EDITORIAL
DURGA KAMTE EDITOR GREAT SCOT
This edition of Great Scot marks the close of another chapter in the School ’ s history as Tom Batty leaves at the end of Semester One , after 14 years of inspirational leadership . There will undoubtedly be a series of celebratory events later in the semester to recognise his legacy , some of which will be recorded in the September Great Scot .
How do you measure the worth of a leader ? As Tom has noted when boys depart at the end of the year , there are measurable achievements , and those attributes that are of equal if not greater worth , that are unquantifiable . In these pages , you will read of Tom ’ s immense achievements in so many domains . Under his watch , world-class facilities have been completed , and strong education-centred relationships established with other leading boys ’ schools through the International Boys ’ School Coalition , of which Tom is Trustee .
Scotch has received accreditation as a Safe School with the Australian Childhood Foundation . Enduring ties bind us to our friends at Tiwi College and other Indigenous communities through the Indigenous Partnership Program . International student exchanges with schools in Europe , South Africa , the US and UK have inspired many boys to pursue tertiary studies overseas . And these achievements are just a sample . Beyond these touchstones , the real impact of Tom ’ s legacy lies in his passionate advocacy of relational learning , evident in classrooms , Home Rooms , boarding , and in every facet of boys ’ daily interactions . The essential ‘ soft skills ’ boys require to prepare them for life beyond Morrison
Street , aligning with evolving social and cultural values , are thoughtfully embedded through initiatives such as pastoral and classroom-based ‘ respectful relationships ’ programs , resulting in a recognition of , and understanding of , different perspectives through student-led talks in Assembly , and group-led discussions , on ‘ softer ’ models of masculinity , combatting homophobia and bullying , and embracing diverse perspectives .
Tom ’ s invitation to boys ‘ to see their Principal between 8.00 and 8.30 every morning ’, often after posing open-ended questions to them in Assembly , has clearly endeared him to many . They seek his advice to clarify their views , but as importantly to have a chat with him , revelling in his good humour , keen interest in their lives , and his kind heart .
On a personal note , as I take my leave as Editor of Great Scot , I thank Tom for inviting me to take up this role in 2013 . I wasn ’ t aware then , and have rejoiced in learning , of the intricate tapestry that makes up the fabric of the School , and the interplay between the Senior and Junior School , Council , Foundation , Old Boys and parents ’ associations that results in the publications you receive three times a year .
In thanking all contributors , I would like to extend my gratitude particularly to the Great Scot editorial team : David Ashton , Lisa Sheard , Paul Mishura , Scott Montgomery and Tim Shearer , for your professionalism , support and friendship . Great Scot will be in very good hands as Christophe Taylor takes over the editorial role . I hope he enjoys the journey and good fellowship as much as I have . Thank you .
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STUDENT-CENTRED LEARNING Enabling each boy to develop in the visual arts
PRODUCTIVE DEVELOPMENT DECADE Continuing to transform our built environment
‘ NORMAL ’ OSCA TRANSMISSION RESUMES A full 2022 program planned www . scotch . vic . edu . au Great Scot 3