As highlighted in one of my newsletters last term, the College Council and Executive met on 24 September to commence discussions and information gathering in preparation for the next strategic planning phase of the College. While there is still a lot of work to be done before this process is complete, there is no doubt that a recurring theme on the day was the strength and unique qualities of the Scotch community. Emanating from this is a clear desire to ensure that the next plan maximises the capacity of our community to continue providing a truly value adding experience for all boys and their families. With almost 15,000 students having passed through Scotch, the ability to connect far beyond Year 12 is unlimited.

Why do I mention the above? The answer is simple. The concept of what the Scotch community offers is something to which our boys also constantly refer. Over the last couple of months we received applications and held interviews for the PC Anderson and WR Dickinson scholarships. A common theme throughout these applications was the boys' reflections on the concept of a community. This was particularly relevant in the PC Anderson applications given that this scholarship is for current students who have had a family member attend the College. Having said this, students who had joined Scotch without any prior connection through family reiterated the same comments as part of the WR Dickinson applications.

In referring to community, I found some of the analogies provided by a number our boarders between their experiences growing up in a country town and what Scotch has offered them, as very insightful. Following are a couple of extracts from two of the applications I received from our students. One is from a boarder and the other from a day student.

Referring to his hometown one student highlighted that:

This close-knit community played an influential role in developing important qualities in me, such as independence, resilience, responsibility and dedication. These character traits have transitioned seamlessly from my regional district into the rich and vibrant community of Scotch College. Each and every day I aim to display these traits within the various areas of school life. I relish the privilege of being a Scotch student, and do my best to be an enthusiastic participant in every activity that I am engaged in.

While coming from the perspective of a day boy the following statement yet again highlighted what the Scotch community has meant thus far:

I quickly realised that this was not just a school. It was an intricate network of student friendships, teacher-student relations and an overwhelming support towards one another that classed it well above anywhere I had ever been before. It was a community.

In 2015 the process of transitioning Keys House from a boarding house to a day house began. Mr David Kyle was appointed to head up this House and in conjunction with the Director of Residential Life, Mr Marcus Wilkinson, is charged with ensuring this transition progresses as smoothly as possible. Keys House has Tom Gooch as its House Captain. Residential Life (Boarding) is an integral part of who we are at Scotch. As part of the transition process we now have a new student leadership position as the Captain of Residential Life that has been filled by Flynn Taylor. The focus on this change in our House system is to ensure that the day and residential community are fully integrated during the day, however, after school there should be unique experiences and benefits that the boys should experience as a result of being part of our residential community.

I would like to mention a significant event that brings our College and the wider community together each year and highlights what I mean when I speak about our boys graduating into a community for life. This event is now fondly known as Tim's Ride. As many of you may know Tim was an OSC from 2002 and was tragically killed while riding his bike along Curtin Avenue. Each year our College joins the family and many other supporters to keep Tim's legacy alive in our hearts and minds. This year the ride is on Saturday 14 November. If you have the time, I encourage you to join this event and show your support for this worthy event. https://www.registernow.com.au/secure/Register.aspx?E=17679

Finally the Year 12 WACE and Diploma exams have officially commenced this week. Please keep our boys and their families in your thoughts and prayers. I know our boys are well prepared and wish them all the very best and look forward to seeing them at our Chapel and Valedictory dinner on Friday 27 November.

Have a great fortnight

Dr Alec O'Connell

Headmaster

Increasing Vocational Education & Training opportunities through Food Technology

With Food Science & Technology taught by Ms Katie Frampton already an appetizing option for the boys of the Middle School, it is fantastic to see the return of the subject to the Senior School Curriculum. Since the beginning of term, Mrs Karen Bridle has begun delivery of the WACE General course to sixteen Year 12 boys using the outstanding purpose built kitchen facilities in the Middle School.

The significance of this curriculum development is not to be understated. Students will have the opportunity to experience firsthand what a career within the food services industry could look like by engaging with professional chefs and completing industry qualifications such as a barista course. It is a priority of the College to ensure that our VET students are well supported with an increasing range of subject choices that are flexible, relevant and catering for the demands of the careers, which the boys aspire to.

Also of importance is the location of the class; our Year 12 students will be learning their skills within the Middle School, which provides a fantastic opportunity for the senior boys to work in a common space with the Middle School students. With a focus on strengthening the 1-12 connection between the boys it will be great to see the Middle and Senior School boys sharing their educational experiences as they prepare dishes such as Thai chicken lettuce cups and beef and broccolini stir fry.

Additionally, in a recent initiative Ms Frampton used her knowledge of the subject to engage staff in a Urumaki Teriyaki Sushi as part of a professional development activity aimed to demonstrate the teaching and learning strategies used within a different classroom setting. The result was outstanding educational practice, delicious food and a collaborative activity for the staff involved.

It is hoped that following the initial response from the Senior School boys there will be an opportunity to expand the offering of Food Science & Technology in the future.

Mr Pete Allen

Director of Teaching and Learning

Community and Service

Passionate Speakers at IB Diploma CAS Launch

Last week the boys new to the IB Diploma programme undertook a day of activities based on the theme - 'The Remarkable Life'. The activities were designed to highlight the 'spirit of CAS' (Creativity, Action Service) an integral part of the Diploma. The group was treated to presentations from five exceptional individuals who spoke with passion about their own remarkable lives.

