Growing future leaders

As part of the 2024–2028 Scotch Strategic Plan, under the pillar of Student Growth and Experience, one of our key objectives is to

"develop a student mentor programme to support Junior, Middle, and Senior School students."

This objective taps into the advantage of being a Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 school. For our Junior School students, the impact of mentorship from Middle and Senior School students is both immediate and profound. The younger students gain inspiration as they see themselves reflected in the older boys, who share their experiences, insights, and challenges from their own journeys through school.

Year 5 leadership day

The first opportunity for such mentorship in the Junior School is the Year 5 Leadership Day, an event where Year 12 students dedicate time to impart their wisdom and guidance. This significant occasion allows our Year 5 cohort to reflect on the concept of leadership, explore different leadership styles, and learn the value of collaboration in achieving common goals.

During the day Year 12 leaders, including House Captains and School Leaders, engaged with the Year 5 students in discussions about their own journeys through the College. They shared their initial experiences, the challenges they encountered, and their perspectives on leadership.

Vice Captain of School (Service) Seb Carmichael reinforcing the interconnectedness of leadership within the Scotch Community by sharing photos of himself as a Junior School Year 5 House Leader. He spoke fondly of his Junior school experiences, allowing the younger students to see a tangible link between their current roles and future leadership opportunities within the School.

Overall, there was an overwhelming response from the Year 5 cohort that the most memorable aspect of the event was the opportunity to connect with and learn from the Year 12 leaders.

Mateship mondays

Monday mornings have long been a cherished time in the Junior School, as Year 12 students visit to engage with younger students before the school week begins.

This year, the programme has expanded under the leadership of our School Captain Val Davies and other school leaders. The expansion has welcomed the Year 8 Middle School leaders to visit the Junior School each Monday morning.

The initiative pairing a Year 12 leader with a Year 8 leader, allowing them to engage with Junior School students in classrooms and playgrounds. Activities range from reading, playing mathematics games, helping younger students organise themselves for the day to engaging in recreational games such as handball and table tennis.

These informal interactions foster meaningful conversations and strengthen connections between our Junior, Middle, and Senior Schools.

Over the weeks, Junior School staff have observed younger students becoming more comfortable and open with their mentors, resulting in valuable discussions.

Simultaneously, Year 8 leaders are developing their confidence as they support and guide the younger students, ensuring they begin their week on a positive note.

This mentorship initiative exemplifies the Scotch College spirit, fostering leadership, camaraderie, and a strong sense of community across all year levels.

Mrs Amanda Ritchie
Deputy Head of Junior School – Pastoral Care