As part of my recent sabbatical, I made the decision to enrol in a language school in Malaga, Spain. I did so with a realistic view about how much Spanish acquisition one could achieve in three weeks of intensive language. My driving rationale was that as a Headmaster of a College with an international outreach, I wanted to role model just how important we see the acquisition of a second language. It was also a great chance to put myself in the place of one of our boys, and experience learning a language from a zero base; not to mention the experience of what it is like to face five hours of lessons each and every day.

Within the Australian context, offering and maintaining a strong second language focus is challenging. Last year our Executive debated whether or not languages should be made optional. The outcome of our deliberations was that if a college such as Scotch College does not see second language acquisition as central, then what hope is there? As such, exposure to some form of language programme at a suitable academic and cultural level, will be offered for each student up to and including Year 10. After Year 10, students can then make a decision whether or not to pursue a second language.

In coming to the conclusion to continue to prioritise second language acquisition, we revisited relevant parts of the statements (see below) that put the line in the sand for what we are trying to achieve for each boy at Scotch College.

Scotch Mission

To develop young men with strength of character, self-understanding, a passion for sustained learning and spiritual inquiry who will become active members of the global community.

IB Philosophy

International Baccalaureate Organisation aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

Round Square

These IDEALS encourage our students to think of their education in the broadest terms and to recognise the value of the breadth of opportunities offered at the College.

As part of the College's strategy to become known as a leading centre for second languages, we will commence offering some new conversational classes in 2018 for parents and the wider community. Further information about this initiative can be found here.

Returning to our day to day challenges, our Year 12s appear to be happy with their final examinations. It will come as no surprise that this term is slipping past very quickly. The challenge across all sub-schools and all year levels, is to ensure our boys maintain their focus in each subject right up to their final day. After then there is plenty of time to relax and switch off.

Have a great fortnight

Dr A J O'Connell
Headmaster

The PYP Exhibition - unlocking the future of learning

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme Year 5 Exhibition was a culmination of the boys learning and a timely reminder of the potential released throughout the collective IB programmes.

For our fantastic Year 5 teachers, Mrs Irene Louden, Mrs Fiona Alexander and Mr Andrew Wells, the reality is they will have few interactions with them beyond this year as they send these boys into the Middle School and the Middle Years Programme.

Not visible to these educators is the ongoing impact high quality teaching has in unlocking the boy's potential as they further their education and naturally mature. It is these early educators that plant the seeds and develop the skills these boys will carry with them throughout school and beyond.

To witness boys speaking openly regarding their research on their own learning difficulty, coupled with the assistive technology they use to improve their learning is remarkable. Yet more compelling is their desire to take what they have learnt and improve the lives of others by sharing their knowledge.

Additionally, witnessing students at the age of ten developing referencing techniques as part of the APA 6^th edition referencing system, goes well beyond the measure of attainment for most Year 5 students nationally. These examples do not capture the entirety of learning that was on display.

For those who are unaware, each phase of the IB programmes captures the learning in a culminating experience:

The Primary Years Programme - The Year 5 Exhibition

The Middle Years Programme - The Year 8 Community Project (commencing 2018)

The Diploma Programme - The Year 12 Extended Essay

By Year 12 boys participating in the Diploma Programme are tasked to complete the extended essay, an independent, self-directed piece of research. Some example topics have included:

'The motives of the India Pakistan Partition of 1947 were in the best interests culturally and geopolitically for the people of India.'

Evaluate the accuracy of this statement in relation to the roles and intentions of the significant participants involved in the partition

Or

To what extent did the Special Economic Zones affect China's economic direction from 1978 to 1992?

To be able to deliver a research essay of this complexity by Year 12 is only made possible by the education these boys are receiving in their primary and middle years, for it is here the thirst for learning coupled with skills needed, are developed to unlock this potential whilst at school.

Congratulations to all involved in the Exhibition.

Mr Peter Allen
Director of Teaching and Learning

Staff and Student Wellbeing

A Gentle Toughness

At different times during the year, I speak to different year groups about good manners, and I hand out a manners card. While this is something I tend to focus on with Senior School boys, I know that this is a topic which is discussed in Middle School, and Ms Turkich runs a manners programme with the Year 4s.

A gentleman, someone who behaves humbly and respectfully, is literally someone who is a gentle man. The directive to males, explicit in the word, is that we should be gentle - with ourselves, with our family and friends, and with others. Strong people do not put others down; they lift them up. The determination to show kindness more often to more people is a theme I have written about before, and it is something which I addressed with the new Year 12s at the end of Week 5.

Each time we choose to act with kindness, or we recognise the kindness of others, we help to spread the powerful message that there is a better way for human beings to behave. Acts of kindness are the practical demonstration of the belief that we can make the world a better place.

