Dear Scotch Community,

Welcome back to another year. In particular I would like to extend a personal welcome to all of the new families at Scotch College this year. I sincerely appreciate that you have chosen to place the care and education of your son, or in the case of our 3/4-year-old programme, possibly your daughter, in our hands. The excitement and vibrancy of the students this week was palpable. As I often remark, without our students and staff, Scotch College is just a series of buildings and grounds in Swanbourne. The people who attend, visit and support our College, provide the heartbeat bringing life and energy to everything we do.

The tone and benchmark for the start of the year was once again well and truly set by our Scotch Parents Welcome Back BBQ. This followed the work put in across the whole weekend from our Residential Life staff in transitioning our boarders back after their break. I would like to pass on my sincere thanks to the Scotch Parents' committee and their dedicated team for delivering such a great welcome back function on Monday 29 January. It was simply a fantastic evening and just one of the many examples of why our community is second to none.

During last week, I attended a couple of parent evenings where it was great to see so many returning and new faces. As Headmaster, one of the major things I ask from all of the community is that we ensure we look after our new families during these initial weeks. I can still remember my own start at Scotch College and how welcoming the community was and just what this meant to my own family. Engagement makes a huge difference for all of us when we start at somewhere new. To our new families I urge you to meet your class and year representatives and get involved in your child's journey. Furthermore, become engaged with your Scotch Parents meetings and activities. I know we are all busy but the more you engage with the Scotch community, the more you will realise just how special Scotch College can be.

As we start a new year it is worth reinforcing that most successful organisations are those that keep the channels of communication open and streamlined. Last week I sent a global letter out regarding wellbeing and pastoral care. If you didn't have a chance to read this as yet, I urge you to take the time re-read this with your family. Another copy can be found here. Also attached is the Wellbeing and Pastoral Care Contact List.

The first point of contact for all parents should be the person who can give you the quickest direct answer. In the first instance this is very often the classroom teacher or in Senior School, the subject teacher. In essence, if you are unsure who to contact then call the administrative support staff at the respective sub-school and they will ensure your query is handled efficiently and effectively through getting the most relevant staff member to get back to you. In a world where we now over use email and SMS due to convenience, an in-person chat or question can in many cases result in a far better outcome as opposed to a string of reply-all emails.

Speaking of emails, I need to reinforce that there is no expectation of any staff to be communicating via email or such like after 6.00pm at night during the working week. Likewise, enquiries sent via email cannot always be answered or responded to immediately. My expectation is that some kind of response, even if it is preliminary pending further follow up, should be received within 24 hours of sending an initial enquiry. Our staff are very professional and service focused, but they also have many multi-faceted daily requests so I ask that you allow them time to address your queries professionally in a realistic timeframe.

As part of our duty of care to our boys and their families, I request that if you have experienced a change in circumstances in the family or legal matters such as custody and access orders, please send updated copies of documents or alert my Personal Assistant Mrs Fern Purio via email on Fern.Purio@scotch.wa.edu.au. This is essential for myself and your family.

Finally, if you are reading this message you have already made the correct start regarding College communication. The Thistle, in conjunction with any specific sub-school communications, is a critical part of our how our families keep abreast of what is happening. Over the course of a year it is extraordinary just how much occurs across our College. If in doubt just ask us for help.

On a personal note, if you are a new family and see me out and about either at the College, or in the community, come up and say hello. I welcome such interactions.

Have a great start to the term and I look forward to catching up with you throughout the course of the year.

Dr A J O'Connell
Headmaster

Supporting our Families - Information about Teaching and Learning

Welcome back to returning families in 2018 and a special welcome to those new to our community. Thank you for trusting us to educate your son.

The most recent information about Teaching and Learning across the College can be found by accessing our teaching and learning website, which can be found here.

Information can be found on the areas listed:

• Curriculum
• Assessments, Progress and Reporting (including NAPLAN, OLNA and exam timetables)
• Academic Enrichment and Extension
• Academic Support
• Indigenous Student Support
• Technology, services and facilities
• Student Revision Programs
• Course Information for subject selection

This site was launched in 2017 with an aim to provide answers to the most frequently asked questions in regard to teaching and learning in the College. The site is designed to allow you to see the person directly responsible for each area, with their photo, contact phone number and email. Should you require further assistance please do not hesitate to contact the person responsible for your area of inquiry.

IB Evaluation - An International Standard of Excellence

2018 marks an important year for the College in relation to our College's vision; A learning community with an international standard of excellence.

As an International Baccalaureate World school, that is a school who offers all three IB programmes; Primary Years Programme (K-Year 5), Middle Years Programme (Year 6-8) and Diploma Programme (Year 11-12), we are required to be evaluated against a set of rigorous international standards and practices.

As part of this process, the school engages in a self-study as a key element in the school's continual improvement. This work was completed across the College in 2017.

During May this year, the College will be visited by a set of International Baccalaureate Organisation evaluators. The purpose of this visit to is to ensure that we meet the International Standards set by the IBO.

