Dear Parents

Welcome back to Summer Term 2015 which marks yet another start to a school year. This week we commenced with 1552 boys; the most students Scotch has ever welcomed back. I have no doubt that if I surveyed staff they would say the break went way too quickly. However, judging from the number of smiling parents I saw on day one, the commencement of school could not have come quick enough! Either way I know how great it is to see all of the returning and new boys breathe life back into Scotch, which minus students is simply a series of buildings in Swanbourne.

Much was accomplished over the break especially by our Facilities staff. Furthermore, as a result of the work of teachers and the administration and ancillary staff, Week 1 went extremely smoothly. Please ensure you read all communication from the College. There were the usual occurrences of students looking for their classrooms and sport buses but that is to be expected until everyone gets back into a routine.

I would also like to thank everyone in our residential community who made their way from all over WA and overseas to be here for the boarding orientation before school officially commenced. This proved to be a great success. Furthermore thank you to our Parents' Association who did such a great job with the Welcome BBQ and respective festivities. Such events are the hallmark of our great community and every year we are fortunate to welcome many new families to Scotch. I sincerely hope all of our new families and staff have settled in and feel welcome.

In commencing this year I would like to leave the boys with one very simple message based on the word effort, which for me is the essence of achieving "personal excellence", one of the things we promote at Scotch.

We hear the term effort used in many statements such as 'He put a lot of effort into finishing the project on time', 'it wasn't easy, but it was worth the 'effort', 'We need to expend extra effort', and 'Our success is due to the combined efforts of many people'.

Quite often the word is used to affirm that a team or individual, while not successful did at least try. If you get an 'A' for effort you are given credit for working hard to do something, even though the result of the work was not successful. For example, over the last few days I watched a number of our boys competing in the JPPSA and PSA and in some cases, even though they didn't win, the team did put in a lot of effort. Counter to this effort resulted in other teams experiencing success. The secret is walking away from anything knowing that you couldn't have put in any more effort.

In the classroom effort is everything. We all know that everyone has varying gifts and abilities, most of which we had no control upon. The one thing we can control is our effort and commitment. What I ask of each boy is to work hard, expend extra effort and through this they can achieve their best, which is the very essence to achieving personal excellence.

Finally, no matter whether or not if you are a new or returning family please come up and say hello whether at school or outside in the community. Once again welcome back and have a great year.

Dr A J O'Connell

Headmaster

Year Group Contact Lists 2015

Year group contact lists will be sent out this term, please advise any contact changes by email to admissions@scotch.wa.edu.au by Friday 20 February.

Year 7 Scholarships for 2016

Applications are now open for both Academic and Music Scholarships for entry at Year 7 in 2016. Scholarships are open to both current students and prospective students to Scotch College. The Scholarship examination will be held at the College on Saturday, 9 May 2015. If you currently have a son in Year 6 at Scotch College you are invited to register him via the Scotch College website Scholarship link www.scotch.wa.edu.au.

Mr David Coughlan, Head of Music, will be providing information in relation to Music Scholarship in the Music section of this newsletter. Students wishing to apply for a Music Scholarship for Year 7 are required to register to the Head of Music. Applicants will not be considered unless they have participated in the Music Audition process to be held on Saturday, 9 May 2015. Students wishing to apply for a Music Scholarship are not required to sit the Academic testing. Enquires for Music Scholarship can be emailed to music@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Schoolkids Bonus

The Schoolkids Bonus replaces the old Education Tax Refund and can help lighten the load of back-to-school expenses. To check if you are eligible, contact Centrelink to discuss your personal circumstances or click on the link below

http://www.fahcsia.gov.au/our-responsibilities/families-and-children/benefits-payments/schoolkids-bonus.

FlexiSchools Canteen Online Ordering

For information on the FlexiSchools system operating at the school canteen please see attached.

Student Wellbeing

Whether starting a new school, moving campus, changing classes, finding new friends and meeting new teachers will be top of mind for lots of Scotch boys. It is normal to feel nervous and there are many things boys can do to help things go well. For more ideas on how to start at a new school and how to make friends see the linked fact sheets.

Parenting Ideas

To further support the Scotch community the College continues to subscribed to Parentingideas, a leading provider of parenting education resources to Australian schools. Scotch parents can access parenting advice on a wide range of topics and themes such as;

Life skills for children

Kids, school and learning

Social challenges and

Children and behaviour.

Available in the Parenting Ideas Magazine; visit the following link:

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

Also have a look at the attached article - Help your child ACHIEVE!

Relationships Australia

We have attached a list of parenting seminars being held by Relationships Australia this term for your information.

Shauna Lipscombe

Senior School Psychologist

Community and Service

Year 10 Service Learning Programme

The Year 10 Community and Service Programme commenced last Friday with an introduction to the breadth of the Service Learning Programme and the Scotch College Service Model. At the briefing boys were introduced to the various agencies they will be working with and how the logistics will work. While some activities will be based on campus, many boys will travel to work alongside agency personnel and volunteers. Boys will receive an email from the Director of Community and Service detailing the activity in which they have been placed, the dress requirements, the staff member they need to report to and the meeting place. It is important that each boy is aware of where they need to be following Period 4 on Friday.

Food Rescue

The UnitingCare West (UCW) agency - Food Rescue - is seeking assistance from companies based in the Perth CBD. This agency collects fresh, unsold food following lunch from various restaurants and cafes and distributes it to various outlets serving the homeless and needy families. While Food Rescue has committed volunteers from a few CBD-based companies, more companies are needed to come on board. If you can help, please contact Julie Broad at Food Rescue directly on 9277 8851. Mobile: 0437 245840 julie.broad@unitingcarewest.org.au.

Cambodia Service Tour

During the first week of the holidays a group of 10 senior boys and two staff members ventured to Cambodia to continue the work of improving teaching and learning opportunities for students in Soun Sah village north of Siem Reap. The group visited some of the harrowing memorials to the horror of the Kemer Rouge era. They also spent a day in the wonderous temple complex that is the Ankor World Heritage Archaeological Park. The trip to Cambodia is the third by Scotch boys and staff and offers a great opportunity to strengthen the already productive partnership between Scotch College and the Soun Sah school community.

Disabled Surfing

On the Saturday before school commenced, the second Disabled Surfing Association event for the summer was held. Fifteen Year 12 boys and a number of boys who have just left the College served as volunteers. The turnout by Scotch boys was wonderful and the boys all worked very hard to provide a good morning at the beach for over 80 disabled participants. At the end of the event, Bruce Peel, the President of the Disabled Surfing Association in WA presented Scotch College with a framed certificate in appreciation for the assistance since 2007.

