I fondly remember Mr Batty taking maths classes one year . The purpose of these classes was to see past curriculum maths and appreciate the beauty of the field in general . As the great maths meister himself , Mr Batty elegantly achieved this goal . I specifically recall him teaching us a method of factorising cubic equations , not by long division , which was typically more robotic and generic , but by understanding the factors ’ subtle interactions with one another and how each contributes to a final product – a much more nuanced approach . It was this lesson and many life lessons over the years , to look past the established order and to see the beauty of breaking boundaries and being bolder – that will be the legacy of Mr Batty .
JASON CHAN – CLASS OF 2020
During an orientation visit to Scotch in 2015 I happened to pass Mr Batty in the hallways of the Randall Building . Although at the time being taken aback by the casual and welcoming conversation that followed – certainly not what I had expected from the Scotch Principal – I came to appreciate these small interactions with Mr Batty . From the sides of sporting fields to the bench on Morrison Street , Mr Batty could always be found with students , being more than a teacher but a friendly mentor . For me it was these meaningful discussions on topics from sport to literature to politics that I will always fondly remember about Mr Batty .
ALEX MEGGITT – CLASS OF 2021
Having boarded at Scotch I feel fortunate to have seen a side of Mr Batty that many day students don ’ t – that being his remarkable presence on , and love for , the Hill . Mr Batty made us feel that the Hill community is the heart of Scotch . He lived on the Hill with us and was involved in all that we did .
From sharing meals with the boys , to attending Chapel , to participating in Wedderburn as a soccer referee , Mr Batty was always there . Being present and engaged with the Hill boys was a trait that endeared him to so many . He knew every boy by name and made time to get to know each and every one personally . The Hill won ’ t be the same without him .
JAMES MEGGITT – CLASS OF 2021
We are very lucky to have had a role model like Mr Batty – a man of firm principles who always cares for others . He has a meaningful vision , but he also cares about the details . He understands the pattern and the logic behind the world , but he is also creative , innovative , and pure-hearted .
When we find ourselves in a position to influence positive change and make the world a better place , we will have definitely carried part of Mr Batty ’ s inspiration , influence and belief in reaching that point .
OSWALD LI – CLASS OF 2016 AND ALEXANDER LI – CLASS OF 2021
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