• Angus Turner, Rhodes Scholar and Ophthalmologist spoke about his desire to provide services to rural Australia He outlined his work with Aboriginal communities in the Kimberley through the Lions Outback Vision programme and the importance of using his skills to make life better for some of the most disadvantaged in our state.
• Nick Northcott, Chief Operating Officer at the Telethon Kids Institute gave an insight into the decisions he has made in his career that saw him change direction from participating in the high flying financial world of London to managing a non-profit research institute in Western Australia.
• Cassandra Lake, Executive Manager - Community Engagement with WASO spoke about developing outreach programmes in hospitals and the joy created through the interaction between musicians and patients.
• Akram Azami - 2013 Young Australian of the Year, spoke on the topic 'Finding Our Moral Centre'. This was an engaging but challenging foray into the ethics of government decision-making and social justice.
• Griffin Longley, Director of Nature Play WA spoke about his career to date and the importance of living in the community and understanding the challenges of others less fortunate. He spoke about working with youth at risk in Midland through the 'Midnight Basketball' charity.

Service Leadership in the Senior School

The recently appointed Co-Vice Captain of School - Service, Fraser Cull (Year 12, Ferguson) is in the process of convening the first meeting of the Service Committee. This committee comprises elected representatives from each of the ten Houses. The committee meets to promote new service opportunities and to provide support for the many activities currently under way. There are three events this term that Fraser and the committee will be promoting:

• John Hughes' Big Walk for Princess Margaret Children's Hospital is on Sunday 8 November. Assistance is required from senior boys on both the day of the event and the Saturday before to help set up.
• UnitingCare West - 'Operation Santa' will start soon. Donations of non-perishable food and new toys are required for donation to needy individuals and families.
• The first Disabled Surfing Association event for the summer will be held on Saturday 5 December. There is no sport on this morning and therefore as many senior boys as possible should come down to Leighton Beach to volunteer to help.

Further information on these events will be made available through the House Service representatives and also in Daily Notices.

Notre Dame Service Learning Conference

Scotch is presenting at the Notre Dame Service Learning Conference to be held in Fremantle on Saturday 28 November. The theme of the conference is: 'To give is to receive: True service learning!' There will be displays of service learning from a number of schools, as well as talks on the role of service in schools. This is a good opportunity to support a local initiative that aims to explore the meaning of service learning and its relevance within a school context. Senior boys who are interested in attending should contact Mr Cordner this week to discuss registration.

Matipwili Trade Training Centre Fundraising

On Saturday 7 November Scotch and PLC are running a stall at the Cottesloe Village Carnival (Napoleon Street) in aid of the Matipwili (Tanzania) Trade Training Centre. Student participants in the 2016 expedition and staff will be on hand to explain the current project and to sell hand-made chopping boards, gift cards, spice packs and photographs. All proceeds will go towards purchasing materials to complete the project in Matipwili village by July next year. You would be most welcome to call in to have a chat.

Year 10 boys have an opportunity to support the Matipwili project by buying tickets to a social with PLC girls to be held in MacKellar Hall on 28 November. The social will have a 'Tribal' theme! Tickets are on sale through the 'Book a Scotch Event' on the Scotch web site. Information about the social can be found here.

Mr Bill Cordner

Director of Community and Service

Music Department

Spring Term has begun with a rush of new ensemble combinations, new music and the usual Assembly commitments. The new Studio Orchestra played well in the Senior Assembly of Week 2 following on from the efforts of the senior musicians that performed in first week.

The last traditional performance of the year, the Junior and Middle School End of Year Concert was held in the Dickinson Centre on Friday 30 October. All boys performed exceptionally well, and it was great to hear the ongoing development of the Middle School Ensembles. My thanks to all performers for their work in preparing for this event and to parents for their support as audience members. Congratulations also to all Music Teachers and Ensemble Directors who produced such fine performances.

Instrumental Music 2016

During the upcoming week emails will be sent to a variety of family groups advising of the enrolment procedure for learning a musical instrument in 2016. Please note that the enrolment process will be an online system that utilizes Parent Connect logins. For new Scotch families without a Parent Connect login, an alternative web link will be provided.

All 2016 Music Department information and enrolment links are available via Home.Scotch > Student > Music or directly at https://my.scotch.wa.edu.au/music

Upcoming events include:

Wednesday 11 November, Cello Soiree (selected students)

Thursday 12 November, Violin Soiree (selected students)

Thursday 12 November, Ms Li Strings Soiree, 5.00pm, MacKellar Hall

Friday 20 November, Piano Soiree, 5.00pm, Middle School Music Room

Many of the events listed above are supported by FOSM. If you would like to join the Friends of Scotch Music (FOSM) - a group of parents who enthusiastically support the work of boys and staff in the Music Department, the process is very straight forward via the FOSM email below. FOSM meets once or twice each term with all meetings beginning at 7.00pm. Meetings go for approximately one hour, and are held in the Senior School Music Room with everyone welcome. Please consider becoming involved in the FOSM Parent Support group as an excellent way to support your son and the Music Programme at Scotch College. The next FOSM Meeting is to be held Monday, 8 February 2016.