We look forward to welcoming the IBO to our College to ensure we keep measuring ourselves on the global stage.

If there is anything we can do to improve your sons experience in 2018, please do not hesitate to contact the College.

Mr Peter Allen
Director of Teaching and Learning

Respect and Responsibility

As the new year has begun, I have been fortunate to attend a number of assemblies in Junior, Middle and Senior School. Many of these were year group meetings and it was pleasing to hear the messages that were being shared with the boys by senior staff.

Without exception, the key elements being stressed revolved around respect and responsibility. As our boys grow into young men, we need to give them greater responsibility for their own lives, as well as allowing them to share the responsibility for the type of community in which we live. Self-respect is a key element in this, as is respect for others and respect for our environment.

We live in a world where the concept of respect is being challenged. Having - and showing - respect is sometimes difficult when we are presented with opinions that contradict our world view. It is also challenging when the language used is aggressive, inflammatory, demeaning, rude or incites people to behave in a way that contradicts our values. It is perhaps the inherent contradiction within western society that freedom of speech means giving people the right to speak out against free speech and to undermine the society which is built upon it.

If we respect ourselves and our society, I think we have an obligation to understand why people have opinions which contradict our own. We have to find a way to counter their point of view by doing exactly what they will not or cannot - by showing respectful determination to defend our position; respect for ourselves, if for no-one else. Maya Angelou put it quite perfectly: "You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them." The best way to counter the arguments of extremists is to make sure we do not become them. And whilst as a society we may sometimes need to resort to drastic measures to counter extremism, we must always be willing to listen and try to understand in order to protect the freedoms we cherish. The triumph of western civilisation, if there is one, lies in our willingness to put our values under the microscope and defend them robustly by word and deed. We begin this process in schools by treating each other with respect, and by questioning and discussing things in a respectful way.

Reminders

With the start of the year, I remind parents that we have access to SchoolTV, which is a unique digital wellbeing platform targeted at parents. It covers a wide array of topics relevant to young people (for example, Depression, Anxiety, Online Pornography, Social Media and, most recently, Coping with Year 12) and draws its material from a variety of sources. Many of these topics relate to both Primary and Secondary aged children. The material is presented in short, easy-to-manage chunks, often a short video. You can access the SchoolTV archive here: http://scotch.wa.schooltv.me/category-latest-newsletter. Alternatively, you can go to home.SCOTCH and search for SchoolTV or Wellbeing.

Throughout the year, Relationships Australia run a number of courses at different locations around Perth. Some of these are presented over several weeks; others take 2 ½ hours. Many revolve around communication skills and managing difficult emotions; different courses aim to support blended families and single-parent families. You can find a list of these here.

Maggie Dent is presenting a seminar at the Telethon Speech and Hearing Centre in Wembley on 15 February on "The Importance of Calmness, Silence and Stillness in Children's Lives". She is an engaging presenter and this is an important topic in today's world. More information can be found here.

Mr James Hindle
Director of Student and Staff Wellbeing

Community and Service

Riding challenges to support Youth Focus and the Ride For Youth

On Saturday morning at Claremont Quarter, a group of Year 12 boys joined MLC students to participate in an awareness morning for the Ride for Youth and Youth Focus. The boys competed in various events and Peter Stulpner (Year 12, Cameron) was awarded a prize as the overall quickest and strongest rider.

The boys conducted themselves magnificently and we thank them for being involved at short notice. Below is a photo of one of the time trials.

Friday service has begun

On Friday afternoon the first Year 10 Friday afternoon service programme took place. The opening day coincided with a number of the messages the boys received in Friday's assembly, not least Reverend Lewis's story of the man who carried a tool box, and Mr Shadgett's message of doing unto others as they would do unto you, and upholding our College's values of Stewardship, Integrity and Service. This year a number of new activities are taking place as well as continuing relationships with partners and organisations which have been going for many years.

Calling all volunteers for the Food Rescue 'Soup Kitchen'

Tomorrow is the first day of the Food Rescue 'Soup Kitchen'. It takes place on Tuesday afternoons between 3.30pm and 5.30pm in the Senior School commercial kitchen below the media room. The afternoon is aimed at Year 9 boys to avoid their sport training and involves making soup and meals for those less fortunate. All you need to do is show up! This is an excellent activity for Duke of Edinburgh Award participants and any boy seeking to gain hours towards receiving Community and Service Colours while at Scotch College.

Who: Any SS student, specifically Year 9 boys
Where: SS kitchen
When: Tuesdays, 3.30pm - 5.30pm
Why: To make soup and meals for the homeless and those in need

World's Greatest Shave

Scotch is lined up for another big year raising funds for leukaemia research. Our event is on Monday 26 March following the Senior School Inter-house Cross Country. It will take place at the Gooch Pavilion and all are welcome. The Fundraising page is at the link below.

