a constant inspiration to me and no doubt to many others . The ways in which Tom engages students , parents and staff in contemplating and reflecting upon these things lays the foundation for continual improvement and development across all facets of the College , and there is no question that all this is done with the very best interests of the students ever-present in his mind .
Tom is a leader who relishes being among the school community , engaging with all those he encounters , and in so doing has really set the tone for the College as being a warm , welcoming and supportive place to learn .
KRISTY IRWIN , CHIEF OF STAFF
Tom is a master communicator : both verbally and with the written word he has consistently demonstrated an impressive capacity to convey information with clarity and purpose . His ability to engage any audience , be it a group of Junior School boys , a cohort of older boys , the teaching or non-teaching staff of the School , parents , Old Boys or Council members , has been apparent throughout his tenure .
Tom ’ s ability to connect readily with people of different age , background or standing has been a great strength , and has enabled him to be a Principal who has been approachable , understanding , empathetic and available for all the varied constituents of the Scotch community .
Tom has demonstrated throughout his time at Scotch that he is a leader with vision , and the drive to make vision a reality for the betterment of every boy . His desire to empower , encourage and acknowledge the contribution of others in this endeavour has generated a sense of shared purpose and mutual respect , resulting in a school where each boy and member of staff is known and valued .
GRANT WATSON – FORMER CHIEF OF STAFF ( 2009-21 ); SCOTCH STAFF 2000-21
T O
M
Teacher to all , first and foremost Optimistic about the future , an endearing outlook to toast Married to Lee – his support and inspiration
B Brentford – his mighty Bees – perhaps his greatest damnation
A Australia – his second home ; and always welcome back T To the ‘ Old Dart ’, where he returns , and his favourite Union Jack T Thank you Tom for all that you have done Y You have served Scotch well , and
I hope you ’ ve had fun !
TIM SHEARER – DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT , SCOTCH FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
YOUNG OLD BOYS ’ REFLECTIONS
One of the first questions Mr Batty asked me was a maths problem in a scholarship interview . I got it wrong , so I was lucky I still got in … It inspired me to work harder on my maths , though ! I am forever grateful for the opportunity Mr Batty gave me to attend Scotch , and his advice and support in the years since . His reflections at Assemblies and book recommendations – I still have the copy he gave me of John Steinbeck ’ s The Pearl – always made me
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