Term 3, Week 3 2024
The Torch
Term 3, Week 3 2024
- Whole School Notices
- Junior School Notices
- Senior School Notices
- Sports & Co-Curricular
- Upcoming Events
- Health & Wellbeing
Over the past week it has been wonderful to continue to meet with parents who have sought further clarification on our 2025 and 2026 timetable changes. It has also been wonderful to receive so many positive emails of support and words of encouragement around the sporting fields. We look forward to our 2025 VCE information evening, for current Year 10 and Year 11 parents, on Tuesday 13 August at 6.30pm. This will be another important step in communicating our new plans.
I would like to draw parents’ attention to the latest communication from the APS Sport Review Steering Committee. I will be meeting with the APS Heads in the coming weeks and look forward to these conversations about how we can further improve opportunities for our boys.
Last week was a very special week for a group of 16 Year 10 boys and four staff. Led by Dr. Robert Smith, the team travelled to Tiwi Island and worked alongside our friends at Tiwi College. The reports from both staff and students have been tremendous. Well done boys and thank you to the staff, including Ms. Peta Miedecke, Mr. Hendrik Oosthuizen and Mrs. Diana McNamara who gave their time for this extraordinary experience.
Also last week, Mr. Tom Savill, our Vice Principal – Head of Junior School, and his team announced three new senior leadership roles for our Junior School. To be advertised shortly, these roles will oversee the holistic growth of boys in P-2, 3-4 and 5-6. Importantly, these additional roles will also support our staff in the classroom and work alongside P-6 staff to improve teaching and learning outcomes for our boys. These new roles will commence in 2025.
This week I had the privilege of judging the Year 9 Public Speaking Competition. The topic was based on Dr Martin Luther King’s famous quote, “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve”. Well done to the finalist and to everyone who participated. Service is so important to the fabric of Scotch, and I am thankful for the thought and efforts of everyone involved in this competition.
May I draw your attention to the upcoming Business Networking Breakfast at Zinc on Wednesday 14 August, hosted by OSCA. All members of the Scotch Family are invited to attend this very enjoyable annual event – it is a great opportunity to meet other parents and hear from some interesting speakers. Registrations close this Tuesday, so please do book now if you intend to come along.
Wishing all our Year 12 boys a positive time on Saturday as they play their very last game of Winter sport. Go Scotch!
Dr Scott Marsh
Principal
A Message from the 2024 SPA President
A warm welcome to Term 3 to all members of the Scotch community. Planning is well and truly underway for Family Day 2024; a great celebration of our Scotch Family and a fantastic day. Great schools thrive on the goodwill of their communities, and Scotch is no exception; the success of Family Day relies heavily on volunteer staffing. While some of our auxiliaries are able to provide all the “person-power” they need, help is most often welcomed. Our call out is to those who can lend a hand on the day to keep an eye out for the volunteer signup form, which will be available via The Torch shortly.
Our next SPA General Meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 12 at 7.00pm in the Senior School Staff Common Room in the Lithgow Centre. All are welcome, however we do ask that any questions to be raised on the night are submitted prior to the meeting, so that answers can be thoughtfully considered and prepared.
Cameron Bendschneider
2024 SPA President
Family Day: Clubs & Auxiliary Stalls
As outlined above, Family Day is coming up this term on Saturday 14 September and the events team is working with the SPA, JSPA, clubs and auxiliaries on the stalls and activities to be offered this year. Key contacts at each club and auxiliary should please confirm their stall offering with the Events team as soon as possible. Please click here for the full list of stalls.
A link to sign up to volunteer on a stall during Family Day will be shared via The Torch shortly. In the meantime, please note all volunteers are required to have a Working With Children Check (WWCC). These can take up to four weeks, so if you do not have yours yet, please apply now: https://www.vic.gov.au/working-with-children-check
If you have any queries, please reach out to Michelle Dierkx and Teresa Everett at events@scotch.vic.edu.au
OSCA Business Networking Breakfast
All members of the Scotch Family are invited to the 2024 Business Networking Breakfast hosted by the Old Scotch Collegian’s Association, to be held on Wednesday 14 August at 7.00am, at Zinc at Federation Square.
Panelists Nick Griffin (’91), Founding Partner & Chief Investment Officer at Munro Partners and Clark Kirby (’96), Chief Executive Officer at Village Roadshow Group, will provide insights into the world of investing and entertainment/media by sharing their experiences and views on current trends in their field.