We are told that a number of teachers have agreed to get a haircut, for a price …

http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/scotchcollegewgs2018

Tanzania Fundraiser Quiz Night

Here is the flyer for the Quiz Night. Please form a table of 10, visit the Scotch College website, and buy your tickets. It promises to be a fun filled evening with raffles, spot prizes, auctions and a quiz!

Tanzania Fundraising PLC-Scotch College Movie Night

On Friday 23 March, PLC will host another fundraiser for the village of Matipwili in Tanzania. This is aimed at Junior and Middle School students from both Scotch and PLC. Timings are below with more details to come.

4.00 - 6.30pm, Year 5 & 6 students and parent movie night

6.00 - 9.00pm Year 7 & 8 students movie and games night

Tickets will be available shortly via Book a Scotch Event.

Mr David Kyle
Director of Community and Service

Mouthguard Information 2018

Another mouthguard season is fast approaching. Last year's change of format was a great success and we will be following the same routine for the 2018 mouthguard season.

We would also like to extend an invitation to all parents who have other children with mouthguard requirements to avail themselves of our service. Extra hard copies of our forms can be collected from the Health Centre or the attached PDF form can be printed.

Junior School

Everything will run as per usual in 2018. Galadent Forms and Payment Permission Slips will be distributed out the first week back from holidays. Parents will be required to complete all paperwork and return it to school by the date specified.

Middle and Senior School Boarders
Mouthguard impressions will be taken in the Health Centre on:

• Friday 16 February 2018 3.00pm - 6.00pm

Middle and Senior School (Non Boarders)
Mouthguard impressions will be taken in MacKellar Hall on the following dates:

• Saturday 17 February 2018 10.00am - 2.00pm
• Friday 23 February 2018 3.30pm - 7.00pm
• Saturday 24 February 2018 10.00am - 2.00pm

Rather than having everyone showing up at the same time, we will be requiring that all students wishing to get their impression done, have a Parent or Guardian contact us at Galadent on 9249 3867 to make an appointment time. We will do our very best to accommodate your appointment requests.

In 2018 all payments will need to be made directly to Galadent as they will not be deducted from your school account, as in previous years. On our Galadent Form you will see a provision for you to either complete your Credit Card details, attach a cheque made payable to Galadent Dental or alternatively pay in cash sealed in an envelope (marking your son's details on the front of the envelope). Mouthguard impressions cannot be taken unless this payment option has been fully completed. All students will be issued with an itemised Account/Receipt upon delivery of their mouthguard to enable you to claim rebates. Students will be notified of the collection dates and times as they are determined.

All students in Middle and Senior School (not Boarders), who wish to collect hard copies of the Galadent Form, please look out for a clearly labelled container outside the door of the Health Centre. Alternatively, you can download the PDF copy of our form to print off and complete. This form must be fully completed and signed to bring with you to your allocated appointment time.

Year Group Contact Lists 2018

Year group contact lists will be sent out this term, please advise any contact or address changes by email to admissions@scotch.wa.edu.au by Monday 12 February so we can have the lists out as early as possible. For any new enrolments please make sure all paperwork has been completed and returned to ensure your inclusion.

Year 7 Scholarships

Applications are now open for Year 7 2019 Academic Scholarships for boys currently in Year 6 who are current students and prospective students to Scotch College. Scholarships are tenable until the end of Year 12, subject to satisfactory academic progress and commitment to the life of the School.

All applications, whether your son is a current student or a prospective student, are made online via the Scotch College website Scholarship link found on our Home page at www.scotch.wa.edu.au.

Applications close Wednesday 14 March 2018. No late applications will be accepted after this date. The Scholarship examination will be held at the College on Saturday 24 March 2018. More information will be sent to you once and if you register your son.

Please contact Mrs Di Moran, Registrar, on 9383 6809 or dianne.moran@scotch.wa.edu.au should you have any questions.

FlexiSchools Canteen Online Ordering

For information on the FlexiSchools system operating at the school canteen please visit https://home.scotch.wa.edu.au/services/canteen/

Performing Arts

It is my privilege this year to join the very hard working and highly skilled Performing Arts team at Scotch College. I am looking forward to serving the Scotch community and driving a thriving performing arts culture.

A very full calendar of learning experiences awaits all boys, with some exciting developments occurring in music and drama.

Congratulations

Ben Anderson (2017 graduate) was accepted into the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) studying a Diploma of Music (Jazz), majoring in double bass.

Kyle Imlah (Year 12, Keys)Music Captain 2018 and Joseph Banks (Year 12, Anderson) were successful in their auditions for positions with the West Australian Youth Jazz Orchestra (WAYJO). This is a significant achievement for both boys, as many of the chairs in the WAYJO ensembles are occupied by tertiary students.

Scotch College Production - The Wedding Singer

Rehearsals for the 2018 College production The Wedding Singer have begun. All boys should have received a rehearsal schedule and production contracts. Parents, families, friends, save the date: Thursday 14 June through Saturday 16 June.