I recently attended a workshop run by former Olympic oarsman and three-time bronze medalist Bo Hansen, which had as its focus how we can develop toughness. He explained toughness as the process of knowing how to think and respond in the most productive way at a time when you are being challenged the most. It is being able to bounce back in a different way, shape or form, and it is finding another way when the one we have tried fails.

Toughness is not necessarily the capacity to endure pain, although it can be. It is really our capacity to reframe things and see things differently, as well as developing the determination to persist. One aspect of Bo's presentation which I found useful was a number of small challenges he suggested we take on - having a cold shower (which I found surprisingly invigorating, once I got past the initial shock) and giving up something you like to eat (and I have yet to succeed in giving up dark chocolate).

Whilst it may seem strange to put gentleness and toughness together, I think that these are both important qualities to possess, and are by no means mutually exclusive. A key part of demonstrating both is a willingness to take responsibility for how we behave. We must believe that we can make a difference to the trajectory of our own lives as well as to the fortunes of others. Another shared element is the willingness to challenge ourselves to respond differently, and to see others and events in a more positive light. We can establish a new norm by doing so.

I believe that we have a responsibility to teach young people to be tough and, at the same time, we should be teaching them to be gentle. Furthermore, we must talk to them so that they begin to understand when each is required. I believe that the young men in our care need to be aware of when it is necessary and appropriate to stand up and speak out, and when they should sit down and be quiet; when to resist and when to love; when to hold on and when to let go.

As Han Suyin said, "There is nothing stronger in the world than gentleness."

Director of Student and Staff Wellbeing
Mr James Hindle

Community and Service

Boardies Day, Tuesday 5 December 2017

On Tuesday 5 December, the whole school is invited to wear their board shorts with their school uniform. The day is aimed at improving awareness of water safety at the start of the summer holidays, and raising funds for Surf Life Saving Western Australia. The funds raised at Scotch will go directly to our closest surf club at Swanbourne Beach. See below for what clothing is acceptable on the day. Please note, school shoes and socks must be worn and shirts must be tucked in.

All Abilities Cricket at Claremont-Nedlands Cricket Club

As mentioned in the last Thistle, many of our senior cricketers are helping out at CNCC with their All Abilities team. Below is a photo after practice last week. The man in charge, Ralph Goodman, said it was one of the best sessions they have had.

Remembrance Day 2017

This year the two red tartans, Stuart House and Brisbane House, competed to see who could raise the most money for the Poppy Appeal for the Rotary Club of Cambridge. Results are not in but it was brilliant to see so many people get behind this cause and honour those who have served. The College ceremony was a solemn affair and, as always, does justice to the huge contribution our College has made to our armed services.

Disabled Surfing

Don't forget the first Disabled Surfing event for the summer takes place on 2 December. It is not a PSA sport day so we are hoping for a strong Scotch contingent down at Leighton Beach. Details at the website

http://disabledsurfers.org/wa/perth-branch/

Mr David Kyle
Director of Community and Service

Performing Arts

Events

Congratulations to all Junior and Middle School students who performed at our end of year Concert last Thursday evening. The performances showcased the dedication and hard work of both the boys and their ensemble directors throughout the year. It was wonderful for the Junior School boys to witness the performances of their older peers. Hopefully, they are inspired to continue with their musical tuition and realise the opportunities which await them.

For many parents, the concert would have been their first opportunity to enjoy the newly renovated surroundings of Memorial Hall. All feedback we have received so far has been overwhelmingly positive, so the Music Department looks forward to presenting many more concerts and recitals in this new space in the years to come.

Special thanks to all parents who contributed to the pre-show supper which was coordinated by our dedicated mums from the Friends of Scotch Music (FOSM) group. If you wish to become more involved in supporting the Music Department, please contact FOSM@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Please take note of the advertisement in this week's Thistle regarding the annual Snadens Piano sale. If you are interested in purchasing a piano for your son, this is a great way to buy a quality instrument at a reduced price.

The following dates show some exciting end of year concerts in the coming weeks.

Spring Term

Contact Details

The Instrumental Programme is administered by the Senior School Music Department and all queries should be directed to the Music Administrators, Julia Robinson (Monday to Wednesday) and Donna Ranauro (Thursday to Friday) via phone 9383 6841 or email music@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Alternately, please contact Mr Chris McMillan, Head of Performing Arts, via email Chris.McMillan@scotch.wa.edu.au or phone 9383 6842.