Enquiries to Caroline Taylor at oscanet@scotch.vic.edu.au or 98104359
Please note the following important dates:
Watching TV footage of Australian athletes in Paris realise their dreams, and compete at the highest level, is inspirational.
On Monday, the lucky boys of the Junior School had the chance to go one better than watching footage from France. They had the opportunity to meet Olympians in person and listen to advice and stories from the athletes directly. One further special element was that each Olympian was an Old Scotch Collegian.
Our Sport Service team worked together to welcome Drew Ginn, George Jelbart, Stuart Sim, James Rook and Peter Gamble to a special assembly hosted in honour of Scotch’s link to the Olympics.
Drew, George, Stuart, James and Peter all shared fabulous messages with the youngest Scotchies.
Drew spoke of his introduction to rowing at Scotch and the advice of his Maths teacher (Mr McLeod) as a catalyst for his engagement in the sport. Drew shared his school experience as a strong foundation from which he went on to become one of Australia’s most successful rowers (of note his contribution to the ‘Oarsome Foursome’ winning gold in Atlanta 1996). Drew was generous enough to bring along his three Olympic gold medals and his Olympic silver for the boys to see and handle. He even presented the medals to four Prep boys, much to the delight of the audience.
George Jelbart shared his journey to the 2004 Olympics in Athens where he competed in the men’s lightweight double sculls. George spoke to the boys of the right to be challenged and the benefit of stepping into places of discomfort and difficulty to help one grow.
Stuart Sim regaled boys with stories from his time in the Junior School pointing out 3S’s classroom as his first at Scotch. Stuart spoke of his early beginnings as a coxswain at school and his journey to the heights of being part of the Men’s VIII in the Tokyo Olympics. Stuart shared the influence of his Junior School teachers and the wide variety of opportunities he had at Scotch as being influential in his decision to get into a boat.
James Rook shared his route to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics as cox of the Australian Women’s VIII from his start as a Prep boy at Scotch. James explained to the boys that he was never the best at any specific sport at school and that he finished school as cox of the 3rd VIII. However, he shared that he had been inspired by past Scotchies (Drew Ginn being one) and had set his sights on being part of the Tokyo Olympics when in Year 9 at school. He shared with the boys his perseverance and determination leading to ultimately achieving his goal in 2021.
Finally, the boys heard from Peter Gamble who shared insights into his journey into the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico as a member of the Hong Kong sailing team in the Flying Dutchman event. Peter detailed his connection to rowing as an influence on his sailing, however a new passion developed as he chose different boats to command after leaving school. Like Stuart and James, Peter was a Junior School student.
There are moments at school that people never forget. I hope that this assembly will be one such moment for a number of Scotchies and that we might see a few of them compete in years to come.
We were fortunate to benefit from the generosity of Drew, George, Stuart, James and Peter. They certainly captured the interest of the Junior School boys, helping highlight the wonderful privilege the boys have of being part of the Scotch family.
Tom Savill
Head of Junior School
Term 3 SOS
This term, the Junior School will fundraise for the Running Water Project, raising money to put urinals into Balang High School in Cambodia.
In discussion with you as parents/caregivers, your son will be engaging in a variety of different actions to earn money. An example of this could be to simply empty the dishwasher for a fortnight for an agreed amount. Jobs such as gardening, pet care, mowing lawns, bake sales, housework, window cleaning and car washing are some suggestions your son may have.
As your son completes a task, he will fill in a Scotch Service Log with details of the job undertaken and the time it took. There is a House competition with a prize for the House which completes the most hours of service.
Boys can bring the money at any time. We have sourced a toilet which we aim to fill with money as a fun way to showcase our hard work.
This initiative is running from Thursday 1 August until Thursday 29 August. Service logs and all money must be in by Thursday 29 August. Thank you in advance for supporting this important charity work by giving the boys an opportunity to earn money through acts of service.
School Crossings Information from the Boroondara Council
Click here to view letter from the Boroondara Council
JSPA Father’s Day Breakfast: Save the Date
The JSPA Father’s Day Breakfast will be held on Wednesday 28 August. Further information to follow.
Library Information
Click here for Term 3 Library Information and Events
Junior School Dates
View the key Junior School dates
Music Making in Term 3
An exciting week is coming up in the Scotch Music Department!