Performing Arts Perspectives

On Tuesday 10 April, students studying Music and Drama in both Year 11 and Year 12 are invited to attend the annual Performing Arts Perspectives showcase at the Perth Concert Hall. I encourage all boys in these courses to attend the evening, which showcases the highest achieving students across the performing arts disciplines from the 2017 ATAR practical examinations. For more information, contact Ms Sarah Combes, Head of Drama.

Co-Curricular Music

Part of our strategic plan for 2020 involves building and developing local and global alliances. This not only contributes to being part of a community which gains strength from honouring members' contributions, ultimately it enhances student learning.

With this in mind, we have been reviewing the co-curricular music programme and will continue to review and rework this programme over the coming year. One of the immediate changes parents and students will notice is the more deliberate collaboration between Scotch and PLC Music. Many ensembles, bands and orchestras will be restructured and now operate as combined ensembles, with opportunities for students and staff from both Colleges to work together.

In the immediate short term, some combined ensembles will move to a common Tuesday evening rehearsal timeslot. As the year progresses, more ensembles will move to the common Tuesday rehearsal time. Further information will be provided through direct communication from Music Administration.

Friends of Scotch Music

The next Friends of Scotch Music meeting is being held in the Senior School Music building on February 12 at 7.00pm. This incredible group of people are always seeking other parents, passionate about music at Scotch College, to join them. Interested parties should contact FOSM@scotch.wa.edu.au

Mr Scott Loveday
Head of Performing Arts

2018 Secondary Assistance Scheme

Families eligible for the Secondary Assistance Scheme (Years 7 - 12) will again be able to apply for this in 2018. Applications forms are available from Mrs Anita Johnson in Accounts Department (email accounts@scotch.wa.edu.au) and close on Friday 13 April. Further information can be obtained from:

Schools Resourcing and Budgeting Directorate
Department of Education
151 Royal Street
EAST PERTH WA 6004

Tel: 9264 4516
Email: student.allowances@education.wa.edu.au

Uniform Shop

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

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

Opening Hours

2018 Senior Positions

Captains of House:

Pipe Band Key Positions 2018

Staff Movement

Summer 2018 - Permanent New Staff

Looking Forward and Looking Back

The Romans had a god named Janus who was depicted as a man with two faces. One looked forward and the other one looked back. He was known as the god of gates and doorways, of beginnings and endings. The month of January is named after the Roman god Janus.

The new year and the new school year are naturally a time for looking forward and for looking back. As we reflect on 2017 we see many things for which we can be proud; the success of the boys, the learning they have achieved, how they have grown physically and how they have matured in many ways over the course of the year. We reflect on the many events they have engaged in over the year with pride and with a smile. Looking back, we recall Mud Day, athletic events, art competitions, school performances, how the boys have engaged with one another and how they have demonstrated so many of the wonderful qualities of a Scotch College boy.

As the Roman god Janus does, we can also look forward. As I look forward into 2018, I relish the challenges that lie ahead of us. I look forward to seeing how the boys will grow and mature and how they improve in their skills. I have already been impressed with how they have welcomed our new boys into our school community and made them feel very much at home in only three short days of school.

As we look back on what has happened with fond memories of the years that have passed and we can also look forward with some anxiousness and excitement to what lies ahead of us. There is a little bit of the god Janus in all of us. It is good to look upon past achievements but we can also enjoy looking forward to the new beginnings. 2018 presents many of those for us; the opportunity to meet new friends, to overcome new challenges and to grow and develop more as we journey through our College. I look forward to working with our staff, students and parents of the College over the course of the year, to enjoy the successes I am sure we will experience and relish the achievements I am sure we will accumulate as we go through 2018.

As we turn our heads to the left and look back, just remember the year that has passed and all the friends who have shared it with us. Let's be thankful for all that we have learned and achieved. As we turn our head to the right and look forward to the year that has begun, let's resolve to live each day fully and well. Let us be thankful for new beginnings and not be afraid to make the most of all the opportunities that lie ahead of us.

Mr John Stewart
Head of Junior School

From the Deputy Head of Junior School

Rite of Passage

As we start off the 2018 school year, I am reminded about the rites of passage relating to many different areas of school life. It could be Junior School staff at the end of the day seeing all of last years Year 5 boys heading home donning their new Middle School yellow tie, or the Junior School boys waving over to their last years teacher knowing they have moved on, but still wanting to remain in contact.

For the 2018 Year 5 boys, it is the small things - being able to sit on the raked seating in MacKellar Hall during the first welcome back assembly with Mr Stewart, having the top floor of the Junior School to themselves, being responsible for all of the playground equipment and putting up the school flags every day. These may seem small but to the boys it is a big deal - being part of the leadership team and being the older boys in the Junior School.

