Throughout the year there are many times when one can sit back and reflect on the level of participation by students and staff in a whole range of activities. Last week at Scotch was no exception.

Each year I hold a series of lunches for Year 2 parents. These gatherings are geared at providing an opportunity to hear from some of our newer Junior School parents as to how their son has settled into the School and whether or not we are meeting, or more importantly, exceeding the expectations they had in choosing Scotch. The level of participation in these lunches and the ensuing positive feedback has been very encouraging. It is also great to get some new suggestions on how best we can shape the opportunities provided to our boys.

Sharing in the teaching and learning journey of our boys is a critical part of the Scotch journey. Last Thursday night I was very fortunate to observe an amazing array of projects in the Middle School that were part of a unit of inquiry into medieval life. The top floor Middle School classrooms were turned into a learning street highlighting ingenuity, hard work and learning diversity. It was clear that the boys had responded to the tasks set and the quality of the work on display showed just how well their teachers had prepared their boys for this activity.

Finally, anyone lucky enough to be on the Scotch playing fields on Saturday was treated to an amazing morning of First teams PSA sport. By 1.00pm the students, staff, OSC, parents and families in attendance had experienced something that doesn't happen every year.

The huge crowd that came to support the Rugby team in pursuit of our first outright rugby win since 1990 were not disappointed. They were treated to one of the best games of schoolboy rugby for which one could wish. Back this up with the finale to the First XVIII claiming a resounding victory on the day, culminating in sharing the 2016 PSA Football trophy. While not in the hunt for a trophy, our First XI Soccer produced a fantastic close to their season by claiming victory over a strong Trinity team. Away from the playing fields our Badminton team, which had already secured the PSA title, cruised to a resounding victory and the First XI Hockey finished their year off with a hard fought victory to claim second place overall. Earlier on Saturday morning I also had the pleasure of seeing our Cross-Country team give it their best over a 7.8km Kings Park course.

Notwithstanding the actual results on the day, it was actually the sense of community that struck a chord for those in attendance. The solidarity and support from everyone, and the sportsmanship of our boys, made the final day of PSA Winter sport very special. Well done and thanks to everyone who turned up on Saturday.

Community, solidarity and support are not just restricted to our current student population. On Sunday 14 August our OSC along with the CCGS old boys, held the second annual Festival of the Boot. Old boys from both colleges played each other in Soccer, Football, Hockey and Rugby. Thanks must go to the OSC President, Michael Silbert for his drive and energy and to Lance Quartermaine our OSC Manager who, in conjunction with CCGS, were involved in organizing the day. For the record Scotch took out the trophy for the second year in a row.

Over the last couple of weeks, many of our Year 11 students have attended first round scholarship interviews for the PC Anderson and WR Dickinson scholarships. Over the coming week I will be interviewing the shortlist of candidates. In conjunction with Michael Silbert, President of OSC and Julie Dickinson, wife of the late Bill Dickinson, one boy will be selected for each of the respective scholarships.

While it will be difficult to come down to only two successful candidates, the process reminds me of the depth of talent and genuine commitment we have in our boys. I would like to finish by sharing just a couple of small quotes taken from two of the ten shortlisted applications that I have had the privilege of reading. There were similar reflections in all of the applications. I believe these show the level of understanding our boys have of their college.

'Scotch College thrives because there is a critical mass of staff and students who display, exhibit and support the common goals of the school to grow good men who have passion, courage and know how to make a difference in the world in which they live'

'Scotch College's proud history has been heavily dependent on strong leadership from staff, students and key community support groups such as the OSC. The way that these groups collaborate and support each other drive our culture and tradition and makes the Scotch experience so meaningful for the boys lucky enough to experience it.'

With reflections like that from our boys, is it any wonder that we continue to experience great moments that will last in our psyche forever?

Have a great fortnight

Dr Alec O'Connell

Headmaster

New Subject Offerings 2017

I invite all parents at the College to take time to explore the College's new Course Information website which details the elective courses available for all students in 2017.

The website can be found here: https://my.scotch.wa.edu.au/courseinformation

This site is designed for families to be able to gain an insight into the College's academic offerings in 2017.

New Courses

Within the College's 2020 vision is the objective to develop a culture of innovation and creativity that is integrated into the College's teaching and learning priorities. With this in mind our strategy includes the development of a world class STEM programme from Years K-12 that encourages Scientific inquiry, Technological innovation, Engineering ingenuity and Mathematical rigour.

Our first step is an elective offering to our Year 9 students in 2017, which is described here:

In partnership with Curtin University this elective aims to develop the skills of leadership, collaboration and creativity. Based in the exciting setting of STEM challenges you will explore and create possible solutions to authentic, real world problems. A team of specialist teachers, focusing on inquiry-led teaching, will guide students through hands-on challenges and activities. This course introduces students to the various disciplines within engineering and applied science including a focus on robotic programming (drones). Upon completion, students will be exposed to a wide range of exciting STEM career opportunities.

We aim to extend this offering into Year 10 in 2018.

Additionally, the success of the Middle School Food Design programme, coupled with the launch of a Year 12 Food Technologies Course in 2016 has led to the creation of a food design course for Year 9 students.

We also aim to extend this offering into Years 10 and 11 in 2018.

