NEWS IN BRIEF
STUDENTS TAKE ON OLD BOYS AT CHESS
On Thursday 18 May , the school atrium and the immediate area around it were vacated ; in their place were 20 or so chessboards . Old Boys were invited to play current students in games of chess , though anyone who walked by at the time was free to enjoy a quick game with friends or others . Although there were some initial complications , the atmosphere during that Thursday lunch was great , as a range of people filled up the atrium , some playing , while others watched . In future , we ’ re hoping that this program can be extended ; perhaps all Old Boys – not just those who were involved in chess – could participate .
For International Chess Day on Thursday 20 July , the Scotch chess leadership team scheduled another lunchtime atrium chess event . Following a similar model to last year ’ s event , Scotch invited several university students – not just Scotch boys – to come .
RUI CHENG WANG – YEAR 12
BOOKS – A WINDOW TO THE WORLD
Aggressive Mars slime , timeless pirates , hobbits and 13-yearold thieves … what do they have in common ? Each of them inhabits a favourite novel of Scotch English teachers ( James Kearney , Jackie Cowcher and Christophe Taylor ) or librarians ( Emilie Ireson and Michelle Sweeney ).
These passionate readers spoke to nearly 200 Years 7 and 8 students and their parents at this year ’ s Centre for Learning Best Books for Boys Evening , about great books that ignite the imagination and help young people to escape the pressures of teenage life .
All the books featured on the night raced out the door , but we have so many other fabulous books that most boys left with arms piled high and smiles on their faces .
For plenty of book recommendations from Best Books for Boys 2020-23 , go to the BBB tab on the library website .
MICHELLE SWEENEY – HEAD OF LIBRARY ( ACTING )
ELEPHANT ED
As a student , the prospect of attending Elephant Ed was daunting . Elephant Ed is an organisation which conducts workshops to empower students with the knowledge , skills and attitudes they need to make conscious , healthy choices about relationships .
The experience , however , was informative , enjoyable , and transformative . Our educator proved to us that this was a safe , relaxed , and inclusive experience and that we were allowed to feel uncomfortable , vulnerable , and to take a break anytime . We played some games related to the topic to ease our awkwardness and promote engagement .
Once we were comfortable , we had a serious conversation on topics such as pornography and consent , prompting thoughtful , empathetic , and meaningful discussion . This approach ensured that the learning experience encompassed both enlightening information and a positive , empowering , and respectful atmosphere .
EDWARD AJANI – YEAR 8
26 Great Scot Issue 169 – September 2023