Scotch College

Principal appointed National AHISA Chairman

Our Principal Dr Gordon Donaldson continues to build on an impressive Scotch record with his recent appointment as the National AHISA Chairman.

In 1931 the Headmasters' Conference of Independent Schools of Australia (HMC) was formed. It provided a means whereby heads of Australian independent schools could gather, promote the ideals of education within their schools, and foster intercollegial relationships. The founding Chairman of the HMC was Dr W S Littlejohn, Scotch's Principal. In 1949 Mr Colin Gilray, Dr W S Littlejohn's successor, was appointed Chairman, as was Mr Colin Healey from 1962 - 65.

On taking up the Principalship of Scotch in 1983, Dr Donaldson became a member of the Headmasters' Conference. Two years later the Headmasters' Conference merged with its sister organisation, and AHISA (the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia) was formed. In 1989 Dr Donaldson was elected as a member of the executive of the Victorian branch, and became Secretary in 1992 and Victorian Chairman from 1993 to 1995. Since 1993 he has been a member of the National Standing Committee of the Association.

At this year's biennial conference in Hobart Dr Donaldson took over as National Chairman of AHISA, making him the fourth of Scotch's eight principals to occupy this important and prestigious position.

As Chairman of AHISA, Dr Donaldson has taken on a strategic role in education within Australia, as well as a most challenging task. He is now responsible for liaising with 270 heads of independent schools on issues relating to the education and well-being of all Australian children, with an emphasis on almost a quarter of a million students in the members' schools. AHISA encourages a collegial environment for its members and arranges for the opportunity for professional development of its members and the staff of their schools.

Dr Donaldson's knowledge of his professional colleagues and his ability to use their individual and collective talents to best advantage will contribute to his success in the extremely challenging two years ahead.

The Scotch Family offers its congratulations to our Principal, and wish him well in this milestone appointment.

Life Governorship for the Principal

Late last year the Australian Drug Foundation directors unanimously endorsed the nomination of Dr Donaldson for Life Governor, mentioning that his contribution to the ADF, and particularly to the establishment of the Centre for Youth Drug Studies, had been outstanding.