This elective is described here:

Food Design is an exciting and creative area of study that provides students with a broad knowledge and understanding of the relationship between food properties, processing and preparation, including nutritional considerations and food consumption patterns. Students will develop food-specific skills, which can then be applied in a range of contexts enabling students to produce quality food products. The course also provides students with a context to explore the richness, pleasure and variety food adds to life and how it contributes to both vocational and general life experiences. Students will investigate and prepare appropriate food for a multicultural Australia.

I encourage all families to visit our new course information website as it offers an exciting and challenging array of options that boys may enjoy exploring to see the possibilities that lie ahead, even if they may be a few years away yet!

Mr Peter Allen

Director of Teaching and Learning

Community and Service

Friends of Lake Claremont

In just two weeks Year 10 boys have assisted in planting over 1000 seedlings on the Alfred Road side of the old Claremont Golf Course. Working with boys from Christ Church Grammar School, around a dozen Scotch boys have laboured to establish a forest of young plants that adds considerably to the already impressive plantings around the lake. The partnership with Friends of Lake Claremont volunteers has been a productive one for many years and the College should be proud of the work done by hundreds of boys.

UCW Winter Appeal - Middle School

Donations for the Uniting Care West (UCW) Winter Appeal from the Senior School were collected by the agency in the last week of Autumn Term. An impressive quantity of non-perishable food items and clothing was amassed by House groups and gratefully received. This term Middle School donations were delivered to the new UCW Centre in Fremantle. Over 200 cans of food were donated and the staff at the Fremantle Centre were delighted. While not a kitchen for feeding the homeless, none-the-less the food will be distributed in emergency situations - which occur more frequently than ever now.

Homelessness Week

Homelessness Week recently sought to draw attention to the plight of the homeless in Australia. While CEO sleep-outs and the like do help to highlight the discomfort experienced by many without secure shelter, much more needs to be done throughout the year. Scotch plays a role in rolling and distributing 'Street Swags'. Women inmates at Bandyup Prison make the canvas outer covers. Scotch boys insert foam mattresses and then roll the swags ready for use. The agencies we are in contact with weekly say the problem of homelessness is getting more acute, with more women and children seeking emergency shelter. At times, the only shelter available, once all other options have been exhausted, is a 'Street Swag'.

Walk Against Abuse - Bravehearts

Last Saturday Scotch boys joined girls from PLC in a walk in aid of 'Bravehearts', an organisation whose core purpose is to educate, empower and protect Australian children from sexual assault. The "walk against abuse" started at Cottesloe with a 4.5km scenic route along the coast and finished at Leighton Beach Boulevard. This event was promoted at Chapel services in the first week of term when the role of 'Bravehearts' was highlighted in a harrowing recounting of a tragedy of abuse leading to the suicide of a young woman.

UnitedCare West Conference

UnitingCare West (UCW) held its annual Social Justice Conference last week. Teachers from Uniting Church schools involved in coordinating service activities were invited to attend. Workshops focused on how students reflect on service and on harnessing the collective resources of the network of Uniting Church schools to create a Social Justice Movement.

One of the speakers was UCW CEO, Sue Ash. She spoke on the topic, 'The Role of Not for Profits and Active Citizenship'. A major theme of her talk was the restructuring that is occurring within the social services sector as a result of funding changes - to a market-based model where the clients are able to purchase services - as opposed to an agency like UCW providing in response to need in the community. Individual funding coming through mechanisms such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme is changing fundamentally the way 'Not for Profit' agencies do their work.

Sue made a strong point to the school-based audience not to underestimate the role played by schools, no matter how disconnected the role might seem. UCW is keen for clients to feel a part of a community and the students in our schools are in that community - and valued. The relationship between schools and UCW is valued greatly.

At Scotch we have never been in doubt that what we do is valued and we hope that the students and their families know that all the work done and the contributions made to appeals is very much appreciated.

Mr Bill Cordner

Director of Community and Service

Music Department

The musicians at Scotch College have presented several performances early this term. All ensembles from the jazz programme at Scotch College performed recently in WA Schools' Jazz Festival and the combined Scotch/PLC Symphony performed in the WA Schools' Orchestra Festival on the same day.

In the WA Schools' Jazz Festival the Senior Jazz Ensemble entered the Essentially Ellington Competition where they performed three pieces from the library of the celebrated composer Duke Ellington. They were one of only two bands in WA to be awarded a Gold Award for their performance from Lincoln Centre Jazz Orchestra adjudicators Reggie Thomas and Vincent Gardner. The band was recognised for playing with confidence and maturity beyond their years. Following their performance the Jazz Ensemble played in a workshop with Reggie Thomas, which was another great opportunity for them to work with an outstanding musician and educator.

Other awards for outstanding musicianship in the Jazz Festival were given to Harrison Nicholls (Year 12, Shearer) - Trombone, for his improvisation with the Jazz Combo and to the rhythm section of the Big Band; Patrick Carlton (Year 11, Cameron) - Drums, Oliver Broun (Year 10, Alexander) - Percussion, Benjamin Anderson (Year 11, Cameron) - Bass, Kyle Imlah (Year 10, Keys) - Guitar and Tristan Lee (Year 12, St Andrews) - Piano in recognition for their performance on the day.

The Combined Symphony Orchestra performed in the 'A' Division of the ABODA Orchestra festival and was awarded an "Outstanding" for their performance. This award should not be underestimated as it is difficult to attainand is a tribute to the work of the students, their tutors and their conductor Dr Alan Lourens throughout the year.