At the recent FOSM AGM the outgoing committee members were thanked for their work during the year with recognition given to Mr Bruce McCowan President, Ms Janine Goyder Vice-President, Ms Peta Scott-Morey Secretary and Mr Julian Mills Treasurer. A warm welcome was given to Ms Michelle Barrow and Ms Aurelie Blumann who were appointed as President and Vice-President, together with Ms Peta Scott-Moray Secretary and Mr Julian Mills Treasurer who are continuing in their roles. The Music Staff and boys look forward to the continued support provided by FOSM as we move into 2016.

Contact Details

The Instrumental Programme is administered by the Senior School Music Department and all queries should be directed to the Music Administrator, Julia Robinson (9383 6841) music@scotch.wa.edu.au. Alternately, please contact Mr David Coughlan, Head of Music, via email DGCoughlan@scotch.wa.edu.au or phone 9383 6842.

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

Mr David Coughlan

Head of Music

Uniform Shop

Holiday Opening Times

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

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

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

• Wednesday 27 January
• Thursday 28 January
• Friday 29 January
• Saturday 30 January
• Monday 1 February

Normal trading hours resume on Tuesday, 2 February 2016:

Secondhand Exchange

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

Year 12 Blazers

Year 12 blazers are available for sale. Because of the unknown nature of the overall size of Year 12 boys and to avoid disappointment, it is recommended that you come in for sizing as soon as possible.

Basketball shorts on sale

The basketball first team has a great new kit and so the firsts' basketball shorts from last season are on sale for $20 (GST inc). They are available in a variety of men's sizes.

Head of Junior School

Confidence

We define confidence as "believing in my ability to succeed in various situations, whether it is learning new skills or gaining experience."

This year we have talked a great deal about the benefits of working hard as opposed to trying to get high marks. I have asked our boys to put in the effort to learn and improve in the many areas they work in at our school, whether it is in academics, the arts or sport. Over the course of the year, I have been very impressed with how they have embraced this challenge.

We have seen boys make significant progress in a range of areas. Their dedication to their learning and their willingness to try what is difficult, to fail and to try again, has been inspiring. Our boys have demonstrated that with hard work comes confidence, and confidence assists when the work is hard.

Roger Staubach (Super Bowl winning quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys) said, "Confidence doesn't come out of nowhere. It's a result of something... hours and days and weeks and years of constant work and dedication." Throughout this year our boys have demonstrated this over and over again.

We have witnessed boys who have been recognised for skills in the arts with Billy Mahaffy, James Mahaffy and Alexander Fine making the finals of the Shaun Tan awards with Billy winning his age group in the Doodle4Google awards. We had many boys set personal bests in cross-country, athletics and swimming, and our cross-country and athletics teams won the JPSSA Interschool competitions.

We have also seen boys apply themselves and make outstanding progress in their academic studies. In the Autumn and Winter Terms, boys in Year 2 to 5 entered Writing and Mathematics competitions and pitted their skills against students across Australia achieving excellent results. This confidence to have a go and to take the risk has been the strength of our boys this year.

For many, they have impressed with the their dedication to their learning and their engagement in all the opportunities presented to them. I congratulate all the boys who participated in these competitions. They should be very proud of their efforts and their risk-taking attitude.

We must acknowledge the boys who have achieved outstanding results in the following competitions:

Australian Mathematics Trust

Prize for top 1% nationally in Upper Primary Division
Hugh Fellows-Smith Year 5

High Distinction for top 1% of students nationally in Middle Primary Division:
Winston Kwan Year 3
Thomas Gray Year 4

Distinction for top 3% of students nationally in Middle Primary Division:
David Walton Year 3
James Winch Year 3
Isaak Ventouras Year 3
Ari Coulson Year 3
Charlie Bowles Year 3
Noah Lisle Year 3
Ryo Hiraiwa Year 4
Liam Jermy Year 4

Distinctions for top 3% of students nationally in Upper Primary Division:
Sean Palmer Year 5

International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) Mathematics:

Lachlan Cairns Year 2 Distinction

Jetlen Egerton-Warburton Year 2 Distinction

Samuel Holmes Year 2 Distinction

Jarrod Hutchinson Year 2 Distinction

Nicholas Lovegrove Year 2 Distinction

Ari Coulson Year 3 Distinction

Winston Kwan Year 3 High Distinction

Ryan Wang Year 3 Distinction

James Winch Year 3 High Distinction

Liam Jermy Year 4 Distinction

Ryo Hiraiwa Year 4 Distinction

Hugh Fellows-Smith Year 5 Distinction

Mitchell Hyde Year 5 Distinction

Australian Problem Solving Mathematical Olympiad

Top individual score:

Hugh Fellows-Smith Year 5

International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) Writing:

James Winch Year 3 Distinction

Nicolas Langsford Year 4 Distinction

Noah Lewis Year 4 Distinction

Henry Cooper Year 5 Distinction

Alexander Russell-Weisz Year 5 Distinction

Mr John Stewart

Head of Junior School

Important Dates to Remember

Primary Years Programme (PYP)

Primary Years Programme (PYP) Learner Profile

The IB learner profile represents 10 attributes (see below) valued by IB World Schools. These attributes and others like them, can help individuals and groups become responsible members of local, national and global communities.

Inquirers

They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.

Knowledgeable

They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.

Thinkers

They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognise and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.

Communicators

They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others.

Principled

They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them.

Open-minded

They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.

