As I was taking advantage of the recent long weekend, I reminded myself how important it is to ensure that cerebral activity is broken up by either exercise or some form of work involving physical activity. On the Friday night I found myself feeling relatively washed out after another hectic week of appointments and activities. A lot of these involved meetings, document preparation and generally required very little physical activity apart from possibly walking between events. Under normal circumstances I find myself engaged in some form of activity over weekends that is worked based requiring mental focus. This work usually involves accessing my personal device or computer. I was determined to use the long weekend to at least break this cycle in some small way. Consequently I made a conscious decision to embark on completing a series of manual jobs around the O'Connell house that needed to be attended to and had been pushed down the priority list. Furthermore, I made a decision to limit my online access. By the end of the weekend I felt recharged and energised.

It is really important that families ensure that their sons find a balance between online activity and physical activity. Recently I was speaking to a dad who in his words dragged his son kicking and screaming for a bike ride. While the initial 10 minutes appeared far from welcomed by his son, the end result was a boy who loved the ride. This decision broke the cycle of sedentary activity; got everyone out of the house and as such everyone's ICT devices were not the focus for the afternoon. Why did this activity work? The answer is simple it took a parent to model what they wanted; a change in environment from internal TV or device based to a physical outdoor activity. I witness this many times over each weekend when I see families bring their son to our playing fields to run off some of their energy.

Some of you may be aware of the song by Harry Chapin "Cats in the Cradle". If not you may wish to listen to it some time. Essentially the song is about a young boy watching how his father operates exemplified by the lyrics:

"He learned to walk while I was away, and he was talkin' 'fore I knew it, and as he grew: he'd say "I'm gonna be like you, Dad"

The message is that we must role model to our boys at school and at home. If we fail to do so how will they accept the importance of balance in their life? This is why Scotch ensures sport is compulsory and that we provide a breadth of co-curricular offerings.

Recently, I have had several conversations with parents regarding their perception that their son has become addicted to gaming or simply addicted to social media and device usage.

We cannot avoid the use of ICT, nor should we. This is the reality of the world within which our boys now operate. What we have to do is ensure that ICT and associated activities are simply seen as part of a balanced lifestyle.

The Centre for Disease Control in the US also highlight why physical activity and getting outside is so important. Physical activity assists with:

• Building and maintaining healthy bones and muscles
• Reducing the risk of developing obesity and chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, in future years
• Reducing feelings of depression and anxiety and promotes psychological well-being
• Is associated with helping to improve students' academic performance, including, academic achievement and grades and academic behaviour, such as concentration and attentiveness in the classroom.

As with most things in life, moderation is the key. A simple way to address over usage of ICT or social media is to set usage times with your sons and stick to what is agreed. In essence it is all about having meaningful conversations with boys in order to shape their way of operating.

We must be the role models of desired behavior. If our boys never see us display the type of behavior we value then how else will they ever come to understand the importance of a balanced life style?

Balance incorporates getting out and about and experiencing more than just a virtual representation of life on a TV or computer screen.

Looking forward ot seeing you all at the opening of the new Junior and Middle School facilities on 23 June. Please remember to RSVP for catering purposes at Book a Scotch Event.

Have a great fortnight

Dr A J O'Connell

Headmaster

July Holidays - A Learning Opportunity for Year 12

As we approach the concluding weeks of Autumn Term, the College will have a three-week holiday break commencing on Monday 6 July. This is an opportunity for all of our community to relax. For our Year 12 students it is important in their final year that they balance the combination of work and play. With three weeks 'holiday' it is important that the students seize the opportunity to ensure they are as well prepared as possible for the final months of Year 12.

To assist them in their preparation, provide structure and support, the College is offering a range of opportunities including:

• Teacher led workshops on campus from Monday 20 July to Friday 24 July. These workshops are aimed at all students and a timetable will be released closer to the holidays.
• A WACE support programme targeting students moving from a C grade to a B grade in Mathematics/Science will be offered on Thursday 23 July. To register please use this link: http://bookings.scotch.wa.edu.au/event/2090832
• A WACE support programme targeting students moving from a C grade to a B grade in English/Humanities will be offered on Friday 24 July. To register please use this link: http://bookings.scotch.wa.edu.au/event/2090833
• An IB support programme targeting students moving from a level 4 to a level 5 in Mathematics/Science will be offered on Thursday 23 July. To register please use this link: http://bookings.scotch.wa.edu.au/event/2090834
• An IB support programme targeting students moving from a level 4 to a level 5 in English/Humanities will be offered on Friday 24 July. To register please use this link: http://bookings.scotch.wa.edu.au/event/2090835

Additionally, the school has engaged with ATARextra to support students who are looking to develop their essay writing and/or study skills in general and this is available to both Year 11 and 12 students from Monday 20 July to Wednesday 22 July. Please see the attached flyer for more detailed information and to register for these seminars.

Finding the balance between some well-earned rest and a well-implemented study routine is sure to reduce the anxiety as students move towards their final examinations. Should students feel the need for additional support, I encourage them to speak to their teacher, House Head or Careers Adviser Mr Peter Frusher as they near the conclusion of their schooling.

Mr Peter Allen

Director of Teaching and Learning

Residential Life

Since starting in my role at the beginning of the year we have been publishing a weekly Residential Life Newsletter that goes home to all Boarding families keeping them up to date with all the activities that their sons are involved in whilst living here at Scotch. Boarding provides many fantastic opportunities for our boys and this week we thought we would let you know what our Residential boys have been up to and also ask for some assistance.

On Sunday night, 16 of our Year 11s were invited to cook for families of children who are currently residing at Ronald McDonald House in Subiaco. The boys cooked a feast of pizzas, home-made pies and pastas for forty very thankful people. Ronald McDonald House, as most of you would know, is a place that provides accommodation for families whose children are suffering from cancer and are at Princess Margaret Hospital for treatment. On Friday afternoons a variety of our Year 11s are also lending a hand at Romily House, a licensed hostel providing supported accommodation to adults with chronic mental illness.