Shrove Tuesday: Pancake Day

Shrove Tuesday this year falls on Tuesday, February 17. Senior boys from Shearer House will be rostered on throughout the day to assist members of the Ross Memorial Church in West Perth to cook and sell pancakes in aid of UnitingCare West social services. Pancakes will be cooked and sold for $3 each to the public from 7.00am - 2.30pm at the corner of Colin and Hay Streets in West Perth. Members of the Scotch community are most welcome to purchase some pancakes - and perhaps have a coffee at the adjacent café.

Breast Cancer Care

One of our local service agencies is keen for members of the Scotch community to volunteer at the 'Long Table Lunch' to be held in support of Breast Cancer Care at the Claremont Showgrounds in March.

For more information go to www.breastcancer.org.au or contact Annalisa Chin,Volunteer Coordinator on Ph: 9324 3703.

Round Square

• Nicaraguan Service Project

During the summer break Mr David Kyle served as the Assistant Leader on a Round Square International Service Project in a remote village in Nicaragua. This was fully funded by the Round Square Organization. Students from Round Square schools across the world travelled to Nicaragua to form a work team assisting villagers to build a bridge across a stream - greatly improving movement around the area.

This experience for Mr Kyle serves as an example of the benefit to flow from our membership of the Round Square network of schools. It is hoped that Scotch College boys will soon be able to apply independently to join one of four Round Square International Service trips in different parts of the world.

• Year 10 Exchanges

During last term and over the holidays a number of Year 10 boys ventured overseas to take up Round Square Exchanges in Germany, Switzerland, South Africa, USA, Denmark, Austria and India. Last term we hosted boys from South Africa and Switzerland in the reciprocal part of the exchanges and this term we will host boys from Germany, India and the USA. These exchanges are another example of the benefits that flow to the College from our membership of Round Square. Within the organisation there is a clear understanding of the process for organising exchanges and the standards of care required. Regular meetings of Heads and appointed Round Square representatives from all the schools ensure that standards are maintained.

Mr Bill Cordner

Director of Community and Service

Music Department

A big welcome to everyone as we begin Music 2015, a year that is full of exciting events and concerts. Rehearsals have already begun with many ensembles rehearsing in Week 1, in particular the Senior Concert Band meeting on Wednesday afternoon for boys in Years 9 to 12. A brand new ensemble, The Middle School Concert Band for boys in Year 8 (with Year 6s and 7s by invite only), will begin rehearsing in the Senior School Music building on Tuesday 10 February. All ensemble members should have received an email outlining the first rehearsal, time, date and venue from their Ensemble Director.

I am very pleased to be able to welcome two staff members into the Music Department for 2015. Jenny Coleman, who was working with us in 2014 has taken up a one-term position in Middle School Music, and Graeme Bell has taken an ongoing position in the Senior Music Department. They are looking forward to sharing in the fantastic musical programmes that we have planned for the year ahead.

There is a range of exciting musical events organized for this term including the following dates:

Upcoming Dates

9 February, FOSM Meeting

13 March, Open Day

20 March, Music Department Quiz Night

21 March, Saturday, Quarry Performance for Combined Ensembles as guests of PLC

Friends of Scotch Music (FOSM) a group of parents who enthusiastically support the work of boys and staff in the Music Department is meeting on the following dates throughout the year beginning with the first meeting on Summer Term Week 2, 9 February. All meetings begin at 7.00pm, 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.

New Families are welcome and encouraged to contact the Music Department if you would like to become involved in the musical life of Scotch College. Late enrolments for boys wishing to learn musical instruments are also welcome.

Music Scholarships are available for those boys entering Year 7 next year. Students wishing to apply for a Music Scholarship for Year 7 2016 are required to register to the Head of Music via Music Administration. Applicants will not be considered unless they have participated in the Music Audition process to be held on Saturday, 9 May 2015. Students wishing to apply for a Music Scholarship are not required to sit the Academic testing. Enquires for Music Scholarships can be emailed to music@scotch.wa.edu.au.

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.

Sport at Scotch

Sport at Scotch College is divided into two distinctive areas: PSA (Years 7 to 12) and JPSSA (Years 1 to 6).

All relevant Sport information for both PSA and JPSSA can be found on the Scotch Homepage by clicking on https://webapps.scotch.wa.edu.au/rss/homesports.aspx

Click: Home.scotch.wa.edu.au

Click: Parents (top right of page)

Click: Sport (bottom middle of page)

Members of the Scotch Community with queries or concerns of a non-urgent nature are asked to email the following addresses:

JuniorSchoolSport@scotch.wa.edu.au (Years 1 to 6)

MiddleSchoolSport@scotch.wa.edu.au (Years 7 and 8)

SeniorSchoolSport@scotch.wa.edu.au (Years 9 to 12)

If you have a query or concern that requires you to phone the school, please contact the following:

Years 1 to 6: Scott Whiston

Years 7 and 8: Michael Brinsden (Summer and Spring Term), Lawrence Felgate (Autumn and Winter Terms)

Years 9 to 12: Richard Foster

Matters of a serious nature should be directed to Richard Foster for PSA Sport (Years 7 to 12) and to Scott Whiston for JPSSA (Years 1 to 6).

A weekly fixtures/bus schedule will be uploaded to the Homepage by Wednesday lunchtime each week where there is a PSA fixture on the Friday and Saturday of that week.

All information relevant to the start of Summer Term 2015 can be located on the Scotch Homepage as outlined above.

Please note that all buses for sport will now depart from the Middle School bus bay on the north side of Shenton Road. Boys from the Senior School will need to access the buses by using the underpass.

Richard Foster

Head of Sport

Rowing Information

Summer Term 2015 Rowing information attached for Year 7 - 12s.

Indonesian Evening Classes at Scotch

Scotch College, in partnership with the Balai Bahasa Indonesia Perth (BBIP), offers evening Indonesian Beginner Level 1 and 2, and Conversation classes. Summer Term 8-week courses commence on Tuesday 3 Febuary from 6.30-8.30pm and are available to students, staff and parents, as well as members of the wider community.

Beginner Classes (Level 1 and 2) are designed for all ages to develop basic communication skills for the purpose of exchanging personal information and transactions. These classes are ideal for individuals travelling to Indonesia for work or holiday, who wish to understand more about the Indonesian language and culture.

Conversation Classes are designed for intermediate and advanced speakers who wish to develop their oral communication skills via simulated immersion of Indonesian. The aim of each lesson is to expand vocabulary of a topic and conclude with a task such as a role-play, group discussion, debate or interview. Conversation classes are recommended for speakers who are already proficient who wish 'brush up' on their skills, as well as, Year 11 and 12 students who wish to further develop their listening and speaking in preparation for the WACE and IB examinations.