The week begins on Monday with the Year 5/6 Glen House Choir boys attending the Victorian School Music Festival in Box Hill. The boys are looking forward to performing a new piece called Whenever the Wind is High by Australian composer Todd McNeal. They will also perform The Unicorn by Dan Walker which was performed at the Year 5 & 6 Concert at the end of last term. These pieces are hugely contrasting and very challenging to perform. Parents are welcome to come and watch the choir perform. Glen House is likely to be on stage at approximately 11.20am at the Salvation Army Performing Arts Centre. Boys will also get to hear choirs from St Kevin’s, St Catherine’s, Girton Grammar and Donvale Christian College.
On Tuesday, the string boys will perform in the annual Scotch Strings Concert. This concert will showcase the breadth and depth of the string program from the littlest to the biggest boys! Taking part in the concert from the Junior School will be the Prep to Year 2 Suzuki Strings, the Year 3 & 4 Orchestra, the Year 5 & 6 Orchestra and the Junior Chamber Strings. Representing the Senior School will be the Henri Touzeau Strings, Academy Strings, Amadeus Strings and the Cello Ensemble. Please note that this performance will begin at 6.30pm. The event is not ticketed, so please bring along the whole family to support the boys. Parents of boys involved will have already received information regarding arrival time and uniform requirements.
Music Resources
Please note some of the music dates have been changed/updated. Please check the updated document to ensure you have the correct date.
Sporting Update
House Field events are being held next week for Years 3 to 6. Long jump, shot put, triple jump and javelin are the four events that the boys will compete in for House points which go towards the overall Family Day results. Parents are welcome to attend. Please enter via the Monash Gates (Entry 5) and walk down the driveway to the Main Oval. Times are as follows:
Thursday 8 August:
Friday 9 August:
Boys in Prep to Year 2 have a modified program for Family Day, and they are preparing for these events in class. Very soon, the track on Main Oval will be marked and the boys in Years 3 to 6 will begin practising the running events on the Family Day program which will include 100m, 200m and a 100m relay. Selected boys will run an 800m.
Please ensure your son is dressed in layers this term as most PE classes are held outdoors. Please communicate with Paul McMahon or Dean Gregory if your son is unable to participate in class for any reason, especially injury.
Year 5 and 6 APS Sport: Term 3
Thank you for helping the boys begin positively this term in APS sport. Morning training, where arrival at school before 7.00am is required, further reinforces the message of hard work and sacrifice being needed to be the best they can be.
Click here for Year 5 and 6 Interschool Sport information relating to:
Year 5 & 6 APS Sport: Term 4
The Year 5 and 6 boys have chosen their Term 4 sport. Please discuss with your son what he has chosen. It appears that all boys who chose golf and sailing will be able to enjoy their choice.
There are two locations for golf. Boys who have some experience in course play for golf can utilise Burnley Golf Course each Wednesday and play a few holes in the allotted time, while those beginning the game can learn at the Melbourne Driving Range in Albert Park. Golf and sailing do not have any training next term, only the Wednesday participation. Fees apply for these choices and parents will have the fees added to their school invoice.
Training for touch rugby will take place after school on Tuesdays for Year 6 and Thursdays for Year 5.
Athletics training will take place after school on Thursdays and is a mixed team of Year 5-6.
Water polo training will take place at 7.00am on Tuesdays for Year 6 and Thursdays for Year 5.
Run Club
Run Club continues this term for Year 6 boys who want to improve their fitness. Senior School coaches take the boys on Monday and Wednesday mornings from 7.00am. Boys meet in the green grandstand on Main Oval dressed to run. They should be dropped off on Morrison Street before 7.00am and conclude at 8.00am in time to walk back to Junior School for the 8.15am start.
Sports Queries
Sporting queries should be directed to our Junior School Sport email juniorschoolsport@scotch.vic.edu.au These will be responded to by Lucia Thompson, our Junior School Sports Administration Assistant.
A Message from the JSPA Committee
We started Term 3 with the German Trivia night last Wednesday, organised by Barbara Aumer and the LOTE team in Junior School.
Many parents attended the evening with perfect winter warmers, homemade cakes and hot beverages. We really appreciate everyone’s participation. It was a great opportunity for parents to meet other Junior School families across different year levels. We thank Mimi Hohlweg for her contribution in making this evening a great success.