This Saturday night our Year 11 and 12 boys are combining with PLC for a Boarders' Ball (Dinner Dance). This is the first time this event has been held and the idea is that each of the boys and girls ask someone to come along who are not from either PLC or Scotch. It is a terrific initiative by the PLC girls' Boarding Council and one in which our boys are excited to being involved.

The Bibbulmun Track journey continues for our 10s and 11s with those still remaining in the programme heading off this weekend. Those in the know say that the boys are entering the best parts of the walk and all are looking forward to seeing the southern countryside. Our 10s start in Collie and 11s in Northcliffe. They all return on Friday.

Our 7s, 8s and 9s are very committed to community sport teams with AFL and Hockey being heavily represented. This is great for our younger boys to mix with others within the community and get to know other boys who are not only day boys at Scotch but also from other schools within the region. We highly encourage our boys to become involved with local sporting clubs as it widens their network of friends and provides other opportunities to learn about the community they live in.

One of the many challenges we have within our Residential Community is transporting our boys to medical and dental appointments. Whilst we do have someone on staff who assists us with this there are times when they are not able to help. We are looking for volunteer drivers to assist us, so if you think you can help us we encourage you to contact our Health Centre Manager, Mrs Fiona Richmond, on 9383 6818 or email FJRichmond@scotch.wa.edu.au.

As mentioned, the above provides a very brief overview of Residential Life at Scotch and only scratches the surface of what our boys are up to from week to week. If you do wish to find out more then please feel free to read our weekly newsletter that can be found at: https://my.scotch.wa.edu.au/residentiallife/newsletter and by clicking on the Past Newsletters Tab you can gain an insight into our year so far.

Mr Marcus Wilkinson

Director of Residential Life

Community and Service

Tanzania Expedition 2016

An Information Evening for the 2016 Tanzania Expedition will be held Tuesday June 9 in the PLC Auditorium, commencing at 7.00pm. The Auditorium can be found near location H on the PLC Parking Map. Boys currently in Year 10 and 11 and parents, are welcome to come along to learn about the ongoing service project in Matipwili village, the Mt Meru climb, safari to Ngorongoro Crater and a host of other activities. The 2016 trip will be the sixth joint expedition with PLC to Tanzania. For more information please contact Bill Cordner wjcordner@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Year 10 Round Square Exchange Programme

Parents and current Year 9 boys interested in learning more about Round Square short-term exchanges are invited to attend an Information Evening on Thursday June 11 at 6.30pm in the Bunning Resource Centre. Present on the night will be boys and parents who have experienced the inaugural reciprocal exchanges this past year. The 2015/6 exchanges will take place from Spring Term this year. Boys this year have travelled to Denmark, India, Peru, Turkey, Switzerland, Germany, South Africa, USA and Canada. While all the Round Square schools involved this year may not be available, most have already agreed to a second round of exchanges. This is an exciting development for the College and one that offers Scotch boys a school experience in another part of the world.

Human Rights Arts and Film Festival @ Scotch

Planning is continuing for the inaugural Human Rights Arts and Film Festival at Scotch on 28 June. Apart from a great lineup of short films with human rights themes, there will be an expert panel Q & A, displays by human rights groups such as Amnesty International, Walk Free, Red Cross and The Humanitarian Group. Panelists include: Sue Ash AO, CEO of Uniting Care West; Helen Pearce, CEO of The Humanitarian Group; Akram Azami, Young Australian of the Year 2013; Squadron Leader Rev, Dean Griffiths - Australian Defence Force. Dr Lisa Hartley, Curtin University; and Clancy Rudeforth, Walk Free. The MC for the panel discussion will be the Reverend Canon Richard Pengelley, Dean of St George's Cathedral. In addition, there will be music by Pinata Percussion from UWA as well as our own musicians. A central feature of the displays will be Nick Danzigers photographic exhibition 'Missing Lives' - currently on show at the WA State Library. The Library has kindly agreed to release the Red Cross sponsored exhibition a few days early so that it can be included in our event. Year 11 and 12 students for Scotch are encouraged to join their peers from other schools on 28 June. A flyer can be found here. Tickets are available at the 'Book a Scotch Event on the College web site.

African Visitor At Scotch

Bori, our guest from Matipwili Village in Tanzania has been working with our Grounds staff for a few days, coming to grips with how a large property like Scotch is managed. Bori is the manager of Kisampa http://www.afrikaafrikasafaris.com/kisampa-overview/ the bush camp where the Scotch/PLC student group stays when working at Matipwili. This is Bori's first trip outside Tanzania. In addition to working with our ancillary staff, Bori has been speaking to classes - in both Senior and Middle schools. He has been able to tell our students about village life in Africa and the physical and cultural differences between Matipwili and Perth. It is humbling for our boys to hear first hand from a man who has very little by way of wealth - but who has a positive outlook on life and gratitude for the opportunities he has been given. His powerful message to our students is to not squander a good education!

Mr Bill Cordner

Director of Community and Service

Music Department

The last two weeks contained a range of exciting musical events that included the Vocals Showcase, the Port Macquarie Big Band Blast Jazz Tour, the Snadens Kawai Piano Sale, the photographing of all the Music Ensembles for the annual Reporter, and the always fun Music Quiz Night.

The Vocals Showcase was an intimate recital style performance held in the Foyer of the Dickinson Centre. Several vocal students performed solos, Patrick Carter (Year 11, Stuart), Harrison Broun (Year 11, Alexander) and Oliver Scott-Morey (Year 11, Cameron), and the Combined Vocal Ensemble, the Senior Vocal Ensemble and the Scotch Vox Jazz vocal ensemble performed as well. Selected boys from the Middle School Scotch Youth Voices joined the Senior Boys for an "all in" rendition of the Beatles song 'Happy Together' to complete the concert. Providing a point of difference in the middle of the recital was a performance of two songs by Music Captain Stuart McCowan (Year 12, Ferguson) on piano, accompanied by the Scotch College small Jazz Combo.