All lessons are delivered by native speaker instructors from the Balai Bahasa and are held in the Kennedy Block on the Senior Campus. The cost of an eight week course is $191 and includes BBIP membership. Conversation classes are free to all current Scotch College students and staff.

To enrol in any of the Balai Bahasa classes visit: http://www.balaibahasaperth.org, click 'Course', and follow the links to the online registration.

For more information about any of the courses please contact Kate Reitzenstein on kreitzenstein@ais.wa.edu.au or Wilfred Liauw on 9383 6854 ext. 854 or wliauw@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Uniform Shop

A reminder to parents that appointments with the Uniform Shop are not necessary during term time.

Year 12 Blazers are selling fast. Please visit the Uniform Shop as soon as possible if you wish to purchase a blazer and avoid the disappointment of the correct size not being available.

Uniform Shop Opening Hours

Tuesday 8.00am to 5.00pm

Thursday 7.30am to 11.30am

Friday 7.30 am to 11.30am

New Staff 2015

Summer Uniform

Ties - Summer Term

Boys in Senior School need not wear ties to school during Summer Term except on Friday for Marching and Assemblies.

Braid and School Badge

So that each boy may be identified by his House when ties are not being worn, boys wear appropriately coloured braid on the pocket of summer uniform shirts. Strips of braid in House colours are available from the Uniform Shop. The braid should be stitched along the top edge of the pocket.

Head of Junior School

I would like to welcome the Scotch community to the 2015 academic year. I want to thank the parents who were able to attend the Parent Information Night/ Meeting the Teacher Evening on Wednesday 4 February. As part of my presentation I shared what drives and guides me as an educator and school leader.

My Philosophy of Education

• All children have the equal right to excellent education
• Developing strong and effective partnerships with colleagues and parents
• Developing strong basic skills in our students in an engaging and challenging learning environment
• Consistency

My philosophy has been developed through my experience in both the UK and Australia. In the UK I worked in very challenging schools in challenging areas. I saw a great deal on inequitably in terms of the quality of education. I also saw the need for children to be given the best opportunities possible. I learned then, and firmly believe now, that the provision of the best possible education by excellent teachers is the right of all children. I have worked throughout my career to provide that for the students in my schools.

My moral purpose is what drives me each day and is what I aim to achieve as a Head Teacher. I am fortunate to have a staff of outstanding educators to assist me in achieving my goals.I will share these with you now :

To develop an institution that provides outstanding education for the whole child. To develop strong basic skills, the arts, sport and most importantly developing good, kind engaged able young people. To develop and empower colleagues to be able to deliver the best educational outcomes for every student.

We have set are goals for this year. They are focused around improving the quality of teaching and learning in the Junior School. They include:

• Effective differentiation and challenge at all ability levels

We will be building upon our previous work looking to improve the effectiveness of our differentiated programmes. Differentiation is the key to effective learning at all ability levels.

• Enrichment in Mathematics and English

New this year, we will offer enrichment mathematics classes once per week in each year level for our most able boys. This will be linked to our approach to differentiation where all ability levels will be challenged. We are also developing an enrichment programme for English focusing on reading comprehension skills and writing.

• To enhance the use of assessment to inform teaching and learning

We are working on using formative (on going/daily) assessment of the boys work to plan for their learning. We will be using learning intentions in all lessons that will make clear what their main learning focus for the particular lesson is. We will share with the boys the success criteria so they know what they need to demonstrate to show they have learned the main focus. Our teachers will respond to the boys learning during lessons, in units, using formative assessment to make immediate changes to the level of challenge and/or approach to ensure our boys are learning and making progress.

• Maximise the effectiveness of our existing programmes

Many new programmes were introduced in 2013/14. We will not be introducing any new learning programmes in 2015. We will be working with the teachers to enhance and improve the impact our existing programmes are having. We will build upon their success and effectiveness.

• To develop a before school physical activity programme for Year 1

We are piloting a before school activity programme for Year 1. Research indicates that physical activity has a beneficial impact on brain development. It also assists boys in focusing and settling for lessons. Beginning in Week 3, we will implement 20 minutes of structured physical activity for Year 1. We expect this to work well and to be popular with other year levels. At the end of the Summer Term we will look at if and how we could roll this out to other year levels.

Other developments for 2015:

• New excursion permission form

In order to reduce the amount of paper handling between school and home and to streamline our process, we are changing our system for seeking permission for class excursions. Parents will be asked to complete a single form indicating permission for their son to attend all class excursions for the academic year.

• Streamlining communications

In response to parent feedback at the end of last year, we are streamlining communication to electronic form. All communications from your son's teachers and the Junior School will come exclusively via email or the Junior School Wiki. We are working to further develop Parent Connect as a vehicle for communication with parents. I will update you on these developments over the course of the term.

• Outside eating for lunch each day weather permitting

• Morning Teas

In an effort to get to know the parent community better and to keep you informed about our school developments I hold two morning teas per year level over the course of the school year.

• Community Conversations

I will be meeting with the Parent Class Representatives each term to update them on what we are doing and our plans for the future.

• Learning at Home

We have made some changes to how we will organise our learning at home learning programme (homework). We want our approach to take into account how busy boys are. Work will be set for a one-week or two week period (7 or 14 days). I will include instrument practice, sports training and competition and provide time with family and chores at home. I believe children need time to be children and parents need to use their judgment about what can be done, without stress, on a given night.

We will still have regular nightly or weekly expectations:

• Spelling and/ or phonics
• Consolidating of number skills
• Mathletics and Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress
• Reading

• Creation of the Nature Play Playground

We plan to begin the work on the new playground this semester.

As you can see, a great deal has been planned for in 2015. Our aim is always to improve the educational experience for the boys while ensuring we provide the very best teaching and learning programme. I am greatly looking forward to the challenges of 2015 and to getting to know the parent community better this year. Please come up to me and introduce yourself. I wish you and your son(s) all the very best for 2015.

Mr John Stewart

Head of Junior School

IB PYP Curriculum: Welcome back to our 2015 school year.

Welcome back everyone. It is great to have the boys back at school!

Our new staff started on Thursday 22 January and all teachers were officially back in action on Wednesday 28 January. The focus prior to the boys arriving was; getting learning environments and programmes ready for 2015, to settle new teaching and learning teams and to collaboratively begin the curriculum planning process for the year.

We have started our professional learning for 2015 with a 2-hour session presented by Kylie Bice on Differentiated Learning. We will follow this up with further sessions with Kylie throughout the year.

