednesday 4 and 11 March, 6.45 to 9.30pm

The following are available as 'In House' courses.

Parenting Information Session (Including 10 take home tips)

This 2 hour seminar is designed to improve your knowledge and confidence as a parent.

Bullying - Don't Just Stand There

Protective Behaviours

Private Consultations available. To enquire/register call 9382 1182 or visit www.behaviourtonics.com.au.

Holiday Tuition

Wake up those holiday brains before school starts next year. Hit the ground running from day one. Specialist Mathematics tuition and English tuition at NumberWorks'nWords. Trained tutors, individualised teaching. 19-30 January, 2015. Various enrolment options available. You choose Mathematics, English or both. Phone now for full details, and to book an assessment and introductory lesson - FREE. Also enrolling for term 1. So much fun it doesn't feel like learning!

Ph 9388 3727, or visit www.numberworksnwords.com.

Early Morning Soccer Training

Do you want the opportunity to fit in an extra training session Every Week to fine tune your fitness and ball control? Our early morning sessions at Scotch Sports ground, will be conducted by Gerry McEwan, Scotch College Senior 1^st XI Coach. For more details please see flyer attached.