According to the dictionary, the word opportunity refers to 'a time or set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something'. Over the last couple of weeks, I have had numerous chances to reflect upon the variety and extent of opportunities presented to our boys each and every day. Just to mention a few across the last fortnight, I have watched boys across all three sub-schools compete in sport, provide service to those less fortunate in our community, prepare and train for physically and emotionally demanding overseas service trips and participate in music soirees and productions.

Last Wednesday night I visited Moora to update a number of boarding parents on what we are currently doing at Scotch College and what are some of our plans moving forward. These gatherings provide a great opportunity for me to hear about how their sons are going in boarding and to receive feedback about our Residential Life programmes. The word opportunity came up in several conversations as the parents reflected on everything the boys were doing while in residence.

The concept of opportunity was put into context when one mum explained how she described Scotch College to her son before he started his journey. She asked him to imagine that the College represented one hundred doors that could each be opened, entered and then closed if it did not lead to what he wanted. In simple terms, she was urging her son to have a go at as much as possible while at Scotch College. Since commencing at the College I have witnessed many doors being opened and of course some being closed. The most important matter is that the boys take advantage of the vast array of academic, sporting, cultural and co-curricular programmes each and every year.

In the most recent edition of the Australian Financial Review, an article about intergenerational mobility and income equality concludes that Australia ranks behind only a handful of Scandinavian countries as a society that enables young people to earn more than their parents through opportunity and education. In preparing our boys for life it is our role to continue to provide both opportunity and education at the highest level possible.

Throughout each year I witness many great occasions of how we offer opportunity, but none more so than when the curtain lifted for the second act of the last performance of the 2018 Senior School production on Saturday night. To see the whole stage filled with just our boys delivering a simply outstanding performance of "It's all about the green". It was not the particular song that drew me in, it was the confidence, camaraderie and youthful exuberance of each and every boy as they worked as one to deliver an amazing rendition. At the production windup function, one of our Year 12s summed up how he was feeling when he thanked all of the younger boys for making this production so special for each Year 12 in this their final year of school.

Congratulations to our drama and music departments, all of our back stage and parent helpers, and to everyone who supported each boy through attending and supporting the production across the numerous performances.

Opportunity is something not lost on our graduating year of Year 12s. Over the last three weeks I have been holding Headmaster lunches with the leaving class of 2018. The insights and feedback have been simply amazing. A common thread has been the boys' reference to the opportunities they have had across their journey.

As educators and parents, let us never take for granted the opportunities we all have at Scotch College to engage in the education of our boys and support their ongoing journey.

Have a great fortnight.

Dr A J O'Connell
Headmaster

Impact of secondary school learning spaces on teaching and learning

As we continue to work towards delivering the new teaching and learning building in the Senior School Campus by 2020, it is important to recognise the impact that learning spaces can have on the actual learning outcomes of the boys. This is the purpose behind our development; to improve the teaching and learning for our boys.

As part of a nationwide study, led by Professor Wesley Imms from the University of Melbourne, the Innovative Learning Environments and Teacher Change project has investigated the impact of contemporary learning spaces on student and teacher performance.

In a newly released longitudinal study; New Generation Learning Spaces, the evidence does suggest that a well-designed learning space can:

• Significantly influence how technologies, both digital and physical, are used, and therefore, are perceived by the students.
• Increase the instance of active, collaborative, and multiplictious nature of student-centred learning experiences.
• Affect statistically significant enhancement of student engagement in their learning.
• On average, when students transition from a conventional classroom to an innovative learning environment, their academic achievement increases by 15 per cent.

The design of the new building is nearing completion and we are working to imagine how the new spaces can be brought to life in line with research-based decisions on how boys learn. An example of a potential layout of our flexible learning space can be seen in the picture below.

Later in 2018 the College Community will be able to see construction begin. As a community we are very excited as to the potential that this building has to continue to drive innovative teaching and learning at Scotch College.

Mr Peter Allen
Director of Teaching and Learning

Finding our Place

One of the great paradoxes of life is that we can feel tiny and insignificant and at the same time also feel important because we are a part of something huge and majestic. Sitting outside on a clear night and staring up at the stars, or standing on a shoreline watching and hearing and feeling the sea, or gazing across a tree-filled valley are all examples of moments when we can be made to feel small but simultaneously that we matter because we are a part of something so much bigger than just ourselves - almost unimaginably bigger. It is no coincidence that these moments often involve a sense of awe that is embedded in nature. However, such feelings can also be experienced in our human world.

In Week 7, every student in Senior School found himself in what was a strange place for many - on stage, singing with his House mates as part of the annual House Singing competition. I always find myself with a smile on my face as I watch the boys perform and it is because of the smiles that are present on the faces of so many of the performers and those in the audience. There is a sense of joy and belonging, even if it is based on a slightly awkward experience.

That same week we were also fortunate to witness the school production of the musical, "The Wedding Singer". It was a simply outstanding show - the combination of singing, dancing and acting was amazing and a credit to the hours of practice and the hard work by staff and students. The greatest joy came from the fact that the young men who comprised the cast, band and crew came from all parts of the school, and were united by wanting to contribute to a common cause.