The Auxiliary groups are busy organising many fun events for the boys and their families including the Father’s Day Breakfast, Father’s Day Stall and Family Day. Booking links to assist with these activities will be sent via the Class Reps WhatsApp groups.
Some key dates for your diaries:
Feel free to send any feedback/suggestions/queries to dryogita.gupta@gmail.com
Your friendly JSPA Committee 2024
At assembly this week, I highlighted to the boys three recent activities that epitomise the breadth of opportunities available to our students.
Firstly, the Principal’s Art Acquisition prize was awarded last Thursday. The entrants from Year 7-12 had their works displayed in the Lithgow Centre and professionally presented in a beautiful, printed catalogue; and many students and staff have been wandering through the exhibition in recent weeks, admiring the varied work.
The theme was Beauty in Life and the idea clearly resonated deeply with our students, who captured moments of beauty in mixed media, photography, drawing, painting and ceramics. It is a brave student who exhibits a piece of art, as it reflects a personal part of themselves. I applaud all entrants who were courageous and willing to give it a go and I hope that they felt gratified by the many members of our community who viewed their works and admired their skills.
Seeing the Lauriston Girls School/Scotch College production of the musical Urinetown on Saturday night was a highlight of the year for me; an energetic, joyous and wonderful performance indeed. Thank you to all the staff involved who spent a great deal of time supporting our thespians, who also worked incredibly hard over a long period of time to perform at such a high level.
Last week was the Year 10 Tiwi College Immersion Trip which proved an impactful experience for the boys. It was, in their words, an insightful and life changing experience; helping them appreciate the First Nations culture and way of life on Tiwi more deeply. I thank Dr Smith and the other accompanying staff, who made this opportunity possible.
It is wonderful that, at Scotch College, the contributions of the Council, Old Boys, staff and families ensure that these sorts of opportunities are available for our boys. However, nothing happens without students getting involved. It takes students brave enough to step out of their comfort zone to take up a new challenge for things to happen.
I am delighted so many of our boys do push themselves to try new things. I encourage all students to consider how they might get involved in Semester 2; what is a new challenge that they might consider? Is there an opportunity to compete, display, travel, contribute or develop a new skill? To do something that they have never done before. They might find a new passion, friend, mentor or even a whole new perspective on life!
Katrina Brennan
Head of Senior School
Parent Teacher Interviews
Senior School Parent Teacher Interviews will be held on Thursday 8 August and Wednesday 14 August from 2.00pm-8.30pm. All interviews will take place on Zoom.
Students will be dismissed at 12.45pm on these days, and sports and activities will not run on these afternoons. On the following mornings (Friday 9 August and Thursday 15 August) students will commence classes at 9.10am and no sports or activities will take place on these mornings.
All information on booking your son’s Parent Teacher interviews and accessing the Zoom links is available on the portal.
Parent Information Evening – VCE 2025
An additional session on the timetable reforms for current Year 10 and Year 11 students and parents (ie. Year 11 and Year 12 in 2025) will be held on Tuesday 13 August at 6.30pm. Further information will be emailed directly to parents.
Term 4 Summer Sport Changes Due This Friday
Any boy wanting to change his Term 4 summer sport must submit his request via email to Michael.Kelly@scotch.vic.edu.au by tomorrow. All boys’ sports selections will otherwise remain the same as the sport they participated in Term 1.
House Winter Sports Day
On Tuesday 6 August, students in Years 7-12 will take part in House Winter Sports Day. Year 7 and 8 boys will compete during Periods 1 and 2, and Years 9-12 will compete during Periods 3-6. Students are permitted to wear their PE uniform to and from school on this day, including their House or Form sports shirts.
The sports for each year level are listed below:
APS School Captains’ Foodbank Drive
Thank you to everyone who has already brought a donation for the APS Captains’ food drive to support those in need in our local community. Donations are still being accepted at Room 15 in the Quad between 8.00-8.30am. Some of the foods needed include:
A Message from the 2024 SPA President
A warm welcome to Term 3 to all members of the Scotch community. Planning is well and truly underway for Family Day 2024; a great celebration of our Scotch Family and a fantastic day. Great schools thrive on the goodwill of their communities, and Scotch is no exception; the success of Family Day relies heavily on volunteer staffing. While some of our auxiliaries are able to provide all the “person-power” they need, help is most often welcomed. Our call out is to those who can lend a hand on the day to keep an eye out for the volunteer signup form, which will be available via The Torch shortly.
