came into contact . Thus those animated conversations were encouraged in the classroom , the form or House group , and during all other activities which found staff and boys working alongside each other . It was a most personable approach and great humour that characterised Tom ’ s interactions , be it with a young boy on his first day at the School , a new boarder , a member of staff or with educational leaders across the globe .
IAN SAVAGE – VICE PRINCIPAL , 1995-2013
Tom Batty arrived at Scotch in July 2008 to commence his appointment as Principal . He arrived full of energy and ideas . During his 14 years as Principal he has remained enthusiastic , focused and determined that each day would provide opportunities to enhance the ability of this School to provide a rich and rewarding educational experience for each boy .
His mantra to the boys is to ‘ challenge the things that need challenging and support the things that need supporting ’. In his work as Principal , Tom Batty exemplifies this principle . He supports those traditions that richly enhance the
Scotch experience , but he also challenges and changes those things that need to be challenged and changed .
As Principal , he sees the School through the eyes of the boys : their classroom experiences , their joys and disappointments on the sports field and their lived experiences as boys living in an increasingly complex world . His background as a teacher of Mathematics , as a sports coach and as a boarding house master , gave him the hands-on experiences to be totally at ease in his interpersonal relationships ; it is clear that he enjoys his daily interactions with the boys and with the staff .
Tom Batty ’ s legacy of 14 years of hard work , insightful vision and dedicated service as Principal of Scotch College is apparent in the continued improvement of the physical environment , and in the enhancement of respect and safety for all . The School has been enriched by his passion for education and teaching , and his determination to make each day count as a blessing to be nurtured .
STEPHEN KONG – DEAN OF SCHOOL OPERATIONS
Since arriving at Scotch , Tom ’ s focus has been about making the School the best it can be for the boys . He has challenged teachers to think about how they might better engage with the boys , and in his time facilities have been developed which provide greater opportunities for interactions between teachers and boys .
At the start of each school day one is likely to find Tom out in Morrison Street and about the school grounds , welcoming boys . He is also prone to popping into a class to see what is being taught and to have a chat with the boys . Tom has encouraged Scotch boys to be involved in all aspects of the School , but also to think , to consider questions and be involved in matters of importance to the broader community . He is a true schoolmaster with a keen interest in people and education .
BRIAN WOOLACOTT – DEAN OF STUDIES
Moving from Eton College , a school that is progressive as well as steeped in history , with high levels of academic rigour and a solid understanding of boys ’ education , Tom had much to offer as he touched down in Melbourne and made
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