Year 7 welcome week
As we embarked on the 2025 school year, the Middle School buzzed with energy and excitement. The sense of community and engagement was palpable as soon as we returned to campus. Welcomes and greetings are essential to any community, so we kicked off the new academic year with 'Welcome Week' for our Year 7 cohort.
What is 'Welcome Week'
This special week is pivotal as we embrace over 100 new students into our community. Our 'old' Year 6 students eagerly welcome their new peers, helping them settle into our Middle School environment.
Welcome Week offers numerous opportunities for our young men to connect with peers, build new friendships, and create a strong sense of camaraderie. It's designed to help them understand the College's expectations for learning, behaviour, and participation, as well as establish effective routines at school and home to become successful learners.
Additionally, the week introduced them to all aspects of campus life, from school facilities to timetables, classroom locations, and the ever-important middle school canteen.
A taste of tradition
The Scotch College Pipes and Drums, a cherished symbol of our Scottish heritage, holds a special place in our community.
The band's vibrant presence at school events is always a highlight and was evident as we introduced the new tradition of piping the Year 7 cohort up the hill from the Gooch Pavilion. This Piping Ceremony, a symbolic gesture of recognition and honour, marked the arrival of our new students.
When the Class of 2030 bids farewell to Scotch College at the College March Out in Year 12, they will be piped out for the very last time. It was only fitting to welcome and celebrate our Year 7 students by piping them into Middle School. This special moment was enjoyed by students, staff, and many proud parents.
As a school, these rites of passage are not accidental, but actively built into our students' journey through school.
Team building at Ern Halliday
While the week provided ample time for students to settle into College life, Thursday brought an exciting trip to Earn Haliday for interactive team-building games.
These activities allowed students to develop communication skills, collaborate effectively, and build trust with one another, strengthening their sense of community and boosting their confidence in their relationships and overall learning experience.
First PSA fixtures
Welcome Week concluded with our Year 7 cohort heading off on Friday afternoon for their first PSA fixtures against Christ Church Grammar School.
The hallways were filled with excitement and nerves, and as the boys departed to load onto the buses, numerous articles of clothing were left behind in the hallways.
Despite the growing lost property collection, the anticipation, energy, and smiles beaming from the boys' faces indicated that their first week of Year 7 was a resounding success!
Throughout 2025 and beyond our boys, and young men will get the chance to participate in numerous formal and informal rites of passages as we help them to navigate their schooling and personal journey while at Scotch.
Ms Amanda Marocchi
Deputy Head of Middle School – Pastoral Care