If you wish to become more involved in supporting the Music Department, please contact FOSM@scotch.wa.edu.au

Year 6 Theatre Sports Competition, 17 and 28 November, 10.30am Foundation Theatre

The Australian Institute of Theatre Sports have been working the Year 6 Drama students, using improvised games and activities that focus on teamwork, communication and oral language skills to build a student's confidence on stage whilst having a lot of laughs. The students have learned a number of Theatre Sports games that they will use as part of a Theatre Sports competition. All parents and friends are welcome to come along and join in the fun. The competition will run for 1 hour in the Foundation Theatre and it would be great to have an audience to support the boys.

6.3T Competition on Friday 17 November at 10.30am

6.1S Competition on the 28 November at 10.30am.

Middle School Drama Club Open Workshop, 5 December, Foundation Theatre 4.30pm-5.00pm

Middle School Drama Club students have been bringing the characters of Commedia dell'arte to life in a series of fun and interactive workshops exploring physical comedy and improvisation. Friends and family are welcome to come along to the final workshop where students will showcase the skills and scenarios they have been developing this term.

Mr Chris McMillan
Head of Performing Arts

Second Languages at Scotch College

Spanish Language Classes 2018

As many of our community might already be aware, Scotch College is steadily becoming the Languages hub of Western Australia. We are lucky enough to host Balai Bahasa, Goethe Institute and 123 Soleil for out-of-school Indonesian, German and French language classes respectively. Scotch College is determined to promote the benefits of second language acquisition at any stage in life, which include improved memory, better decision-making skills and an enhanced understanding of one's first language- not to mention staving off Alzheimer's and dementia. Further to the impressive cognitive advantages to learning a second language, any language aficionado will tell you that some of the greatest joys are learning to appreciate a new culture and being able to communicate with local people in the target language.

As part of our ongoing resolve to encourage second language acquisition both in and out of school, we are excited to share the news that Scotch College Languages Department in conjunction with ASTWA (Association of Spanish Teachers of Western Australia) is planning to run evening classes in Spanish. The programme will be launched in March 2018 and we are currently calling for expressions of interest from all members of the Scotch College community. We hope you will be able to join us and share our enjoyment of the Spanish language and culture. The lessons are aimed at beginners and will focus on conversational exchanges that you will be able to put into practice on your next trip to España or Sudamérica.

If you would like to register your interest in enrolling or if you have any questions about the programme, please do not hesitate to contact Amy Ward (amy.ward@scotch.wa.edu.au) or Kate Webster-Blythe (kate.webster-blythe@scotch.wa.edu.au). The closing date for expressions of interest will be Friday 1 December 2017.

¡Hasta pronto!

Annual Alliance Française Competition

The Scotch College Languages Department are very pleased to congratulate the following boys for their prizes in the annual Alliance Française competition 2017. We had winners in both the junior Poetry competitions coordinated by Ms Perrot and Ms Vinton and in the August examinations for Year 11 and 12 last term.

The following boys were commended for their performance in the annual French competition (denoting school year at time of competition).

In the top 28% of candidates in the State were:

Arthur Payne (Year 11, St Andrews)

Adam Brenz-Verca (Year 11, Stuart)

Nicholas Clarnette (Year 12, Alexander).

In the top 9% of candidates were both:

Matteo Fortier (Year 11, Stuart)

Maurice Buren (Year 11, Shearer)

Maurice was then called to final interview and completed the second phase with 78% overall. This makes him one of the top Second Language candidates in WA for 2017.

The Prize winners are as follows:

Julien Montandon Year 7 and George Houvardas Year 6

Poetry:

Winners of the Background speaker prizes were:

Julien Montandon (Year 7, Robert)

Arnaud McVicker (Year 6, Gordon)

2^nd prize for Second language speakers were:

George Houvardas (Year 6, Bruce)

Jarrod Hutchison (Year 4, Andrew)

Finally for the examination prize:

Winning the Background Speaker prize for Year 11 was:

Auxence Gide (Year 11, Anderson)

This was our best representation at the Alliance prize giving in recent years.

Mr Jonathan Rugg
Head of Languages

Uniform Shop

Holiday Opening Times

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)

• Tuesday 23 January
• Wednesday 24 January
• Thursday 25 January
• Saturday 27 January
• Monday 29 January

Normal trading hours resume on Tuesday, 30 January 2018:

Tuesdays 8.00am - 5.00pm

Thursdays 7.30am - 11.30am

Fridays 7.30am - 11.30am

Secondhand Exchange

The Uniform Shop accepts all current items of uniform for resale. All items should be clean. Blazers must be dry cleaned and in good condition. The old-style blazer will be donated to charity. 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.

Dropping Off School Lunches

A reminder to students and parents that if any food needs to be brought to the school please leave it at the relevant campus canteen with the students name on it. Food cannot be left in school reception areas.

