If we needed any reminder about the importance of quality public leadership, then this week's activities in Canberra have yet again proved we are a long way off finding stable mentors for our young; at least at the Federal level of politics.

At Scotch College we try and reinforce three core values, Service, Integrity and Stewardship. It is very hard to identify any of these core values currently operating consistently in our Federal political arena. More than ever, for the benefit of our future citizens, we need to continue to develop programmes and provide experiences that reinforce the type of graduate we hope to produce.

This term is passing by rapidly and I urge everyone to continue to keep our Year 12s in their thoughts and prayers as they work towards the end of classes and the commencement of the examination period. This time can be very stressful for our young men. They need to know we are travelling alongside them through this period of their schooling.

Last week was a big week of athletic carnivals. With the addition of our wonderful Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten and Pre-Primary carnival, the week was a resounding success. Watching the boys all give of their best, supporting each other and their respective houses, made for wonderful viewing. Furthermore, the amazing number of parents who came to the four carnivals to offer their support reinforces the importance of community at Scotch College.

In the next couple of weeks, we will be providing the community with an update about the upcoming Senior School building project. The main information will revolve around pedestrian movement and the removal of the carpark and roundabout outside of the Senior School Pipe Band room. The project will conclude at the end of 2019 so we can commence using the new facility from 2020.

As usual there is a lot of activity planned over the coming weeks. Have a great fortnight.

Dr Alec O'Connell
Headmaster

Moving towards NAPLAN Online 2019

By 2019, all Scotch College students will be sitting NAPLAN online, this is part of the nationwide directive to have all students sitting the online version of NAPLAN by 2020.

The only exception will be in the case of our Year 3 boys who shall still sit the writing assessment in the traditional manner.

In Western Australia 43,326 students from 274 schools completed NAPLAN online in 2018.

NAPLAN online will provide better assessment, more precise results and faster turnaround of information.

In order to prepare Scotch College to deliver NAPLAN online, we are in the process of completing the school readiness tests in order to prepare staff and students for the transition. This trial will enable us to assess our technical readiness to implement the new online assessments. In addition, it will give us a chance to try out the new national online assessment platform in a real-life classroom environment.

Participating in this trial is important as it will help us ensure we are technically ready to deliver NAPLAN online. During the trial, our teachers will have the opportunity to practice managing the classroom logistics for an online assessment and the new test administration processes.

The readiness test has not been constructed to assess curriculum knowledge, but rather to provide students with an opportunity to experience the types of questions that will be included in the new online assessments. As such, reports will not be provided.

Participation in the SRT is a key step to ensuring a successful NAPLAN online experience in 2019.

Our technology integration team is working with the Deans of Teaching and Learning in each sub-school to ensure that NAPLAN remains an assessment of each individual boys' knowledge of the Australian Curriculum rather than his capacity to use a device. As such we are working with all relevant boys to familiarise them with the new interface that they shall experience with NAPLAN online. Parents can see this and engage their sons at home by clicking here.

As always, our frequently asked questions page on the Teaching and Learning website offers more information and this can be found here.

Mr Peter Allen
Director of Teaching and Learning

Constancy

I wonder what the opposite of change is…sameness, perhaps? Or perhaps permanence is a better word. Whatever term we settle upon, I am sure we have all desired it at some stage in our lives; a point when we have wished that things could remain just as they are, if not forever, then at least for a while longer.

We are often told that change is the one constant in our lives; that change is good. Indeed, hearing this may be the only thing that does not change! And there is no doubt that many changes are of benefit, even if we do not enjoy the process of change while it is happening. Everything changes, sooner or later; that is the cycle of life. However, it appears that the pace of change is also changing. In the past, things evolved slowly, whereas today, it seems change occurs very rapidly.

Perhaps this embodies the great dilemma in the life of every human – that we actually need something permanent in our lives and yet nothing is.

When everything around us, and about us as a being, is changing, we need something to hold us in place, so that we can make decisions which are not based on – or severely affected by – the churning waters around us. This is particularly so when there is a great deal that is changing or when change is happening very quickly. We all need an anchor during the storm to stop us being dashed against the rocks or to prevent us from being swept away, or losing sight of our destination, or getting completely lost. And this is particularly so for young people.

We need people in our lives who are going to be there for us, who can guide us if and when we need it, and who can provide that guidance even though we might not think that we need it. Sometimes, when we are in the storm, it becomes about survival. Sometimes, we think we are more in control than we actually are, and only those outside can see that we are not. I think children at school need to know that they can rely on people; that people will be there when they need them.

These people represent particular values for us, people whose advice we can trust, people who will remind us about what is important, or who point us in the right direction. This is what parents and teachers do for young people. We should present – and represent – values in the world. And whilst many things in their lives are changing (from their bodies and voices to their clothing, friends, and understanding of the world), young people need to have a reference point, a north star, which remains fixed in their sky to guide them, which they can see in times of darkness and hopefully during the storm. They may not want to look at it, they may not use it often, but just knowing that it is there can make a difference.