Congratulations should also go to music staff Ms Ibolya Mikajlo and Mr Rob Spence who presented the Con Brio Concert last week. The audience enjoyed a program with variety and strong performances from string and guitar ensembles and soloists alike. The concert finale was a highlight with a rousing an arrangement of the "Game of Thrones" theme, which featured the combined forces of the Scotch Philharmonic Orchestra and the Pipe Band 'A' Team.

Important Dates:

Winter Term:

Week 4, Monday 15 August, FOSM meeting, 7.00pm Senior Music Department

Week 4, Wednesday 17 August, Concert Band Concert, 6.30pm Dickinson Centre

Week 4, Wednesday 24 August, IBDP Music Recital, 6.30pm Dickinson Centre

Week 6, Monday 29 August - Tuesday 30 August, JS/MS Music Festival, JS and MS Music, MacKellar Hall

Week 6, Monday 29 August WAAPA Incursion, Senior Music Department, 3.45pm

Week 7, Monday 5 September, Combined Symphony Orchestra rehearsal and Supper, 7.00pm Dickinson Centre

Week 7, Friday 9 September, Senior Spring Concert, 6.00pm Dickinson Centre

Week 7, Saturday 10 September, PLC Spring Concert, all Day and afternoon concert, Dickinson Centre

Contact Details

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

Alternately, please contact Mr Tim Simpson, Acting Head of Music, via email TMSimpson@scotch.wa.edu.au or phone 9383 6824.

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

Mr Tim Simpson

Acting Head of Music

Uniform Shop Opening Hours

The Uniform Shop will be closed for the Boarders' Long Weekend (ie on Friday 19 August)

SmartRider Reminder

Transperth have noticed a high percentage of students still paying cash fares on the buses instead of using the SmartRider cards available. It works out significantly cheaper by using the SmartRider system and you can gain additional discounts if you utilise the auto-reload option available. If you do not have a SmartRider card see Mrs Lynn Murray at Student Services to make an application.

Increased participation in the SmartRider system also has the following benefits:

• Safer more efficient loading of buses when the students are boarding
• Reduced fare evasion and;
• Reduced anti-social behaviour

Holding Us Together

Paperclips, clothes pegs, elastic bands, staples. What do these items have in common? You may have guessed, they all hold things together. Our bodies are made up of many different things such as bones, muscles, organs and fluids. It is our skin that holds us together.

Imagine if our bodies were held together by elastic bands instead. What might that look like? We would be loosely connected. Our organs would perturb from between the bands and the leaking fluids would not be nice to behold. The function of skin is very important. It keeps the insides of our bodies in a safe, secure and well-protected package.

A school community is much like a body. It is made of many different and unique parts. Each person in our community is different and special. They exist on their own but have a purpose and a function in our school. If our community body is held together loosely, things we do not want to have happen may leak out. These may be the exclusion of some people, not being concerned when someone is hurt or upset, thinking little of hurting another and a simple lack of compassion or empathy for those who are part of our community.

There is one simple thing that binds a school community or any community together. That is caring for one another. Jesus asked us to do one simple thing, love one another. This simple act has been explained in many different ways over the ages. We often ask children to consider how they would like to be treated and treat others accordingly. For all of us, demonstrating empathy and compassion for others can go along way.

In our school community we live together, we work together, we eat together, we learn together and we play together. We hope that we will also learn to care for one another. This simple act can address conflict, loneliness and intolerance and can make the bonds that bind our school together even stronger.

Mr John Stewart

Head of Junior School

Primary Years Programme (PYP) Learner Profile

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

Inquirers

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

Knowledgeable

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

Thinkers

They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize

and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.

Communicators

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

Principled

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

Open-minded

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

Caring

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

Risk-takers

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

Balanced

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

Reflective

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

Mr Warwick Norman

Junior School Dean of Teaching & Learning

Art News

Last week, it was a pleasure to welcome all junior boys with their families to the art room. The Student Led Conference gave the parents a taste of student life in the specialist art studio.

After a brief introduction about the legend of the Scottish national flower, parents and guardians guided the boys through the creative challenge of drawing their very own thistle. Working diligently, in the allocated twenty-minutes they even had time for a mini critic at the end! The mock gallery conclusion gave the groups a valuable opportunity to discuss their own outcomes and appreciate the responses of others.

Each artist approached the task with great enthusiasm and confidence.

I was amazed at the individuality of each work, varying in composition, use of technique and chosen colour.

The final collaborative thistle work containing 200+ artworks shall be revealed at the forthcoming Scotch Inspirations Art Exhibition during Week 8.

Jane Roche

Junior Art Specialist

Performing Arts News

It was lovely to see some familiar faces, as well as meeting some new parents and grandparents during the Student Led Conferences. As I explained, our boys in Pre-Primary to Year 4 will be participating in a Musica Viva incursion and as such, our performing arts lessons will focus on getting prepared for the performance. This year, we have a group called Fiddlesticks coming to inspire us. Everyone is welcome to attend, so please note 11:30am on Monday 17 October in your diaries. Fiddlesticks is a magical trio of guitar, violin and cello, providing a perfect introduction to chamber music. Chamber music is often described as a conversation between instruments, and Fiddlesticks speak to students using music they may already recognise. With a repertoire spanning tango, contemporary and familiar classics, this performance will showcase the versatility of instruments in the string family. I hope you'll be able to join us.