Caring

They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment.

Risk-takers

They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs.

Balanced

They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others.

Reflective

They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development.

Mr Warwick Norman

Junior School Dean of Teaching & Learning

Art News

Year 1 are busily exploring a new technique of silk painting as part of their Sharing the Planet unit. They have created beautiful designs of butterflies and have learnt about shape, symmetry and light.

Year 2 have been studying about wildflowers and trying to decide, "Are wildflowers beautiful or ugly flowers?" They have used their drawings in designs on kites and this week we will go fly our kites!

The Year 5 boys are learning a technique in painting called 'scumbling', where a little bit of paint gets pushed around until it is both wet and dry and creates an atmospheric texture. Boys have painted white clouds on a blue background. We put them up on the board and boys voted for which examples were the most effective. Often, boys who are not so good at accurate details in drawing will shine using a looser medium like paint. We used an online tutorial to teach us this technique.

The Year 4 boys are exploring the world of insects. Their prior knowledge about insects was rather limited, but ask them now, and they have dramatically improved their knowledge through research and drawing. All these activities have highlighted how closely linked the learning is between Science, Mathematics and Visual Art. I often use nature as a focus in art so boys can learn about and appreciate their environment.

Ms Karen Sabitay

PYP Visual Arts

Performing Arts News

This term the talented boys in Year 3 have been immersed in a unit entitled The Discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamen, although sometimes we feel like we're having a history lesson instead of Performing Arts. We began by discussing what the boys already knew about King Tut and Ancient Egypt, and enjoyed looking at the fascinating books the boys brought in from home. We have participated in a series of drama-focused activities, acting out the thoughts and actions of the work party involved in the discovery. These activities have been really fun, however, we realised that they all had a larger purpose, such as to consider and share the pros and cons of a particular course of action, to use logical reasoning, to practice persuasive speech and to create dramatic tension, among many other things.

Miss Phebe Samson

Performing Arts Teacher

Friendly Schools and Families

PAVE

As part of our pastoral care programme in the Junior School, we are involved in a 3-year longitudinal survey into 'Preventing Anxiety and Victimisation through Education'. The purpose of the survey is to assist in the evaluation of our Friendly Schools Plus programme in reducing peer victimisation and anxiety in school. The survey is conducted by The Centre for Emotional Health and supported by Telethon Kids Institute; Discovery, Prevent, Cure.

This is our second year of a three-year survey and involves our Year 4, 5 and now Middle School Year 6 students completing a questionnaire that focuses on anxiety and victimisation. Parents who approved their son's involvement in the programme are also encouraged to complete a parent survey, which will be sent home this week.

Mr Warwick Norman

Friendly Schools and Families Coordinator

French

Bonjour everyone! The Year 2's have been working on the topic "Around the town" and are now pretty good at naming various buildings and locations on our little map. They are beginning to learn their prepositions and can tell you which buildings are next to, or opposite each other in French. To increase their vocabulary, students also made small paper versions of 4 family members and then worked in pairs to place their 'mère, père, frère et soeur' around the town for each other. In fact, all of our classes have been revising their family vocabulary at different times, so for this week's extra activity, I am including a family game for you to play with your son at home. It is called "Who is Missing?" It is a quick and fun game to play before or after dinner at the table, and will help the boys to remember their family vocabulary. You can find the game and instructions on the weekly notices. Enjoy! Au revoir.

Madame Vinton

French Specialist

Physical Education News

The Junior School boys have jumped right back into Physical Education this term and are enjoying their time in the pool as they continue to work on improving their swimming. The Year 1 and 2 boys are especially excited as they begin preparation and practice for their Aqua Fun Day, which is to be held at the Scotch Pool on Tuesday 1 December 2015. The Year 1 and 2 boys have taken to the water with enthusiasm and we are all looking forward to experiencing this exciting day at the end of Spring Term. The Year 4 students have been working on their basketball skills the past few weeks in anticipation of their carnival against Hale and Christ Church that was held at the WA Basketball Centre on Thursday 29 October. This was a great success and the last Year 4 carnival for the year. These students have the full fixtures against the other PSA schools to look forward to in Year 5 next year.

Mr Scott Whiston

Head of Junior School Physical Education

Junior School Resource Centre

It is hard to believe that we are well into Spring Term and Christmas is nearly upon us! I thought I would share some good online bookstores in case you are thinking of ordering some special books to fill Christmas Stockings. I like supporting 'brick and mortar' bookshops and we are lucky enough to have some great ones locally - Bookcafe Swanbourne, The Lane Claremont and Dymocks in both Claremont and Subiaco - but online shopping can also be very handy.

Here are a few of my favourites:

www.pegiwilliams.com.au A children's book specialist based in South Australia.

www.thekidsbookshop.com.au A beautiful Australian online store that recommends books based on age and gender

www.leoandbella.com.au This is not a bookstore, but in the 'kids' interior' section of the site, it has a few pages of the most divine books. Some of my absolutely treasured books have been found here.

www.growingfootprints.com.au Again, this is not a bookstore, but if you can make it past some of the most delightful wooden toys and home wares, you will find a section with books that are just gorgeous and perfectly chosen!

www.booktopia.com.au This is a large online shop with $6.95 shipping

www.bookdepository.com This is UK based, but has most books and free shipping. An awesome shop!