The Jazz Tour to Port Macquarie was a highlight of the year so far for the Jazz Ensemble boys with this tour being an important feature of the Jazz Programme. It provided great preparation for the upcoming Jazz Night to be held at the earlier date this year - Friday 19 June.

The annual Music Department Quiz Night was a fantastic night filled with great fun and prizes. All classroom, ensemble and instrumental musicians in Years 9 - 12 from Scotch College and PLC were invited to participate and we had a the maximum attendance of 150 students. Jon Lennon, as quizmaster conducted an entertaining evening with the prizes going to the very deserving winners!

Upcoming Events:

Junior School and Middle School Autumn Concert, Thursday 18 June, 6.30pm

The Autumn Concert presented by Junior School and Middle School Ensembles is an exciting night for our younger musicians. Held on the Dickinson Centre Stage, multiple ensembles perform the music that they have been rehearsing since the beginning of the year. Tea and coffee is provided in the foyer from 6.00pm with everyone welcome to attend this free event.

Jazz Night, Friday 19 June, Dickinson Centre, 7.30pm

An exciting music event being showcased to complete the musical events of Autumn Term is the Music Department's Annual Jazz Night. This spectacular show is being held at 7.30pm on Friday 19 June in the Dickinson Centre. The performance should conclude at approximately 10.45pm.

This year's show is based on music inspired by the Soul, Funk, R&B and Motown eras and will be provided by performers from the Scotch College Big Bands and Jazz groups, plus a Staff and Guest Big Band to conclude the evening. With dancing, entertainment and an excellent compere to ensure that this night is one to remember, this event, open to the entire Scotch College community (Parents, Families and Friends from all Years 1 to 12), is a show not to be missed!

Tickets can be purchased through Trybooking via the Scotch College website www.scotch.wa.edu.au.

I recommend all of these events to you and hope that you will be able to join the boys in celebrating the performances they have achieved this year. Please contact the Music Department on 93836841 or via email, music@scotch.wa.edu.au if you require any further information.

Supporting the musical activities is Friends of Scotch Music (FOSM) a group of parents who enthusiastically support the work of boys and staff in the Music Department. 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.

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

Parenting Tips

To further support the Scotch community, the College continues to subscribe 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.

Follow the link to access the Parenting Ideas Magazine.

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

Also have a look at the attached article - 10 research-backed tips for raising happy kids.

Ms Shauna Lipscombe

Senior School Psychologist

Uniform Shop

Opening Hours

Supporters' Tops

Supporters' tops are available in the Uniform Shop. We have a warm polar fleece vest and a rugby jumper - ideal for those cold winter mornings next to the playing field!

Japara Sale at Uniform Shop

The Uniform Shop has japaras (Scotch's own version of Driza-Bone) for sale at a large discounted price of $40 (GST incl). They are suitable for Scotch supporters braving the elements, as well as for boys on outdoor education camps.

Wear Scotch with pride!

Assessment for Learning

Our key focus this year has been assessment for learning. This involves learning intensions, differentiation and formative assessment. These three components are required in providing an essential framework within which to facilitate children's learning.

We have always been good at telling the child what we want them to do. We have moved this onto sharing what and why they are leaning something new. This key additional information allows the boys to know what they are learning, why they are learning it, but most importantly, how they can demonstrate they have learned it. It allows them to self-evaluate their learning, set targets for themselves and get to understand their learning needs.

Providing the 'what' and 'how' without the learning intention might look like this:

"Today I want you to paint a picture of a rainbow. ('what') Here is a chart of rainbow colours that we have been looking at this week. You will be given a piece of white paper, a long flat-headed brush and some watercolours. Make it the most beautiful rainbow you can ('how').

The same learning intention, now including the shared learning intention:

"Today I want you to paint a picture of a rainbow. ('what') Here is a chart of rainbow colours that we have been looking at this week. You will be given a piece of white paper, a long flat-headed brush and some watercolours. Make it the most beautiful rainbow you can ('how').

"The only thing I want you to focus on, and it is the reason for you painting a rainbow, is to practice using your brush to blend each of the colours of the rainbow together. You are practising this skill of using your brush to blend colours, an important skill in art. ('why')

Sharing the learning intention means that children are more likely to get straight on with the task and will be more focused. The framing of a learning intention provides children with a clear focus for their learning for a specific lesson. These intentions are phrased as "To" or "We are learning to" statements.

We work to link our differentiation to the learning intention. Once the 'what', 'how' and 'why' has been clearly shared with the boys, teachers can set differentiated tasks to assist the varied abilities to meet the learning focus and to have success. We do not need to set different learning intensions for different abilities, we are able to amend the task and still meet the focus of the lesson and intention.

Formative assessment is the key at this point. It is the ongoing, daily assessment that is essential for knowing how a child is progressing and how they understand the learning focus for the day or week. Through effective formative assessments, teachers can amend an activity as it is progressing; amend a subsequent lesson or even a unit of work. They will know if a boy, group or the class has understood and demonstrate the learning intention and what to do next. Different teachers may use different strategies including; Near Pod, exit surveys, plenary sessions, teacher's observations and the marking of work to ascertain the level of understanding of the boys. Through this they are better able to review the effectiveness of a given lesson or lessons and make changes to ensure the boys are learning and are appropriately challenged.

These three key components, learning intentions, differentiation and formative assessments raise standards and help learners to make progress.

Targeting Assessment in the Primary Classroom - Shirley Clarke,1998

I wish to congratulate Nathan Liu who has been awarded honors for his preliminary grade violin exam. Fantastic work Nathan.

Mr John Stewart

Head of Junior School

Important Dates to Remember

iPad Programme - A Window into the Classroom

Often we are told that parents, at the end of the school day, ask their sons how their day went only to be told "fine", "good", or when asked what they did today, be told "not much."

