FEATURES
A PHOTO FROM SCOTCH ’ S FIRST
VISIT TO THE TIWI ISLANDS IN 1996
SCOTCH FORMALISES PARTNERSHIP WITH TIWI COLLEGE VIA THE YADHA MURU FOUNDATION
After 12 months of negotiations the school is delighted to announce that its 16-year relationship with Tiwi College has been formalised into an official partnership via the Yadha Muru Foundation .
This partnership is part of the Yadha Muru Foundation ’ s City- Country Partnerships Program , aiming to bridge the educational gap between remote schools with high Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enrolments and high-quality metropolitan schools , supporting the Foundation ’ s commitment to improving educational outcomes and fostering cultural connection .
At the core of this partnership lies a shared commitment to enriching educational experiences and fostering cultural understanding . Tiwi College brings a deep understanding of the Tiwi language and culture , while Scotch College contributes its established dedication to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through various programs , supported by the Yadha Muru Foundation . The partnership will focus on initiatives aimed at strengthening literacy and numeracy education at Tiwi College , sharing essential resources and expertise . Notably , Scotch students will benefit from the cultural exchange and knowledge shared , gaining valuable learning opportunities .
‘ This partnership extends beyond short-term gains , aiming for lasting benefits for students , families and communities ,’ explains Yadha Muru Foundation Chief Executive Officer , Sean Gordon .
‘ It serves as a model for collaborative efforts between schools , driving valuable educational and cultural outcomes .’ The Principal , Dr Scott Marsh , reflects on the partnership : ‘ Scotch is blessed to have this rich partnership . The strength of our relationship is grounded in deep mutual respect and a shared desire to improve the lives of the young people in our care . Our relationship has stood the test of time and will further flourish with the support of the Yadha Muru Foundation .’
Scotch ’ s relationship with the Tiwi community dates back to 1996 when the Teacher-in-Charge of ( AFL ) Football , Dr Rob Smith , was looking for an interstate football experience for the boys in his care . Expecting comfortable hotel options , Rob and his touring party were dismayed at the third world living conditions and quality of life that existed on the islands at the time . James Ross (’ 98 ) remembers being confronted by the living conditions on the Tiwi Islands . ‘ As a Year 10 boy from Melbourne ’ s eastern suburbs , I was struck by the challenging circumstances that confronted the Tiwi people , but I was also struck by how happy the Tiwi children were , and how welcoming they were to us .’ Current staff member James Gerstman (’ 98 ) described the trip as ‘ incredibly memorable ’. He said : ‘ Despite their limited resources , their passion for football shone through . This was evident across the entire island , as all they wanted to do was play and talk about the game .’
18 Great Scot Issue 172 – Edition 2 2024