Have fun Christmas shopping!

Mrs Kathryn Salt

Junior School Teacher-Librarian

1P News

Extending on from the wonderful opening of the adventure Pirate playground, the Year 1 boys took a trip into nature around Lake Claremont last week. The focus of the walk was to observe something in nature that linked to our current Unit of Inquiry - 'Sharing the Planet'. We pondered wondering questions such as: Who shares the lake and why? Where do the ducks lay their eggs and who is their primary predator? What would happen if an element such as water were missing from an animal's lifecycle?

Back in the classroom, the boys were able to utilise their observations and wondering questions to formulate their own lifecycles and this led to food chains and food webs. The trip to the lake inspired the boys to think carefully about the world around them, and to think deeply about how the actions of humans can impact the natural world in profound and sometimes devastating ways.

Mrs Sue Phillips

Year 1P Teacher

Excellence Awards

Congratulations to these boys for receiving an Excellence Award.

Week 2 - Excellence Awards

Head of Middle School

As second semester assessments and end of year reports come into focus, it is timely to revisit the heart of our curriculum, the big concepts and attributes that we are working toward. These are encapsulated neatly in the IB Learner Profile and Attitudes. The graphic that stays in my mind and sums up our commitment to the IB goes:

At the final Middle School Assembly on Friday 4 December all teachers right across the curriculum will acknowledge students who have shown sustained commitment to these ideals with our annual Book Awards. Book Awards are presented to students who typically show sustained enthusiasm, willingness to collaborate, are curious, have a love of inquiry and are self-motivated. They are principled, balanced and caring. They are students who take some risks and are willing to reflect upon and communicate the processes and findings of their learning. They act with integrity and empathy. These boys are not necessarily the highest achieving student in a curriculum area but have made the most of the opportunities their teachers, their parents and this year has offered.

Mr Richard Ledger

Head of Middle School

6C Surfs Up In Lancelin

The 6C class has just arrived back from three sensational days spent with the Outdoor Education team in Lancelin.

During their stay students built on their understanding of beach safety and surf awareness while developing their confidence in a marine environment. Some of the highlights included taking part in surfing lessons each day, camping out in tents with their buddies, working as a cohesive team in 'The Amazing Race' and catching a variety of fish off the Lancelin Jetty.

Throughout their stay the boys also gained a real insight into the history surrounding Lancelin and the characteristics of the area and the surrounding ecosystems. It was a fun filled, action packed few days which would not have been possible without the expertise and guidance of Mr Templar, Mr Steele, Mr Webster and Mr Brogden.

All students thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to develop their practical skills and be challenged in a dynamic learning environment.

Mr Michael Campbell

Teacher 6C

7W Focuses on the Global Water Crisis

In iLearn our inquiry focus was the Global Water Crisis. The Inquiry drew together scientific information gathered by the boys through various investigations as well as humanities concepts. Their learning encouraged them to think about the massive 1.2 billion people without potable water. Boys were challenged to find or develop an idea that could help people in developing nations obtain clean water, cheaply. One challenge helped the boys discover that purifying mixtures or solutions was more difficult that it first seemed. They could hardly imagine the implications of this for people in developing nations.

Their enthusiasm was initially quite low, after all it was an assessment task. Once they started their research however, they were keen to find out what would help. Research provided the impetus for the ideas to grow as boys developed their knowledge about various strategies available like the Warka Water Tower, an Italian engineer's idea, to an idea developed by one group in 7W, the Solar Water Dome.

It was rewarding to watch the boys think of others and try to work out how to help. I am really proud of their efforts.

Ms Vicki Ward

Teacher 7W

Excellence Awards

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

Student Achievements

Congratulations to Lucas Triglacvanin (8.4C) who won the U14 PSA Athletics Champion medal.

Congratulations to Will Gordon (7.5S) who won the U13 PSA Athletics Champion medal.

Congratulations to Jesse Coughlan (7.1PG) and Bailey Wright (7.7K) who competed at the Junior State Short Course Swimming Championships for Perth City in the Medley Relay and won gold.

Congratulations to Marcello Torre (8.3O) and Raffael Torre (6.4B) who came 2^nd and 3^rd respectively at their recent sailing competition in New Caledonia against sailors from Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

Australian Mathematics Competition 2015

Year 6

Year 7

Year 8

Important Dates in Middle School Spring Term

Year 8 Round Square Exchange Programme

The final group of Year 8 exchange student visitors arrive from Scotch College Oakburn next week. Applications for 2016 Year 8 Round Square student exchanges will be advertised at the Parent Information Evening next year.

Stand United

This is the theme set by our new Year 12 leaders. Captain of School, Denver Quantrill addressed the Senior School at last week's assembly, outlining the importance of us all embracing difference and coming together to support and accept each other. Denver said, "Communities are strengthened by the quality of relationships within them". He then challenged every boy in the Senior School to acknowledge each other and get to know boys they are yet to meet. Denver's speech was inspiring and has set the tone for what promises to be a wonderful year of strong leadership from our new Year 12 boys. For those unable to attend last week's assembly, I encourage you take five minutes to watch Denver's speech and encourage your own son to heed his advice: https://gallery.plcscotch.wa.edu.au/?r=39386

Goals, like New Year's resolutions, are often worded in the future tense. Denver's challenge to us all is to start now.