Miss Phebe Samson

Performing Arts Teacher

Cyberbullying Leaves a Trail

Many young people are unaware that everything they say and do online leaves a 'digital footprint' and although they may have deleted a message, picture or website, this can never fully be deleted.

If your child has been cyberbullied, here are a few tips for how you can save and report the evidence:

Mobile phones: Download and print the message or take a photo of the message on the screen with your camera. For nuisance calls or messages you can contact your mobile phone service provider and for threatening calls or messages, contact the police.

Online content: If content is posted on a website you need to contact the website directly. Most social networking sites (e.g.: Facebook, Twitter, MSN) have pages where you can report 'inappropriate' behaviour. Alternatively, you can find more information of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) website at: https://www.esafety.gov.au/eSafety for parents - Cyberbullying

Mr Warwick Norman

Friendly Schools and Families Coordinator

French News

Bonjour everyone! Well, last week was very busy for all of us with Student Led Conferences taking place in the Junior School. During the French rotations, we played many different language games and the boys had an opportunity to show their parents just how much vocabulary they had mastered in French. Pre-Primary worked with family words; Year 1 played games using fruit vocabulary; Year 2 did very well talking about all the buildings to be found in a town; Year 3 got busy playing with food words, while Year 4 ran about the room with a clothing relay and Year 5 made sentences using their daily routine words. There was lots of laughing, lots of speaking and lots of fun with family. Merci to all the parents for getting involved in the games, and bravo to all students for being so enthusiastic about using your French knowledge. Au revoir!

Madame Vinton

French Specialist

Physical Education News

The boys are currently in the midst of timing and practicing for the Junior School Athletics Carnival that takes place on Wednesday 24 August on the Scotch ovals. The boys are excited and athletics always brings out the best in the Scotch boys as they strive to perform for their Houses and also try and secure a spot in the inter-school team. This year, we welcome the Pre-Primary boys to the carnival and we are all looking forward to seeing them perform on the day. The Year 4 students had their Football carnival at Scotch last Thursday and there were some high quality matches against Hale and Christ Church. All 3 schools have a strong Year 4 cohort and these boys are looking forward to continuing their fixtures next year when they join the JPSSA programme in Year 5.

Mr Scott Whiston

Head of Junior School Physical Education

Year 3S News

What an exciting and engaging end to the semester 3S had. To conclude our unit about products going through a process of change before they are distributed and consumed, we worked on a two-week project where we conducted research, drew designs and built chairs from cardboard that were big enough and strong enough to hold the weight of our teacher. We incorporated writing into this project by completing journal entries, reflecting on each day's progress and learnt about measurement through the construction process. On the final day of Term 2, many of our families came to school to view our work and watch as our nervous teachers took to their thrones. There were a few falls, but no injuries… Phew! To begin Term 3, we started learning about the healthy balance of biodiversity within ecosystems. So far, we have gathered a great deal of information about different habitats, which we turned into factual reports and have also undertaken a scavenger hunt to identify the biodiversity found in the school yard. For our assembly item, we made links between our unit of inquiry and the story of 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' by Eric Carle, which is about a caterpillar that spends the first week of his life eating the wrong foods with clear consequences. When the caterpillar consumes the correct foods, he grows and turns into a beautiful butterfly. This undoubtedly demonstrates the delicate nature of ecosystems and the importance of maintaining the balance. We hope that our assembly was educational for everyone and has also made people more environmentally conscious.

Ms Larree Springall

Year 3 Teacher

Important Dates to Remember

Junior School Resource Centre

On Wednesday 3 August, the boys in Pre-Primary, Year 1, 2 and 4 were treated to an hour of storytelling and music by Ghanian storyteller and musician Sam Derchie. Sam made comparisons between his culture and our NAIDOC week celebrations, explaining to the boys how traditional cultures used storytelling, art and music to tell stories as communication devices. The boys were fascinated by Sam's life growing up in the jungles of Africa. There are some fantastic photos on Gallery that capture the boy's enjoyment.

Billy Mahaffy in 4C summed up Sam's visit for us: Sam Derchie was a blast in our school. He was a very positive person. He was from Ghana and he told us all about where he came from and what sort of instrument's he played including the talking drum. Sam told us stories about monkeys and a story about stories.

Matthew Philpott added: Sam was the funniest visitor we have had to the library. He told us amazing stories and got the Pre-Primary's into it.

The excitement of Roald Dahl and Book Week is escalating as the boys decide what character they are coming to school dressed as on Friday 26 August 26. Here is a link to a UK site with some nifty costume ideas.