Both of these are prime examples of the individual being a part of something much larger, a feeling which makes us feel small but significant at the same time. Subconsciously, there is also a sense that what is achieved is far more than the individual could have done by themselves. These moments create and enhance our sense of belonging - of finding a place where we feel valued and able to contribute, even if it is in a small way.

In Week 8 in Senior School, and Week 9 in Middle School, we will be holding our inaugural 'Men's Health Week'. Our Physical Education staff will use our Chapel services to talk to students about stress and how to manage it. There will also be activities in tutor groups and GL lessons on this topic, as well as a 'Healthy Breakfast' morning run in collaboration with the Student Council and the Senior School canteen to emphasise the importance of nutrition and starting the day well. There will also be lunch time activities relating to exercise and mindfulness which the students will be encouraged to be a part of.

I believe that we can only come to understand our place, and the role we might be able to play in the world, by exploring - who we are, how life works and why we are here. And whilst it is important to consider these really big questions, the quest to find our place is also embedded in our daily actions. As I have said to the boys many times, each day offers us countless opportunities to make a difference in many tiny ways, making mistakes but learning from these. How we spend our days is how we spend our lives, and we should be mindful not only of the detail of each day but also the big picture which is easy to ignore.

Sometimes, understanding our place in the world means accepting that perhaps the world does not revolve around us. Sometimes it means realising that what we do actually matters a great deal more than we might think. Sometimes it means recognising that we have a responsibility to speak out about injustice or unfairness. The problems we face individually each day can seem monumental, whilst the problems we face as a species are of a planetary scale, one so large it is difficult to conceptualise and even harder to ponder what to do. But just because something is difficult to think about does not mean we should ignore it. Having a sense of place requires that we remind ourselves on a regular basis that we are all connected. The solutions to some of our most profound problems will not be found by individuals, or even individual nations, but by collaboration between big numbers of human beings.

All of us have a shared heritage as human beings, and we also have a shared future. We are part of the same universe. Stephen Hawking liked to point out that we are all made of the same material - every single human being; and we are also made of exactly the same material as supernovae. Little things and big things are inextricably linked.

"Be humble, for you are made of the earth. Be noble, for you are made of the stars."

Mr James Hindle
Director of Student and Staff Wellbeing

Year Fives are getting prepared!

In less than two weeks you will no longer be able to receive 'single use' plastic bags when doing the grocery shopping. With changes to the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA), the ban comes in on 1 July.

Statistics suggest that around seven million plastic bags are littered in Western Australia annually and the fact that they do not break down means they are with us in some form to eternity.

The move brings WA in to line with a number of other Australian states and is a step towards catching up to the rest of the world. Interestingly, Fremantle had tried to implement a ban in recent years with no success.

https://www.der.wa.gov.au/images/documents/our-work/consultation/Plastic_bag_ban/Plastic-bag-ban_discussion-paper.pdf

Fortunately, the Scotch College community is helping prepare our families for the necessary inconvenience that is just around the corner! In a joint project between Year 5 Art and French classes, the students are creating bags that complement their classes. Following successes from last year, the classes look at recycling, waste and the effects of low recycling and poor waste management on ocean creatures. They learn that the most affected are whales and turtles, the turtles thinking plastic bags are jelly fish and the whales thinking they are squid. With this in mind, the boys block print turtles and whales on one side of their bags. On the other, using the 'command' tense in French, they write,

Don't use a plastic bag!

Save a whale!

Or

Don't use a plastic bag!

Save a sea turtle!

It has been brilliant to see so many campaigns in support of minimising the rubbish in our oceans. A particularly powerful installation is in Melbourne's Federation Square. In a partnership between Chris Hemsworth, Corona and Parley for Oceans, Hemsworth is depicted riding a wave of rubbish. It is a marketing dream but also a strong reminder of just how bad the situation has become, even at our supposedly pristine Rottnest Island.

For more on this see the video at this link. (https://www.youtube.com/water?v=BbKPGPyHRV4)

The College community is doing a lot of other things to help us be at the forefront of minimising waste and I will write more about this in coming weeks. Meanwhile, make sure you are prepared for the changes from 1 July!

Mr David Kyle
Director of Community and Service

NAIDOC Concert

NAIDOC week is being celebrated at Scotch College in Week 2 of Winter Term, 30 July - 3 August. This will culminate with the Yira Yarkiny Concert in the Dickinson Centre on Friday 3 August, 6.30pm.

The Raven

A new edition of The Raven is out. If you would like to read some great creative writing by the following boys, please go to the Autumn edition 2018. This edition includes creative works by: Luke Beeson (Year 12, Stuart), William Lewis (Year 10, Stuart), Benjamin Steinberg (Year 11, Ferguson), Jolyon Harrison-Murray (Year 9, Stuart), Joshua Hook (Year 12, Brisbane), Harry Foley (Year 12, St Andrews), Harry Frodsham (Year 9, Alexander), Harry Hansom (Year 9, Alexander), Giordano Caceres (Year 12, Ross), Harry Penrose (Year 12, Stuart), Thomas Westcott (Year 9, Shearer), Edward Gaffey (Year 9, Ferguson) and Harry Dean (Year 7, Gordon).

These boys are to be congratulated on their very fine writing.