Residential Life

Spirit Award

The SPIRIT Award has been donated to the Residential Community by the Higham Family in memory of their son Lachie. Lachie was a boarder at Scotch College who after completing Year 10 went home for the Summer holidays. He had just celebrated his birthday on the Saturday when tragedy struck. Lachie was a free spirited young man who, like most country boys, loved riding his motor bike. While riding through the farm Lachie lost his life after suffering serious injuries from falling from his bike.

To keep Lachies memory alive the family created the SPIRIT award as they felt the letters that made up the word SPIRIT best characterised Lachies outlook on life.

S standing for the Sparkle that was in his eye
P for his Passion
I for his Imagination
R for his Resilience
I for his Integrity
T for his Tenacity

Each year Chris, Tim, Teg and Daisy come to Scotch from Carnarvon to celebrate dinner with us and present the award to the Boarder who best displays the SPIRIT attributes.

And the recipient for this year was Callum Willmott (Year 12). Callum is certainly a worthy winner of the award as he is always happy, a little bit cheeky, but most of all, he is willing to participate in all activities and encourages everyone else who is involved.

For more Residential Life news, click here.

Mr Marcus Wilkinson
Director of Residential Life

It is the Journey that Matters

"It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end."
― Ursula K. Le Guin , The Left Hand of Darkness

We hope that our children will rise to the challenge. Embrace the opportunities they are provided and see the value in the experience and how they have grown as a result of it. The Year 5 PYP Exhibition took place on Wednesday 1 November. The boys of Year 5 were able to showcase their learning from the Exhibition period but most importantly, they showcased their growth as learners.

On the day, the boys had parents, grandparents and other VIP's attended. They articulated their research and learning to the eager audience. The work of our boys was simply outstanding.

Each guest was asked to complete a post card with the thought and comments about the Exhibition. I felt these cards provided a beautiful insight on the value parents have seen in the Exhibition for their sons.

Guests' feedback

"The process and framework gave these young men the direction to produce some truly inferential knowledge. Big business could benefit from such an experience. Well done to all!"

"It's impressive to see the confidence, enthusiasm and motivation of the boys improve as the process has unfolded. They are all very proud of their work, and it shows. Staff have done an amazing job and should be also very proud."

"Very impressive and so well coordinated. All fantastic subjects and beautifully presented."

"Great to see what young people are capable of achieving with the right guidance and help."

"Wow! I have learnt so much today from understanding Australian-Chinese identity to gaming, DNA, mental health, the importance of sleep - you name it. This has truly been an enriching experience for me and clearly for all the boys involved too. Well done!"

"Exhibition is an amazing experience for our boys to extend themselves. Such a valuable challenge that opens their eyes to the world. This is the reason we choose Scotch!"

"The passion the boys have for their exhibition topic is inspiring. The future is bright for all with these boys."

"Extremely proud of all the boys. What a fabulous array of work!"

"Wow! Excellent to see this wonderful work and very impressive the boys could speak so well about their exhibition."

"Amazing work by all boys! Truly inspirational and lots of hard work completed!"

"Such articulate young men. Congratulations to all for the incredible efforts during 2017 exhibition."

"Marvellous. Wish I could spend a full day or more seeing many more presentations. Big companies, this is Year 5. You need to get your team leaders out into the world and see what is in the pipeline."

"A lot of very good and well-presented topics. I was particularly impressed with my son's as he had no help from any family except to set up a phone call that he then asked all questions himself. A great process."

"Absolutely fantastic exhibition. The boys were all very knowledgeable. Great manners, self-assurance and eye contact. The depth of their knowledge and research was impressive."

"Sincere congratulations to all boys and staff. Boys not only had learned an outstanding amount about individual subjects but took care to allow for disability needs as poor hearing to communicate their knowledge effectively. So well done."

"Very well done by the boys. Their hard work and passion for their subjects were obvious."

"Wow! I have learnt a lot today! The PYP exhibition has surprised me with an unbelievable collection of interesting and explorative topics of passion! I was suitably impressed with the level and extent of knowledge each of the boys presented. Whilst the exhibition was presented amazingly, the research journals and their content showed me the layers of work and effort. So, so proud of Year 5!"

The Exhibition was a culmination of 10 weeks of work for our boys and an example of what a Scotch boy can do after they have learned the skills they need. I am immensely proud of each and every one of our boys for their outstanding effort and achievement.

Mr John Stewart
Head of Junior School

Performing Arts News

Since the beginning of Winter Term, the Year 5 boys have been working hard during Performing Arts and in their own time to prepare for their musical, 'Shakespeare Rocks'. They will present two shows (a matinee and an evening performance) in the Dickinson Centre on Wednesday 22 November. All of their hard work became truly evident last week as we set aside three big rehearsal days in order to pull the whole show together. We are all very excited about the premiere.