Mrs Kathryn Salt

Junior School Teacher-Librarian

Week 2 - Headmaster's Commendations

Week 2 - Excellence Awards

Week 3 - Excellence Awards

Head of Middle School

How we conduct ourselves when we are disappointed or out of the spotlight can often be the truest reflection of character. The Olympic Games has offered up the brilliant examples of Cate and Bronte Campbell and Mitch Larkin whose humility and gratitude despite not meeting the huge expectation their country placed on them to deliver gold medals is a great reminder that good sportsmanship, that is the respect for the opposition and the opportunity to complete, rises above all successes and disappointments. I saw another example of great sportsmanship on Saturday when our First Football team defeated Trinity in the final game of the season and in doing so won the Alcock Cup. When the siren sounded the field was swamped by hundreds of spectators mobbing our successful players, with the gallant but deject Trinity players standing by exhausted and watching on. Immediately breaking out of the mob was the Scotch captain, Tom Gooch, who went and shook hands with every Trinity player and the umpires before joining the celebrations. For me this was a highlight of the game, when the contests, collisions and the fierceness of the game was over, humility, gratitude and respect rose to the fore. In terms of our behaviour when out of the spotlight, I received this email letter last week that reminds us, we are always on show:

I was in Claremont on Friday about 4pm and two Middle School boys looking immaculate in their uniform were walking around. I stopped them and congratulated them on their appearance and asked their names. Can't remember of course but both tall, and very polite. Just thought you'd like to know. I was impressed.

The Year 8 Medieval Festival was huge hit last week. Thank you to the families that came and walked the displays, joined us for dinner and watched the impressive battling knights performance put on by the Grey Company. The Medieval unit of study is a great example of project based learning that allows our boys to learn and demonstrate their creativity as well as their knowledge in a hands on interactive manner.

Mr Richard Ledger

Head of Middle School

News from 7B

This term has seen the 7B boys embrace our new iLearn unit on all things water related. We began by looking at the world's water crisis (apologies to families who now have a plastic bottle in their toilet cistern!) and were shocked to discover that 1 in 10 people do not have access to safe water. We then began our investigations into the science of water; focusing on solutions, suspension and colloids.

Jarvis and Henry exploring a suspension mixture

Our unit on Paper Planes in English has ensured that there is no scrap paper remaining in the building, as boys hone their plane making skills. The boys have started a journal, inspired by Dylan's journal in the book and movie, based on a subject of their choice. It has been fascinating to learn about topics ranging from robotics to cooking, and we look forward to reading future entries.

Ms Andrea Goodison & Mrs Robyn Bose

7B Homeroom Teachers

Science Fun in Year 6T

As part of our iLearn topic of Science this term the Year 6 boys had Scitech come out to teach them more about Chemical Science in the laboratories upstairs in the Middle School. As each Year 6 boy is preparing his experiment and report for Science Fair Day, the gentlemen from Scitech explained to them the basic three states of matter and the difference in an independent, dependent and controlled variable.

The boys then were able to break into groups and participate in the different stations that were set up throughout the laboratory. These included polymer worms, making a volcano, strange sand, magnetic mixtures and super absorbent animals. The boys had to work with their group to conduct the experiment and then find the science involved in each.

After this the 6T boys had time to discuss their findings and then were able to make green slime in plastic zip lock bags. A fun day was had by all and we cannot wait to see the boys take control of their own experiment for the Year 6 Science Fair Day on Thursday 18 August!

Mr Daniel Turco

6T Homeroom Teacher

Excellence Awards

Student Achievements

Congratulations to Brennus Fogarty-Pryor (7.4A) who achieved two bronze medals at the recent Winter Pool Rescue State Championships, representing Fremantle Surf Lifesaving Club. He won the bronze medal for U12-13 4x medley relay and the U12 male line throw.

Congratulations to David Stulpner (8.4C) who won Novice for Piping at the State Solos over the holidays.

Congratulations to the following boys who were awarded a Certificate of Academic Excellence for Semester 1, 2016:

UNSW Digital Technologies Competition Results

Year 6

Year 7

Year 8

UNSW Science Competition Results

Year 6

Year 7

Year 8

Important Dates in Middle School Winter Term

Grace and humility leave the strongest mark

The winter sports season came to an end last Saturday with the boys approaching the final round with some anticipation. The Firsts Badminton had secured the season premiership the week before and the Firsts Rugby and Football teams went into last Saturday's clash with Trinity knowing a win would guarantee both codes their respective season titles. As many now know, Scotch College won all Firsts games on Saturday and now holds the trophies for the Brother Kelly Cup (Badminton), Brother Redmond Cup (Rugby) and shares the Alcock Cup (Football) with Hale School. Firsts Hockey had a very strong season, finishing second.

While we admire acts of courage, effort and skill from so many of the boys across all year groups and a wide range of activities, it is the acts of humility and grace that leave the strongest mark. This was the message I shared at the Senior School assembly on Friday before the last round of sporting fixtures. The example used was that of Cameron McEvoy who the day before finished 7^th in the 100 metre freestyle, an event he was favoured to win. At the end of the race Cameron McEvoy stood at the end of the pool looking at the electronic scoreboard, running his eyes up and down the table looking at times, places and his name in 7^th place. While all of the other swimmers had left the pool, some scurrying off the pool deck and back to the change rooms, Kyle Chalmers, the 18 year-old Australian school-boy who had just won the gold medal in the same event stood waiting for Cam McEvoy. Despite winning a gold medal at the age of 18 and entitled to be caught up in the euphoria of this remarkable achievement, Kyle was still thinking about his mate who was the favourite to win the race.

When interviewed on the pool deck, not in a press conference when he had the chance to comprehend the race, but at the time when his emotions were most raw, Cameron made sure his teammate got all the attention he deserved.

"Not the best (race). My preparation was good all year round and it was probably just the last week or so I imagine that has probably thrown me," McEvoy said.

