Scotch College

From the President - November 2005

The 2005 school year draws to a close

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” Mark Twain

As boys from the graduating class of 2005 prepare to enter the next phase of their life experience, they face challenges and opportunities significantly more diverse and complex than any we faced on graduation.

We wish them luck in their pursuits, and trust they possess the inner strength and courage to chase their dreams and push their boundaries. The confidence and experience they have gained from their time at Scotch has hopefully prepared them well to grasp their chances, and given them the intellectual confidence to explore, dream and discover.

We would like to thank all graduating boys and their families for their enormous contributions to our school community over many years. Hopefully many will return regularly to the campus and we look forward to welcoming them back.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many parents who have helped the Scotch Parents’ Association throughout the year. The auxiliaries, support groups and class representatives provided a plethora of events this year, giving all parents the chance to become involved in the life of the school.

The boys appreciate parents’ involvement, and there is much joy to be had in preparing breakfasts for hungry rowers, or covering books for the library or assisting on sports days. There are so many ways to be involved and to show support for the boys and it is a task that should not be undervalued. As Mark Twain said there is no point having regrets in 20 years time, both boys and parents must make the most of opportunities as they present themselves. So I encourage all parents to look to 2006 as an opportunity to become involved in one new activity at the school – even if it requires only one hour of your time. You will benefit from the experience, your boy will appreciate it (even if he doesn’t say so at the time) and Scotch will benefit from your input.

At the recent Scotch Parents’ Association AGM, the office bearers for 2006 were announced. I would like to congratulate Stephen Grover on his appointment as the new President of the Scotch Parents’ Association. He will be ably assisted by Ros Franet and Peter Dawson. I wish Stephen and his team of dedicated Class Representatives, Auxiliary Heads and Support Group Leaders all the best for a successful 2006.

Finally I would like to thank the many parents and Scotch staff who have assisted me this year. Nada Peacock has done an excellent job in producing The Torch, as has our editor Sally Heath. 2006 will see a renewed push to produce an electronic version of The Torch to overcome some of the problems we experience. The Association could not function without the support it receives from the Scotch Administration Manager Ian Gelling and his team. Thanks also to Sara Wilson for her unfailing secretarial support.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all.

Sarah Bernard
President Scotch Parents Association