In the show, Aubrey, The Rough Shakespeare Company's pretentious director, obtains what appears to be William Shakespeare's lost diary. Along with Al, his down to earth assistant, the pair decide to embark on an exclusive adaption of the flamboyant Bard's personal journal.

'Shakespeare Rocks' is a fresh, funny and up-to-date look at the life and times of William Shakespeare, with a cast of hilarious historical characters, amusing glimpses into some of his works and how he came 'To Be'.

Miss Phebe Samson
Performing Arts Teacher

Year 5A News

After 5 years of being involved in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Year 5 boys were able to create, apply and reflect on their learning with the process of Exhibition. Over the past 5 years, including the past 7 weeks, the boys have collaborated, inquired, researched and explored issues both globally and locally. After a few weeks of provocative inquiry, the boys were able to choose their own 'Burning Question' that they personally felt passionate and concerned about. They were able to think about how they could make a difference by acting upon the information they had gathered over the past few weeks.

On Wednesday 1 November, parents, educators and peers were taken on an Exhibition extravaganza. The boys had created their own statement piece reflecting their new-found knowledge. This was used to attract the attention of the audience and gain their interest to ask the boys questions about their journey. Below are some critiques from the day:

"Exhibition is an amazing experience for our boys to extend themselves. Such a valuable challenge that opens their eyes to the world. This is the reason why we choose Scotch".

"Marvellous, wish I could spend a full day or more seeing more presentations. 'Big companies, this is Year 5. You need to get your team leaders out into the world and see what is in the pipeline'."

It's impressive to see the confidence, enthusiasm and motivation of the boys and how they have improved as the process has unfolded. They are all very proud of their work, and it shows. Staff have done an amazing job and should be very proud.

The boys are now ready for their transition into Middle School to start their journey through the IB Middle Years Programme. Well done to all of you, you have made us exceptionally proud. Go forth and conquer

Please see our website to celebrate our Exhibition:

http://scotchcollegepypexhibition.weebly.com

Mrs Fiona Alexander
Year 5A Teacher

Academic Support

Repeated Reading

Repeated reading is a strategy to develop fluency and accuracy.

In Mrs Louden's Year 5, the boys have been engaged in repeated reading every morning since the beginning of term one. The boys started the year reading specific texts that targeted their reading level. Now, as improved readers, the boys read passages of their choice. Individually, the boys track their reading rate and monitor their progress.

In Mrs Gray's Year 1 class, some of the boys have committed to repeated reading both at school and at home.

Xavier Lewis and Leo Nairdone reflected on their commitment to completing repeated reading activities and the benefits. When asked the question, what is Repeated Reading, the boys gave the following responses:

"Repeated Reading is like you read the book five times over and over. You get better at fluency. Reading the book over really helps me. I feel like I'm better at reading". - Leo

'It is actually fun! You learn more words. You get smarter. I noticed it helped me to read smoother and faster". - Xavier

If your son needs to develop fluency the following tips are helpful

• Provide children with opportunities to read and reread a range of stories and informational texts by reading on their own, partner reading, or choral reading.
• Introduce new or difficult words to children, and provide practice reading these words before they read on their own.
• Include opportunities for children to hear a range of texts read fluently and with expression.
• Model fluent reading, then have students reread the text on their own.

Mrs Janet Lopez
Head of Academic Support

From the Head of Middle School

I walked another leg of the Bibbulmun Track with some of our Residential students last week. The two key observations I made this time were that our bush is a fantastic place to be in. Walking amongst the amazingly tall trees in the Karri forests and across dozens of small fresh water streams with the soft sunlight streaming through early in the mornings was beautiful and inspiring. It was also hard work: 25km a day of up and down terrain. The second observation was that at the end of each day we recognised we had done something difficult, something that required perseverance and could not be opted out of half way through. This I feel was the greatest take away for the boys and I, through perseverance and encouragement we would make it each day despite blisters, march flies, the heat and heavy packs.

It was proof once again that there is a reward for determination and a growing belief that when things get tough we have the mental strength, as a group and as individuals, to keep going. The question I played with on the bus on the way home was "Do we do enough of this? Do we undertake enough activities that are difficult with the goal of building up a belief in our own ability to manage and succeed?"

Mr Richard Ledger
Head of Middle School

Middle School IB Learner Profile and Attitude Awards

In Week 8 we celebrate the end of the year with our IB Learner Profile and Attitude Awards Assembly. This event is different from our Middle School Speech Night and very different from the Academic Excellence awards presented at Senior School Speech Night.