I read a passage in a book by Alexander McCall Smith the other day, talking about young people, which I thought was quite profound:

  …That's what it's like to be nineteen, or whatever it is they are, she said to herself. That's when you have strong views and strong uncertainties; you can't believe that others may not see you as you see yourself, or love you as you love them. It was a wonderful age in so many respects, and yet so horrible in others. You thought of yourself as more of less immortal, with all the time in front of you that near-immortality conferred – forty, fifty years, even sixty – and yes, you would achieve most of your ambitions. And yet you worried so much about what people thought of you, about your looks, about the clothes you wore, and you could hardly believe the world was so slow to listen to your opinions.

I remember the certainty of youth with a tinge of embarrassment; it has been replaced by the unsureness of middle age! And whilst something fixed, or a firm anchor, can be a good thing, we also need to be careful that it does not keep us stuck in one spot. An anchor is something used when required, not all the time.

Rather than simply teaching them a subject, we must ensure young people have the skills to ride life's waves and the moral anchor to hold them in place when they need to make difficult choices.

As Louisa May Allcott so eloquently put it: "I'm not afraid of the storm, for I'm learning how to sail my ship." Our job is to help our boys learn the skills for life, not to sail the ship for them.

Brain Reset

These sessions continue for Year 11s and 12s on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3.45pm - 4.30pm. They are designed to help students relax their bodies and minds, which allows them to focus far better and to be more productive. Please encourage your son to attend.

SchoolTV

Please remember that the school has a subscription to this website, which provides information and support for parents regarding a number of important issues related to young people. The most recent topics include body image and eating disorders. The website can be accessed from the Scotch homepage or via this link.

Research into student emotions

From time to time, we have the opportunity to work with researchers with regard to improving the wellbeing of our students. We have received a request from ECU regarding some research they are doing into the measurement of adolescent emotions. This is important work, as there has been little done in this area. It will hopefully lead us towards a more accurate measurement tool which can be used in schools, which will enable us to better assist students to deal with challenges they may face.

We understand that parents and students have been asked to complete a number of surveys recently, so whilst we would like to encourage as many of our students in Years 7-12 to take part in the survey, we will leave the decision to participate to each family.

If you are willing to let your son/s take part in the anonymous, 15-20 minute online survey, we ask that you contact Michelle Macdonald (michelle.macdonald@westnet.com.au ). Once the survey is completed, your son will go into a draw for iTunes vouchers and a Samsung Galaxy S9 smartphone.

Mr James Hindle
Director of Student and Staff Wellbeing

A visual thanks from Maddington Primary School

The relationship with Maddington Primary School has continued to strengthen in 2018. Last Wednesday Head of Student Council, Felix Jones (Brisbane), attended the school to receive a gift in appreciation of all the College's efforts in supporting the school.

Maddington's Year 6 class have spent a considerable amount of time creating a cartoon which represents their day at the Scribbler's Festival in May. The College went and picked up the class from Maddington and hosted them as a part of the Festival. It was a huge success and the staff at Maddington say that it has made a lasting impression on the students.

The main way in which the College supports the school is Senior School house groups making lunches which are delivered to Maddington once every two weeks. These are very much in need in their school community and allow the teaching staff to ensure that all of the students are well nourished and in the best shape to be in the classroom. This programme has grown over the last 12 months and has been well supported by the Student Council.

Purpose and Profit

An new study by HSBC has shown that young entrepreneurs are increasingly motivated by the social impact of their businesses. The survey results can be found in the article here and provide some proof to the notion that young people are more socially aware then older generations. As a teacher I am fortunate to see the quality of our young people and this study will come as no surprise to many teachers.

Reconciling the notion that profit and social purpose are at odds with one another will go a long way towards a harmonious and healthy society and it is great to see this idea is prevalent amongst those with an entrepreneurial spirit!

Mr David Kyle
Director of Community and Service

Young People Seeking Help

We thought it might be useful for parents to understand a bit more about how and when young people seek help and what to do if and when they come to you.

As adults, we often try to solve the problem for them when the best approach may be to help them find the right solution themselves.  The most important thing we can do for them is to listen to their concerns.

Below are two graphs that highlight where young people go for help with important issues and how adults can be helpful:

HELP SEEKING:

ADULT ACTIONS:

As a parent, how can you help your son?

The LATE model offers these tips:

Listen

Acknowledge concerns

Talk about openly

End with encouragement

Contact the School to seek support if you need it.  Other support ideas appear on the School Psychology Portal.

Ms Shanua Lipscombe
Senior School Psychologist

Arts Week 2018

Monday 3 - Friday 7 September

The celebration of the arts starts with a bang at Monday lunch time on the top oval near the Chapel with a range of arts events. Food trucks, music, and visiting performance artists. Each evening there are events showcasing students work and performances in the Arts. The attached schedule details time, places and events. Don't forget to bring money on Monday 3 September to buy delicious food from the food van that will be on the oval at lunchtime (Years 8-12).

Inspirations 2018

The annual Scotch College Art exhibition, 'Inspirations', will open on Wednesday 5 September at 6.00pm in the Middle School Gallery, situated beneath the Middle School Library.