Our next SPA General Meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 12 at 7.00pm in the Senior School Staff Common Room in the Lithgow Centre. All are welcome, however we do ask that any questions to be raised on the night are submitted prior to the meeting, so that answers can be thoughtfully considered and prepared.
Cameron Bendschneider
2024 SPA President
Children & Family Support Immersion Charity Drive
Year 7 and 8 boys have been asked by Year 11 Children and Family Support Immersion students to bring in donations for two charities, Our Village (formerly St Kilda Mums) and You Matter. Our Village provides clothing and household goods to families in crisis. You Matter furnishes apartments for families fleeing domestic violence. Along with the Year 11 students, Scotch staff have visited both organisations and have seen that any items in good condition will go to directly to people in need.
The drive closes on Friday 9 August, however late donations are always welcome. Please help your son collect some of the following items which can be brought to his form room during form time (new items and items in good condition are welcomed):
Year 9 Fathers/Caregivers and Sons Event
Fathers and Caregivers of Year 9 students are invited to come together at Governors Hall on Sunday 15 September, from 4.00pm-7.00pm. Limited tickets are available for $37.50 per person. This includes woodfired pizzas, canapes and soft drinks for the boys. Adults may purchase drinks at bar prices.
RSVP: Tuesday 10 September
Any enquiries should be directed to Marie Gordon on 0419995773 or via email gordon.marie@bigpond.com
Year 9 and 10 Drug Awareness Program
In tutor time this term, our Year 9s are working through the topic of Alcohol and Cannabis. To support conversations at home, we will be sharing a summary of what has been discussed with the boys each week. Please click here for this week’s summary. Year 10s will be learning about MDMA and Emerging Drugs this term and parent summaries will similarly be shared in the corresponding weeks.
Year 10 Subject Selections
Year 10 parents and boys are now able to access the updated pre-requisite guide for Victorian courses from VTAC here. Subject selections should be checked against course listings to ensure they reflect future study plans.
Year 12 VTAC Registrations Now Open
Thank you to all parents who attended the Future Pathways information session on Monday evening. A recording of this session along with an updated VTAC video and demonstration SEAS application is now available on the Future Pathways Course and Careers Resources website. A quick reference guide about the VTAC application process can be found here.
Boys considering courses with additional selection tasks such as interviews, folio presentation or auditions, can read this fact sheet from VTAC to help them prepare.
For those preparing a SEAS application, this guide can be given to medical practitioners to help them understand the process and what to include in a statement of support.
If you have any questions or require any support, please do not hesitate to contact your Future Pathways Counsellor:
BD, DN, EN, FD: Adrienne.Mewett@scotch.vic.edu.au
FG, FS, GY, LN: Ophelia.Hopkins@scotch.vic.edu.au
LJ, MH, MN, SS: Robert.Smith@scotch.vic.edu.au
Year 11 Indonesian United Nations Model Conference
On Friday 2 August 2024, the Year 11 Indonesian class will attend the Indonesian United Nations Model Conference in North Melbourne. These conferences simulate the UN General Assembly to allow students to practise their diplomacy and collaboration skills in the language they are studying in VCE. This year’s topic is “Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development: Harnessing the Benefits – Safeguarding Human Rights”, the school will represent the countries of Mexico, Poland, and Rwanda. It is an amazing opportunity to extend students’ language skills, whilst connecting with students from other schools, all trying their best to speak as much Indonesian as possible.
Year 11 Parents and Carers’ Winter Drinks
The Year 11 Class Reps warmly invite you to the Year 11 Parents & Carers’ Winter Drinks. The event will be held at 7.00pm, Friday 26 August at the Mt Erica Hotel, 420 High Street. Tickets for the event are $40 per person.
Enquiries should be directed to Anna Luscombe on 0409140333 or by email luscombefamily@icloud.com
Year 11 Inspire Series
On Tuesday 6 August, Year 11 boys will take part in their second lecture in the Inspire Series. Speakers from Arrive and Thrive will talk about ways boys can develop their leadership skills and a sense of purpose moving into Year 12 and beyond. This workshop will provide an opportunity for them to reflect on their character strengths survey results and to consider how they can build their resume as they look towards upcoming school leadership opportunities.
We hope the session inspires great careers conversations at home. Further resources are available below:
Year 12 Scholarship Deadlines
August is an important month for scholarship applications across Australia. Please see the updated scholarship guide.