Middle School Awards recognise students in each year group and each subject area for their endeavour, persistence, positive attitude, collaboration with others and the growth in their own self-management and sense of accountability. We believe these attributes are the vital, transferable skills that lay the foundation for personal success in Senior School. These are the attitudes we endeavour so hard to cultivate in Middle School and lie at the heart of what we do.

At the Awards Assembly we also recognise a boy in each year for his citizenship qualities with the Mo Maslin Citizenship Award. Mo Maslin was a former Middle School student who typified the welcoming, collaborating, encouraging, compassionate and caring approach to life we would hope a Scotch College education develops. Families of boys receiving awards at this Awards Assembly will be notified via email early next week.

Mr Richard Ledger
Head of Middle School

Triathlon States Reflection

The Triathlon State School competition took part on Thursday 2 November with 18 Scotch boys entered across three divisions. Being an individual and rather intensive sport, Triathlon thrives upon the sense of brotherhood, mateship and comradery and that is evident in every race. The event was held at Champion Lakes, the State Triathlon Centre. All of the competitors, Scotch boys included, put their best foot forward and gave each race all that they had. A personal anecdote that I believe sums up such a communal event is when we saw a young competitor struggling to safely dismount his bike, and then up behind him came a senior athlete who, rather than continuing on with the race and potentially getting a personal best time, put his own motives aside and helped the younger competitor. It is moments like this that define character and to have the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful sport and to take part in such a fantastic event.

The final results for the day were as follows:

Benji Steinberg
Co-Captain Triathlon

Important Dates in Middle School Spring Term

Creativity

What is creativity and why now is it becoming so important? Many would argue it has always been important and that 'we', collectively, have lost sight of this. Our desire to see our children succeed in professions which, on first glance, appear not to require creativity has meant our focus has narrowed to prerequisites for courses in lieu of a broad and rich education in their final years of schooling. More and more information is becoming available that questions the wisdom of this approach. A study conducted by Adobe, working with recent college graduates in the US, has produced some interesting findings. In their study "Creativity in Education: Why it Matters" it was found that -

• 91% agree there is more to success in school than focusing on course material.
• 82% wish they had more exposure to creative thinking as students
• 78% say creativity is very important to their career, but only 57% thought so when they were in college and
• 71% of college educated professional thought thinking should be taught as a course like maths and science.

Robert Fritz in his book, The Path of Least Resistance, comments that "The most important developments in civilization have come through the creative process, but ironically, most people have not been taught to be creative."

So, what is creativity?

One definition describes creativity as "a way of living life that embraces originality and makes unique connections between seemingly disparate ideas or unrelated phenomena and to generate solutions". Another is that creativity is "the act of turning new and imaginative ideas into reality". Or possibly most simply, creativity involves two processes: thinking, then producing.

One can see quite quickly in the second definition a link to the creative arts. Imagining and turning the fruit of one's imagination into reality through art, music, drama, design and technology, STEM or media. This is, of course, the great strength of these programmes at Scotch College and their great intrinsic value. What about teaching creativity in other subjects? Well, this comes back to the first definition. When students are being creative in the classroom they are likely to:

• question and challenge. Creative pupils are curious, question and challenge, and don't necessarily follow the rules.
• make connections and see relationships. Creative pupils think laterally and make associations between things that are not usually connected.
• envision want might be. They imagine, see possibilities, ask 'what if?', picture alternatives, and look at things from different viewpoints.
• explore ideas and options. Creative pupils play with ideas, try alternatives and fresh approaches, keep open minds and modify their ideas to achieve creative results.
• reflect critically on ideas, actions and outcomes. They review progress, invite and use feedback, criticize constructively and make perceptive observations.

This can and does occur in every class at different times. Interestingly, in the before mentioned Abode study, Mathematics and Science ranked nearly as high as traditional creative subjects in contributing to creative thinking. At Scotch College, our Inquiry based pedagogy, coupled with the explicit teaching of the Approaches to Learning and Thinking Skills, supports the development of creativity. With this said, we continue to look for opportunities to engage with the creative process across the curriculum and we look forward to sharing future initiatives in this domain with you.

Mr Dean Shadgett
Head of Senior School

Senior School Important Dates

Spring Term

Careers Information

University Information

University of Notre Dame Fremantle ATAR Advice Day - 21 December 2017

After receiving your ATAR results on Tuesday 19 December 2017, one-to-one advice on courses, your application and alternative pathways will be available from advisers at Notre Dame University.

http://www.nd.edu.au/events/fremantle#

Career Information Sessions

Defence Information Sessions and Events in Perth

16 November, Aviation Careers Information Session

27 November, Army Health Professionals Meet & Greet

28 November, Army Health Professionals Meet & Greet

https://www.facebook.com/pg/DefenceJobsAustralia/events/

WA Police Aboriginal Cadet Info Session

Wednesday 15 November 5.30pm

If you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and have an interest in a career as a WA Police Force Cadet you are encouraged to attend the Information Session. This event will only provide information on the Aboriginal Cadet Pathway.

