when using technology , and what policies are in place ( and actively monitored ) to limit exposure to such things ?
The Senior School record book does contain our policy in regard to information and communication technology . Scotch also does have systems that alert staff when students use technology inappropriately . Obviously , education is the most powerful means to protect all children , and the school does address the safe and right use of digital technology .
However , in order to best address this issue , there must be a strong partnership between school and home . I hear all too often that students are allowed to have their devices in their bedrooms at night , and that sleep is being impacted by late night gaming or by simply being distracted by various social media sites . Worse still , given ‘ nearly half of children between the ages of 9-16 experience regular exposure to sexual images ’ ( see The effects of pornography on children and young people , | Australian Institute of Family Studies ( aifs . gov . au )), how parents monitor their child ’ s use of digital devices is critical in protecting what they see .
SCHOOL UNIFORM
Why did you make compliance with school uniform and appearance rules your first priority on joining ?
I would say that my first priority has been to get to know people and to build relationships . Building relationships is my first priority . When it comes to uniform , I have started to address this because I care about Scotch and the boys . First , I want all students to love their school and to recognise that they are part of something incredibly special . They are part of an amazing story that has been having a global impact for over 172 years .
I want the boys to treasure their school and to be proud Scotchies ! This is not about boasting or ego . This is about recognising that you are part of something greater than yourself . Today we live in such an individualistic society : everything is about ‘ me ’. We are constantly told how important we are and sold messages that reinforce the importance of individualism . If we look at rising mental health statistics , I believe the rise of individualism represents just one of the contributors to our society ’ s poor mental health . The uniform is one simple way we can learn to understand that not everything is about me or about how I look .
Perhaps another reason for this priority is that – call me old-fashioned – I believe in ‘ doing the little things well ’. If we can get these things right , often the bigger things fall more readily into place . How we look , how we present is an important life skill that we need to teach our boys , so they leave with this sense of pride in how they look and how they present . I do accept that the modern workplace is less about ties and three-piece suits . However , I know employers are still looking for people who care about how they present . This year I am going to ask our community what they think about the uniform and engage the boys in exploring what they would like to wear so that wherever we are , we present well .
I will be engaging the boys in a discussion about the uniform and what we might do differently to ensure our uniform is comfortable and appealing so that the boys wear it well . I have already met a designer and I am looking forward to starting the conversation with the boys and broader community .
PERSONAL
1 . I am just keen to know what it means to you personally to become Principal of our great school and what sort of culture and values you will instil as part of your own legacy .
It is an enormous privilege to lead the Scotch Family . Scotch is one of Australia ’ s leading schools that has an international influence . I want our culture to be inclusive and caring and one where everyone can find their niche and belong . We do not need to agree all the time with each other . However , we do need to respect each other despite our differences .
I also want our culture to be one that recognises that great things happen when we apply ourselves and work hard ; when we roll up our sleeves and have a go . I want boys to take sensible risks that extend them in new ways . I do want Scotch to continue to be a place where the students have a voice and a sense of agency over their learning .
2 . Do you like KFC ? Thoughts on bacon as a breakfast food ? Do you support Collingwood ?
I have been told I look like Colonel Sanders , but I am not necessarily a fan of the food . Bacon in moderation is lovely ( goes really well with pancakes and maple syrup ) and I have been told that whatever I do , do not become a Collingwood supporter !
3 . What team in the AFL do you support ?
Hawthorn . I am someone who is always loyal to the local club . Although , reports are that they may have a tough year , my loyalty is rock solid through thick and thin ! www . scotch . vic . edu . au Great Scot 9