Inspirations showcases the student's developmental journey in the Visual Arts across the sub schools, from the very earliest stages in the Junior School right through to the quality and sophistication of WACE and IB level Year 12 work.

We warmly welcome the Scotch College community to join us on the opening night, or to view the boy's work at your convenience in the weeks following.

Oliver Twist – Year 8/9 Production

During Week 6, the classic Charles Dickens' tale of Oliver Twist will be brought to life by a cast of Year 8 and 9 students from both PLC and Scotch College.

In his journey for 'more', young orphan Oliver Twist runs away from the torturous conditions of the Parish Workhouse. Soon after arriving in London, he meets the lovable Artful Dodger and unwillingly joins master pick pocket Fagin and his gang of thieves. All hope is not lost, however, as Oliver is soon to discover his true identity and find his rightful place in the world.

Our performance season begins on Wednesday 29 August at 7.00pm, with additional shows on Thursday and Friday evening. The final performance will be a matinee on Saturday 1 September, starting at 2.00pm.

Tickets are available for purchase via the Scotch College website.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to see this classic tale performed by our talented young cast!

Uniform Shop Opening Hours

Normal term opening hours apply until the shop closes at 11.30am on Thursday 20 September.

Normal opening hours will resume on Tuesday 9 October:

Temporary Boarding

Scotch College is able to offer temporary boarding for different circumstances. See the attached for more information and contact details.

Field Days

It is Field Day season and we are busy attending the following and would like to see you there. If you have any queries with any of the information below please email us at ResidentialLife.admin@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Dowerin GWN7 Field Day

The Dowerin Field Day has been expanding over the past 53 years to become the most successful event of its kind in the State. Myself and the Residential Life staff are looking forward to seeing our current, future and past families in the region and would also like to extend the invitation to all family and friends that may be considering a school for their son/s to stop in and say hello.

Wednesday 29 August

Marcus Wilkinson, Pam Seaby and Richard Foster will be in attendance.

Thursday 30 August

Marcus Wilkinson, Kim Whetters and Scott Siekierka will be in attendance.

Chapman Valley Show

Saturday 1 September 2018

The Chapman Valley Agricultural Show attracts many visitors from throughout the region and Western Australia. The show provides a family fun filled day, while also promoting local businesses, crafts and hobbies. The annual show is situated at the Nanson Showgrounds 26 kilometers from Geraldton on the corner of Chapman Valley and McCagh Roads.

Matt Bradley and Grant Bennett will be in the region attending this event so please stop in to say hello.

Newdegate Field Day

Wednesday 5 September and Thursday 6 September 2018

This will be the 46^th Annual Newdegate Machinery Field Day event which features machinery, technology and research, animals and livestock, outdoor and camping exhibits, art and photography, fashion, show bags, food and wine, local produce, live entertainment and much, much more celebrating and promoting everything agriculture. Head down to Lake Grace - Newdegate Road into Newdegate and follow the signs.

Marcus Wilkinson and Richard Hales will be attending the Field days. As accommodation for the Newdegate Field day is challenging, we are staying in Dumbleyung for the two nights. If you are in the area and would like to catch up with us please send through an email to ResidentialLife.admin@scotch.wa.edu.au and we will make arrangements.

Mr Marcus Wilkinson
Head of Residential Life

PSA (Years 7 to 12) Sport Winter Term and Spring Term 2018

PSA Winter Season (Year 7 to 12): concluded on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 August, 2018 except for 1^st teams which concluded Thursday 16 August 2018.

Scotch College PSA Athletics is a four-week season with training dates outlined below.

Boys involved in Athletics have been sent an email and are expected to attend training at least three times per week. All other students are welcome to attend training voluntarily.

Summer Sport Training will be conducted on Friday 14 September for Year 9 students.

Summer Sport Training will also be conducted for Year 8s and 9s on Monday 17 September and for Year 7s and 8s on Wednesday 19 September 2018.

Students not involved in Athletics in Years 7, 8 and 9 will be engaged in alternative activities on the following Friday afternoons this term:

Friday 24 August 2018

Friday 31 August 2018

Friday 7 September 2018

Friday 14 September 2018

Friday 21 September 2018

Athletics Season Details

Quads Athletics Carnival

Friday 31 August 2018 (3.00pm to 7.00pm)

Hosted by Christ Church at the WA Athletics Stadium

PSA Inter-School Athletics Carnival

Friday 7 September 2018 9.00am to 3.00pm

Hosted by Hale School at the WA Athletics Stadium

Summer training will commence in Spring Term on:

Wednesday 10 October for Year 7, 8 and 9

Thursday 11 October for Year 10, 11 and 12

The first summer sport fixture is on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 October 2018

Mr Richard Foster
Head of Sport

From the Head of Junior School

Significant Accomplishments and Personal Bests

The last two weeks in the Junior School have been very special. We have provided the boys the opportunity to challenge themselves and compete in both the academic and sporting arenas.