Please enjoy reading this work by visiting the electronic version of The Raven via the Scotch homepage. Any boy who has creative writing that he would like to submit to The Raven can send a copy to jeannette.weeda@scotch.wa.edu.au.

All entries are considered for the Raven Speech Night prizes and other writing competitions.

Dr Jeannette Weeda
English Teacher

Uniform Shop Opening Hours and Holiday Opening Times

The Uniform Shop will be open on Monday, 23 July (the day before Winter Term commences) from 9.00am - 12.00 noon and 1.00pm - 4.00pm.

From Tuesday 24 July normal term opening times will apply:

Tuesdays:	8.00am - 5.00pm
Thursdays:	7.30am - 11.30am
Fridays:	7.30am - 11.30am

Uniform website: http://home.scotch.wa.edu.au/uniform

Uniform online ordering: http://www.flexischools.com.au

Update from the ILT Department (Tech Centre)

We have seen an increase in the number of Apple power adapters being handed into the Tech Centre, owing to the family pet chewing through the cable. Unfortunately, broken cables are not covered under warranty but we are able to exchange them for a charge of $89.00. There are several theories as to why rabbits, cats and dogs are attracted to phone cords, cable TV cords, etc. One theory is that they are attracted by the vibration from the electricity. Another theory is that the electricity makes a noise that is audible to the pet. Or could it be that the plastic that enclosed the electrical wires tastes good? Who's to know, whatever the reason, we want your pet to stay safe and would recommend that the power adapters are kept away from them.

The Tech Centre will be open during the holidays and support is available to our Scotch College community; students, parents and staff. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to call us on (08) 93836866.

Monday to Friday 8.00am to 4.00pm (holiday opening hours).

Scotch College Jazz Night

Jazz Night is on this Friday 22 June! Click here to book your tickets for a wonderful night.

Residential Life News

Year 10 Tomorrow Man

Last week, Year 10's participated in their third module of Tomorrow Man.

The session was focused on the importance of making the time to 'acknowledge a mate' and it began by trying to identify why as males we don't let those close to us know why we value them. Initially, boys were sharing that they found this difficult because of the fear of showing their feelings and the ridicule they might receive from the others within the group. This led to a discussion on what it means to feel safe within 'this' group with a general feeling of while they felt safe in a physical, and to a certain extent, emotional state (not bullied or harassed), they were not completely safe in a social sense with the underlying impression that for some of them they couldn't show who they really were, which meant that they were trying to 'mask' their true personalities.

To watch 15/16 year old boys stand up and share this with their peers was extremely powerful and moving and to a certain extent contrary to the last statement.

For the final activity of the night the boys were asked to place themselves on a sliding scale of how they felt they may have impacted on the group. This was measured in three ways; positively, negatively or no effect at all. Once the boys had positioned themselves our presenter Zac then asked for volunteers to 'call out' other boys who they thought had wrongly positioned themselves. Part of the rule of this conversation was that if you called out someone you were asked to talk to them and not about them. Again, another extremely powerful moment within the group as the boys openly, and extremely detailed and personal, told boys why they valued their friendship and/or why they were considered to be an important member of the group.

The important learning from this is the feeling the boys received from both sharing their thoughts about why they value the friendship of others and conversely what is valued by others from their friendship.

This program is outstanding, and the Year 10's are extremely fortunate to be involved in it.

Catch up on all the latest Residential Life news here.

Mr Marcus Wilkinson
Director of Residential Life

From the Head of Junior School

What Makes a Good Orator?

David Josiah Brewer wrote 'Oratory is a masterful art. Poetry, painting, music, sculpture, architecture please, thrill, inspire - but oratory rules. The orator dominates those who hear him, convinces their reason, controls their judgement, compels their action. For the time being, he is master.'

Over the last four weeks, the young men of Year 5 have been crafting and honing their speeches on a range of topics that have been presented to the boys in their class. Along the journey they developed their oratory skills, harnessed their anxiety and learned to present with style and confidence. The teachers in each Year 5 class had the challenging task of identifying the top three speakers to progress.

On Wednesday 13 June, the boys gathered in Memorial Hall for our annual JS Speakers' Challenge. The excitement was palpable as the boys gathered for what they knew would be an hour of being intrigued, engaged and entertained. The nine finalists spoke on a range of topics and did themselves proud as they bravely stood before their peers and articulated their thoughts and ideas. Each topic was different and each boy delivered his speech from the heart with charisma and confidence. The topics included:

Our three judges were challenged to determine the finalists and establish the top three speakers. Congratulations to our three champions Abel Algie, William Arundel and Caden Hart who will represent the College at the IPSHA Speakers' Challenge on Wednesday 27 June.

I want to thank our brave young men for taking the risk and presenting their speeches to our school community and wish them every success on 27 June.

Mr John Stewart
Head of Junior School

Physical Education News

The Year 3 students competed in an Inter-School Cross Country Carnival at Scotch on Friday 8 June. Aquinas College, Guildford Grammar, Hale School and Wesley College attended the event. It was a great day as the students ran 1.5 km in a fun and friendly atmosphere in two divisions. William Carmichael was the best-placed Scotch student coming in 3^rd in his event.

The Year 4 boys attended their Year 4 Rugby Carnival at Hale School recently and all the students displayed new skills and a determination to tackle and run with the ball against the other schools.