Dr Rob McEwan

Head of Senior School

Senior School Important Dates

Leadership Positions

Sailing

Tennis

Water Polo

Boys' Achievements

The annual Alliance Française exams mirror the WACE Year 11 and 12 French courses, and are always more demanding. They are sat in July across WA by around 1000 pupils each year and all of our Year 11 and 12 French students participate. This year three boys excelled, receiving a "très bien" commendation, and Drummond Orr (Year 12, Ferguson) was subsequently called to the final round of oral interviews, which puts him in the top 2% of the participants. (Vaughan Chin (Year 12 Leaver, Ferguson) and Hugo Palmer (Year 12 Leaver, Brisbane) are part of our departed Year 12 group).

Jim Cameron (Year 12, Ferguson) was selected to umpire at the U13 National hockey championships held in Darwin during the holidays. Jim was also awarded the "Alex Brazier Cup" for Outstanding WA Junior Hockey Umpire 2015.

Lachlan Mackenzie (Year 12, Anderson) has been selected in the School Sport Australia Team to travel to South Africa and Sydney to compete in the South African Interprovincial Tournament, the International Test Series v South Africa and the International Test Series v New Zealand?

Alexander Allcock (Year 12, Cameron) won the open mens golf Club Championship at Lake Karrinyup Country Club in a 36 hole match play tournament. Alex now holds both the Junior and Open Mens' titles in the same year. Alex was one shot behind the leader going into the final 18 holes but came out after lunch to birdie holes 1, 3, 4 and 5 to build a lead that proved insurmountable.

Yuelin Shen (Year 11, Brisbane) achieved a perfect score on the Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad. Yuelin's perfect score on this paper places him amongst the best in Australia for his age group. Yuelin has now been invited to the Australian Mathematics Trust School of Excellence which is an intense 10-day school held at a Melbourne University in early December. Yuelin will also be receiving a Special WA Mathematical Olympiad Committee Award at the Western Australian Junior Olympiad tomorrow at UWA.

Hugh Edwards (Year 10, St Andrews) has been selected in the U15 Junior Gold Rugby squad that will represent WA in the National Titles in March next year.

Race Around Rottnest - Saturday 17 October

It is a fantastic event that is challenging and fun. The legs are:

Swim - 1km

Cycle - 16.5km offroad

Run - 7km offroad

Paddle - 2.5km

From a field of 52 teams in this race category:

The "Rockstars" team comprising Oliver Benson (Year 11, Ross) and 2 CCGS boys won the Open Adventure Short Race in a time of 1:44:26:29.

The "COD Boys" team comprising Year 12 boys Angus Grant (Brisbane), Lukas Finn (Cameron), Benjamin Somes (Cameron) and Harrison Banfield (Cameron) came 14^th in a time of 2:11:28:17.

Royal Australian National Chemistry Quiz

This year Scotch had 130 participants and received two High Distinction Excellence, 22 High Distinction, 32 Distinctions and 17 Credits. Below are the Year 10 and 11 certificates to the High Distinction winners who achieved the top 10% in the state and those boys who achieved Class Excellence with a score of 100%.

Junior Division - High Distinction

Senior Division - High Distinction

Class Excellence 100% (Junior Division)

Australian Mathematics Competition

The Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC) was held during Week 1 of Winter Term. This year we had 677 students from Years 3 to 12 complete the 75 minute paper which tested their mathematical problem solving skills. This year was our most successful in recent history highlighting the wealth of Mathematical talent across each year group at Scotch College. Of the students receiving high commendations, there were 214 Proficiency winners, 225 Credit winners, 88 Distinction winners, 15 High Distinction winners and an outstanding six Prize winners.

High Distinctions are awarded to students achieving in the top 2% of the state which is an outstanding achievement.

Congratulations to the following boys who were awarded High Distinctions:

A Prize is awarded to students achieving in the top 0.3% and is awarded to only a handful of students in the state.

Congratulations to the following boys who were awarded Prizes:

Certificates of Academic Excellence

Year 9 Academic Excellence - Semester 2, 2015

Year 10 Academic Excellence - Semester 2, 2015

Year 11 Academic Excellence - Semester 2, 2015

Year 11 Academic Colours - Semester 2, 2015

Reporter Creative Writing Prizes

There are four categories of Reporter creative writing prizes. They are - Years 11 and 12 Prose, Years 11 and 12 Poetry, Years 9 and 10 Prose and Years 9 and 10 Poetry. If you have written a creative piece that falls into these categories and would like to be considered for the prize, please send to Dr Weeda on jjweeda@scotch.wa.edu.au. Students who have had their work published in The Raven this year will automatically be considered.

Dr Jeanette Weeda

English Teacher

Payment of School Fees

BPay

We are pleased with the continued response from parents to the use of the BPay method to pay school fees. We believe that it is a straight-forward, and efficient way of making payments, as well as providing significant administrative benefits to the School. Please make sure you record your Customer Reference Number which is printed in the top right hand corner of the statement.

Credit Card

Payments can be made using cards from VISA or MasterCard, via the School web-site www.scotch.wa.edu.au. This is proving to be a popular option (payments attract a 1% surcharge). Access this facility under the 'Current Parents' tab.

Other Options

Other payment options include payment by Cheque and Direct Debit. Where payment is made by cheque, please remember to detach the remittance slip so that your payment can be identified.