In Week 4, the boys of Years 3 to 5 were engaged in in-class Spelling Bees to select the top three spellers from each class. These boys then went on to represent their class in the Inter-House Spelling Bee. The 21 boys assembled for the finals and amazed their peers with their ability. They progressed through the list of words spelling an increasing difficult word list with skill and precision. When we got down to the final three spellers, it took three rounds to finally find our champion. Well done to all of the boys and to Dylan Burke who was crowned our 2018 Inter-House Spelling Bee Champion.

Our top two spellers from Year 4 and 5 will now represent the school in the Inter-School Spelling Bee at Guildford Grammar School in September.

In Week 5, we provided our boys with a challenge of a different type. Beginning on Wednesday 22nd August, our three, four and five-year-old children competed in the ELC Athletics Carnival. They jumped hurdles, ran the sprints, carried potatoes on spoons, had sack races and got wet in the sponge and water race. Each and every one was a star and a gallery of parents and extended family cheered them on. It was a truly wonderful day and the first time our three-year-old children have competed in the Athletics events.

On Thursday 23rd August, our Junior School boys gathered on the playing fields for a day of track and field. Their enthusiasm for the day was evident from the outset, when they marched in behind the Middle School Piper chanting their house name and getting ready for a day of competition. Each and every boy tried their best, and many set personal bests and a few set new school records. The highlight of the day was the shuttle and grand relays which gave each boy a chance to run for their house and it was a fitting climax to what was a wonderful day. Congratulations to Bruce House who won their fourth straight Athletics Carnival crown.

We aim to provide opportunities for our boys to challenge themselves in a range of areas, academic, the arts and sport. The last two weeks in the Junior School was a celebration of what our boys can achieve when they have the drive to do better than they have before. These opportunities do not just happen on their own. I want to thank Mrs Webster, Mrs Turkich and Mrs Phillips for organising a fun yet challenging Inter-House Spelling Bee. I also need to thank Mrs Vincent and Mr Whiston for providing such a brilliant set of Athletics Carnivals for our students. The two weeks that have passed have provided us a glimpse of what our students can achieve through their efforts and determination.

Mr John Stewart
Head of Junior School

Performing Arts News

In Week 8 of this term, boys from Years 1 to 5 will be entertained by the incredible musicians of the Indonesian group, Makukuhan, at a Live Performance Incursion. Details are:

Who:                Makukuhan
Where:             MacKellar Hall
Date:                Tuesday 11 September, 2018

Time:               11:30am (duration 1 hour)

In preparation for this performance, we have been inquiring into four of the group's compositions. We have discovered fascinating traditional instruments and explored how simple patterns can morph into complex variations by modifying musical elements. We have been inspired by the movements of pencak silat, a non-aggressive, spiritual practice of martial arts from South East Asia that incorporates principles of self-awareness, self-defence, self-discipline, responsibility and cooperation.

The learning experiences and concert event surrounding a Musica Viva In Schools ensemble are rich in content and meaning. We would love to see as many parents, grandparents and school community members in attendance as possible as this can be a valuable and exciting way to extend and consolidate the experience.

We hope to see you there!

Miss Phebe Samson
Performing Arts Teacher

Physical Education News

The students worked very hard in Physical Education in the lead up to the Inter-House Athletics Carnival practicing their running, jumping and throwing in preparation for what was a fun and enjoyable day for all the students in the Junior School.

The students in Years 3 to 5 have been partaking in the Inter-House Soccer competition at lunch times over the past few months and a big congratulations to Gordon House who won both the Year 3/4 and 4/5 competition. These competitions are always keenly contested and the students will be finishing the year with the Gaelic Football competition which kicks off later this term.

A big congratulations to all the students in the Inter-School Cross Country team who won the shield for the third year in a row at Hale a few weeks ago.

Mr Scott Whiston
Head of Junior School Physical Education

Junior School Resource Centre

This week Scotch College will be celebrating Book Week. This celebration of children's literature began in 1946 (just after the end of World War II) and has shed its special magic on Australian schools and public libraries ever since. This year's list of shortlisted books has been exceptional and I urge parents to check out the titles and share them with their children. (CBCA 2018 winners)

The theme this year is Find your Treasure and whilst our minds automatically think of pirates and their treasure the theme is far richer than this. It urges us to find books that are hidden treasures to us, characters that we relate to and who "speak to us". Byron Bay author Tristan Bancks sums this up beautifully, "An incredible story can feel like treasure when it speaks to you and understands the way you think and feel. But not every book is perfect for everyone. I put down just as many books as I finish, but I never give up the hunt for my next great read"

Throughout the week there will be themed activities each lunchtime in the library culminating with a Trash and Treasure on Thursday. Boys are asked to bring in a book they have finished with and swap it for a new treasure. On Wednesday morning at 9.00am the ELC will host a parade and dress-up day and on Friday the Year 1 to 5 boys will celebrate the annual Book Week parade and pantomime. Parents are very welcome at both events.