Our Inter-House Soccer competition is mid-way through the pool stages and there are some fierce games taking place at recess and lunch as the boys in Year 3, 4 and 5 boys enjoy some friendly rivalries against their mates in the school houses.

Mr Scott Whiston
Head of Junior School Physical Education

Year 3W News

It has been an incredibly busy term for us and the boys have thrown themselves into a multitude of activities with energy and passion.

Last week the Year 3 cohort participated in an Inter-School Cross Country event which was a magnificent showcase of sportsmanship and commitment. Every boy gave their best, cheered everyone home and wore their Scotch uniform with pride. Yet again Mr Whiston had managed to secure beautiful weather, amidst a week of blustery storms, so the boys were blessed with another lovely morning on the Scotch Ovals.

As part of the action component of our inquiry into equal opportunities, the boys baked cookies and organised a sale during recess. We raised $190 dollars, which we added to the impressive funds that was collected by selling our beautiful hand printed dog cards. All monies will be donated to the Love Angels initiative who are raising funds for the Ubud Birthing Centre in Bali.

As our new unit investigates how products go through a process of change before they are distributed and consumed, the cookie baking session provided an ideal segue into this inquiry. We baked cookies and cupcakes, discovering how many ingredients there are in simple products and also how far they travel. Using the fabulous Middle School kitchens, we quickly realised that failure to follow instructions can end up in disaster! However, these epic fails in the kitchen have provided valuable reflection opportunities.

In the classroom we have continued to explore and research the concept of change, making bath bombs, smoothies, Lego cars, plastic from milk and ice cream without a freezer (many epic fails in this lesson, with some interesting flavours of ice cream that will never hit the shelves). It has been extremely messy, the teachers have a few more grey hairs, but the learning has been hands-on, fun and hugely interesting.

It will all culminate in our Teacher Chair Project, where the boys will be organised into small companies that plan, budget, design, build and market a chair modelled only from cardboard and duct tape. More grey hairs are guaranteed for the teachers, as we have to sit in the finished product without ending up on the floor. However, the final Exhibition promises to be a fitting end to what has been an engaging, inquiry-driven period of research and activity and the July holiday will be well earned by all parties involved.

Mrs Alison Webster
Year 3 Teacher

Year 5W News

In 5W, we have been looking at the transdisciplinary theme of 'Sharing the Planet'. Our central idea has allowed us to look at human interaction with the environment, how organisms are connected in nature and the interdependence within ecosystems and biomes. Through this lens the boys have been researching into different biomes in North and South America with the final process of the research to lead into a written report. Further to this, we have looked at food webs and food chains and the consequences of organisms dying out of a food chain. We have used our reading time to look at a range of articles which we have added to our cross-classification chart on adaptations. These articles ranged from looking at why polar bears have fair hair, the impacts of a large spleen on the Bajau people, bioluminescence, why astronauts get space sick, the vomiting of the Bombardier Beetle and African runners. This gave us a broad idea of adaptations. This will finally lead us on to our final task of creating a creature to adapt to a range of conditions in different biomes.

Mr Andrew Wells
Year 5 Teacher

Seesaw and Showbie - A window into the school day in the Junior School

There are many rich learning experiences occurring each day in the ELC and JS. While parents would love to be able to see them all, it is sometimes hard for the younger boys to articulate all they have done during that day. Many times, students will share one small activity, or even say 'not much' when asked about their day on the car ride home.

This year the ELC teachers are using the Seesaw app to capture and share what is happening in the Pre-Kindy/Kindy, Pre-Primary and Year 1 classrooms. Seesaw allows teachers to provide an immediate and personalised window to share and communicate with their families. Posts to Seesaw can include photos, videos and collages, which can be great conversation starters. Popular posts this term have included Bush School photos, slow motion videos of STEM experiences, and the French 'Welcome/Hello' song. These posts can then trigger a conversation with families which further cements learning for the students.

Boys in Years 2 to 5 are using Showbie to collect and upload their digital work and receive feedback from their teachers. Showbie allows teachers from all subject areas to give digital comments, either written or audio. Showbie is a great way for the Year 2 to 5 parents to see what has been happening in their son's class and start a conversation on what they are working on.

Next time parents ask their son what has been happening at school and hear the response 'Not much', ask your son to grab his iPad or open up Seesaw on your mobile device for a great way to discuss and help deepen the learning.

Mrs Amanda Ritchie
ILT Integration Specialist

From the Head of Middle School

Dear Parents,

Last week the Senior School drama production The Wedding Singer hit the Dickinson Centre stage and it was amazing. Packed audiences each night loved the story of musician Robbie Hart and waitress Julia Sullivan and were just blown away by the singing, dancing and acting talent of the cast. It was a brilliant illustration of where our performing arts pathway leads to and what it offers in terms of skill development and sheer enjoyment in learning. From the Middle School's Year 6-7 production of James and the Giant Peach, through to the forthcoming Middle Years' 8-9 production of Oliver Twist to the Year 10-12 production, our annual schedule of drama performances provides rich and plentiful opportunities for boys to develop the skills and confidence to sing, dance and act on stage in front an audience, or work in the behind the scenes as part of the technical team that deliver sound, lighting and stage sets throughout the show. I encourage all boys to audition at least once for a production in their time at Scotch. It could be life shaping and it will definitely be fun.