Luckily our boys take home their iPad each night, which gives parents a window into their son's classroom. With apps such as Edmodo and Showbie, parents can see the inquiries, activities and assessments their sons' have been working on during the week.

Both Edmodo and Showbie provide a secure online learning platform where teachers and students can collaborate, share content and use educational apps to supplement in-class learning. This private learning environment, managed by the teacher, allows students to interact with only other students and teachers added to the class at the teachers' discretion. Edmodo and Showbie provide a safe and easy way to support learning within and beyond the classroom, and helps students develop important skills in a digital environment.

Parents can see the various Edmodo classes their son has joined and see the type of inquiries and work they are doing in class. They can access files, images, links and resources provided by the teacher.

Showbie allows for boys' to upload their work for the teacher to review. The teacher can leave voice notes, comments and written feedback on the boys work. The boys' review the feedback and in some case re-upload with the teachers' suggested changes. Madame Edwards has been using Showbie to collect French assessments across all Year 1 to 4 classes.

Ask your son to share what they are working on in class by getting him to show you Edmodo and Showbie and get a glimpse into his day.

Mrs Amanda Ritchie

ILT Coach

French News

In order to make links to the "Where we are in place and time" unit of inquiry, the Year 5 classes will be researching information on French speaking countries around the world. We will begin by looking into La Francophonie, an international organization uniting French speaking countries around the world. Their work will shed light on how the French language migrated to these different countries through colonization and migration. Their work will be presented in the form of a brochure that will also highlight cultural elements that have been left by the French influence in these countries.

Madame Edwards

French Specialist

Physical Education News

The Scotch Junior School has been busy cementing their footy and rugby skills over the past couple of weeks. The Year 4 boys have a Rugby Carnival at Hale on the 25 June and they are looking forward to testing their skills against their crosstown rivals. The Year 3 students throw themselves into their PE with gusto and are enjoying testing their ability against one another in soccer and footy. Our junior boys continue to make fantastic progress under the close guidance of Mrs Clancy who has been cementing and improving their fundamental movement skills. The Year 1s have been making particularly pleasing progress and their effort and enthusiasm is a joy to behold. Our Cross Country Carnival is almost upon us and this will be held on Friday 12 June, starting at 10.00am.

Mr Scott Whiston

Head of Junior School Physical Education

Make Reading Part of Your Family Time

With the busyness of family life Family Time is increasingly precious. During winter we often have time to spend indoors relaxing with our children. So why not make reading part of this valuable time with your sons? It is important that children see their parents reading for pleasure as well as information. Role modelling reading for pleasure cannot be under-estimated and is the best way to encourage good reading habits in your child. You don't have to wait until the children are in bed to pick up your book, make sure they see you reading! So this winter, leave the dishes in the sink a bit longer, mow the lawn next weekend and snuggle up on the couch with your son and a good book!

A suggestion is to not only discuss with your son what he is reading but discuss what you are reading and why you choose that particular book; was it that you like the genre, a friend recommended it, you read a review or you wanted to learn more about a certain topic? This type of discussion role models book selection skills and decision-making to your son.

Happy reading!

Mrs Kathryn Salt

Junior School Teacher-Librarian

3S News

From the beginning of the year, the boys in 3S have been learning about narratives and what makes an interesting story. We have learnt to describe characters and settings as well as how to use adjectives to enhance our writing. Our class has also been working closely with Mr Stewart to better understand the dynamics of friendships. During these times we have learnt how to be a good friend, what you can do for someone if they are feeling sad or left out, what you can say to a person who is not being nice to others and how to be a bystander during various situations. Following this, we explored stories about friendship - The Recess Queen and Enemy Pie. Furthermore, 3S recently commenced a unit of inquiry regarding food products and the journey they take from creation to consumption. Integrating these ideas together, the class came up with the idea of creating our very own story about friendship for our assembly item. In a meaningful performance, the boys in 3S presented their story with accompanying actions to the remainder of the Junior School. We hope that our performance has inspired our peers to think about how their actions affect others, as well as what it means to be a good friend.

Mrs Laree Springall

Year 3 Teacher

Week 7 - Excellence Awards

Helping Your Children Respond To Bullying

It is natural for families to feel upset and want to protect their children if they are being bullied. However, children can be distressed when families react with anger. These same strategies apply if your child is being cyber bullied.

Family responses found to be helpful include:

• Encouraging your children to discuss the situation
• Being aware of your own responses and reacting in a calm, helpful and supportive manner
• Believing your children - it is important that your children feel confident talking to you about problems
• Telling your children that bullying is wrong and reminding them that they have the right to feel safe and happy
• Making sure your children know how to get help and support at school
• Helping your children to make friends (having at least one good friend has been shown to reduce the likelihood and impact of bullying)
• Talking to your children's teacher

• Asking your children what they would like you to do

Mr Warwick Norman

Friendly Schools and Families Coordinator

Transdisciplinary Learning in the PYP: Part 2

In the last article I spoke of the importance of acquiring skills in context, and to exploring content that is relevant to students and that can transcend the boundaries of the traditional subjects. This was based on the work of Boyer who after much debate and discussion, representing multiple perspectives with similar-minded educational experts involved in the development of the PYP, led to the selection of six transdisciplinary themes that are considered essential in the context of a programme of international education.

These themes:

• Have global significance - for all students in all cultures

• Offer students the opportunity to explore the commonalities of human experience

• Are supported by knowledge, concepts and skills from the traditional subject areas but utilize them in ways that transcend the confines of these subjects, thereby contributing to a transdisciplinary model of teaching and learning

• Will be revisited throughout the students' years of schooling, so that the end result is immersion in broad-ranging, in-depth, articulated curriculum content.

• Contribute to the common ground that unifies the curriculums in all PYP schools

Below are listed the six transdisciplinary themes from which the units of inquiry (taught in all classrooms) are developed.

Who we are:

An inquiry into the nature of the self; beliefs and values; personal, physical, mental, social and spiritual health; human relationships including families, friends, communities, and cultures; rights and responsibilities; what it means to be human.