Information for our new parents

In 2003 the Junior School was authorized to implement the Primary Years Programme (PYP). The PYP is a curriculum framework that guides our structures and pedagogy to ensure we are all working towards the same purpose of developing boys who can be life long learners and active global citizens. Boys who reflect the Scotch mission statement.

An information session for parents new to Scotch Junior School and the Primary Years Programme will be held on Wednesday 4 March. More details will be distributed shortly.

Kathy Derrick

Deputy Head of Junior School - Curriculum

Start of 2015

We start the year in Art by making meaningful connections. In particular, Year 5 are beginning a unit of inquiry How We Organise Ourselves that examines effective teamwork, considering local, national and global perspectives. Sculptures by the Sea (6 - 23 March) at Cottesloe Beach provides a fantastic example of an effective teamwork organisation for boys to explore firsthand through these lines of inquiry. These concepts will be further embedded with arts learning focusing on the art form of sculpture. Boys will be creating 4D sculptures to share their creativity, acquisition of knowledge and skill development. It provides a wonderful link to our community and gives boys expertise from internationally acclaimed artists.

I would encourage all families to make the time to go down to the beach and have fish and chips or a picnic one evening to share family time, explore the sculptures and take fabulous photos. We may run a photo competition to share all the wonderful, diverse views of the sculptures at a later date.

All parents interested in assisting with the Art Programme through ways outlined in the pamphlet distributed on " Meet the Teacher Evening," are encouraged to either nominate to be part of a class roster through class representatives, or part of a small art committee that will meet weekly.

Year 1 made a bold start mixing colours with paint; Year 2 expressed what they like and don't like through words, pictures and expressive photos; Year 3 are exploring light and nature in celebration of 2015 being International Year of Light; Year 4 analysed "How the Library (not the prince) saved Rapunzel" and looked for visual clues (non verbal communication) in the book's illustrations to understand the messages in the story. I can't wait to have Year 5 next week.

Karen Sabitay

PYP Visual Arts

Performing Arts

Once again we have hit the ground running at the start of this New Year in Performing Arts. It has been such a delight to welcome all of the boys, new and old, to our Junior School Performing Arts space. Some classes have commenced the year having fabulous discussions about how the Learner Profile attributes relate to Performing Arts and how these, along with the attitudes, will help them achieve their goals this year. Other classes have jumped straight into rehearsals so that they are ready to dive onto the stage in the first week! Once again I have been so pleased with the level of enthusiasm and maturity shown by all classes as they settle into their new routines.

Wishing everyone a fabulous start to what is shaping up to be a wonderful Summer Term!

Phebe Samson

Performing Arts Teacher

Friendly Schools Plus

Hello to the Scotch College Community. Within the Friendly Schools Plus Pastoral Care program Duty of Care is an essential element that requires both the College staff and the parenting body to work closely together in order to be sure that your boys are always in a safe place and that an adult is aware of their location throughout the school day. With that in mind below I have listed the procedures we are adhering to in the Junior School for the before school and after school pick-up routines for 2015:

BEFORE SCHOOL:

• Drop off should not be before 8.10am except in cases of emergency. In these situations please contact the Deputy of Pastoral Care and Administration (Ms Hooper) to work out an arrangement.
• 2 staff members will be available and visible in the playground from 8.10am to 8.35am. They will be wearing a fluorescent orange vest.
• Drop-off should occur at the entrance to the new Library.
• Boys are asked to place their school bags to the right of the door when entering the Library.
• A bell will sound at 8.30am. This is the signal for the students and staff to move into the classrooms.
• Parents who are running later than 8.35am are encouraged to ring the Junior School administration to alert them of the situation.

AFTER SCHOOL:

• Pick-up is scheduled for 3.15pm
• Locations for pick up are at the Kiss and Go drive at the entrance from Stirling Rd, at the Gooch Pavilion or from the home classroom.
• At 3.25pm any remaining students will be returned to the Library where they can be collected until 4pm.
• Parents who are running later than usual are encouraged to ring the Junior School administration to alert them of the situation. The administration team can then supervise the child until pick-up.

Warwick Norman

Friendly Schools and Families Coordinator

iPads and Laptops in the Junior School

There is great excitement in the Junior School as the new boys in Years 2 to 5 have received their iPads and laptops and were able to start using them on their first day last week.

We are ensuring 21st Century learning for our students with our 1:1 device programme.

Effective use of the iPads and laptops have

• increased independent and self-initiated learning among students
• increased student motivation and active engagement in learning
• improved teachers' capacity to plan for and meet individual student needs
• led to an improvement in student learning outcomes
• extended students' learning beyond the classroom

The boys have amazing support structures to help them manage their devices. We have the 1Degree staff to assist the students and teachers directly when issues arise. 1 degree is situated in the new Middle School and Junior School Library and is open between 8 am and 4pm.

This Wednesday 11 February will be a very exciting day for the Year 1 boys. Boys and parents will attend their iPad rollout session, detailing all of the important information about using and looking after their new devices.

We will run Parent Education Workshops (PEW's) throughout the year to help parents navigate the iPads and laptops as confidently as their son's do!

We look forward to updating the community with the amazing ways the boys are using their iPads and laptops to enhance their learning.

Amanda Ritchie

ILT Coach

French News

Bonjour parents et élèves! Welcome back to a new and exciting school year. The aim of the work done in French class will be to make links, whenever possible, to the units of inquiry of the Primary Years Program being taught during the term. Some units will also be co-planned with the classroom with the classroom teachers to allow for a deeper connection with the transdisciplinary theme. In term 1, French lessons for classes in Years 1 to 4 will be making connections the Units of inquiry. In Year 5, work will focus on being able to write a description of themselves in French. The boys will then record their voices that will be spoken by an avatar. Participation during lesson time is important, as it is the key time for boys to be immersed in the language.

Madame Edwards

Physical Education News

Welcome back to all families to another year of Physical Education at Scotch. I am pleased to have taken over the role of Head of Physical Education and JPSSA Sport and look forward to being involved in the physical, social and emotional well being of your sons. In the first weeks of term the students in Year 1 and 2 will be participating in the gymnastics programme at Scotch that is run in conjunction with myself and the Northern Districts Gymnastics Club. The students in Year 3, 4 and 5 will be participating in the swimming programme that is tailored to meet the individual needs of your son's swimming development and ensures they acquire the important life skill of learning to swim.