"But enough about me. Kyle's come in and done another PB on top of the PB he did at the (Olympic) trials. He's just turned 18 and he's an Olympic champion - that's bloody wonderful isn't it."

Acts of grace such as that shown by Cameron McEvoy are not lost on our boys. The day after our Senior School assembly, we witnessed similar acts of sportsmanship and humility on the sporting field. The Firsts Rugby, having just won the premiership formed a tunnel to congratulate the opposition as they came off the field. The captains of both teams gave speeches and not before the conclusion of the post game presentations did the Scotch team run onto the field to celebrate in the usual manner.

On an adjacent field, following a hard fought victory in the Firsts Football that secured equal first place for the season, a similar act of humility was on display. As a large number of spectators ran on to the field to celebrate the victory and consequently the season premiership, Tom Gooch (Year 12, Keys) and Jack Monaghan (Year 11, Alexander) showed maturity and humility beyond their years. Both Tom and Jack chose to acknowledge the opposition players with whom they and their teammates had just competed fiercely with before joining their teammates in a well-deserved celebration. While we hear and read about the development of character in young people these ideals have to be demonstrated through action. The examples on the weekend certainly provided a strong example of what character looks like, both before and after the final siren.

Dr Rob McEwan

Head of Senior School

Senior School Important Dates

Year 11 Certificates of Academic Excellence - Semester 1

Personal Project Showcase and Exhibition

Congratulations to Year 10 students who have all completed their Personal Projects. To celebrate this event, the students' achievements will be showcased on Friday 16 September in the Dickinson Centre from 5.30pm - 7.30pm. All families, staff and mentors of the Year 10 boys are warmly invited to attend this event and the boys are certainly looking forward to the River Cruise after the Showcase as a just reward for all their hard work throughout the year.

For members of the wider Scotch community who would like to view the products on display, the exhibition will also be open in the Dickinson Centre during school hours on Thursday 15 and Friday 16 September. Year 9 students are particularly encouraged to walk through the exhibition as they begin exploring ideas for their own Personal Projects.

A reminder that all large products and display materials need to be delivered to the Dickinson Centre on Monday 12 September. Products can then be collected from the Dickinson Centre on Saturday 17 September between 10.00am - 12.00pm. Due to other events scheduled, we do not have the capacity to store such a large volume of items. For any queries regarding the delivery and collection of products, please contact Miss Kate Flowers.

Boys who wish to use their laptops to display their product need to organise for a family member to take it home at the end of the showcase. Laptops are not permitted on the River Cruise for security purposes.

We look forward to seeing you at the Personal Project Exhibition as we celebrate the diverse goals and interests of the Year 10 students.

Miss Kate Flowers

Personal Project Coordinator

PSA (Years 7 to 12) Sport Winter Term and Spring Term 2016

PSA Winter Season (Year 7 to 12): concluded on Saturday 13 August, 2016.

Scotch 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 but attendance is voluntary.

There will be NO Summer Sport Training in Winter Term, 2016.

Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 will be engaged, where required, in alternative activities on the following Friday afternoons this term:

Friday 26 August 2016

Friday 2 September 2016

Friday 9 September 2016

Friday 16 September 2016

Summer training will commence in Spring Term on:

Wednesday 12 October for Year 7, 8 and 9

Thursday 13 October for Year 10, 11, 12

The first summer sport fixture is on Friday 14 and Saturday 15 October 2016

Senior School Inter-House Athletics Carnival (Years 9 to 12)

The Inter-House Athletics Carnival will be held on Friday 26 August 2016, with a full programme of events available on the Homepage, commencing 1.00pm to 3.30pm, and continuing Saturday 27 August 2016, 8.50am to 1.00pm.

The Pipe Band will play as usual on Saturday at lunchtime, and the parade of Houses will begin about 12.30pm, followed by the presentation of the Austin Robertson Cup to the winning House. Parents are invited to either or both days and we would remind you that this is a compulsory Saturday event for the Senior School students.

Middle School Inter-House Athletics Carnival (Years 6 to 8)

Thursday 25 August 2016 8.30am to 3.30pm

Junior School Inter-House Athletics Carnival (Years 1 to 5)

Wednesday 24 August 2016 8.30am to 3.30pm

Quads Athletics Carnival

Friday 2 September 2016

Hosted by Guildford Grammar School at Ern Clark Athletics Centre, Coker Park, Cannington (times to be confirmed but most likely 2.00pm to 6.00pm)

PSA Inter-School Athletics Carnival

Friday 9 September 9.00am to 3.00pm

Hosted by Christ Church Grammar School at the WA Athletics Stadium

Mr Richard Foster

Head of Sport

Radio Broadcasting Workshops

RTRFM's Youth Introduction To Radio is a three- session course available to students in Year 10 and 11. This is an opportunity to explore the inner workings of a radio station and create a 15-20 minute radio show. Participants will curate their own playlist, write and deliver scripts, learn to adlib announce and operate the desk in RTRFM's state of the art studio adjacent to the live to air studio which broadcasts live.

The workshops are recommended for those interested in Music, Drama, Media or those who may be considering a career in broadcasting. The workshops cost $300 and will run during the second week of the school holidays 2-4 October. Please note that spaces are limited.

If you are interested in this opportunity and want to find out more information, please see attached document and contact Head of Drama sarah.combes@scotch.wa.edu.au no later than Thursday 18 August.