I would also like to congratulate our two Year 5 Readers Challenge teams for the way they conducted themselves at the annual competition at MLC last Wednesday. Scotch was represented by Jetlen Egerton-Warburton, Jarrod Hutchison, James Vaughan, Alexander Fine, William Arundel and Heath Arbuckle ably supported by two Year 4 reserves; Logan Herbert and Thomas Lovegrove.

Book Week at Scotch happens due to the tireless work of our Library Services Specialist and I would like to acknowledge the hard work of Mrs Kendra Mewett and Mrs Emma Murdoch for creating the magic for our students.

Happy Reading

Mrs Kathryn Salt
Information and Research Specialist

Primary Years Programme (PYP)  Learner Profile

Teaching and Learning in the Junior School

Below I have illustrated two findings from research on the Primary Years Programme. I thought it timely to share these having successfully completed our 5-year Self Study review.

One of the conclusions from a global study on the practice of transdisciplinary teaching and learning (teaching and learning that transcends disciplines) in the PYP was that students who experience an integrated curriculum are as successful academically, and are often more successful, than their peers who are not taught in a transdisciplinary manner. A review of the literature also indicated that a transdisciplinary approach can help students to develop skills and values that are necessary to be successful in a globalized world, such as international-mindedness and communication and critical thinking skills (Drake et al 2015).

In Australia, a study explored the impacts of PYP implementation on 13 Victorian government primary schools as well as student outcomes in a national assessment for reading and numeracy. The reading and numeracy results of the 13 PYP schools were higher than the Australian average in all cases, except for in one school for Year 5 in numeracy. Furthermore, the students at PYP government schools, for the cohorts 2008–2010, 2009–2011 and 2010–2012, achieved higher levels in both reading and numeracy, in both Years 3 and 5, when compared to similar schools and Australian schools generally. Lastly, educators in the 13 schools believed the PYP had contributed to student learning and academic achievement, student development of learner profile attributes and student motivation (Gough et al 2014).

Mr Warwick Norman
Junior School Dean of Teaching & Learning

4T News

Who can believe that we are close to the end of Winter Term, with the time zooming by faster than the speed of light! There's been a bustle and busyness to the term that has seen the remarkable lads of 4T engage with an impressive sense of commitment and caring toward each other and the rigours of their learning.

The boys in 4T have spent the better part of the term ensconced in their unit of inquiry about explorers. This has allowed them to appreciate the scope with which they themselves can explore. They were Mathematics explorers when they unravelled the mysteries of time and Literacy explorers when they unlocked the four C-crets of good writing. Similarly, digital diaries recorded amazing journeys throughout the mid-year holiday period where many new lands were explored.

In considering what constitutes an actual explorer, the boys were given the opportunity for independent research into historical and modern explorers of the land, sea and sky. Their investigations highlighted the remarkable journeys people have made, the courage with which they ventured and the personal risks they each took to achieve a mission, discover something new and add value to their society or the environment.

Inspired by their research of explorers whose impact can still be felt today, the boys undertook a journey in perspective. They considered their understanding of the First Fleet settlement from the viewpoint of British settlers; be they convict, crew or captain, and that of the original, Indigenous landowners. We stretched as far back as the Macassans and pondered the impact of Australia Day as commemorative of the arrival of the First Fleet. Upon completion of the unit, we all felt enriched by our discoveries, questions, challenges and appreciation for new perspectives.

Another discovery was that of Mindfulness and its impact on our emotions, focus and attention. We adopted meditation practices in the classroom and considered breathing, posture and music as influences on our bodies and minds. We learned some technical language about the brain and understood that it is our responsibility to develop effective habits to manage the pressure of our emotions and energy. Needless to say, the boys excelled at this and became the instigators of meditation after boisterous playtimes as a means to prepare for learning.

It is safe to say that the boys enjoyed a tremendous term filled with opportunity and discovery. They are adventurous souls, every one of them, and bring to their learning a unique brand of courage. What a joy it is to work with such vibrant, creative and engaged lads. One can only look forward to the last miles of Spring Term, knowing full well it will be an exciting road to the finish.

Mrs Rebecca Turkich
Year 4 Teacher

From the Head of Middle School

Congratulations Robert House on a great win at our Inter-House Athletics Carnival last week.  Congratulations also to Seamus Walton (Year 8) who goes into next year's Athletics Day programme as the reigning Year 8 Shot Put record holder.  After school Athletics training is now in full swing for our Inter-School Quads meet this Friday followed by the JPSSA and PSA Inters in Week 7.

The College Calendar increases in importance as we move toward the end of this term and for Senior School the end of their academic year.  Key events for Middle School families to be aware of are appended below under the Important Dates section.  The full calendar with all events across the College for the entire year can be found in SEQTA Engage by clicking on the Calendar icon.

The big event of this week is the Middle Years (8-10) Drama Production Oliver Twist that takes to the Dickinson Centre stage on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evening and Saturday afternoon.  I encourage everyone to come and support the efforts of the cast and crew and encourage boys who have thought about being in a production but have not as yet, to come, see and feel the experience of taking a risk and having a go, on stage.