Enquiries regarding payment of fees should be directed to the Assistant to the Bursar, Mr Ford.

Mr Grant Ford

Assistant to the Bursar

Parent CONNECT for Cross Campus Studies

You are familiar with following your son's studies and progress through Scotch College Parent CONNECT, but what if he is a cross campus student taking a subject at PLC? You still use your Scotch user ID and password, except you go to PLC Parent CONNECT. This can be accessed via https://home.plc.wa.edu.au.

Mr Bradley Tyrrell

Head of Library, Information & Research Services

CAREERS INFORMATION

University Information

Notre Dame University

Notre Dame University is still accepting applications for Semester 1, 2016. Applications can be made directly to the university and do not incur an application or late fee. Please contact the Prospective Students Office on 9433 0533 to make an appointment for a campus tour, to receive course and application advice or to be sent an application pack. Application forms are also available from Mr Frusher at Scotch.

Notre Dame also offers alternative entry programmes to undergraduate studies at Notre Dame. These courses are available to students who did not reach the minimum entrance score for university in their ATAR and also to students who completed Year 12 but did not undertake ATAR subjects.

Foundation Year

A one-year bridging course that builds the confidence and skills required to successfully undertake university study.

Notre Dame Tertiary Enabling Programme

A full-time, thirteen week (one semester) alternative entry programme that is available each semester.

For further information contact Notre Dame University.

University of Western Australia

UWA would like to inform parents and students some very interesting public lectures being presented at UWA. For more information go to http://www.ias.uwa.edu.au/lectures

Year 12 WACE Examinations

Sickness/Misadventure Application

Before completing a Sickness/Misadventure Application form please read the following information carefully:

• Has your performance in a WACE examination been affected by a temporary sickness, non-permanent disability or unforeseen misadventure suffered immediately before or during the examination period? (For Physical Education Studies and Dance practical candidates this includes a severe injury sustained after the start of Winter Term, but still existing during the practical examinations.)
• Were you prevented from attending an examination due to sickness and/or misadventure?
• If you answered YES to either, or both, of these questions then you should complete this form. The circumstances must have been beyond your usual control. A claim cannot be made for courses entered as a private candidate.

If your difficulties in sitting the WACE examination are the result of any of the reasons listed below, then your circumstances fall outside the Authority's policy and guidelines for sickness/misadventure.

• Difficulties in preparation or loss of preparation time - for example, as a result of sickness during Year 12 unless in the two weeks prior to your first written examination
• Alleged deficiencies in tuition
• Long-term illness such as asthma and epilepsy - unless you have suffered an acute episode of your illness during the examination period
• The same grounds for which you received special examination provision - unless you experienced additional difficulties during an examination session
• Misreading the examination timetable
• Misreading examination instructions
• Events related to your school assessment in a course
• Attendance at a sporting or cultural event during a written examination.

Refer to the on-line Year 12 Information Handbook 2015 for further details.

If the application is accepted then the procedure is for the Authority to calculate an examination mark using your school assessment as a basis. The higher of the actual examination mark and the calculated examination mark becomes the examination mark that is given to you for that examination.

See Mr Frusher at Scotch for Sickness/Misadventure forms and any additional information required.

Revision & Head Start Courses 2016

Academic Task Force

Start 2016 with Confidence

Enrol today in Academic Task Force

January School Headstart Programme and achieve success in 2016

ATAR HEADSTART for Years 11 and 12

HEADSTART for Years 7 - 10

Syllabus overview - confidence building - refresh your understanding - study skills - essay writing

2 day courses / 6 hours per course

14 January - 29 January 2016

Venues: Churchlands SHS and Rossmoyne SHS

Enrol Today: www.academictaskforce.com.au

Email: learn@academictaskforce.com.au

Speak to an education consultant: (08) 9314 9500

January Preparation and Revision Programme 2016

The January Preparation and Revision Programme commences Monday 18 to Saturday 23 January. It includes:

Middle School Revision and Skills Development Programme

• For students in Years 7 to 10
• 6 hours of teaching per subject
• NAPLAN Preparation
• Study Skills
• Subject Revision
• Two Campuses
  • Christ Church Grammar School (Claremont)
  • Hale School (Wembley Downs)

WACE and ATAR Preparation and Revision Programme

• For students in years 11 and 12 students
• Study Skills
• Essay Writing
• Subject Revision
• Two Campuses
  • Christ Church Grammar School (Claremont)
  • Hale School (Wembley Downs)

Please see attached copies of the brochures so that you can view the schedules.

Parents' Association

Results of Parents' Association AGM held on 27 October 2015

The Scotch Parents Association is very pleased to announce the following Executive and Committee members for 2016.

Please note that the Secretary position remains vacant and we would be pleased to discuss this key critical role with anyone who is interested in stepping forward to fill the position.

General Committee - renewing members

New Committee members:

The Scotch College PA would like to express their gratitude and thanks for the immense contribution that the following retiring members have made to Scotch over the past few years.

Gary Pyne

Sharon Burvill

Jenny Sinclair

Gordon Stewart

Michelle Barrow

Peta Scott-Morey

The PA will continue to inform the School community about the funding programmes we receive over the following twelve months and will regularly provide updates through the Thistle.