Ms Sarah Combes

Head of Drama

Rowing Information

Updated rowing information detailing competition, training sessions and camps can be found here.

Mr Grant Ford

Head of Rowing

Maths Revision Sessions

We are running three hour comprehensive reviews of the WACE Maths courses with a focus on the types of exam questions you can expect to see. You will receive a new set of resources and worked solutions to help guide your revision leading up to and your Mock and WACE exams.

Each session will be led by Charlie Watson. Charlie is one of WA's leading voices on the new maths courses, the class pad calculators and the upcoming WACE exam papers.

Links are now live and limited to 50 at the moment.

End of Week 7

http://bookings.scotch.wa.edu.au/event/2735633 - Specialist - Sunday 11 September 1.00pm - 4.00pm

http://bookings.scotch.wa.edu.au/event/2735631 - Methods - Sunday 11 September 9.00am - 12.00pm

End of Week 8

http://bookings.scotch.wa.edu.au/event/2735634 - Applications - Sunday 18 September 10.00am - 1.00pm

All sessions will be held at Scotch and once I know numbers we will let you know exactly where we will be.

Ms Sam Rees

Curriculum Leader - Mathematics

Writing Competition for Secondary Schools

Students are invited to make a difference in the lives of young West Australians, who currently wait too long for life-saving organ transplants. By participating in this inaugural Writing for Life micro fiction competition, students will compete for a $2000 prize pool provided by Donor Mate, our sponsors and partners in promoting organ and tissue donation. And, importantly, students will promote an important social justice issue along the way.

DonateLife Western Australia is the government authority which coordinates all organ and tissue donation in the State. At any time, some 1500-1700 Australians wait for a second chance at life. Many will have their lives transformed by the precious gift of organ donation.

Writing for Life: Micro Fiction Young Writers Competition asks students to think critically and to write creatively. What if their words had the power to save lives?

The Writing for Life competition opens on Monday 18 July, and closes on Monday 29 August.

Prizes will include electronic equipment, plus prizes for runners up (eg. e-readers, book and i-tune vouchers), thanks to Donor Mate. Winning entries will be published online, and in school newsletters, as well as placed in local media outlets. Winners will be announced in September.

Students can access background material by exploring the DonateLife website (http://www.donatelife.gov.au). In the 'For the Community' section there is information about organ and tissue donation processes; the Book of Life stories (written by recipients and donor families), short animations and videos.

Please download your entry forms etc at http://www.donatelife.gov.au/writing-life/wa.

Dr Jeanette Weeda

English Teacher

Careers Information

University Information

Year 12 Parents and Students

TISC Applications

All Year 12 students who are applying for university entrance in 2017 have been given the 2017 TISC Guide. This book contains important information about applying to university, enrolments and deferrals, applying to interstate universities and course codes and descriptions and much more for all courses at West Australian universities (except Notre Dame). Mr Frusher has 'walked' students through this book but if there are any queries then please contact him on 9383 6830 or by email pfrusher@scotch.wa.edu.au.

Please ensure that this book is kept in a safe place until your student is enrolled at a university for 2017. Note that all applications for Western Australian university entry in 2017 (except Notre Dame) must be made on-line by accessing the TISC website at www.tisc.edu.au and that applications are now open until Friday, September 30 2016, after such time a late fee of $150 will apply.

Notre DameUniversity applications are also now open but will require a written application. All Year 12 students have been given the 2017 Admissions Guide for Notre Dame.

Notre Dame OPEN DAY Sunday 21 August from 10.00am - 4.00pm Fremantle Campus

2016 WACE Examination Timetables

These timetables are available on the School Curriculum & Standards Authority website. http://www.scsa.wa.edu.au.

All Year 12 students will be issued with personal timetables later this term.

UWAY 2017

UWAY is an equity initiative for WACE students whose academic achievements have been adversely affected by certain disadvantages. Students can apply for special entry to an undergraduate degree course at UWA. Please see Mr Frusher for more details.

UWA Biomedical Engineering

A new engineering programme which is the first of its kind in Western Australia will enable bioengineers to work on cutting-edge technologies to improve health outcomes such as reducing the amount of surgery needed by cancer patients and developing new equipment that can detect people at risk of heart attacks.

The programme, known as Biomedical Engineering@Perkins, was launched recently at The University of Western Australia-affiliated Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.

http://www.news.uwa.edu.au/201607288890/international/new-engineering-program-aims-deliver-medical-breakthroughs

Interstate University Applications

Applications to public interstate universities is done through the respective admission centres in each State as detailed below.

Victorian University Applications (VTAC)

The VTAC Guide 2017 is now available for download on the VTAC website - http://www.vtac.edu.au. The VTAC Guide is on sale at newsagencies.

Applications for 2017 are now open.

New South Wales University Applications (UAC)

South Australian University Applications (SATAC)

Queensland Universities (QTAC)

Tasmania University (including Australian Maritime College) (UTAS)

Please note that applications to Bond University are made direct to the university.

University of Sydney

Students who may be considering studying at the University of Sydney in 2017 are invited to attend an information evening on Thursday 18 August from 6.00-8.00pm at the Hyatt Regency Perth, 99 Adelaide Terrace, Perth. There will be information on the wide variety of courses, scholarships, how to apply and life on campus. Register at www.sydney.edu.au/meet-sydney.