Next term, Spring Term, the Senior and Middle School timetables move from a 5 period day to a 6 period per day structure; 6 x 50 minute lessons per day, plus our daily Guided Literacy session.  The rationale for this is to increase the frequency of teaching sessions per fortnightly cycle.  There is no change to the start and finish time each day, however there is a slight shift in the scheduling of recess and lunchtime.  Over the school holidays your son's timetable will change to reflect the 6 period day and will in all probability have different subjects on different days when compared with this term.

Last Friday we had Mr George Svirac, Senior Transit Officer with Transperth talk to our boys about being safe on trains, safety around train station platforms, expectations of students on board trains and fare evasion.  It was a valuable talk with the overarching message that the Transit Officer's primary role to help make train travel safe.  An interesting conversation you could have with your son might be to ask him whether he now knows when and how to activate the Emergency Call button at the train station or on the train and what happens if he does.

Mr Richard Ledger
Head of Middle School

Fantastic Food

Why is dietary fibre good for us?  This is a question Year 6 boys have been investigating in order to create a healthy high fibre muffin.  Designing and cooking some 'super snacks' has been a lot of fun in Food Design.

'Healthy fast food' – is it really possible?  Year 7 Food Design boys have discovered that it is easy to make your own 'fast food' using healthy ingredients and a little bit of kitchen know how.  Whether it is the individually designed burgers, the tangy chicken nuggets or the mini quiches, it is easy to make a healthy and delicious fast food choice.

What better way to learn about meal planning and nutrition, than to make a range of breakfasts, lunches and dinners?  Year 8 boys have been learning how to cook some delicious meals. I am looking forward to seeing their menu planning in action when they cook their own choice lunch recipes later in the term.

Mrs Stella Hodgson
Middle School Food Design Teacher

8.5M Being Balanced

Scotch College hopes to develop well-balanced young men who can manage the competing pressures of daily life and the curve balls life throws us. Over the past couple of months, the boys in 8.5M have been implementing some strategies for keeping balanced. Mindful body breathing has helped students relax and increase alertness, ready to focus on learning tasks. Likewise, mindful colouring has formed a favourite part of their tool box for focusing on the present and encouraging positive thoughts.

8.5M boys have also committed to reading more for pleasure to promote wellbeing. Getting outdoors and into nature forms another integral part of staying balanced and the boys were lucky enough to enjoy a trip to Moray at the end of last term, camping out under the trees for the best part of a week.  For some, outdoor work continued into the holidays as they undertook the service action component of their Community Project.  For three boys it was sweeping, pruning and weeding for the elderly.  For others it was refurbishing cricket bats for a remote community north east of Perth. These kinds of activities where our students are able to use their abilities to fulfil a need in the community also help them to become well-balanced young men with greater perspective on life.

Mrs Mia Sullivan
Year 8.5M Homeroom Teacher

Student Achievements

UNSW Spelling Competition Results

Year 6

Year 7

Congratulations to Mitchell Hyde (8.6S) and Hamish Elliott (7.6G) who have both been selected to represent Western Australia in the U13 Boys State Hockey Team at the National Championships in Hobart in October.

Important Dates in Middle School Winter Term

From the Head of Senior School

Edinburgh from a student's experience

I have been most fortunate to share a part of the Royal Military Tattoo experience in Edinburgh with the students over the past fortnight and thought it would be nice to share with you the thoughts of the boys on this wonderful experience.

Gyles Davies (Year 11, Brisbane) describes the enormity of the planning and performance process:

"Preparation for the twenty-six Tattoo performances started on 17 February 2018, when the first tune was released, which was followed by another twenty-six pieces of music across the course of the following month. As auditions crept closer, I was astounded to see the mateship and team work taking place to learn the music, despite us competing for a total of 21 places.

Learning and practising the music in Australia was just the beginning. Once the whole international cast arrived in Edinburgh, there were four days of fifteen-hour intensive rehearsals at the Barracks and the Castle Esplanade. When we reached Preview Night, we all felt like finely tuned components of a spectacular act. We have had opportunities to mix with the other performers during and away from the show and there have been many humorous moments. Crossing the narrow drawbridge as part of the massed bands can be described as 'carnage' when avoiding tangling instruments and people.

The shows have been amazing, an experience that I will never forget. As the Tattoo comes to a close, it is astonishing to think that during the course of the month, almost 250,000 spectators – many of whom are international – have watched the show in person, filling the notoriously steep grand stands at the top of the Royal Mile every single night, for six nights a week, with a double performance every Saturday. In addition, it is soon to be televised and will be seen worldwide by an audience of millions".

David Stulpner (Year 10, Cameron) described the experience as having been:

"Privileged to be part of the entourage that traveled to Edinburgh to play in the world-renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This tour has been amazing for me because it has allowed us to experience the culture of Scotland and has allowed me to listen to and to participate in my hobby of playing the bagpipes at the highest level".

