Community and Service

I would like to begin by saying thank you to Mr Bill Cordner for all he has done in his many years at Scotch College. Mr Cordner has built and nurtured a Community and Service Programme that the College can be extremely proud of. I am excited about continuing to foster what the College currently offers and to look for further opportunities to ensure our community is strongly engaged in service learning.

Service learning has been described as, 'a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.' As well as noting that service learning has many positives, not least the strengthening of communities, I am focused on the notion that service learning is in fact a teaching and learning strategy and makes a strong contribution to our students' academic journey. Furthermore, it is a central tenement for many of our College's partners, including Round Square, the International Baccalaureate and the Uniting Church. By working with these institutions and community groups, and linking service learning to our teaching and learning programme, the College can feel confident that we are 'Preparing Boys for Life' - a life where they take on civic responsibilities and meaningfully contribute to their community.

I look forward to getting to know the whole school community in my new role and building on the legacy of Mr Cordner.

The World's Greatest Shave
We are waiting for confirmation of the final fundraising totals of the World's Greatest Shave and I will have a full report in the next Thistle. Below is a picture taken of the Senior School boys following assembly on 7 April. The boys continue to look fearsome for our first round of winter sport! Well done to the Junior and Middle School students and staff who particiated in the shave as well.

Round Square International Exchanges
Another hugely successful legacy of Mr Cordner is our Round Square International Exchange Programme. In 2017 the School has exchanges with nine schools across five continents (see the map below) and we are always looking to build further relationships. Most of these schools are starkly different to Scotch College yet, by being a part of the Round Square network, we know they have exceptionally high standards and share our College's expectations and value a well-rounded education. There will be an information evening for 2018 exchanges on 29 May at 6.00pm. These exchanges are open to boys currently in Year 9. More details to come.

Mr David Kyle
Director of Community and Service