Book this session - https://www.stepforward.wa.gov.au/information-sessions/aboriginal-cadet-information-session-2/

Applications are now open - https://www.stepforward.wa.gov.au/join-wa-police/aboriginal-cadet/

APPLICATIONS ARE ALSO OPEN FOR NON-INDIGENOUS ENTRY - https://www.stepforward.wa.gov.au/apply/

Scholarships

C.A.S Hawker Scholarship

The C.A.S. Hawker Scholarship is one of the most generous privately funded scholarships available to undergraduate and post-graduate students in Australia. Each residential scholarship is valued at up to $50,000 over three years.

The scholarships have been awarded almost equally to male and female applicants. Scholarship holders have come from every sector of Australian society and graduated from government, catholic and private schools.

Applications open on Monday 4 December 2017 and will close on Friday 5 January 2018.

Find out more and apply - http://www.hawkerscholarship.org/

Country Education Foundation Scholarships Guide

There are hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships up for grabs each year but knowing where to look and how to apply is a big hurdle for school leavers, especially country students who don't have easy access to tertiary institutions.

This purpose-built online search platform will allow students to locate hundreds of scholarships in just a few quick clicks.

https://cef.org.au/student-support/search-for-scholarships/

Holiday Revision Courses

ATAR Express Workshops - University of Notre Dame

8 January - 17 January 2018

Learn how to ace your ATAR subjects at our beachside Campus in Fremantle's West End this summer.

Experienced subject specialist teachers and university academics will provide you with tips for excelling in your studies.

http://www.nd.edu.au/events/2017/atar-express-2017

Academic Task Force Jan Head Start Program

Tuesday 16 January - Thursday 25 January 2018

Each subject course is six hours in total: three hours per day, over two days.

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT: Enrol by 18 December and receive a 10% early bird discount.

http://www.academictaskforce.com.au/findCourse/January%20Head%20Start%20Program/67662

Upcoming UMAT Courses with MedEntry

MedEntry is a government-accredited Registered Training Organisation run by doctors and academics with 20 years' experience in preparing students for UMAT & Interviews.

Courses are held at UWA

27 Jan - 28 Jan 2018

26 Apr - 27 Apr 2018

28 Apr - 29 Apr 2018

12 Jul - 13 Jul 2018

https://www.medentry.edu.au/

Career Information

SELFSTART - support to start your own business

From planning, validating your idea, finding local support, through to perfecting your pitch, SelfStart is here to support you through the first stages of starting your own business.

https://jobsearch.gov.au/selfstart

Job Outlook

This government website can help you explore your career options. Look for career ideas based on industry or level of study, and see the employment prospects for different industries. You can also take a career quiz on the site.

Take a look - http://joboutlook.gov.au/

Mr Peter Frusher
Careers Adviser

End of Year Information

A final Senior School marching and assembly will be held at 8.35am on Friday 8 December.

Senior School will finish for the term at 1.00pm on Friday 8 December. Boys must clear their locker by this time.

Senior School Speech Night will be held on Friday 8 December in the Dickinson Centre, followed by Lights Out on the lawn in front of Collegians House. Please be seated by 6.15pm in preparation for a 6.30pm start.

Parking will be available on the Chapel oval with access via the roundabout near the swimming pool and on the streets surrounding the College. Please note parking restrictions on the west-side of Australind Street, Central Avenue and other streets surrounding the College.

Uniform requirements:

• Winter uniform for prize winners
• Winter uniform for leaving Year 12 boys
• Summer uniform for all other boys

Please note that only the graduating Year 12 boys wear their striped blazer. All other boys wear the maroon blazer.

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

Senior School will resume for all boys in Years 9 to 12 on Tuesday 30 January with Week 1A.

Pipe Band Christmas Fare

The Scotch College Pipe Band Christmas Fare and Gifts 2017 is now open for ordering.

This year we are pleased to offer delightful Christmas treats from 'For the Coffee Table' that include their cakes, shortbread, cookies and Christmas bark. We also have a selection of Pipe Band merchandise that includes glassware, the Scotch wool picnic rug, TSA approved luggage straps, hessian bags with the piper logo, plus much more. Please click here to see the list of goods on offer.

To place your order, please complete the order form and email it to PBPSG@scotch.wa.edu.au or pay by credit card over the phone by calling Meg Dyson on 0407994 078 or Linda Marley on 0408 902 666. Orders will close on Monday, 20 November 2017.