Three successful Parents Association events were recently held in conjunction with the Scotch Auxiliary. We will continue to work towards making each function in 2016 the best we can possibly make them.

Regards

Mr Ian Knobel

President

Scotch Auxiliary

Thank you to all the parents who attended our AGM last Monday.

It has been a busy and exciting year for the Auxiliary. Committee positions open for the 2016 calendar year are:

• President
• Vice-President
• 2^nd Vice-President
• Secretary.

If you would like to consider filling one of the above positions please contact scotchauxiliary@scotch.wa.edu.au. The Auxiliary supports the School in the organisation of events for our sons and parents, and is an enjoyable opportunity to meet families and contribute to our College community.

The Year 12 Thank You Morning Tea was held immediately after our AGM, an occasion to show our appreciation and thank the many parents who have helped support the Auxiliary over their years at the College. While some parents will be leaving and missed, we look forward to continuing our friendships.

SENIOR SCHOOL NEW YEAR REPRESENTATIVES:

Year 10 - Lucy Capon, Monika Narula & Kate Reynolds.

Year 11 - Jemma Hector

Year 12 - Lucinda Anderson, Louise Jones, Kate Mahon & Mandy Perrignon.

Thank you for volunteering.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Middle School

Middle School Family Afternoon - Sunday 8 November, Gooch Pavilion, 3.30-5.30pm.

Please bring a plate, rug, balls and BYO drinks to celebrate the year. Siblings are very welcome. Enquiries please email Jemma Hector, jemmahector@bigpond.com

Senior School

Coffee Mornings:

New Year 10 - Wednesday 2 December, 136 Forrest St, Peppermint Grove, 9am.

New Year 12 - Friday 6 November, Good Things Café, Wellington St, Mosman Park, after drop off.

Our Middle School and Year Representatives look forward to seeing you.

Mrs Carissa Paganin

President

Pipe Band Parents Support Group

Manure Drive

Thank you to the Scotch Community for supporting a succesful fundraiser.

Our thanks to all parents and boys who helped with delivering nearly 1700 bags of sheep manure on Saturday. Well organised by the sub-committee, the job was done in a record time of two and a half hours!

Money raised will help with the purchase of new uniforms for the Middle School Pipe Band.

Christmas Fare

Back by popular demand, we are offering Christmas treats such as fruit mince pies, shortbread, Christmas cakes and much more.

Also available, great stocking fillers, coffee mugs and the new Scotch luggage straps (good for school tours) to name a few of the items.

Please place your orders prior to Monday 16 November through Flexischools www.Flexischools.com.au

PBPSG Meeting - Thursday 19 November 2015

Please join us for our last meeting of the year on Thursday 19 November (note change of date) at 7.30pm in the Senior School Pipe Band Room.

All welcome.

Mrs Mandy Perrignon

President

PBPSG@scotch.wa.edu.au

Bright Blue Disco

The Bright Blue Junior and Senior Discos organised by the Police Commissioner's Fund for Sick Kids will be held again on Friday 6 November 2015. See the attached poster for more details.

Methodist Ladies College Summer Market in Claremont

The MLC Summer Market is a day of celebration and a chance to share in the MLC community spirit. There will be a wide variety of merchandise, food, drink and entertainment.

The Mask You Live In

The City of Subiaco invites you to a special premiere screening of the cutting-edge US documentary The Mask You Live In. The film tackles themes relating to boys and young men including peer pressure, emotions, relationships and conflict resolution. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion including Rhys Williams, 2015 Young West Australian of the Year and Q&A to unpack the themes after the screening.

A light supper will also be provided. For more information and to reserve your free ticket visit www.subiaco.wa.gov.au/events.

Children under 15 years will not be admitted. The Mask You Live in is rated MA15+ and contains adult themes including references to sex, violence, abuse and some swearing.

Leeuwin Sailing Season

A Leeuwin voyage is a life-changing experience, teaching participants key skills such as communication, teamwork and leadership. For more information on the 2016 sailing programme visit www.sailleeuwin.com or email office@sailleeuwin.com.

VacSwim Holiday Swimming Programmes

Enrolments for December/January programmes are open. VacSwim's school holiday swimming programmes are conducted by qualified instructors who teach children the skills to be confident swimmers and safe in the water. For further information and online enrolment visit www.education.wa.edu.au/swimming.

Perth Symphony Orchestra

Scotch College is supporting Perth Symphony Orchestra in its presentation of the Christmas classic production The Snowman. An Academy Award Nominee (Best Animated Short Film, 1982), the story tells the magical tale of a boy whose snowman comes alive. The orchestra will play the music while the full animation will be shown theatre style on screens and will appeal to parents (or grandparents) with young children.

Further details at: http://perthsymphony.com/pso_event/perth-symphony-plays-the-snowman/

There are just two performances, both on Saturday 19 December at 2.00pm or 4.00pm in the Dickinson Centre. They will be transforming the Dickinson Centre, and the concerts are expected to sell-out fairly quickly.

There will also be an opportunity to picnic on the lawn in the grounds of Scotch College before or after the performances. This is a beautiful family day out and guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit!

Perth Symphony Orchestra are also 'Searching for a Star' - a boy soprano to join them on stage for the song 'Walking in the Air' made famous by Aled Jones.

More details on how to enter here: http://bit.ly/PSOBoySoprano