Congratulations goes to all of the Year 5 boys for nominating and speaking to the school community at the end of last year about what they would offer to the leadership team. It takes a great deal of courage and is one of the more challenging moments in the rite of passage to become a leader. Whilst some Year 5 boys missed out this Semester, I look forward to seeing them rise to the challenge in Semester 2. I wish the leadership team across the whole student body, not just the Junior School, the very best in their leadership journey for 2018.

Miss Penny Hooper
Deputy Head of Junior School
(Administration and Pastoral Care)

Art News

The Junior Artists were enthusiastic to learn and discuss the forthcoming Chinese New Year, which commences on Friday 16 February. The global celebration will soon be upon us with spectacular celebrations. The Chinese New Year is a festival for families to come together and wish each other peace and prosperity. There is keen interest each year to see which animal is represented and the boys were delighted to learn that this year is Year of the Dog.

The Year 1 Artists explored their risk-taking abilities through the application of a limited palette of collaged materials. The boys were delighted with their immediate outcomes, each dog differing in character and personality. They were open-minded in their approach to the task and each communicated their responses in an individual style.

Mrs Jane Roche
Junior Art Specialist

From the Head of Middle School

Day One is always a highlight of the year with the energy, optimism and promises of a new year lying in wait for all of us. In a large organisation with a significant number of new students and families it is a juggling act getting the balance between too much and not enough information. Between our fortnightly Thistle publications and alternate fortnightly Middle School newsletters and the home.scotch.wa.edu.au website, I believe most of what you need to answer questions or stay ahead on the calendar will be here.

Where possible though we hope your son can either (a) answer your question or (b) ask or find a source to answer the question either for himself or on your behalf. This is a part of the engagement and accountability attitude we will continue to develop and emphasize throughout his Middle School years.

To the parents who put in the hours of research to help their sons go back 5 generations on Tuesday evening as we linked last week's Super Blue Blood moon event to family timeliness, thank you, I have had some impressive presentations from boys and along the way gleaned a snapshot of some of the human migration stories that have helped populate Western Australia.

Our Parent Information Evenings take place this week. This is an important evening, partly for the information we present and questions we answer, but significantly for the parent teacher relationship and the parent to parent relationships that can underpin and support all of us this year.

I look forward to working with you this year and seeing you this week.

Mr Richard Ledger
Head of Middle School

Co-Curricular Clubs

While I believe it is appropriate to acknowledge and celebrate the boys' achievements in the classroom, it is through other platforms outside the normal realms of learning, that so many boys celebrate their success. Personal success is not defined by the grade on the report, but by the discovery of innate abilities through teamwork, persistence, risk taking and creativity. Qualities such as these are developed and nurtured in an enjoyable and safe environment within the Middle School every day.

An extensive choice of Co-Curricular clubs run either before school, at lunch times or after school, catering for the varying interests and talents of our boys in a relaxed setting. Art Club, Chess Club, Lego Club, Coding Club and Philosophy Club have been among the more popular clubs in the past. These and many more clubs will be on offer to the boys this week for selection. All Co-Curricular clubs will start in Week 3A.

I look forward to sharing many images and videos of the boys participating in their various clubs in future editions of The Thistle.

Mrs Pina Giglia
Deputy Head of Middle School

Scotch Parents' Middle School Sundowner

Scotch Parents invite all Year 6, 7 & 8 parents to the annual Middle School Parent Sundowner:

Date: Friday, 23 February 2018
Venue: The Gooch Pavilion
Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Tickets: $26.00 per person (includes a varied selection of cocktail food. Please bring your own drinks. Ice will be provided)
Dress: Casual (Please wear your parent name badge)
RSVP: By purchasing tickets prior to Monday, 19 February 2018

Enquiries: Kim Reddrop 0409 002 981 or kreddrop@bigpond.com.au

To purchase tickets please visit the Scotch College website www.scotch.wa.edu.au and click on the 'Book a Scotch Event' icon.

Important Dates in Middle School Summer Term

How is Year 12 like Great Britain's professional cycling team?

Maximising performance and achieving personal excellence in Year 12 is about making the most of all available opportunities. It is about accessing the resources and expertise the College offers through our teaching and learning programmes, by following-up with teachers to clarify and ensure understanding, by reading more broadly than the syllabus suggests, by accessing revision materials available online, by using extra support in the Residence and after school 'Maths Help' classes and by attending the sessions run by the OSC in the Targeted Tuition programme.

So, how does this relate to Great Britain's cycling team?

No British cyclist had ever won the Tour de France and their performance at the Olympic Games had seen them win only one gold medal prior to 2010. The new General Manager and Performance Director for Team Sky (Great Britain's professional cycling team), Dave Brailsford, was asked to change that. His approach was simple. Brailsford believed in a concept that he referred to as the "aggregation of marginal gains". He explained it as "the one percent margin for improvement in everything you do." His belief was that if you improved every area related to cycling by just one percent, those small gains would add up to remarkable improvement. They started by optimising the things you might expect: the nutrition of riders, their weekly training programme, the ergonomics of the bike seat and the weight of the tyres. But Brailsford and his team did not stop there. They searched for one percent improvements in tiny areas that were overlooked by almost everyone else: discovering the pillow that offered the best sleep and taking it with them to hotels, testing for the most effective type of massage gel and teaching riders the best way to wash their hands to avoid infection. They searched for one percent improvements everywhere.