Where we are in place and time:

An inquiry into orientation in place and time; personal histories; homes and journeys; the discoveries, explorations and migrations of humankind; the relationships between and the interconnectedness of individuals and civilizations, from local and global perspectives.

How we express ourselves:

An inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, nature, culture, beliefs and values; the ways in which we reflect on, extend and enjoy our creativity; our appreciation of the aesthetic.

How the world works:

An inquiry into the natural world and its laws; the interaction between the natural world (physical and biological) and human societies; how humans use their understanding of scientific principles; the impact of scientific and technological advances on society and on the environment.

How we organize ourselves:

An inquiry into the interconnectedness of human-made systems and communities; the structure and function of organizations; societal decision-making; economic activities and their impact on humankind and the environment.

Sharing the planet:

An inquiry into rights and responsibilities in the struggle to share finite resources with other people and with other living things; communities and the relationships within and between them; access to equal opportunities; peace and conflict resolution.

Mr Warwick Norman

Junior School Dean of Teaching & Learning

Head of Middle School

Transition is a huge component of the Middle School purpose and mission. 75% of all boys who enrol and arrive at Scotch College enter via the Middle School in either Year 6 or 7. These boys come from local government schools, other independent schools, rural schools, and some boys are from interstate and overseas. On arrival there is a lot to take in: new teachers, new friends, new co-curricular opportunities, a new school culture and set of traditions and for our boarders a new home. One of the most significant challenges however, and this is also faced by the cohort who have come up through the Junior School, is the challenge of a new curriculum: the Middle Years Programme (MYP).

For most parents this is also a new educational framework and philosophy to understand, as well as a new assessment regime to comprehend and support their sons through. In Week 9 Ms Anna Eriksson, Dean of Teaching & Learning, and I will run a Parent Information Session we are tentatively calling 'Demystifying the MYP'. As we head toward our first reporting cycle of the year this session builds on from the Parent Information Sessions held in Summer Term. We will give parents a general overview of the International Baccalaureate PYP, MYP and the DP programmes, however the session will primarily focus on the central tenets of the MYP as a curriculum, the concept of criterion based assessment and we will look closely at the Middle School student report that will be mailed out at the end of term. This information session will be held in the Dining Room Annexe on Thursday 18 June, Week 9 from 9.00am-10.00am with morning tea and an opportunity to stay on and talk about all things Middle School afterwards.

Last week at Assembly 6B presented a cheque for $2967.80 on behalf of the whole Middle School to the Australian Red Cross Nepal Appeal. This is money raised by the boys two weeks ago in a variety of ways in response to the Nepal earthquake tragedy and subsequent appeal. One of the most heartening aspects of working in Middle School is witnessing the initiative, enthusiasm and instant response our boys demonstrate when confronted or presented with someone in need. Be it picking up a fallen lunch box for a boy struggling up the stairs with bags, instrument and sports gear to rolling up sleeves and baking, washing car windows or donating their own treasures to help out kids in Nepalese villages. The staff and I wish to acknowledge that the boys receive a great deal of behind the scenes help and encouragement from home. On behalf of the boys who donated the money and on behalf of the Red Cross who have received the money, thank you for your continued support to help our boys immerse themselves in acts of service, unrewarded acts of compassion. They may not realise it yet but these are the hallmarks of wonderful young men who will make a difference in life.

Mr Richard Ledger

Head of Middle School

8R Enjoys Life in the Great Outdoors

This year the boys in 8R have enjoyed time in the homeroom debating current affairs, investigating the dynamics of friendships/bullying and fundraising in the wake of the Nepal earthquake.

Most recently the group spent a week at Moray experiencing the great outdoors. This has been a super opportunity for both teachers and students to get to know each other in a different light. The week offered many activities for the boys to participate in; the ropes, canoeing, bush walking, orienteering and camping. Moray is not just about activities. The boys have the opportunity to experience Scotch life away from the classroom and appreciate the values of stewardship, service and integrity.

The cold mornings were enough to chill even the British teachers on camp! A hot breakfast in the Dining Hall gave a good energy boost for the daily agenda. The ghostly mist would soon disappear by mid-morning and the warm sun shined all day.

Some notable moments for 8R, to mention a few, included Nick Jackson reaching the peak in climbing after several attempts, Jack Banfield's navigation of a submerging canoe, Jack Avery finally managing to start a camp fire, pizza making Italian style, and of course the notorious 'Killerfang Falls' rapids - enough to intimidate the toughest of students!

On reflection, I observed many of these core values and successes every day, which was great to see. A wonderful experience for all and a big thank you to the Outdoor Education staff involved in the organisation of this busy, fun-filled week.

Mr Toby Robinson

Teacher 8R

Student Achievements

Congratulations to Tim Fleay (7.4A), Max Freedman (7.8M), Max Steens (7.5S) and Lewis Crump (6.4B) who have been selected to represent Western Australia in the State School Boys Hockey Championship to be held in Perth later this year.

Headmaster's Commendations

Important Dates in Autumn Term

Excellence Awards

The awards below were presented at the last Middle School Assembly:

With the Fremantle Dockers and West Coast Eagles both losing their AFL matches over the weekend, post match interviews have featured the usual clichés of "one week at a time", "one percenters" and "focused on our own game". It is interesting to consider these well-worn phrases in the context of our own academic year. The academic year has passed the mid-point of the "season" and for the Year 12s, the finals await in October. Regardless of year group, the qualities that lead to success on the sporting field are similar to those that lead to success in the classroom, on the stage and in life generally.

One week at a time -great achievements are often based on one task, performed to the best of our ability, at a time. Mark Donaldson, a Victoria Cross recipient describes this as "doing one thing properly, then the next thing properly and staying in the moment". Some boys have a tendency to underestimate what they can achieve over a long period of time through consistent application. Complete the next task as well as you can and you have begun the journey to success.

