The Thistle - An E-Newsletter of Scotch College, Perth, Western Australia

Developing life skills

The last month or so have been extremely busy for much of the College community. Our most senior years have been completing exams and their teachers have been busy marking and preparing for the new academic year. Others in the College have had the good fortune to be focusing on the development of life skills and hobbies, which is just as well, according to a recent study released by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).

The study revealed that life skills are the most important aspect missing from the Australian education system. Survey results, as a part of the study, supported this and was agreed to by nearly two in three students (61%) and almost three quarters (73%) of their parents.

In the report, Troy Martin, General Manager at the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council at Instructure said,

"Current models of education are still focused on achievements in basic literacy and numeracy, as opposed to the overall development of the child. Progressive schools that take more responsibility for the cultivation of wider skills will set our future leaders up for success. This covers everything from problem-solving and adaptability to resilience and intercultural understanding."

These findings are supported by recent data from The World Economic Forum. The Forum stated that the most important skills for young people entering the workforce in 2020 will be those listed below.

  1. Complex Problem Solving
  2. Critical Thinking
  3. Creativity
  4. People Management
  5. Coordinating with others
  6. Emotional Intelligence
  7. Judgement and decision making
  8. Service Orientation
  9. Negotiation
  10. Cognitive Flexibility

Fortunately, our boys are not missing out on this wider skill development. Last week's conferences in the Senior School included a huge amount on life and study skills and how to keep a close eye on wellbeing and health. These sessions complement the diverse outdoor education programme that many students had engaged with at the end of last term, the Service opportunities that our boys are so supportive of, and all of the Co-Curricular programme that the school offers.

As the 2018 Year 12's final assembly on Friday proved, the College is providing a diverse education that promotes and fosters the skills outlined above. We can be confident that our latest Old Scotch Collegians are well prepared for the world beyond the 'College on the hill' and I wish them every success.

Duke of Edinburgh's International Gold Award

A big congratulations to Matthew Simich (OSC 2017) who was presented with his Duke of Edinburgh's International Gold Award on Thursday evening. The ceremony took place at The Vines resort and Matt received his award from the Western Australian Governor, The Honourable Kim Beazley AC.

Mr David Kyle
Director of Service and Citizenship