Brailsford believed that if they could successfully execute this strategy, Team Sky would be in a position to win the Tour de France in five years' time. He was wrong. They won it in three years and continued their success by winning four in a five-year period. In addition, Team Sky had great success in ensuing Olympic Games and World Championships.

While Year 12 students do not have three years to see the change they may desire, they still have abundant time to address the 'one percenters' that can aggregate to see improvement. Taking advantage of the wonderful support on offer from the College, mentioned in my opening paragraph, is one way to do this. However, it is also possible to make a number of changes to personal habits and study habits to make improvements. Habits are the compound interest of self-improvement. Mrs Cara Fugill ran a session for current Year 12 students when they were in Year 11 outlining some of the changes that can be made, some of the one percenters. Eating well, sleeping well, finding a balance between study and exercise, setting up a study planner which blocks out the things you enjoy as rewards for hard work are all examples of one percenters that when aggregated can lead to improvements. Consistently attending revision classes, not just after a poor result, revising work covered on an ongoing basis and setting up study groups where you can collectively work and assist each other with study notes and explaining concepts to one another are all examples of behaviours that can go a long way to seeing improved results.

James Clear, author and speaker on the topic of habits and routines that make people the best at what they do, says the following, "Change happens habit by habit: Evolution; Not Revolution. Over a broad span of time, actions you do once or twice fade away. Actions you do for the bulk amount of time day after day, week after week accumulate". As we start a new term, and after a long break, now is a good time to start new and successful habits which collectively add to your success for the remainder of the year and beyond. We are here to help you make the change you wish to see, but the leg-work is up to you.

Mr Dean Shadgett
Head of Senior School

Summer Uniform

School uniform is to be worn correctly by all day boys at School and when travelling to or from School. There are some special regulations for boarders.

When ties are worn the collar button must be done up. Shirts need to be tucked in properly. All clothing must be marked with the boy's name. Name tapes may be ordered through the Uniform Shop.

Hair should be neat, tidy, clean and brushed. It must be an even cut over the head with a minimum length Number 3. Hair should not fall over the collar, eyes or ears and is to be the natural colour (no added colours or dyes). If product, hair ties or head bands are required to keep hair from falling across the ears or face, the hair is too long. Boys must be clean-shaven.

No jewellery, other than a wrist watch or medic alert bracelet, is to be worn.

No tattoos of any kind are permitted.

Summer uniform must be worn in Summer Term and Spring Term. Winter uniform must be worn in Autumn Term and Winter Term. Boys who have earned a Colours or Honours tie may wear this tie instead of a House tie on Fridays. All boys will need to possess both a School tie and a House tie which are both obtained only from the Uniform Shop.

Boys who have Physical Education in Period 5 may wear their sport uniform home at the end of the school day.

Occasionally the School will have a Free Dress Day when boys will be permitted to wear casual clothing. This is usually run as a fund-raising exercise. On these days, clothing must be clean and neat without offensive wording, closed in shoes must be worn and the rules on jewellery remain unchanged.

House Braid

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

Senior School Photo Day

Senior School individual student photos are being taken on Tuesday 6 February 2018 with an opportunity for catch up photos on Friday 9 February 2018.

Photos will be available for parents to order online from Tuesday 6 February 2018. Orders placed by Wednesday 14 March 2018 will be included in the main school delivery. Orders may be placed for the remainder of the current year, however, these will not be delivered to the school and a late order fee will apply.

To place orders please visit the Kapture Photography website www.kapture.com.au and use the school code R8NKT9.

It is recommended that your son retains the barcode he will be given when he has his photo taken. It will include his student number which is required (in lieu of the order envelope mentioned on the website) when ordering photos.

Kapture Photography offers a money back guarantee for any parent who is not fully satisfied with their photo package. Please direct any queries directly to the Kapture office on 9240 1714 or email enquiries@kapture.com.au.

Please ensure that all uniform and personal presentation is addressed prior to the Photo Day as per Dr O'Connell's email regarding standards.

Boys' Achievements

Riley Waters (Year 10, Anderson) has been selected in the SSWA U15 Cricket squad to play in the National Championships on Sunshine Coast, Qld, 9 - 18 February.

Grayson Downes (Year 10, Brisbane) sailed in a JESS Match Racing Regatta from which the team was selected to sail in the Warren Jones International Youth Regatta (27 January - 2 February).

Declan Cook (Year 9, Brisbane) has been selected as a member of the Western Suns, 2018 Surf Life Saving (SLS) WA team. Declan will represent Western Australia in the interstate SLS completion conducted at Manly, NSW, 24 - 29 January 2018.