Scott Whiston

Head of Junior School Physical Education

Junior and Middle School Library

Hello from the brand new Junior School/Middle School Library. Firstly, I would like to welcome the newest member of our library team, Mr Nicholas Taylor. Please pop in to meet Nick when you are able and of course to peruse the amazing state of the arts facility. Knowing that the term will quickly build pace, I encourage you ensure your boys are borrowing good quality fiction novels and are finding the time to set aside an uninterrupted reading time (bed time routine is perfect). For Junior Primary boys I encourage the mums and/or dads to read some of the old classics to your boys as this develops a love of literature and helps to promote imagination and a sense of wonder. Some recommended reads include: Wind in the Willows, The Hobbit, James and the Giant Peach (or any Roald Dahl children's novel), The Far Away Tree, Secret Seven or Famous Five, The Jungle Book, or Winnie the Pooh, just to mention a few. You are welcome to attend book-covering (tea drinking and cake eating) sessions every Thursday morning from 8.30am - 10.00am in the new Library.

Warwick Norman

Junior School Teacher Librarian

Welcome to 2015 in Middle School

After two quiet weeks of preparation Middle School burst back into life last Monday with our 540, Year 6, 7 and 8 boys all together for the first time. Day One is always the most anticipated and energising day of the year. The noise and enthusiasm of the boys on the top floor and ground floor, in the new Library and in and around the new buildings and garden areas was infectious. I hope your son came home sometime during Week 1 and said how excited he was about his class, his teachers and the promise of this year.

Year 8 boys inspecting the new herb and fruit tree garden outside the new Food Design room.

With our growth has come a number of new faces on the Middle School staff. The most important for you will be your son's Homeroom Teacher. Generally this teacher will be your first point of contact for information, after checking with your son or www.home.scotch.wa.edu.au

Whilst Week One is always exciting and busy for everyone, it is more so for the 270 new boys into Scotch College, thirty six of whom have left home from as far away as Laverton, Kununurra, Derby and Mt Isa, to live in our Boarding House.

In a large, complex and sophisticated environment there is a lot to experience and learn for families as much as the students. Effective communication is the key. We will continue to deliver or place information in accessible formats in a timely manner. Please however do not hesitate to contact me, or any of the above staff, if you need additional information. I look forward to a great year with you. The strength of our College is not the fabulous new buildings, the magnificent playing fields or the dynamic curriculum the boys experience but the level of support the network of parents, staff, old boys and families offer us, who take pride in being a part of the Scotch education and invest in it with us on a daily, weekly and annual basis.

Richard Ledger

Head of Middle School

Parent Information Evenings

This week we will run three Parent Information Evenings, one for each year level. It is a chance to learn more about some of the opportunities, structures and processes that guide our operation and to meet your son's Homeroom Teacher. It is an important first step in developing the valuable parent/teacher relationship that will support your son. For Boarding families we have planned to do an online presentation specifically for Boarding which will be available to view in Week 3. We will notify you when it is uploaded to the website.

All Parent Information Evenings commence at 6.30pm in MacKellar Hall, then we will proceed to the Middle School classrooms at 7.00pm and will conclude by 8.00pm. Parking will be available on the lower ovals off Stirling Road.

Year 6: Monday 9 February

Year 7: Wednesday 11 February

Year 8: Thursday 12 February

www.home.scotch.wa.edu.au

We aim to make greater use of this site this year, uploading as much information as we can via this pathway. Absentee notification, Sport fixtures, the School Calendar, Parent Connect and Parent Workshops are all important sites for information. Spending five minutes setting up your login details will be very beneficial to you in the long run.

Middle School Assemblies

Middle School Assemblies have evolved to become one of our core mechanisms for sharing student achievements, showcasing learning and promoting the purpose and culture of Middle School. Assemblies are run by the Year 8 House Seniors each fortnight. This year we move into the Dickinson Centre for Assemblies, 11:45am to 12.30pm every Friday Week B. Your support and presence at Assemblies is always encouraging and appreciated by the staff as much as the boys. One of our practices is to inform parents during the preceding week if their son will be performing on stage at Assembly. From a student perspective, there is no better person to have in the audience than a family member.

We look forward to seeing some of you at our first Assembly this Friday.

Middle School Music

The Middle School Music Department has a range of music ensembles that rehearse on a weekly basis both before and after school. One ensemble that is new to Middle School this year is the Middle School Concert Band. This ensemble rehearses on Tuesday afternoons (in the Senior School) and Year 8 boys who perform on brass, woodwind or percussion instruments are invited to attend their first rehearsal in week 2. If any student in Year 6 or 7 is interested in joining this ensemble, please contact Mrs Suzanne Wydra at sream@scotch.wa.edu.au. The Scotch Youth Voices are busy preparing for their upcoming tour in the Easter holidays (April 10 - 12). As part of the tour the boys will be performing on stage with Mr Andrew Winton at the Fairbridge Festival, and will be performing as the feature ensemble as the State launch of National Youth Week. Any boys who have a love of singing and performing are welcome to attend their rehearsals on Wednesday morning from 7.30am - 8.30am.

Student Achievements

Congratulations to Marcello Torre (8O) and Raffael Torre (6B) who competed in sailing at the Optimist Nationals at FSC 2015. Marcello won the Measurers Award 59th in Australia and Raff was awarded the Peter Gilmour Perpetual Trophy, most improved sailor nationally. Raff was selected in the Australian Optimist Sailing Team Development Squad, coming 3^rd in Australia at Nationals in the under 12s.

Congratulations to Angus Hume (7S) who won a Gold and two Silver medals at the 2014 State Kung Fu Championships.

Welcome back after what I hope has been an enjoyable and restful break for all boys and their families. With all boys having commenced their new academic year last October we have had a very smooth start to the term with boys quickly getting back into their normal class and co-curricular routines.

Over the summer break we had a group of boys travel to Cambodia as part of a Scotch College Community Service Tour, while boys in the rowing programme competed at a regatta in South Australia in December and a training camp in late January. At the same time the rowing camp was in training a Scotch College cricket team was touring New South Wales playing against teams from a number of large Independent Schools. I have no doubt that the year ahead will be filled with equally impressive experiences, challenges and opportunities that will have us all looking back at 2015 in awe of what the boys have achieved.

While the opportunities that lie ahead for boys, in and out of the classroom, are numerous, they remain only opportunities unless boys are willing to 'have a go', accept challenge, aim high and make mistakes. It is amazing what can be achieved by focusing on the task at hand and doing it as well as you can. If boys repeat this simple approach with everything they do they will achieve things they never thought possible. The time for boys to set goals is now.

I look forward to watching the boys seize their opportunities and make 2015 a rich and rewarding year.