The Performing Art focus continues this week with one of the highpoints of the music pathway hitting the Dickinson Centre stage, the annual Jazz Night. This is a fun night of music and dancing delivered by the boys and the Music staff. Like the Wedding Singer, Jazz Night is one of the culminating events of the Performing Arts pathway at Scotch and showcases the skill and talent of the boys in our Music programme.

Finally, a congratulations and thank you to the Year 8 boys and staff on the completion of another outstanding outdoor education programme at Moray. A programme that contained all of the usual highlights: the character building commitment, to dealing with cold ropes, cold wet suits, cold water and cold nights. The overcoming of anxiety in dealing with new challenges, in the river, the bush, on the ropes course and even in the kitchen. Congratulations and thank you.

Mr Richard Ledger
Head of Middle School

Energised Classroom 6.2C

Have you ever wondered how electricity flows? Do you know the differences between conductors and insulators? What about how does moving air and water create electricity?

Well the 6C class can confidently answer all of these questions and more thanks to their recent hands-on, inquiry based approach to their iLearn lessons.

The boys have really enjoyed making a variety of electrical series and parallel circuits and discovering all about negatively charged particles called electrons and how they flow from the outer shell of one atom to the outer shell of another.

In addition to this, the 6C class have been asked to think critically about the world-wide use of sustainable and unsustainable forms of energy and have begun to form their own opinion of their personal vision for Australia's energy future.

Some alternative sources of energy that the class have really enjoyed learning about include Hydro-electric power plants, Wind Farms and Geothermal Energy. Individually students have been thinking about whether sustainable energy sources are more effective than unsustainable energy sources and whether Australia, as a nation, has a moral obligation to rely more on renewable energy.

Mr Michael Campbell
Year 6 Teacher

Saving Sinking Cities 8.1T

According to the National Environmental Science Programme (2017), Australia's coasts are vulnerable to a number of climatic hazards, one of the main ones being rising levels of sea water. This topic has formed the basis of our Humanities unit this term, Sunken City, where the boys have learnt how dynamic natural and cultural forces transform our world. So far, in an attempt to examine and understand some of the forces that can destroy our coastlines, the boys have learnt about erosion and deposition, the different types of waves, and how humans have contributed to the presence of coastal hazards.

The boys attended an excursion to Bathers Beach in Fremantle this term. Whilst there, they participated in some geographic field skills such as measuring wind speed and direction, precipitation, and water temperature. They studied the longshore drift and distinguished the waves as being either constructive or destructive. They also considered the Aboriginal history of the area, exploring the Manjarree walking trail, part of the Nyoongar coastal trail which stretches across Western Australia.

The excursion proved to be lots of fun and was a great opportunity to take learning outside of the classroom.

Mrs Tracey FitzPatrick
Year 8 Teacher

Student Achievements

Congratulations to Digby Gardner (6.3T) who is travelling to Newcastle to compete with the Under 12 State Schools WA hockey from the 11-18^th August.

Headmaster's Commendations

Congratulations to the following boys for receiving a Headmaster's Commendation.

8.2R	Stewart Van Hoek
7.2H	Marco Ghiselli
7.2H	Jaxon Douglas
7.7T	Jack Cook
6.2C	Hudson Smith

Important Dates in Middle School Autumn Term

Monday 18 June	Year 8 Food Design International Food Showcase, 11.30am - 1.10pm MS Quad Year 7 Rugby match v Dulwich College Singapore, 2.00pm
Wednesday 20 June	Free Dress Day - gold coin donation to JDFC Orienteering State Championships
Thursday 21 June	JPSSA Inter-School Cross Country
Friday 22 June	PSA Juniors Inter-School Cross Country Carnival
Saturday 23 June	Year 8 Mums and Sons Mini Golf, 2.00pm Wembley Golf Course
Monday 25 June	Year 8 Food Design International Food Showcase 8.35am - 10.00am MS Quad
Friday 29 June	MS Assembly, 11.30am Dickinson Centre Year 7 Parent Function, 12.00pm Shorehouse Swanbourne Autumn Term Concludes

From the Head of Senior School

By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third, by experience, which is the bitterest - Confucius

A key goal of assessment and feedback is to help students develop as independent learners capable of monitoring and regulating their own learning. In the Senior School we are currently trialling ongoing reporting and supplying increased feedback on assessments in Years 9 and 12. Improved feedback has been identified as a major factor in improving learning with different types of feedback working best depending on the individual's phase of learning - corrective feedback is suited for novices, process feedback is needed as the learner develops proficiency, and elaborated conceptual feedback becomes appropriate with highly competent students.

It is important to note that simply providing feedback alone does not achieve our key goal. It is only when learners actively engage with the assessment criteria and process of evaluating performance against those criteria that they are able to use feedback in a way that leads to improvement. By helping students better understand their own level of achievement, teaching students to be diagnostic in reviewing assessment results and thoughtful of the feedback supplied, they are afforded a greater opportunity to improve their academic performance.