To apply for interstate scholarships, students must submit individual applications to each institution they wish to apply for. This is not done through VTAC.
Year 12 Fathers’ Day Breakfast
The Old Scotch Collegians’ Association warmly welcomes all Year 12 students, their fathers, grandfathers and guardians to the Class of 2024 Fathers’ Day Breakfast on Thursday 29 August at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club.
RSVP: Thursday 22 August
Tables seat 10 people. You are invited to enter your seating preference in the provided field when booking your ticket. Boarders will be seated with their family (if attending) or friends. Please note, formalities will conclude by 8.00am allowing time for students to arrive at school in time for period 1.
Please contact Caroline Taylor with any queries about this event: 9810 4359 oscanet@scotch.vic.edu.au
Scotch is Visiting Hamilton
Director of Boarding, Tim Byrnes, and Director of Admissions, Gary Peckham, will be attending Sheepvention in Hamilton, Victoria on Sunday 4 August and Monday 5 August.
We would be delighted to meet Old Boys, current, future and prospective families in the area during this time, please come along and say hello if you are attending. Our stand is in the Innovations Hub at the Hamilton Showgrounds site.
Upcoming Closed and Exeat Weekends
The Closed Weekend for all boarders is Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 August. This is followed by the Exeat weekend, beginning Friday 16 August after classes conclude. Boarders return on Monday 19 August, after 4.00pm.
Important Dates
Year 12 boarding parents and guardians may wish to take note of the following events to be held at the end of the year:
Further details and invitations will be sent closer to the respective events.
National Indoor Cricket Championship
During the Term Break, Year 7 student Shray Sahni represented the U14 Victorian team in the National Indoor Cricket Championship. Victoria went undefeated in the whole tournament becoming the National Champions.
Indonesian Embassy Essay-Writing Scholarship Competition
Congratulations to Year 12 Indonesian SL student, Will Whitehead, for winning an essay-writing scholarship competition by the Indonesian Embassy, commemorating Indonesian Independence Day. The scholarship promotes educational and cultural exchange. Will’s essay, “Dari Insta ke TikTok: Sebarkan Vibes Budaya Indonesia!” was selected from over 80 entries. The selection included an interview with a panel from the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia. As one of six winners, Will will attend a state dinner and flag ceremony at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Canberra.
International and Asia Pacific Mathematical Olympiads
The International Mathematical Olympiad is the most prestigious mathematics competition in the world. Congratulations to William Cheah, who was selected for the third time to represent Australia and achieved a silver medal. William also recently won bronze representing Australia in the Asia Pacific Mathematical Olympiad.
University of Melbourne Mathematics Competition
Scotch was the top performing school in the University of Melbourne Mathematics Competition, taking out first place in all three divisions. No school has ever accomplished this in the history of the competition.
Junior Division Results:
Intermediate Division Results:
Senior Division Results:
Future Pathways Newsletter
Read the latest issue of the Future Pathways Newsletter
This edition features:
University Open Days
Open Day season commences this weekend. View a list of open days.
It is strongly recommended that boys in Year 12 attend open days to get an idea of campus life, commutes and activities on offer. Boys in Years 10 and 11 may also like to attend to start narrowing their choices.
Sydney University Presentation
Boys and parents in Years 10-12 who are interested in studying at Sydney University are invited to a virtual information session on Monday 5 August at 7.00pm.
View this weekend’s APS Sports fixture
Winter Sport Final Round
This weekend marks the final round of the winter sport programme with the exception of Snowsports, Firsts Rugby Union and Gymnastics. A huge thanks to all TIC’s, teaching staff, coaches and parent support groups for assisting in delivering such a large programme with many moving parts. We wish all boys the very best for their fixtures and farewell our Year 12 boys, many of who are finishing their Scotch sports journey.
Spring Sport
The Spring sport programmes begin next week for Water Polo and Athletics on Saturday 10 August.
View the latest copy of the Spring sports programme.
Swimming Squad Training: Monday and Friday Mornings
Training will take place for Year 7-12 boys on Monday and Friday at 6.30-8.00am in the Glenn Centre pool. We encourage boys in the Water Polo programmes to participate in these sessions also. Sessions are not compulsory but provide a great opportunity for boys to build swimming fitness.