Dr Rob McEwan

Head of Senior School

2015 Secondary Assistance Scheme

Families eligible for the Secondary Assistance Scheme will again be able to apply for this in 2015. Applications forms are available from Mrs Anita Johnson in Accounts Department (email accounts@scotch.wa.edu.au) and close on Thursday, 2 April. Further information can be obtained from:

Schools Resourcing and Budgeting Directorate

Department of Education

151 Royal Street

EAST PERTH WA 6004

Tel: 9264 4516

Email: student.allowances@det.wa.edu.au

Inter House Swimming Event

The Inter-House Swimming Carnival will begin at 9.00am and finish at 1.00pm on Wednesday 11 February at HBF Stadium. There will be no classes in the afternoon. There will be no sport training for Year 9s to 12s unless instructed by coaches.

Each boy can only swim in two individual events and one relay with the focus of this event on participation.

Boys are expected to wear Scotch bathers or blue PE shorts. They may also wear a Scotch rash vest if they wish. They will not be allowed to swim if they do not have the correct clothing.

There are no false starts with boys simply being disqualified at the end of the race should they break at the start.

Sunscreen for each house will be provided and please encourage students to wear Scotch hats and to apply sunscreen before they arrive at HBF Stadium.

Entry is from the McGillivray Oval side of HBF Stadium as with previous years and parents are required to pay an entrance fee of approximately $3.50.

Day boys are expected to make their own way to HBF Stadium.

Buses will depart from Australind Street at 8.15am for boys who have training before school.

Boys can go home at the conclusion of the carnival from HBF Stadium. Buses will transport any boys back to school if they cannot get home from the stadium and boys returning to school have the option to undertake private study in the BRC until 3.25pm, where they will be supervised for the afternoon.

Richard Foster

Head of Sport

Mouthguards

It will not be long before the winter sport season is upon us, or at least the commencement of training, and with this in mind it is time to again think of mouthguards. The College strongly recommends that all students wear mouthguards for both training and competition in all contact sports. A custom fitted mouthguard will not only protect teeth but has also been proven to reduce the incidence of oral soft tissue injury, jaw fracture, neck injuries and concussions. Parents are welcome to make private arrangements however for those who prefer, the College is able to offer the following service:

A highly experienced dental prosthetist from Galadent will be attending the Senior School on Tuesday 3 - Wednesday 4 March to take dental impressions of those students who wish to avail themselves of this offer. The mouthguards will then be made up and distributed to the boys later in the term.

It is essential that both attachments to this newsletter concerning mouthguards are completed in full and returned to the College by Monday 23 February 2015. NO late forms will be accepted. DO NOT include payment details as requested in Step 3 of the order form - merely complete the second attachment "Mouthguard Permission Form" and the cost will be charged directly to your school account.

2015 Senior Positions

Captains of House:

Office Bearers

Pipe Band Key Positions

Boys' Achievements

Thomas Prior (Year 12, Stuart) was a member of the Australian Schoolboys' Water Polo team that defeated New Zealand in a Test Series in Auckland, 17 - 20 December 2014.

Josh Quartermaine (Year 9, Alexander) has been competing strongly in WA rounds of wakeboarding competitions and in contention for State selection. Josh placed 5^th in the Australian Open Wakeboarders championship in Canberra in January 2015.

Riley Walker (Year 10, Shearer) was chosen in the U15 Surf Life Saving State Development Team in December and went to Sydney from 21-26 January to compete at the Manly and Freshwater SLSC Carnivals. He made all the finals in his events and placed 4^th in the Board Race and 2^nd in the Cameron Relay.

Tom Gallagher (Year 11, Anderson) was selected in the U17 Surf Life Saving State Development Team in December and competed at Manly and Freshwater SLSC Carnivals. He made the final for the Open Surf Race.

Sean Szalek (Year 9, Ross) won the high jump event for his age group in the State Championships last week with a jump of 1.90m.

Grant Szalek (Year 12, Ross) won the high jump event for his age group in the State Championships last week with a jump of 2.0m.

2015 Parent Teacher Student Interviews (formerly SRMs)

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

Year 9 Tuesday 24 February

Year 10 Monday 18 May

Year 11 Monday 16 March

Year 12 Wednesday 11 March

Boarders Thursday 2 April

Full details will be advised closer to the dates.

Year 9 Parent Information Evening

Monday 16 February 2015

Parent Information Evenings offer guidance on a number of issues relevant to particular year groups. Parents are encouraged to attend. Sessions run from 6.30pm to approximately 8.00pm in the Dickinson Centre. No RSVP is required.

Year 11 and 12 Examinations

2015 Examination Dates for Years 11 and 12 are as follows:

Semester One:

Year 11 and 12 WACE: Tuesday 28 April - Thursday 7 May

Semester Two:

Year 11: Friday 18 September - Friday 25 September

Year 11 IB: Friday 18 September - Friday 25 September

Year 12 WACE Mocks: Monday 5 October - Tuesday 13 October

Year 12 IB Mocks: Monday 21 September - Thursday 1 October

Year 12 Written WACE Examinations: Monday 2 November - Friday 27 November

Year 12 Written IB Examinations: Tuesday 3 November - Tuesday 24 November

It is essential that all boys are present for these important examinations. Parents who may anticipate difficulties with these arrangements should contact Academic Services 9383 6825 or seniorschool@scotch.wa.edu.au at your earliest convenience.

Year 10 Personal Project

The Year 10 Personal Projects are well and truly underway and there are some very exciting ideas being developed by this particular year group. While the Personal Project is an ongoing process, students should have completed their planning stage and have well developed designs. Many will be fully involved in the creation of their product. It is important for all students to be actively working on their products this term as Autumn Term can be quite hectic, particularly around exam time. Students must also document all stages of their process in their Process Journal.

Individual Personal Project conferences are scheduled for Weeks 2, 5 and 8 during Summer Term. While every attempt is made to keep conference times consistent, whole school calendar events may necessitate a change in some timings. As always, details of meetings can be found on the Personal Project noticeboard outside the BRC and boys are encouraged to check this board for updates. Students must also check their school email accounts regularly as this is the most efficient way for Supervisors to contact their students.

This term, conferences will focus on guiding students through the criteria and drafting the first two sections of their report. The Personal Project team wishes the boys the best of luck this term as their projects really start to take shape.

Kate Taylor

Personal Project Leader

2015 Jigalong Cross-Cultural Tour, May 28 - June 1

Expressions of interest are now open for the 2015 Jigalong Cross-Cultural Tour. Boys will spend 5 days in the remote Aboriginal community of Jigalong, around 160kms east of Newman. They will spend time at the local school and have an overnight camping experience with local elders to learn about Martu people and their relationship with the land. Boys will also be given the opportunity to learn from the famous MartuMilli artist group and create a painting that tells the story of their journey. The Tour is open for interested boys from Years 10-12. Please contact Mr Jordan Owenell JJOwenell@scotch.wa.edu.au for any information.