Unfortunately, students' ability to self-assess and regulate their learning is often undermined by a lack of self-efficacy. That is, the belief in one's capabilities to organise and implement the course of action required to improve one's situations. Self-efficacy influences academic motivation, learning and achievement. Increasing student self-efficacy, therefore, is crucial to a student's success. As teachers, we can stimulate critical thinking and comprehension and thus increase student self-efficacy through a variety of strategies such as dialogic, open-ended questioning, positive reinforcement, increased availability and the flipped classroom. All approaches to teaching are encouraged at Scotch College. Reflection can build one's confidence (and self-efficacy) in one's ability to impact upon their role in improving their own learning outcomes. This, in turn, translates into higher rates of learning.

So, what does reflecting involve?

Student learning takes place through an iterative process of reflecting on how progress matches against learning outcomes, be it formative or summative. (It is also how staff review the outcomes of various programmes in order to continuously improve curriculum design and delivery). The aim is to ensure that students engage with their feedback and use it to improve their future performance. For student reflection to be meaningful, it must be metacognitive, applicable and shared with others. Metacognitive reflection it is not concerned so much with the assessment, but with self-improvement: Could this be better? How? What steps should be taken? Applicable reflection is particularly important given the nature of the Senior School curriculums. That is, the content or skills assessed will be required again, so it makes sense to address the problems identified. Finally, a reflection shared. By sharing their reflections on their academic work, students can both advise and seek help from their peers. Sharing their achievements helps those who struggled with that particular task, and sharing their weak spots helps them troubleshoot as they work through a problem set or have a peer edit a rough draft. While we do not currently ask our boys to complete this type of reflection upon the feedback they have received, there is clearly benefit in considering to in the future.

I trust you can see both the value of ongoing feedback and the corresponding reflection of it and encourage you to read the feedback supplied by your son's teachers if he is in Years 9 or 12 and, importantly, take time to read over your son's reflection.

Mr Dean Shadgett
Head of Senior School

Year 11 Scholarships

Current Year 11 students are invited to apply for the

• PC Anderson Scholarship

OR

• WR Dickinson Scholarship.

To be eligible to apply for the PC Anderson Scholarship you must be the son, grandson, great grandson etc of an Old Scotch Collegian. Boys who have no old boy connection are eligible to apply for the WR Dickinson Scholarship.

Please see Ms Quinlivan in Admissions, located in Campbell House (the house situated on the opposite corner to the main Administration building).

Applications must be collected by the student. Applications close 4.00pm Friday 27 July 2018.

Careers Information

THANK YOU!

Thank you to all the students and parents who attended the Scotch College Combined Schools Careers Expo last Wednesday to make it a very successful events with very positive feedback from the institutions and organisations that attended. Comments included: 'focussed students', 'inquisitive and asked great questions', 'polite', 'love attending this expo' If you were unable to attend and your son is still seeking career and course information, the university and TAFE Open days are approaching and will be advertised in the next Thistle.

Year 12 Career Focus Breakfasts

Year 12 students have the opportunity to meet with OSCs who currently work in a variety of careers that may be of interest and may assist students to make further education choices for 2018. These breakfasts are sponsored by the OSC and have been advertised to Year 12 students who may avail themselves of this opportunity each Wednesday in June commencing at 7.15am in the Dining Hall. Places are still available for the 28 June breakfast (Law and Arts) but students must register through Mr Frusher for catering purposes.

University Information

Notre Dame University Early Offer Programme 2019

The University of Notre Dame Australia's Early Offer Programme makes early offers to Year 12 students who have demonstrated academic excellence and are making a significant contribution to their school, community or church. Students who have a predicted ATAR of 93+ for Law & Physiotherapy or 90+ for all other courses are encouraged to apply for this early offer by contacting Mr Frusher at Scotch College. If a student is successful and accepts their Early Offer, it would in no way prohibit them from applying and accepting an offer from another university.

Applications are now open and close on Tuesday, 31 July, 2018. Offers will be made in September, 2018.

A Day in the Life of a Notre Dame Uni Student

Friday 6 July

Year 10, 11 and 12 students are invited to Notre Dame's Fremantle Campus for A Day in the Life of a University Student to experience what student life at Notre Dame is really like! Visit our campus, take part in lectures and activities, enjoy a tour of our town university, and meet current students and academics.

1-on-1 Advice Sessions

July 9-July 13

Students seeking course advice are invited to book a one-on-one appointment with a Prospective Students Adviser during the July holidays - 3 - 12 July. This is an opportunity to discuss Notre Dame's undergraduate course options and the application process in depth.

For more information and to register for any events, visit notredame.edu.au/events.

University of Melbourne Interstate Student and Family Info Day

The University of Melbourne would like to invite students to attend their Information Day for Interstate Students at their Parkville campus on Thursday 12 July 9.00am - 6.00pm.

The day will focus on aspects of the university that are of greater concern to interstate students such as the application process, scholarships, student services, accommodation options and financial assistance. Participants will have an opportunity to ask current University of Melbourne students who have come from interstate about their experience and how they managed the transition. The programme will also include a campus tour followed by a free lunch at one of the residential colleges and a college tour. Optional additional accommodation tours will take place after the official programme has ended.

