FEATURES
Tom ’ s whimsical side has always been evident in his day-to-day work . It would not be unusual for him to appear suddenly in front of my desk in the Admissions Office , late in any day , poem in hand . While the initial discussion might meander along paths of meaning and intent , it would quickly move on to the broader plains of life , philosophy and personal reminiscence . Tom is a man who cares deeply about people : he has led the School for 14 remarkable years with his heart to the fore , skilfully entwining this with trademark wisdom , compassion and humanity .
STEPHEN RITCHIE – FORMER DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS , FORMER PRESIDENT , COMMON ROOM ASSOCIATION
Tom Batty has created an enduring legacy at Scotch College . New buildings for science , design and technology , student dining and archives constitute lasting testimony to his progressive approach to education . At least as important are his contributions to the students who have passed through the School under his leadership .
Tom has been a most compassionate headmaster . He has purposely created spaces where teachers and students can interact , and those interactions are central to his educational philosophy of developing relational learning and appropriate intimacy between teachers and the boys in their care . He has a kind word for all , and is especially fond of the quirky , challenged and challenging students .
Tom has also been a very generous leader of the staff , for whom he has been a staunch advocate . He has given leadership opportunities to a high proportion of the staff , including the many remarkable women who have achieved positions of leadership in a merit-based system . Moreover , he is always sympathetic and sensitive to the concerns of parents . All who have worked closely with Tom will remember him as a leader with a fine work ethic , who paid careful attention to small details and was willing to listen to other opinions . From the outset he has been a Principal of vision . His initiatives and programs are a base upon which future leaders will build .
DR MARK JOHNSTON – HEAD OF HISTORY
I first saw Tom from the old transit flat , as he wandered up the hill . I was tired and jetlagged , having just flown in from Scotland for the continuation of my interview for the position of Chaplain . Any worries about working for this particular Englishman were immediately put to rest , as Tom entered into an animated conversation with Jorge Gariglio ( the gardener ), probably about the fortunes of their beloved football teams , Brentford and River Plate .
This small episode clearly demonstrated Tom ’ s good sense of humour and his deep interest in other people . Over the years , I have come to appreciate his commitment to the wellbeing of the boys and the staff , and his wise counsel . He has even taken a passing interest in the ongoing dramas at Heart of Midlothian FC , if only to make fun of his Chaplain .
DOUG CAMPBELL – CHAPLAIN
Tom ’ s clear and unwavering vision for what makes an outstanding education , combined with his commitment to ensuring that the students of Scotch College enjoy such an education , has been
24 Great Scot Issue 165 – April 2022