WA Debating League

Students from Years 7 to 12 interested in representing Scotch College in Interschool Debating are requested to register their name as an individual or together with a team of 3 - 4 with Miss O'Toole or Miss Mullin in Middle School, or Miss Kate Gooding in Senior School by Friday, 13 February (end of Week 2).

The WADL competition is run on a fortnightly basis, with five rounds spread over Summer and Autumn term. If a team reaches finals, these are held weekly on an elimination basis over Winter term. The debates are held on either Tuesday or Wednesday nights, usually at schools in the area such as Christ Church Grammar School and Shenton College. Students in Year 7 and 8 usually debate from 6:30 to 7:30pm, those in Year 9 and 10 from 7:20pm to 8:30pm, and Seniors from between 7 and 10pm. Years 7 to 10 have prepared debates, getting their topics ahead of time, while those students in Year 11 and 12 have a mixture of prepared and impromptu debates.

More information can be found at http://www.wadl.org or by contacting Kate Gooding by email at KGooding@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Kate Gooding

Summer Term Upcoming Dates

Friday Afternoon Arrangements for Year 10

Year 10 boys have compulsory activities including Community Service, Cadets and Leadership Training on Friday afternoons.

As there is not the usual 20 minute sessions for Chapel or House meetings on Fridays, as on other days of the week, the end of school on Friday is 3.05pm.

Communication Between School and Home

Absences

Please contact the College by phone or email regarding your son's absence early in the morning of the day of his absence. The parents of all boys whose absence is not accounted for in Tutor Period will be contacted. Please assist the School by contacting us if your son will be absent.

Contact details: Student Services on 9383 6928 or seniorschool@scotch.wa.edu.au.

When a boy returns to school following an absence, he should bring with him a note signed by a parent or guardian explaining the reason. This note should be left at the Student Services Office (located directly opposite the main entrance to the Dickinson Centre). Absence notes should be clearly printed and show the boy's name, initials, House and year group.

Leave During the Day or Late Arrival

If a boy needs to leave school during the day for an appointment, he will require a note from a parent explaining the leave. He should present this at the Student Services Office to the Attendance Officer, who will record his departure and return. Boys who are late on more than two occasions in one month without parental approval will be issued with an after school detention.

Cycle Helmets and Registration

Boys must wear and fasten an approved cycle helmet when cycling to and from school. Boys in the Senior School have been told that those who wish to cycle to school must register this fact (even if they have registered in previous years) before school with Mr Burt or their House Head by Friday 13 February. When boys register they must produce their cycle helmet with their name neatly and clearly marked on it and provide the serial number of their bicycle, together with a description of the bicycle, including the colour and the maker's name. Helmets are not to be disfigured with lettering, additional painting or stickers.

Car Drivers and Registration

Boys in Year 12 wishing to drive to school are required to register with Mr Burt. Application forms are to be completed and signed by a parent.

SmartRider Cards

Smartrider Cards will be automatically issued to new Senior School boys following Photo Day, Monday, Week 2 in Summer Term.

Important Dates for 2015

Summer Term (9 weeks)

Autumn Term (11 weeks)

Winter Term (9 weeks)

Spring Term (9 weeks)

Start/End School Days

Senior School:

Junior School:

Middle School:

Career Information

Year 11/12 Subject Changes

By now all Year 11 and 12 students should have settled into the subjects that they are going to continue with for the remainder of the 2015 academic year. However, some students may still be undecided and they will have until the end of Week 2 (Friday 13 February) to make any final changes. This deadline is set so that students will have a realistic chance of catching up and successfully completing the new subject/s they have chosen. Subject changes after this time will only be made under exceptional circumstances in consultation with Mr Frusher and with approval from Mr Allen, Director of Teaching & Learning.

Overseas Exchange 2016

Year 12 students who are considering a GAP Year overseas are encouraged to start thinking about their proposed destinations and to arrange a time to meet with Mr Frusher to discuss the various options available.

Some of the options already advertised are as follows:

Tutors Worldwide handles the recruitment of gap tutors for a good number of schools in the UK. In 2015, despite the continuing recession and changes to visa regulations, 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 2016 is 9 April, 2015.

Lions Youth Exchange gives Australian youth the opportunity to live with Lions families overseas during December 2015 - January 2016 school holidays. The programme does not involve tuition or school attendance but is rather a cultural holiday whereby students can immerse themselves in a new culture, enjoy organised sightseeing and practise second language skills. Further information can be found at www.lionsclubs.org.au/ye . Applications close June 2015.

Academic Task Force

Who we are: Academic Task Force is a proud family owned WA company that over the last 20 years has helped West Australian students to achieve success at school through our out of school revision and tuition courses.

Want to improve your grades?

Weekend help classes and Master Classes are available for students from years 7 - 12; enrol through Academic Task Force.

Year 11 and 12 WACE and ATAR Master Classes - Available Sundays and after school

Be inspired by expert subject specialist teacher who will give you fresh insights into course concepts and learn how to achieve maximum marks in your exams.

Year 11 and 12 WACE and ATAR Weekend HELP Classes - Various classes on Saturday and Sunday

Receive weekly help in your areas of need in your courses from experienced WACE and ATAR teachers. In the class you can ask questions about your school work and get one-on-one help to strengthen your understanding.

Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 Weekend HELP Classes - English, Maths Science classes on Saturday and Sunday.

Experienced teachers work with students to build their skills and understanding in a small group environment.

Contact Academic Task Force for further details or speak with you Year Coordinator for a brochure.

Phone: 9314 9500

Email: learn@academictaskforce.com.au

Website for Enrolment: www.academictaskforce.com.au

Changes to the Secondary Schools Tax File Number Programme in 2015

The Secondary Schools Tax File Number (TFN) Program will not continue beyond 31 December 2014. This means that School TFN forms will no longer be processed beyond this date.

How students can apply for a TFN from 1 January 2015

The Australian Taxation Office in partnership with Australia Post is making it easier for individuals to apply for a TFN.

Students can now apply for a TFN online and have their identity verified through an interview at a participating Australia Post office.

Applying online is the fastest and most convenient way for students to get a TFN. More information on applying online can be found at ato.gov.au by searching for 'QC27248'.

Students who are unable to visit a participating Australia Post office will need to complete the application form Tax file number - application or enquiry for individuals form (NAT 1432). More information about lodging this form can be found at ato.gov.au by searching for 'QC22604'.

Defence Force Gap Year Information Session

Tuesday 10 February 2015

6.30pm - Level 7, 66 St Georges Terrace, Perth

The ADF Gap Year program provides an opportunity for young Australians, who have finished year 12 (or equivalent) and are aged between 17 and 24, to experience military training and lifestyle whilst gaining new skills and pay over their Gap Year. In 2016 Gap Year opportunities are available in the Navy, Army and Air Force and applications are open for two weeks only from 2 March. Find out more about the Gap Year at this information session.