Term 4 Summer Sport Changes – Deadline This Friday
Any boy wanting to change his Term 4 summer sport must submit his request via email to Michael.Kelly@scotch.vic.edu.au by tomorrow. All boys’ sports selections will otherwise remain the same as the sport they participated in Term 1.
Athletics Preparation Training – Monday and Wednesday Lunchtime
The boys have been working hard in the athletics preparation sessions with 45 boys attending this session earlier in the week. The sessions are speed development and plyometric focused. Boys are asked to meet in the weights room on Monday and Wednesday lunchtime if interested. All boys in Year 7-12 are welcome.
Run Club
A reminder that Run Club takes place at 7.00am every Monday and Wednesday. Please meet at the Green Grandstand. All Year 6-12 students and all ability levels are catered for.
Scotch Rugby Presentation Night 2024
The 2024 Scotch Rugby Presentation Night will be held on Monday 2 September at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club.
Pricing per adult ticket is $100. Tickets for players and siblings are $65 (dinner and drinks). The event will run from 6.00pm – 9.00pm.
The dress code for adults is smart casual. Boys should wear their school uniform, this includes candy coats for senior students.
RSVP: Monday 26 August 2024
Please direct enquiries to Charlie Heerey on 0417 368 665 or via email charlie@heerey.com.au.
SCRUM Club
Read this week’s SCRUM Club newsletter
Slam Dunk Club
Read this week’s Slam Dunk Club newsletter
Submit Your Sports Newsletter!
We welcome all Scotch sports to share their newsletters via The Torch. Submit your newsletter by emailing a copy to communications@scotch.vic.edu.au by 10am each Wednesday.
Chamber Music Dinner
Saturday 3 August 7:30pm
The 2024 George Logie-Smith Chamber Music Dinner and concert will feature a programme of chamber works performed by Scotch College Music Students. Come and enjoy this magnificent evening of gifted performances with friends, family and other music lovers.
Book Tickets Here | View Flyer
Scotch Strings Concert
Tuesday 6 August.
The music department warmly invite you to enjoy a night full of music at the Scotch Strings Concert on Tuesday 6 August in Ian Roach Hall at 6.30pm.
Bookings are not required.
Old Scotch Symphony Orchestra: Love and other Delirium
Saturday 17 August
Join the Old Scotch Symphony Orchestra for an evening of “Love and Other Delirium.” Following a successful March concert, you are invited to enjoy a captivating musical journey exploring the themes of love. Highlights include Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Overture, Elgar’s Cello Concerto featuring soloist Lincoln Poon (’17), and Dvorak’s 5th Symphony. This concert promises to be an unforgettable night of beautiful music and heartfelt emotion.
Scotch Arts – Wilma and Friends
Tuesday 17 September
Wilma Smith (Concertmaster MSO 2003 – 2014) brings a delicious, predominantly French piano trio program, followed by groups featuring wind instruments, including a Wilma & Friends first, the bassoon!
Book Wilma and Friends Tickets Here
Year 12 Fathers’ Day Breakfast
The Old Scotch Collegians’ Association warmly welcomes all Year 12 students, their fathers, grandfathers and guardians to the Class of 2024 Fathers’ Day Breakfast on Thursday 29 August at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club. We are delighted to extend the invitation to grandfathers of year 12 students.
RSVP: Thursday 22 August
All Year 12 students are welcome and encouraged to attend this popular event with friends or family. Boarders will be seated with their family (if attending) or friends.
Tables seat 10 people. You are invited to enter your seating preference in the provided field when booking your ticket. Please note, formalities will conclude by 8.00am allowing time for students to arrive at school in time for period 1.
Please contact Caroline Taylor with any queries about this event: 9810 4359 oscanet@scotch.vic.edu.au
OSCA Business Networking Breakfast
Members of the Scotch Family are invited to the 2024 Business Networking Breakfast hosted by the Old Scotch Collegian’s Association. The event will take place on Wednesday 14 August, 7.00am at Zinc at Federation Square. Panelists Nick Griffin (’91), Founding Partner & Chief Investment Officer at Munro Partners and Clark Kirby (’96) Chief Executive Officer at Village Roadshow Group will provide insights into the world of investing and entertainment/media by sharing their experiences and views on current trends in their field.
Please direct any enquiries to Caroline Taylor at oscanet@scotch.vic.edu.au or 98104359
2024 Science Oration: Looking After Life on Earth – A Polar Perspective
We are delighted to announce the 2024 Science Oration will be held on Thursday 15 August, and is looking to be an exciting and thought-provoking evening.