One percenters - making the extra effort to do what others may not consider essential. In football these are the acts that often don't get recorded on a player's statistics; for example, a spoil, knock-on or shepherd. In the academic programme, one percenters could be revising daily rather than just completing homework or assessment tasks, a good night's sleep, a study environment that does not have music playing. On their own, one percenters don't make much difference but added up over time they have the potential to change the final result. Be prepared to make the extra effort.

Focussed on our own game - boys can often be heard asking, "What did you get?" to those around them when an assessment item is handed back. Their question may be used to assess the merit of their own result. For example, an IB grade of 5 may be judged as a good result if those around you received 3s and 4s. The same result on the same task, however, may be perceived as disappointing if those around you received 6s and 7s. The critical reference points for learning are our own prior work and the aspirations and goals for future learning, not how we compare to others in the class or cohort. Boys can only control their own efforts in preparing for an assessment.

Finally, with the boys in the cast and crew for this week's Year 11 and 12 production of The Tempest having worked hard on the 'one percenters' over an extended period of time, I encourage those interested in high quality theatre to come along and enjoy the production commencing this Wednesday evening and concluding with a matinee and evening performance on Saturday. Tickets can be purchased through Book a Scotch Event on the Scotch College website.

Dr Rob McEwan

Head of Senior School

Meditation Course for Years 10, 11 and 12

Need to Chill Out? Unwind? De-stress?

The College invites senior students to participate in a meditation course. Mindfulness meditation is easy to apply, straight forward, practical and effective in gaining a relaxed body, a focused and calm mind, all within a very short time. It has proven helpful in managing the stress of exams and improving academic performance.

The 4-week course will be run at the School on Wednesdays, 3.45pm to 4.30pm, from 10 June to 29 July. The cost of the course is $40.00 (light afternoon snack provided) and numbers are strictly limited.

To register please contact Cherie FitzGibbon, School Secretary (The Residence), Ph: 9383 6871 or Email: fitzca@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Independent Studies affirm Tertiary Success of Diploma Graduates in Australian and American Universities

"IB is well known to us for excellent preparations. Success in an IB programme correlates well with success at Harvard. We are always pleased to see the credentials of the IB Diploma Programme on the transcript."

Marilyn McGrath Lewis, Director of Undergraduate Admission

Harvard University

"Send us prepared students a la IB…It is the "best" high school prep curriculum an American school can offer."

Marilee Jones, Former Director of Undergraduate Admission

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In 2015, Dr Liz Bergeron, from the University of Wisconsin, published a study into university enrolments in the U.S. and the retention and graduation rates of Diploma students from public and private schools from 2008 - 2014.

The study concluded that Diploma graduates were better equipped to cope with the challenges of tertiary education and in the first year, the retention rate of DP students enrolled in four-year institutions was 98%; compared to 77% nationally.

Additionally, the average four-year graduation rate of all Diploma students was 79% (Diploma earners and non-earners) but the rate increased to 84% when considering students who had earned the Diploma; in comparison, the national average was 39%. The study also concluded that DP students have notably higher six-year graduation rates: 83% which is significantly higher than the national average of 56%.

The full report is available at http://www.ibo.org/research. To cite the full report, please use the following: Bergeron, L. 2015. Diploma Programme students' enrolment and outcomes at US postsecondary institutions 2008-2014. Bethesda, MD, USA. International Baccalaureate Organization.

In 2007, the ACER Report into the Perceptions of the IB Diploma Programme among Australian and New Zealand Universities concluded that Diploma graduates were better prepared to manage the rigours of tertiary education.

The study involved 47 Australian and New Zealand universities and 644 Senior Academics. They were invited to compare the Diploma Programme with Australian State Certificates such as the HSC, VCE and WACE. Academics also assessed the quality of the programme with the UK A levels, New Zealand Certificate and the U.S. Advanced Placement Program.

They evaluated all courses in the areas of Deep Learning, Broad Learning, Critical Thinking, Communication, Research Skills and Self-Management. Out of a maximum score of five points, the Diploma averaged 4.1; the average of the State Certificates was 3.3.

Seventy-seven percent of university academics agreed that Diploma graduates were better prepared for success at tertiary institutions. They pointed out that Diploma students were more confident, well-rounded and able to think critically. Students evidenced enquiring, critical minds, were self-motivated and, most importantly, excellent communicators and culturally sensitive.

Why are Diploma students excellent communicators; possess enquiring critical minds and better prepared for tertiary education and life's challenges?

The American educator, Dr Stephen Covey, comments that "Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply." Diploma students, however, are educated to formulate arguments in oral and written tasks in a convincing manner, but to take full account of other points of view. Whether it be in the context of their Theory of Knowledge oral presentations or their Individual Oral Commentaries or their Interactive Orals in a second language, Diploma students are provided with multiple opportunities to speak and listen in a variety of communicative situations and to critically engage with the spoken and written word.

Education must be more than simply developing a student's cognitive skills; it must also develop affective and metacognitive skills and students must be encouraged to view learning as something that they must do for themselves. The Diploma Programme aims to develop self-regulated learners who have learned how to set learning goals, ask perceptive questions, reflect on all aspects of their learning and be bold enough to make changes to their learning processes wherever necessary. These educational aims are articulated in the Approaches to Teaching and Learning principles that inform all three International Baccalaureate programmes and provide Scotch boys with the necessary tools to succeed in their professional and private lives.

Mr Michael Scaife

IB Diploma Coordinator

Senior School Production: The Tempest - OPENS THIS WEEK!

William Shakespeare's farewell to the theatre gets a contemporary treatment in this year's Senior School production. The versatility of the world's most well known playwright is proved once again as the central themes of revenge and poor leadership play out in a 21st century Middle Eastern setting, amidst the confusion of an armed conflict. Prospero, embittered after being marooned for over a decade along with his daughter, takes his revenge on the brother who wronged him.

The 2015 Senior School production will take place in the Dickinson Centre from Wednesday 10 June to Saturday 13 June. A matinee will begin at 2.00pm on Saturday June 13. Bookings will be open via "Book a Scotch Event".