Muresk Institute

Applications are open for the Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management degree at Muresk Institute for 2017. This course is delivered by Central Regional TAFE in collaboration with Charles Sturt University.

ENROL NOW through Charles Sturt University's online admission process

1. Apply online: http://futurestudents.csu.edu.au/apply/apply-now
2. Create user account
3. Follow prompts for the Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management at Muresk Institute

Overseas Applications

Applications to overseas universities are completed in a variety of ways with applications for the commencement of university in July/August 2017 needing to be completed by January 2017. For further information please see Mr Frusher at Scotch College.

UK University Entrance Tests

Any Year 12 student who is considering university study in the UK in 2017 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 accept standard BMAT (Medicine) entries will be open between 1 September and 1 October 2016. A late entry penalty will then be charged for any BMAT entries made between 2 and 15 October 2016, after which no entries will be accepted.

Registrations to accept entries for the CAT, ELAT, HAT, MAT, MLAT, OLAT, PAT, Philosophy Test and TSA Oxford tests will be open between 1 September and 15 October 2016.

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 if you require registration.

2017 and Beyond

Mr Frusher is available for discussion with students and parents about options for 2017. All Year 12 students will also be given an appointment time with Mr Frusher to discuss tertiary options prior to making their application.

At this stage Year 12 students should have received a Prospectus from each of the WA Universities and a Year 12 WACE Information Handbook 2016 (on-line at Schools Curriculum & Standards Authority - www.scsa.wa.edu.au).

Career Tips

Career Quiz

This quiz will help you identify what types of work you most like doing. A Career Quiz app can also be downloaded free from the iTunes app store and Google Play by searching for 'Career Quiz Australia'.

http://joboutlook.gov.au/careerquiz.aspx

Fair Work Ombudsman: Young Workers and Students

This webpage outlines the responsibilities and rights of young people and students in the workplace. Information can also be found on starting a job, beginning an apprenticeship or traineeship, and ending employment.

http://www.fairwork.gov.au/find-help-for/young-workers-and-students

Mr Peter Frusher

Careers Adviser

Parents Association

A reminder about our next PA meeting which is an open meeting for all Scotch Parents

When: Tuesday 6 September - 7.30pm

Where: Scotch Dining Room Annexe

We welcome you to come along and hear about the latest School updates and see how our Committee works.

Year 10 Celebration Reception for the boys Personal Project

RSVP: By purchasing tickets via "Book a Scotch College Event" on the Scotch webpage

Enquiries: Melissa Harkins: herbh@iinet.net.au or 0401 671 849

Funding Projects at Scotch College

If you believe that you have a great funding opportunity that will enhance the experience of the boys at Scotch please contact your Year representative, parent support group or School representative. We would like to hear from you.

Our most recent funding approval was for a legacy project researched and proposed by the Year 12 Student Council. They gave a very professional presentation to our last Committee meeting and as a result we have approved the purchase of a four-station drinking fountain for the school gymnasium area.

Mr Ian Knobel

President, Parents Association

Scotch Auxiliary

It was fabulous to see many parents at our City Country Lunch on Wednesday 3 August. This day remains a very popular event and a great opportunity for day and residential parents to come together. Thank you to Michelle Grosse, Tarni Young and Steve Gollan for their help in organising a lovely lunch in Beverley.

We were fortunate to have our Headmaster, Dr Alec O'Connell, present to us at our meeting last Monday, and share his vision of the merits of merging the Parents' Association and the Scotch Auxiliary to form one support group that represents our parent community. Thank you to the parents who were able to join us, we hope you found this informative. We will continue to update parents with the progress.

Upcoming Events:

Year 10 Parents' Celebration Reception - Friday 16 September

For more details on these events and to purchase tickets please visit the Scotch College website www.scotch.wa.edu.au and click on the "Book a Scotch College Event" icon.

Coffee Mornings:

Year 10 - Wednesday 24 August, from 8.30am

The Shorehouse, 278 Marine Parade, Swanbourne

Year 12 Coffee Morning - Thursday August 18, from 8.30am

Good Things, 128 Wellington Street, Mosman Park

Save the Date:

Junior School Fathers' Day Breakfast - Friday 2 September

Year 10 Mothers' Sleepover at Moray - Saturday 10 September

Year 11 Mums' Lunch - Saturday 17 September 2016, 12.30pm. Venue to be advised.

Next Meeting:

Monday 19 September, Gooch Pavilion

Doors open 8.30am, tea and coffee provided.

Meeting commences at 9.00am. All welcome.

Mrs Carissa Paganin

President

Pipe Band Parent Support Group

We have a very busy term ahead with the following upcoming events:

Athletics Carnivals

Middle School - Thursday 25 August

Middle School Pipe Band to perform at the commencement of the carnival.

Pipe Band Parent Support Group to sell hot and cold beverages, toasted sandwiches and cakes.

Senior School - Friday 26 and Saturday 27 August

School Pipe Band to perform at the closing of the carnival on Saturday.

Hot and cold beverages and snacks will be available for sale on Friday.

Pipe Band Parent Support Group will sell hot and cold beverages, cakes, hot food, memorabilia and other delights on Saturday.

PBPSG BYO Cocktail Party for Pipe Band parents - Friday 2 September

Manure Drive - Saturday 17 September - details to follow.

Your support is sincerely appreciated at our events.

Yvette Henderson

President PBPSG