Scholarship Opportunity

The Australian National University would like to invite students and their parents to the 2015 ANU Tuckwell Scholarship Roadshow in Western Australia:

4.30pm - 6.00pm Wednesday, 25 February

Art Gallery of Western Australia, Perth Cultural Centre, Perth

Representatives will be on hand to present on the possibilities open to students at The Australian National University. Speakers include:

• Pro-Vice Chancellor (Student Experience) Professor Richard Baker
• Current Tuckwell Scholars

This is no ordinary scholarship

Receiving a Tuckwell Scholarship is not just about your intellect. It is about your desire and determination to use your national abilities, if given the opportunity to realise your full potential so that you can make a difference in the world.

The Tuckwell Scholarship programme has a focus on giving back to Australia. It is the only one of its kind that nurtures Scholars to fulfil their wider ambitions over and above the pursuit of an undergraduate degree.

Applications for study commencing in 2016 will open 2 March 2015

To RSVP for the Perth event, please click here

Mothers' Auxiliary

Mothers' Auxiliary will be holding their AGM on Monday 23 February 2015 at 9am in the Dining Room Annexe. Everyone is welcome.

We require Junior School Representatives, Middle School Representatives and Representatives for Years 9 and 11.

We also need a new Secretary, Vice President and President.

The Year 12 Ball is Saturday 21 February and could all Year 12's please purchase your tickets now. We require parents from Year 12 to help setup and cleanup and we need parents from Year 11 to help on the night at the ball. If you can spare some time please email Laura at calaban@bigpond.net.au .

Year 10 boys are also required to volunteer as waiters, we need at least 50 boys, please contact Peter Burt at PDBurt@scotch.wa.edu.au

Wishing everyone a great 2015.

Clair Stanley

Mothers' Auxiliary

President

Parents' Association

It was wonderful to see so many new Scotch families enjoying themselves at our annual Welcome BBQ, held on Sunday evening, 1 February 2015. New parents received their name badges and mingled with current Scotch parents and families, who all enjoyed the free sausage sizzle, delicious salads and relaxed summer setting on the Top Oval near the School Chapel. A bouncy castle and bucking "mad cow" were as popular as always. But perhaps the highlight of the evening was a performance by the highly acclaimed Perth Symphony Orchestra, who will be working with Scotch students throughout the year in a pilot programme funded by the Parents' Association. Headmaster, Alec O'Connell welcomed all families back to Scotch for the start of the new school year. Thank you to all PA Committee members who helped out on the evening.

Gary Pyne

President

Parents' Association

Parents Association Ball

The Scotch College Parents Association is delighted to announce the biennial Parents Ball is being held on Saturday 14th March 2015.

The theme for this year's Ball is 'Luxe' and is set in a beautiful silk marquee on the Scotch College playing fields. This luxurious event commences at 6.30pm with pre-dinner drinks including champagne, at 7.00pm a sumptuous three course dinner with matched fine WA wines, boutique beers and bottled water will be served. Entertainment by the spectacular 9-piece soul band 'Stratosfunk' will have you dancing the night away.

Tickets for this Black Tie event are $250 per head and can be purchased individually or by tables of 10. Tickets will be available for purchase from 8.00pm Monday, 9 February 2015 by visiting the Scotch College website www.scotch.wa.edu.au and clicking on the "Book a Scotch Event" icon.

As this is a very popular event and tickets sold out within an hour of opening for the 2013 Ball we request that you book early to avoid disappointment. In view of its popularity we respectfully ask that tickets be purchased by the current Scotch Community only.

The committee is also looking for volunteers to help with set up and clean up. If you can give any assistance please contact Peta Scott-Morey at peta@scott-morey.net

Michelle Barrow Ian Knobel

0412 108 221 0407 285 246

Pipe Band Parents Support Group (PBPSG)

All parents of boys playing pipes or drums, in Middle School and Senior School, are welcome to attend the monthly PBPSG meetings.

Come along and find out the latest Scotch College Pipe Band news and help support the Pipe Band.

The first meeting 2015:

7.30pm, Thursday 19 February

Senior School Pipe Band Room (near the swimming pool roundabout) for further information please email PBPSG@scotch.wa.edu.au

Mandy Perrignon

PBPSG President

Rowing Support Group

Scotch College Regatta Saturday 14 February 2015

We welcome your assistance at all the upcoming events in particular the Scotch College Regatta being held on Saturday 14 February. Please contact Jenny Sinclair or Genevieve Cleary at rowing@scotch.wa.edu.au or at the Regattas to offer you help.

Further to our email last week requesting hamper style goods for the fundraising raffle, please deliver your items by Thursday 12 February.

The rowing drink bottles can be purchased at the Regattas or via the rowing email address for $10 each.

We look forward to reacquainting ourselves and meeting new rowing families.

Jenny Sinclair

Mother of Captain of Boats

Christ Church Grammar School's Centre for Ethics hosts…

Professor Patrick McGorry (presented by Meeting for Minds)

Topic: Hope and help for young people experiencing early signs of mental illness

When we see young minds breaking down, what real help or hope is there? Former Australian of the Year and mental health expert Professor Patrick McGorry returns to present the second in a public lecture series on new trends in mental health research and treatments.

Professor McGorry, Professor of Youth Mental Health at the University of Melbourne and Executive Director of Orygen Youth Health, has put Australia at the forefront of research innovation in prevention and treatment in youth mental health worldwide. He will tackle some of the most difficult issues in youth mental health today such as: Is there a crisis in youth mental health? Are early intervention and prevention programs helping young people transform their lives? What are the latest trends in youth mental health in Australia? How should we talk about youth suicide? What should young people, parents, teachers and others in the community do?

The series is organised by Meeting for Minds, which strives to improve mental health in the community by building strong partnerships and harnessing the creative thinking of neuroscientists, researchers in mental health, clinicians, people with lived experience of mental illness, their families and carers.

For more information, please go to www.meetingforminds.com.au.

RSVP: http://www.trybooking.com/GPKD

Venue: Senior School Staff Room, Christ Church Grammar School

Cost: $15.00

Contact: Ellie at executiveassistant@meetingforminds.com.au

Early Morning Soccer Training

Gerry McEwan, Scotch College Senior 1^st XI Coach, will be conducting early morning soccer sessions at Scotch sports ground. See here for more details and registration information.

Behaviour Tonics

Behaviour Tonics are offering courses in the following -

• 123 Magic and Emotion Coaching Parent Course
• Protective Behaviours and
• Engaging Adolescents

See attached for more details.