Purchase your tickets soon to see another outstanding production from the Senior School boys. For enquiries, please contact Bennet Andrews, bcandrews@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Mr Bennet Andrews

Arts Teacher

2016 Megacity Tour - USA

Expressions of interest for the 2016 Megacity Tour to the United States will be sought during Autumn Term. The tour will be travelling to San Francisco, Washington D.C. and New York and will run during the final week of Summer Term into the April school holidays. Students currently in Years 9, 10, and 11 are invited to attend. Whilst the tour is designed to complement the units of work studied in Years 10-12 Geography, students who do not study Geography are more than welcome to attend. Please contact Mr Hildebrandt for further information, mshildebrandt@scotch.wa.edu.au or 9383 6927. An information evening will be held later in the term.

Mr Matt Hildebrandt

Curriculum Leader - SOSE

French Student Host Family Opportunity

The French Department would like to remind families of the chance to host a french student in Years 11 & 12 during the month of August. The pupil would stay with your son in all classes and during sport and a blend of English and French at home might be expected! For information please contact Mr Rugg (JRRUGG@scotch.wa.edu.au). Mme Martine Floyd, who runs the host programme, will then be in touch to explain the details. On a similar theme, NACEL have also been very successful in arranging hosting in France for some of our students (usually in December / January). Please contact NACEL directly on 9386 2500 or 1300 735732 for this.

Mr Jonathan Rugg

Head of Languages

NCSS Challenge

Any boys who are interested in studying Science or Engineering at university may be interested to know that some universities include a compulsory Programming unit in their Engineering courses while others include it as an elective.

I will be running a Programming competition which teaches how to programme even if you have never done so before. The competition is completely on-line, entry is free and you only have to complete/attempt five exercises.

Please see the attached flyer for further details and email RBradley@scotch.wa.edu.au if you would like to participate.

Be Media Talks to BME Students

This term in Business Management and Enterprise (BME) we have been studying marketing, and our primary assessment involves writing a marketing plan for a business of our choice. To aid our understanding of this topic, specifically digital marketing, Jordan Fogarty, former Scotch student and founder of Be Media gave a presentation to our class. Jordan discussed some of the very interesting aspects of digital marketing, such as; retargeting, SEO (search engine optimisation) and reaching your target market through social media and online. Jordan provided examples of these techniques and how they can be implemented in our marketing plans. The presentation was stimulating and engaging whilst providing us with information relating to our current area of study and assessment.

http://www.bemedia.com.au

Sam Perrignon (Year 11, Stuart)

Creative Writing Competitions

If any Senior School student would like to enter a piece of writing into the following writing competitions, please forward your work electronically to Dr Weeda jjweeda@scotch.wa.edu.au or your English teacher.

Tim Winton Award for Young Writers - prose up to 2000 words. Only one entry per person Closes: Sunday, 14 June, 2015

Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards - accepted until 30 June, 2015

Future Leaders Writing Prize 2015 - Year 11 and 12 Students are invited to submit a piece of fiction or non-fiction writing on any topic (800-1,000 words) - Closes - 1 July, 2015

Primo Lux - For Years 10, 11 and 12 poetry - entries close 3rd July, 2015

The West AustralianGen Z Competition - Express your thoughts and opinions about local or global news and issues in an opinion article, letter to the editor or editorial cartoon - Years 7-12 - entries close Friday, September 11, 2015.

Important Rowing Dates

Spring Term 2015 and Summer Term 2016

Albany Rowing Camp

Thursday 8 to Monday 12 October 2015

A camp for Year 11 and 12 boys (as per Spring Term) will be held again in Albany. This is a valuable preparatory camp - more information to follow in August. The camp is held in the latter part of the October holidays.

January Rowing Camp

Thursday 21 to Wednesday 27 January 2016

For all rowing boys Years 9 to 12. Year 11 and 12 - residential camp. Years 9 and 10 attend on a day basis. We will train at Champion Lakes.

Mr Grant Ford

Head of Rowing

Career Information

Scotch College Combined Schools Careers Expo

This annual event will be happening again on Wednesday 17 June from 5.00pm - 7.30pm in the Dickinson Centre at Scotch College. Year 10, 11 and 12 students are invited to attend with their parents to gain valuable information regarding university courses, apprenticeships, TAFE courses and many other further study and career opportunities. Year 10s in particular can still make changes to their subject selection for next year if they discover a particular university course that has specific prerequisites. More than 50 exhibitors will be attending so come along and get informed.

Year 10 Subject Selection for students commencing Year 11 in October, 2015

Subject selections are now due in on-line. If you have any concerns about the process, please contact Mr Peter Frusher: pfrusher@scotch.wa.edu.au or 93836830.

University Information

Murdoch University

Parent Information and Pizza Evenings are a free and fun opportunity to meet the Murdoch University Future Student Team to find out everything you need to know about Murdoch and what students can expect as they transition from high school to university.

Join the Murdoch team for some delicious pizza as they demystify university preferences and the TISC process, as well as course information, how to apply, alternative pathways, fees, scholarships and support services.

South Street Campus on 24 June, 6.00pm - 7:30pm.

Curtin University

Year 10 Parent Information Session

Monday 8 June 2015

Expo and refreshments on arrival at 5.00pm

Formal presentations from 5.45pm - 7.00pm

Elizabeth Jolley Lecture Theatre

Curtin Bentley Campus

Mid-year entry is now open

There's no better time than now to make a change for the better. Mid-year entry is open at Curtin University and a wide range of innovative courses awaits your application. Alternatively, if you didn't get the marks you needed last year, you could still get into university with UniReady - a FREE 13-week course that you can start mid-year. Once you've successfully completed UniReady, you're guaranteed entry into many Curtin courses starting in semester 1, 2016.

For more information visit our website or attend an information session on 4 June or 20 June. Applications close on Friday 10 July.