Held annually during Science week, the 12th Annual Science Oration will be delivered by Professor Steven Chown, FAA. Professor Chown is a preeminent authority on species biodiversity and conservation in the Antarctic. His presentation, Looking After Life on Earth – A Polar Perspective, will discuss the arduous, incredible icebreaking journey to Antarctica, the incredible species biodiversity of this polar landscape and the real-life impacts climate scientists/governments can have on species survival.
This event is free of charge, bookings are essential.
Year 8 Mothers and Special Friends Lunch
Friday 16 August
The Scotch College Parents Association are excited to invite Year 8 Mothers and Special Friends to a delightful lunch at Studley Grounds, 121 Studley Road Kew, on Friday 16 August. This wonderful event offers a perfect opportunity to strengthen relationships and foster community growth.
Join them for a memorable day filled with joy and laughter! Enjoy a delicious meal prepared by the talented chefs at Studley Grounds, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Kew.
Don’t miss this chance to connect with other amazing individuals in the community and celebrate the special bonds shared. Looking forward to seeing you there and making this a truly unforgettable experience!
RSVP: Friday 9 August
View Invitation | Book Tickets Here
Enquiries should be directed to Samar Chahin 0413 875 190 samarchahin@hotmail.com, or Tina Garg | 0403 177 938 ttaggar@hotmail.com.
Year 11 Parent and Carers Winter Drinks
The Year 11 Class Reps warmly invite you to the Year 11 Parent/Carer Winter Drinks. The event will be held at 7.00pm, Friday 26 August at the Mt Erica Hotel, 420 High Street. Tickets for the event are $40 per person.
Enquiries should be directed to Anna Luscombe on 0409140333 or by email luscombefamily@icloud.com.
2024 Scotch Rugby Presentation Night
The 2024 Scotch Rugby Presentation Night will be held on Monday 2 September at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club.
Pricing per adult ticket is $100. Tickets for players and siblings $65 (dinner and drinks). The event will run from 6.00pm – 9.00pm.
The dress code for adults is smart casual. Boys should wear their school uniform, this includes candy coats for senior students.
RSVP: Monday 26th August 2024
Please direct enquiries to Charlie Heerey on 0417 368 665 or via email charlie@heerey.com.au.
Scotch College Foundation Art Show
Thursday 29 August to Sunday 1 September 2024.
The Scotch College Foundation, which raises funds to support the school and its scholarship programs, is hosting its fourth Art Show, to support Tiwi College’s literacy program.
The event will take place in the James Yu Foyer of the James Forbes Academy Music Building and will be open as follows:
Thursday 29 August: opening night 6.30 – 9.00pm
Friday 30 August: viewing 4.00pm – 7.00pm
Saturday 31 August: viewing 10.00am – 3.00pm
Sunday 1 September: viewing 10.00am – 1.00pm
Year 9 Fathers/Caregivers and Sons Event
Fathers and Caregivers of Year 9 students are invited to an evening event on Sunday 15 September. The event will be held at Governors Hall, 27 Hall Street, Hawthorn East from 4.00pm-7.00pm. Limited tickets are available for $37.50 per person. This includes woodfired pizzas, canapes and soft drinks for the boys. Adults can buy drinks at bar prices.
RSVP: Tuesday 10 September
Any enquiries should be directed to Marie Gordon on 0419995773 or via email gordon.marie@bigpond.com
Each week in The Torch, our Psychology and Health teams explore a topic related to boys’ health and wellbeing.
This week we are talking about the importance of developing healthy habits around physical activity and exercise.
In the last decade, there has been a decline in young people’s physical activity. In this digital age, children are using computers and mobile devices not only for learning, but for relaxation and recreation purposes. This sedentary lifestyle is having a detrimental effect on today’s youth. The key is finding the balance.
Research shows that regular physical activity and exercise leads to changes in the brain. It improves cognitive function, elevates mood, enhances learning and improves academic outcomes. Playing sport helps young people develop fundamental movement skills, impacting positively on their confidence, self-esteem and ability to develop social skills. Parents play an important role in helping their children establish positive habits from a young age.
Please click here for further reading and tips on creating healthy habits around regular physical activity and exercise.
If you have any concerns about your child, please contact Nick Clark at psychologist@scotch.vic.edu.au or seek medical or professional help.