It is highly recommend students turn their University of Melbourne experience into a long weekend and participate in another event being run on the following day Friday 13 July 'A Day at Melbourne' where they will find out about undergraduate courses structure, majors, graduate pathways, enhancement programmes and activities that can be done within each faculty. To find out more about the A Day at Melbourne programme to http://go.unimelb.edu.au/3bfn

REGISTER NOW

https://futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/explore/events/victoria_and_interstate/victoria/interstate-student-and-parent-information-day-jul

UNSW Canberra

• ADFA Trainee Officers study Arts, Business, Computing and Cyber Security, Engineering, Science, or Technology degrees (while receiving military training and subsidised accommodation and living costs)
• Defence Civilian Undergraduate Sponsorship students study Computing and Cyber Security or specialist Engineering degrees in Aeronautical, Civil, Electrical, or Mechanical (with full tuition fee scholarships and stipends)
• Non-Defence Undergraduate students study specialist Engineering degrees in Aeronautical, Civil, Electrical, or Mechanical or Engineering / Science double degrees (with paid work experience opportunities).

All students are provided with a unique study experience, access to custom-built facilities and resources, outstanding industry networks, and graduate with a degree from one of the top universities in the world.

Find out more - http://www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/study

Scholarships

The University of New South Wales offers scholarships in a variety of areas including academic, rural, sporting, indigenous, accommodation and faculty. To search for a scholarship that suits you go to:

scholarships@unsw.edu.au. Applications open in July and close 28 September 2018. See Mr Frusher for more information.

Bond University scholarships applications are now open! These scholarships encompass a range of full-fee and part-fee tuition remission. These scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic achievement, sport, leadership arts and community enhancement.

For more information visit https://bond.edu.au/future-students/study-bond/how-apply/scholarships

Applications close 31 July 2018.

Curtin University Scholarship Alert

Year 12 students can sign up for Curtin's free scholarship email service to receive an email alert whenever a scholarship that matches their criteria is open for applications. An email reminder will also be sent before applications close.

To subscribe, visit the scholarship website here.

Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors Scholarships

AIQS offers a number of scholarships each year for Year 12 students who qualify for entry into a Quantity Surveying, Construction Economics, Construction Management (Economics) or other appropriate course at an AIQS accredited university in Australia. The scholarship is to the total value of AU$3,000.

Applications close: 31 October 2018.

http://www.aiqs.com.au/imis/AIQS_Website/Careers_and_Education/Education/AIQS%20Scholarships/AIQS_Website/Public/Careers/Scholarships.aspx

Apprenticeship Opportunity

Rio Tinto Apprenticeships - 2019 Intake Applications Open July

Applications open soon for Rio Tinto's incredible apprenticeship programme. If students are interested, they are encourage to do their research and start putting their documents together to apply.

The four year programme offers qualifications in the following areas - electrician, heavy duty diesel mechanic, mechanical fitter and light vehicle maintenance.

Applications will be advertised here - www.riotinto.com/careers

Find out more - https://www.facebook.com/RioTintoWA/photos/a.1645766462359316.1073741828.1644968555772440/2073578589578099/?type=3&theater

July Revision Programmes

Academic Task Force ATAR Revision Programme Year 11 and 12 subject revision, study skills, essay writing and exam preparation programmes will be offered at Churchlands Senior High and Perth College from Monday 2 July - Friday 6 July. The same programmes will be offered at Perth Modern and Rossmoyne Senior High from Monday 9 July - Friday 13 July.

Enrol on-line at www.acdemicgroup.com.au or phone 93149500.

Academic Associates ATAR Year 12 ATAR Enrichment Programme at UWA - Monday 9 July - Friday 13 July. You will receive academic extension in your ATAR courses with higher level exam questions, exam preparation workbooks, and small interactive classes with personal feedback.

Enrol at www.academicgroup.com.au or phone 9314 9500.

Academic Task Force Skills Development Programme for Year 7, 8, 9 and 10

Learning skills, Advanced Maths and Intermediate English, essay writing and Foundation Maths and English will be offered at Churchlands Senior High from Monday 2 July -Friday 6 July and at Rossmoyne Senior High from Monday 9 July - Friday 13 July.

Enrol at www.academicgroup.com.au or phone 9314 9500.

TEE Consultants

Revision courses will be run at UWA during the first week of the school holidays. See the attachment for details and registration.

Gap Year Opportunities

EA Ski & Snowboard Canada

Educating Adventures are now recruiting for paid ski and snowboard instructor jobs with full training provided starting this November. Download your free Canada instructor brochure to find out how you can become an instructor at one of their world-class ski resorts.

Download here - https://easkiandsnowboard.com/canada-instructor-jobs-brochure

Australian Defence Force

There are still some places available for the ADF Gap Year Programme.

Air Defence Operator

Airbase Protection and Security

Artillery Operator

Warehouse Storeperson

Find out more - https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/students-and-education/gap-year/

Future Skills Report

Pearson predicts the most sought-after jobs and skills of 2030. David Barnett announces the Future Skills report, and unpacks findings from this research: the occupations and - critically - the skills predicted to experience increased demand by 2030.