University of Sydney Meet Sydney Information Evening

When: Thursday 18 June 2015

Time: 5.30pm - 7.00pm

Where: Pan Pacific Perth Hotel, 207 Adelaide Terrace, Perth.

Come along to discover all the courses on offer, scholarships, how to apply and more. Speak with our staff and current students and hear about their experiences at the University of Sydney.

Please register at www.sydney.edu.au/events/perth

University of Western Australia

UWA 'Engineering Information Evenings' will provide high school students with course and prerequisite advice, information on career paths and guidance on the different areas of engineering they can specialise in. There will also be friendly students on-hand to answer any questions about university life or being a member of one of the faculties exciting student clubs.

Attendees will be given a folder of course information and a special gift from the Faculty.

Engineering Information Evenings will run on the following dates in 2015:

• Tuesday, 16 June, 6:30pm -7:30pm, Monadelphous Integrated Learning Centre, (MILC), Monadelphous Design Studio, Room 1.52, Mathematics Building
• Monday, 27 July, 6:30pm - 7:30pm, Weatherburn Lecture Theatre, Room G40, Mathematics Building
• Sunday 9 August - as part of UWA Open Day
• Thursday, 3 September, 6:30pm -7:30pm, Weatherburn Lecture Theatre, Room G40, Mathematics Building

To book into a session go to: http://www.ecm.uwa.edu.au/community/engineering-info-evenings

Notre Dame University is offering the following study skills course during the July holidays. Separate courses are available for Year 11 and Year 12 students.

Do you want to STUDY LESS and ACHIEVE MORE?

Date: Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 July 2015

Time: 1.00pm - 4.00pm

Cost: $60.00

Mr Peter Frusher

Careers Adviser

Important Dates Autumn Term Week 8

Parents' Association

Save The Date - Thursday 2 July 2015

The annual Mid Year Cocktail Party for all Scotch parents will be held on Thursday evening, 2 July at The Blue Duck, Cottesloe. Save the date in your diaries - a great opportunity for Scotch parents to socialise and celebrate the end of Term 2. More details to follow soon.

Mr Gary Pyne

President

Parents' Association

Scotch Auxiliary

Scotch Auxiliary Movie Morning

Please join us for the opening day of 'Far from the Madding Crowd', based on Thomas Hardy's classic love story, on Thursday 25 June, Windsor Cinemas, Nedlands.

Morning Tea will be served from 10am with the movie commencing at 11.00am. Family and friends are most welcome. This is our only whole School community event and fundraiser for the year, tickets cost $30. We appreciate your support.

Upcoming events:

Please pop the following date in your diaries:

All parents and friends:

Scotch Auxiliary Movie Morning - Thursday 25 June

Middle School:

Year 8 Parent Evening - Thursday 11 June

Senior School:

Year 11 Fathers Sleepover at Moray - Saturday 20 June

Year 12 Father/Son Breakfast - Thursday 2 July

For more details on these events and to purchase tickets please visit the Scotch College website www.scotch.wa.edu.au and click on the "Book a Scotch Event" icon.

Coffee Morning:

Year 10 - Friday 26 June, Naked Fig, Swanbourne, from 9.30am.

Year 11 - Friday 19 June, Naked Fig, Swanbourne, from 9.00am.

Save the Date:

Year 11

Parents' Association and Scotch Auxiliary combined Year 11 Parent Evening now rescheduled for Friday 7 August, details and invitation will follow shortly

NEXT MEETING:

All parents are welcome.

9AM MONDAY 22 JUNE, GOOCH PAVILION

Guest speaker: Revd Chas Lewis - Chaplain

We look forward to welcoming you and hearing Revd Lewis speak about his role in the College and reflecting on his 27 years at Scotch.

Mrs Carissa Paganin

President

Scotch Auxiliary

Pipe Band Parents Support Group

Annual Manure Drive

Please note that due to the availability of a relatively free Saturday (excluding Cross Country) that the Pipe Band Manure Drive will be on the PSA Bye, Saturday October 31.

This is later than usual but timely for the beginning of warm Spring days in the garden.

So save your garden preparations for the pre-bagged sheep manure that gets our local gardens blooming.

Further information to follow closer to the time.

Pipe Band Parents Cocktail Party

Pipe Band parents, please join us at the Annual Parents Cocktail Party on Saturday 27 June 2015.

Details on the Scotch website, 'Book a Scotch Event'

Mandy Perrignon

PBPSG President

PBPSG@scotch.wa.edu.au

Supporters of Football at Scotch

Cocktail Function - Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club, Friday 12 June 2015

A Cocktail function for all football parents will be held at the Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club, Marine Parade, Cottesloe from 7pm -10:30pm. Guest Speakers include, Adam Selwood (WCE Development Coach), Michael Thompson (OSC & Nine Sports Commentator) and Head of Football Scott Siekierka. Amazing food selection and cash bar. To book your ticket, please visit the Scotch College website www.scotch.wa.edu.au and click on the 'Book a Scotch Event' icon.

Reminder: This is our one opportunity to raise funds for items needed by the boys in training and on game days, so we would like to put together some hampers to raffle on the night and some silent auctions. We would be grateful for any donations, by Wednesday 10 June as follows:

Year 11 and 12: beverages

Year 9 and 10 : condiments, candles, soaps, hand creams etc.

Year 7 and 8 : chocolates, nuts etc.

Anything worthy of a silent auction.

Donations can be left at the front door of 7 Wright Ave, Swanbourne (on the corner of Saunders Street - the section that goes down to the Middle/Junior School). If you are unable to drop off but would like to donate something, please contact Genevieve Cleary (mother of Oli Heath) on 0431 636086. Alternatively, if you would like to donate something else, either for a raffle or a silent auction, please let Genevieve know.

Any further information please contact your Year group manager.

Peter Bennett

President

SOFAS

Wembley Bright Blue Disco

The next Bright Blue Disco is being held on Friday, 19 June at the Wembley Community Centre. For more information see here or click Events on the website www.brightblue.org.au.