Conor Bartlett (Year 11, Ferguson) shared:

"At first glance the Tattoo promises excellence; a show like no other, performers who have practised for countless hours and have been chosen because they are the best. It is an opportunity of a lifetime! However, it is only when you are on the stage, with spotlights shining down on you and the crowd roaring with excitement, that you realise that such a remarkable event can only be experienced first-hand. Upon each adventure we took in Scotland, whether it was travelling for long hauls across the Highland countryside to Loch Ness or to Glasgow for the World Pipe Band Championships, the experiences were extraordinary. Opportunities like this are rare and if one comes your way, don't be afraid to reach for it because the reward will be immense".

From my observations the boys have been amazing on this four-week tour, basically performing as international musicians. They have committed to a huge regime of planning and performance all while keeping up with their studies and while abroad. Special mention to the Year 12 students Stewart Wallace (Keys), Ryan Hodgetts (Brisbane), Tom Nicholls (Shearer), Kieran Shine (Alexander) and Aiden Weaver (Keys) who, as the senior boys on the tour, have led the group admirably. The boys have certainly worked as a team; both in the sense of operating together to produce wonderful music and as a group who supported each other during the inevitable flat periods which come from being away from home for so long. Well done boys. It has been terrific to see the comradery and support you have shown towards each other as well as the passion shown towards your music.

Thank you to the amazing work of Mr Craig Bailey and Mr Roy Hamilton who lead the band with such great distinction. The huge success of the tour is in no small part due to all your hard work in the lead-up and during the time away. Thank you also to Mr Scott Loveday, Mrs Deb Lee and Mrs Libby Muddle for your support of the boys while away. Finally, to the parents who supported the band. I have been amazed to see so many parents attend the tour and performances. The success they have enjoyed has occurred through your wonderful support. Everyone involved is to be congratulated.

Mr Dean Shadgett
Head of Senior School

Personal Project Showcase

The set up for the Showcase will take place on Monday 10 September in the Dickinson Centre and it will be open for viewing from Wednesday 12 September until Friday 14 September during school hours. Please note that the formal Showcase event on Friday 14 September from 5.30pm until 7.30pm is the only time you will be able to observe all projects as the students are unable to leave their laptops set up during the day.

Miss Kate Flowers
IB Personal Project Co-ordinator

Careers Information

John Curtin Scholarship

Recipients will be selected on the following criteria:

• Academic excellence:  School leavers need to have a predicted ATAR in the top 5% of Year 12 graduating students at Scotch College.
• Vision & Leadership:  Demonstrated leadership through being involved in school leadership roles, coaching roles, fundraising, youth groups or community volunteer coordinators.
• Community Service:  Involvement in community as student mentors, members of fundraising or charitable groups, volunteers for school or community groups, or other similar community work.

Expressions of interest to be nominated for this prestigious can be sent to Mr Frusher by Friday 31 August, 2018.

The nomination form is to be completed by the high school principal and nominated student. This form is available to download from the scholarships website. These scholarships close for application on 19 September, 2018.

Melbourne National Merit Scholarship

This scholarship will offer from 2019 a one-off allowance of $8000 to talented students who achieve an ATAR of 99+, from Australian state other than Victoria, to assist with the cost of moving to study in Melbourne. Students will additionally be offered accommodation for the first year of study. Further information is available at: https://scholarships.uinmelb.edu.au/merit-scholarship.

Interstate University Applications

If you are planning to apply to university interstate, here is where you can apply. Make sure you keep an eye on the dates, as they differ from state to state. Most admissions centres allow you to change your preferences after the closing date, but make sure you know the rules (and fees) that apply in each state. Some have variable closing dates depending on the course you're applying to.

NSW & ACT: http://www.uac.edu.au/ - Applications open 2 August; close 27 September

VIC: http://www.vtac.edu.au/ - Applications open 7 August; close 27 September

QLD: http://www.qtac.edu.au/ - Applications open 7 August; close 27 September

SA & NT: http://www.satac.edu.au/ - Applications open 7 August; close 27 September

TAS: Direct to http://www.utas.edu.au/ - Applications open 4 August; close 27 September

UK University Entrance Tests

Any Year 12 student who is considering university study in the UK in 2019 may need to sit an admission test. Students will need to check with the university to determine if an admission test is required. If a test is required students will need to contact Mr Frusher who will register you for the test. Please note: You cannot register yourself for the admissions test – you must be registered by your school or college, or nearest test centre.

Registrations to standard BMAT (Medicine) will be open between 1 September and 1 October 2018. A late entry penalty will then be charged for any BMAT entries made between 2 and 15 October 2018, after which no entries will be accepted.

Registrations for the CAT, ELAT, HAT, MAT, MLAT, OLAT, PAT, Philosophy Test and TSA Oxford tests will be open between 1 September and 15 October 2018.

You can find further information about specific tests, test dates and costs on this website http://www.admissionstestingservice.org/. Please see Mr Frusher at Scotch College if you require registration.

Scholarship Opportunity (Pilots of Tomorrow)

The Company of Air Pilots and Flight Experience are offering scholarships to students in Year 10, 11 and 12 who may be interested in a career as an airline pilot. Applications are now open and will close on 14 September.