Please collect your order from the Pipe Band room on:

Thursday, 7 December 8.00am - 9.00am OR 2.30pm - 3.30pm

Friday, 8 December 8.00am - 8.30am OR 1.00pm - 2.00pm

All proceeds raised go towards uniforms and equipment for the Scotch College Pipe Band. Thank you for your continued support of the Scotch College Pipe Band.

Any queries please contact PBPSG@scotch.wa.edu.au

Mrs Margaret Shine
President

Scotch Parents

Valedictory Dinner
The Valedictory Dinner for the 2017 graduates will be held on Friday 24 November. Please purchase your tickets prior to Friday 17 November by visiting the Scotch College website www.scotch.wa.edu.au and click on the 'Book a Scotch College Event' icon.

If parents in the new Year 12 cohort would like to assist with the set up on Friday 24 November or help at the dinner, please email Steph Debnam scotchparents@scotch.wa.edu.au.

It is a Scotch College tradition that the New Year 12 students act as waiters at the dinner, assisting with the serving of food and drinks. Waiters should arrive at the Dickinson Centre at 5.45pm and be collected at 11.00pm. A light supper will be provided. Summer uniform with school tie is to be worn on the evening. We require additional boys to assist on the night, if new Year 12 boys would like to help serve at the dinner please contact Student Services ASAP.

2018 Year 12 Ball Committee - Request for volunteers and donations

Tania Hollingsworth and her team are well advanced with preparations for the 2018 Year 12 Ball. The 2018 Scotch Parents Ball Committee are calling for volunteers to assist with setup and cleanup over the weekend of 9 to 11 February 2018. Please email Tania Easton eastot69@gmail.com with your availability if you are able to help.

The theme is "Shanghai Nights" and a number of items for decoration are being sourced. More details can be obtained by contacting Louise Jones louise@thewritebusiness.com.au or Meg Dyson meg@runwaymarketing.com.au

Scotch Parents Annual General Meeting 7.00pm for 7.30pm Tuesday 14 November

The first AGM for the new Scotch Parents association will be held in the Dining Room Annexe at 7.00pm for 7.30pm Tuesday 14^th November.

All positions will be open for nomination including:

• President
• Secretary
• Treasurer
• Vice President - Special Purpose Grants
• Vice President - School Reps
• Senior School Year Group Reps
• Boarders Rep
• Members of the Special Purpose Grants Committee

Junior and Middle School Class Reps will be confirmed early in 2018

Please email your nomination to Lucia Barrett luciabarrett@hotmail.com by Monday 13 November.

If you have any enquiries please email scotchparents@scotch.wa.edu.au. We encourage parents across the school Junior, Middle and Senior to come along to the AGM.

We invite the Year 12 parents (leaving) to evening drinks and light snacks at 7pm immediately prior to the AGM, to thank them for their valued support, service and contribution to Scotch throughout their years at the College.

Upcoming Events

• Year 12 (New) Coffee Morning - at Edition Tuesday 14 November from 8.00am
• Scotch Parents AGM - Tuesday 14 November 7.00 for 7.30pm
• Valedictory Dinner - Friday 24 November

Mr Ian Knobel and Ms Stephanie Debnam
Co-Presidents
Scotch Parents

Headmaster's Sundowner

To thank you for your valued contribution to the College, all Scotch College volunteers and their partners are invited to the 2017 Headmaster's Sundowner.

Date: Thursday 30 November
Venue: Early Learning Centre
Time: 5.00pm to 7.00pm

For catering purposes please RSVP to Mel Colling in the Marketing Office on 9383 6926 or mel.colling@scotch.wa.edu.au

St Andrew's Day Vale Service

One of the more somber but important responsibilities of the Old Scotch Collegians is honoring those OSCs who have passed away, through hosting or attending memorial services and funerals.

We recognise that as the end of the year draws closer, not all families will be looking forward to Christmas or the holidays due to the loss of loved ones. As a new initiative, the Old Scotch Collegians will hold a St. Andrew's Day Vale Service for the friends and families in our community who have suffered a loss in the year. Those who wish to remember a special OSC who passed away earlier are also invited to attend.

The service will be held in the Scotch College Chapel at 11.00am on Thursday 30 November 2017. Please contact the OSC office if you are aware that an OSC has passed away, so that we can try to include them and their families and friends in this occasion, which we hope to make an annual event.

Mr Michael Silbert
President, Old Scotch Collegians

Snadens Pianos

The annual Kawai piano sale is being held 23-25 November. This is a great opportunity to purchase a quality piano at a discounted price, for more details see here.

Australian Sports Camps

There are a range of three day sports camps during December and January including basketball, cricket, hockey, netball and soccer. See here for more details or go to the website www.asc.camp/school.