Watch the video: http://bit.ly/2sfGapo

Mr Peter Frusher
Careers Adviser

Important Dates in Senior School Autumn Term

Date	Event	Location	Time
Week 8A
	Year 10 and 11 Bibbulmun Track Expedition away
Monday 18 June	Personal Project Meetings all week
Tuesday 19 June	Year 12 Career Focus Breakfast	Dining Room Annexe	7.15am - 8.25am
	Year 12 ATAR and Diploma Geography Urban Studies Field Trip	Various locations	8.15am - 3.15pm
	Scotch Parents Meeting	Dining Room Annexe	9.00am - 10.30am
	Tour the Tower Excursion	CBD	11.30am - 2.30pm
	Titration Stakes	Curtin University	4.00pm - 8.00pm
	WADL Debating Round 5 Week 2	Shenton College	7.20pm - 9.30pm
Wednesday 20 June	Year 11 ATAR and Diploma Literature Incursion	Drama Room	8.40am - 10.40am
	Year 11 Geography Excursion	Millbrook Winery	8.45am - 2.30pm
	Year 12 House Head Report Meetings (all Houses except Brisbane)	BRC (Library)	3.40pm - 7.30pm
Thursday 21 June	Final day of Year 10 and 11 Bibbulmun Track Expedition
	Men's Health Week Breakfast	Canteen	7.15am - 8.25am
	Year 11 and 12 Politics and Law Excursion	Notre Dame	9.15am - 2.30pm
	Year 10 Rugby - Scotch College v Christ Church Grammar School	St John's Wood Playing Fields	3.30pm departure, 4.00pm - 5.30pm
	Paul Litherland Presentation	Memorial Hall	6.30pm - 8.00pm
Friday 22 June	Year 9 Examination Period commences
	Senior School Marching and Assembly	Dickinson Centre	8.35am - 9.35am
	PSA Sport - Scotch College v Trinity College (please check fixtures on home.scotch)	Home	2.00pm - 4.00pm
	PSA Cross Country - Juniors All School Race (5 x 2km Relay)	Christ Church Grammar School	2.00pm - 4.00pm
	Jazz Night	Dickinson Centre	7.00pm - 10.00pm
Saturday 23 June	PSA Sport - Scotch College v Trinity College (please check fixtures on home.scotch)	Home	8.30am onwards
	PSA Cross Country - Seniors All Schools Race (5 x 3km Relay)	Christ Church Grammar School	8.30am - 11.30am
	WA Schools' Senior Concert Band Festival	Churchlands Senior High School
	Scotch Parents' Year 11 Fathers' Sleepover	Moray
Sunday 24 June	WA Schools' Senior Orchestra Festival	Churchlands Senior High School
Week 9B
Monday 25 June	Year 11 into 12 Subject Selections due
Tuesday 26 June	Year 12 Career Focus Breakfast	Dining Room Annexe	7.15am - 8.25am
	PSA Cross Country - Seniors All Schools Race (3km Race)	Hale School	3.30pm departure for 4.30pm race
	WADL Make-up Round 2	Shenton College	tbc
Wednesday 27 June	Year 12 English and Literature (ATAR) Excursion	Curtin University	8.15am - 3.45pm
	Year 12 Brisbane House Head Meetings	Bunning Resource Centre	3.40pm - 6.15pm
Thursday 28 June	Year 10 Paul Litherland Cyber Safety Incursion	Memorial Hall	2.35pm - 3.25pm
	PSA Sport - Scotch College v Aquinas College - Firsts teams only (Please check fixtures on home.scotch)	Home	2.00pm - 5.00pm
	Year 12 Parents' Evening	Steve's Hotel	7.00pm onwards
Friday 29 June	Senior School Marching and Assembly (including House Singing Final)	Dickinson Centre	8.35am - 9.35am
	Autumn Term finishes in Senior School		1.00pm
	Year 9 Canberra Tour departs		various
Saturday 30 June	Tanzania Community and Service Tour departs
Sunday 15 July	Year 10 Expeditions commence (various departure and return dates)	Various locations
Wednesday 18 July	Tanzania Community and Service Tour returns
Monday 23 July	Boarding Houses re-open		3.00pm
	All boarders to be back in Boarding House		5.30pm
Tuesday 24 July	Winter Term commences
	PSA Sport - Guildford Grammar School v Scotch College - First teams only (Please check fixtures on home.scotch)	Away	2.00pm - 4.00pm
	PSA Cross Country - Seniors All Schools 4km Race	Wesley College	2.00pm - 4.00pm
Thursday 26 July	Round Square Parent Information Evening	Memorial Hall	6.30pm - 7.30pm
Friday 27 July	Senior School Marching and Assembly	Dickinson Centre	8.35am - 9.35am
	PSA Cross Country - Juniors All Schools Race (2 x 3km Relay)	Scotch College	2.00pm - 4.00pm
	PSA Sport - Scotch College Bye
Saturday 28 July	PSA Sport - Scotch College Bye
	PSA Cross Country - Seniors All Schools Race (3 x 5km Relay)	Scotch College	2.00pm - 4.00pm
	Pipe Band Edinburgh Military Tattoo Tour departs
Sunday 29 July	50 Mile Walk Practice		7.00am - 10.00am

Skyplay Basketball Camp

Scotch College is pleased to advise Skyplay Basketball Camps are running skills and play programmes during the July school holidays. See here for more details and registration information.