Swimming

A number of our boys were involved in a number of different swimming events over the break. The highlights of their results were:

Jesse Coughlan (Year 10, Alexander):

2^nd - 14 years 100m Breaststroke at the Victoria Age Championships, in a National Qualifying time.

2^nd - 14 years 4 x 50m Medley Relay at the WA State Age Championships.

Nicolas Le Page (Year 9, Anderson):

2^nd - 13 years 50m and 100m freestyle at the Victorian Age Championships.

2^nd - 13 years 100m backstroke, 100m freestyle, 100m butterfly

3^rd - 13 years 50m freestyle at the WA State Age Championships, with his 100m freestyle time being a National Qualifier.

Nicolas Monger Molowny (Year 10, Alexander)

2^nd - 14 years 4 x 50m Medley Relay

3^rd - 14 years 100m Butterfly in a National Qualifying time at the WA Stage Age Championships.

Justin Kalugin (Year 12, St Andrews)

1^st - 16 years 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay

2^nd - 16 years 1500m freestyle achieved in National Qualifying times

4^th - 16 years 400m freestyle achieved in National Qualifying times.

Justin was also part of the team which finished 3^rd in the Open Mens 4 x 100m Freestyle

Senior School Inter-House Swimming Carnival 2018

The Senior School (Years 9 to 12) Inter-House Swimming Carnival will begin at 9.00am and finish at 1.00pm on Wednesday 7 February 2018. There will be no classes in the afternoon. There will be no sport training for Years 9 to 12 in the afternoon unless instructed by coaches. Training in the morning is as normal.

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

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

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

Sunscreen for each house will be provided. Please encourage students to wear Scotch hats and to apply sunscreen before they arrive at HBF Stadium. There is limited shade for spectators so parents and friends attending the carnival should bring a hat and apply sunscreen and aim to stay hydrated. Parents are not permitted onto the pool deck.

Entry is from the McGillivray Oval side of HBF Stadium as with previous years and parents are required to pay an entrance fee of approximately $3.40.

Day boys are expected to make their own way to HBF Stadium. Buses will depart from the Middle School bus bay on Shenton Road at 8.15am for boys who have training before school and for all boarders.

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

Mr Richard Foster
Head of Sport

Year 9 Parent Information Evening

The Year 9 Parent Information Evening will be held on Tuesday 6 February 2018. It is not necessary for students to attend. The evening will take place in Memorial Hall, commencing at 6.30pm and will include information to assist parents in planning for the year ahead. Should you have any queries please contact Heidi Locke Heidi.Locke@scotch.wa.edu.au or 9383 6954.

2018 Parent Teacher Student Interviews

Information regarding booking Parent Teacher Student Interviews will be emailed home in the weeks prior to each event. Please note the dates below:

Day Boys

Wednesday 21 February - Year 11
Wednesday 7 March - Year 12
Wednesday 2 May - Year 10
Tuesday 20 March - Year 9

Boarders

Friday 13 April

Examination Dates

Year 11 and 12 examination dates are available via https://home.scotch.wa.edu.au/

It is essential that all boys are present for these important examinations. Parents who may anticipate difficulties with these arrangements should contact Cara Fugill Cara.Fugill@scotch.wa.edu.au at your earliest convenience. Please refer to the Assessment Policies and Missed Assessment form available on the documents tab via Parent Connect on home.scotch.

Friday Afternoon Arrangements for Year 10

Year 10 boys have compulsory Community Service activities on Friday afternoons. As there is not the usual 20 minute sessions for Chapel or House meetings on Fridays, as on other days of the week, the end of school on Friday is 3.05pm.

Driving to School

Boys in Year 12 wishing to drive to school may park at the Gooch Pavilion (there is no student parking on campus). We do not recommend the following:

• That boys transport other students to school events
• That boys ride a motor bike or scooter to school
• That boys drive to examinations in case of distractions

Boys may not go to their cars during the school day. This includes breaks.

Important Dates for 2018

• Year 9
• Year 10
• Year 11
• Year 12

Term Dates

Please refer to https://home.scotch.wa.edu.au/

Start/End Senior School Days

Senior School Attendance and Absence Information

To ensure that all boys are safely accounted for at all times we ask that you adhere to the following procedures in the Senior School:

If your son is unable to attend school due to illness or injury please notify Student Services before 9.00am. Please note that, if your son is in Year 11 or 12 and will miss an assessment, you will need to refer to the Year 11 and 12 assessment policy via Seqta Engage on home.scotch.

If your son will be late for school please notify Student Services before 9.00am. On arrival, your son must sign in at Student Services.

If your son needs to leave school during the day please notify Student Services. He must sign out at Student Services before leaving and, if he returns before the end of the day, he must sign back in.

A respectful reminder not to collect your son from the classroom. If you wish to come into the school, please go to the main Senior School reception where staff will contact Student Services and arrange for you to meet your son.