For more information go to: https://perth.flightexperience.com.au/scholarships/ or http://www.airpilots.org.au/Scholarships

Projects Abroad - Alternative Schoolies

You can go by yourself or with a bunch of your friends on a two-week volunteering journey to Sri Lanka, Samoa or Thailand. Here you will help to support disadvantaged children in education and care activities in local kindergartens and care centres, as well as grassroots healthcare campaigns, outreach work in the wider community and conservation activities.

The Alternative Schoolies programmes run for two weeks from 1 December - 14 December, right after you have finished your exams. The projects are structured to give you a variety of hands on, worthwhile and rewarding work.

Academic Task Force - Term 3 School Holiday ATAR Revision Program

• One Day Exam Boost Seminars for Year 11 & 12 ATAR in Term 3 and 4

Exam Boost Seminars are popular with time-poor students who want subject specific, targeted exam help in the weeks before their exams. In one day, the Seminars pack in six hours of exam focused teaching from an ATAR marker, with the sole purpose of boosting your exam performance. Students will have access to the ATAR exam marking guide and learn strategies to improve marks in their Mock and ATAR exams. Enrol online today at www.academicgroup.com.au or call 9314 9500 or email learn@academicgroup.com.au.

• Academic Task Force - Term 3 School Holiday ATAR Revision Program for Year 11 & 12

10 hr courses, perfect for students wanting revision of their ATAR subjects and review of topics in preparation for exams. Students will increase their understanding, receive fresh insights and gain intensive revision in a time-effective manner. ATAR subject-specialist teachers work with students in small groups to help students prepare for their exams and maximise their exam performance. 10% Early Bird Discount available until Monday 3 September. Available in Week 1 and 2 of the Term 3 school holidays at Rossmoyne SHS, Churchlands SHS and Perth Modern School. Enrol online today at www.academicgroup.com.au or call 9314 9500 or email learn@academicgroup.com.au.

• Academic Associates – Term 3 School Holiday ATAR Enrichment Program for Year 12

Students will receive academic extension in their ATAR courses with advanced content insight and practise in higher level exam questions. In the 10-hour courses, students will be taught in a small, interactive class by top ATAR subject specialists with proven results in boosting exam performance. Available in Week 1 of the Term 3 school holidays at the University of Western Australia. Enrol online at www.academicgroup.com.au or call 9314 9500 or email learn@academicgroup.com.au.

• Years 7 – 10 October Skills Development Programwith Academic Task Force.

Our Skills Development Program has been specifically designed to equip students with the necessary skills for ongoing academic success. Specialist teachers engage students with targeting teaching and class interaction that promotes learning development. Programs available in English, Maths, Learning Skills and Essay Writing in week 2 of the Term 3 school holidays at Perth Modern School. 10% Early Bird Discount available until Monday 3 September. Enrol now online at www.academicgroup.com.au or call 9314 9500 or email learn@academicgroup.com.au.

Mr Peter Frusher
Careers Adviser

Inter-House Athletics Carnival

The final 2018 results are:

Records:

U/16 High Jump:

New Record:     Reuben Westerman (Year 10, Keys) 1.97m

Previous record was 1.96m by S Szalek, 2016

Open High Jump:

Record:             Sean Szalek (Year 12, Ross) equalled the record of 2.02m

Previous record was 2.02m by G Szalek, 2015

Important Dates in Senior School Winter Term

Friends of Scotch Music

If you would like to join the Friends of Scotch Music (FOSM) - a group of parents who enthusiastically support the work of boys and staff in the Music Department, please attend one of our meetings.

FOSM meets once or twice each term with all meetings beginning at 7.00pm. Meetings go for approximately one hour, and are held in the Senior School Music Room with everyone welcome. Please consider becoming involved in the FOSM Parent Support group as an excellent way to support your son and the Music Programme at Scotch College.

The next FOSM meeting is to be held on Tuesday, 4 September. The AGM will be on Tuesday 16 October. Any enquiries please email FOSM@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Mrs Louise Broun
Friends of Scotch Music

Scotch Parents

Upcoming Events

• Junior School Fathers' Day Breakfast – Thursday 30 August
• Year 10 Mothers' Moray Sleepover – Saturday 8 September

Coffee Mornings

• Year 11 Coffee Morning - Wednesday 5 September, 9.00am – 11.00am

Please refer to the email for location details

Ms Steph Debnam
President
Scotch Parents

Scotch Rugby

The Scotch 1st XV Rugby squad defeated Hale to retain the Brother Redmond Cup for the third year in a row. The boys have worked incredibly hard throughout the season and this culminated in them winning all PSA Rugby games. I would like to thank the coaches Alex Wood and Justin Creighton, for their passion, leadership and dedication to all the boys involved, including injured players, and for keeping the squad a tight knit group spread over 3 year groups.

It has been a pleasure to watch all the boys this season and I would also like to thank the parents and supporters of all teams. Special thanks also to the Rugby Committee for their tireless efforts.

Mr Adi van Schouwen
President
Rugby Support Group