If your son is not feeling well during the day he should sign out at Student Services from where he will be sent to the Health Centre where staff will contact you.

Student Services:

Phone - 9383 6928
Email - seniorschool@scotch.wa.edu.au

For leave from school for a period of one week or more for reasons other than illness or injury, a written request is required. Please send this to Heidi Locke Heidi.Locke@scotch.wa.edu.au.

SmartRider Cards - Senior School

Please direct any queries to Lynn Murray in Student Services 9383 6928 or seniorschool@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Careers Information

Year 11/12 Subject Changes

By now all Year 11 and 12 students should have settled into the subjects that they are going to continue with for the remainder of the 2018 academic year with the final date for changes being Friday 9 February. This deadline is set so that students will have a realistic chance of catching up and successfully completing the new subject/s they have chosen. Subject changes after this time will only be made under exceptional circumstances in consultation with Mr Frusher and with approval from Mrs Fugill, Dean of Teaching & Learning. These changes will mainly be students who are changing to General courses or Year 12 students who are dropping a subject to pick up a study period. The latter can be done at any time of the year.

ECU Info Evenings

Tuesday 13 February, 6.00pm at Joondalup Campus
Tuesday 20 February, 6.00pm at Mount Lawley Campus

Topics covered will include course entry pathways and requirements, how to apply, fees and scholarships, and flexible study options like online or part-time.

Register here

Master Classes 2018

ATARGET is offering small group seminars for Year 10, 11 and 12 students in Chemistry, Human Biology, English, Literature, Maths Applications, Maths Methods, Maths Specialist, Physics, Psychology and Geography throughout Term 1.

Venue: Christchurch Grammar School

For further information and/or registration visit: www.atarget.com.au or www.mastermindaustralia.com.au or phone 94861337 or 0488102907

Defence Forces Recruiting

Australian Defence for Academy (ADFA) and Royal Military College Duntroon (RMC) intakes for 2019.

Given that the recruitment process for these avenues of entry into the ADF can take up to 12 months, it is recommended that interested students visit the centre and start their application in the first quarter of 2018.

For further information about ADFA please click here. I have also attached some information about ADFA and the ADFA Education Award.

The Royal Military College Duntroon prepares cadets and other selected candidates for careers in the Army by promoting leadership and integrity, by inspiring high ideals and the pursuit of excellence, and by inculcating a sense of duty, loyalty and service to the nation. https://www.army.gov.au/taxonomy/term/132

If any students are interest in more information, www.Defencejobs.gov.au is the best place to start and they can also book the first stage process ('Your Opportunities Unlimited (YOU)' Session) via this site. They can also contact 13 19 01 or visit Defence Force Recruiting located at Level 7, 66 St Georges Terrace, Perth.

UK & US University Applications

Elite US and UK universities are the hubs of innovation and the best places in the world for accelerating ambitions and providing unmatched career-building opportunities.

The only problem is, the best universities attract the best talent and there's simply not enough room for everyone. The admissions process is highly competitive but gaining entry is still possible, especially if you have the right guidance.

Crimson Education are offering a free information evening to assist parents and students who may be considering further studies overseas.

Please see the attached flyer for further information and registration.

Breaking bad study habits

Start the new school year off right with these great tips for staying focused while studying. Click here to view.

Mr Peter Frusher
Careers Adviser

Important Dates in Senior School Summer Term

Scotch Parents

The first Scotch Parents Meeting for 2018 will be held on Tuesday, 13 February at 7.00pm in the Dining Room Annexe. We hope to see you there.

Thank you to all those who helped make the Welcome Back BBQ such a great success. It was wonderful to see so many families in attendance.

Tickets are now available for the Middle School Parent Sundowner on Friday 23 February in the Gooch Pavilion from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. To purchase your tickets please visit the Scotch College website www.scotch.wa.edu.au and click on the "Book a Scotch Event" icon.

Year 11 Parents - Save the Date

• Friday 23rd March for an off-site function at private residence - details to be advised in separate email.

We will be planning one Year 11 event each Term and we hope to see you there to celebrate our boys second last year at Scotch College.

Ariane Harold, Jo Gale and Karen Azzopardi
Year 11 Representatives

Ms Stephanie Debnam
President
Scotch Parents

Old Scotch Collegians

As the school year begins, so too does another year of activity for the Old Scotch Collegians.

Our first event is the Class of 2008 Ten Year Reunion, being held on Friday 16 February in the Scotch College Dining Room Annex. All past students from this peer year are invited to attend, whether they were at Scotch College for one year or the full 12 years. RSVP here.

Other upcoming events include the OSC AGM, Goland Club Dinner, Beverley Dinner and the Class of 1988 Thirty Year Reunion. Details on how to register, as well as a full list of 2018 events, can be found via the Scotch College website, or contact the OSC Office (cass.macgowan@scotch.wa.edu.au) for more information.

Cassandra Macgowan
Alumni Officer