AROUND THE GROUNDS
What is your approach to teaching science? Are there any exciting events or projects coming up?
Our approach to Science education is strongly centred around hands-on, practical learning, complemented by detailed feedback and differentiated instruction. We recognise the importance of understanding each student’ s starting point and tailoring their learning journey accordingly. Our classrooms aim to challenge and extend students, while also providing targeted support where needed.
What’ s day-to-day life like in a Science class at Scotch?
As mentioned, we prioritise hands-on learning wherever possible. Rather than relying solely on theoretical instruction, our teachers incorporate frequent experiments, demonstrations, and investigative tasks to bring scientific concepts to life. Compared to more theory-heavy approaches in some other schools or international systems, our classrooms buzz with active inquiry and real-world application.
What’ s been happening recently throughout the department?
We are currently working on Science Advance, a targeted initiative for curious and motivated Year 7 and 8 students, offering opportunities to deepen their engagement with science.
The program fosters both academic and social growth by encouraging students to explore science beyond the classroom in a supportive, community-focused environment. Through hands-on activities, student-led investigations, and collaborative challenges, it builds confidence and a sense of belonging.
The program also promotes independence and confidence by giving students the chance to design and lead their own investigations, as well as participate in collaborative projects and themed activities focused on specific disciplines. Opportunities include lunchtime and after-school workshops, STEM projects, guest speakers, and access to external science competitions. Students are encouraged to explore different branches of science, often guided by passionate teachers who showcase areas of expertise and bring their subjects to life.
We’ re looking forward to the upcoming Science Oration in August, a major highlight on our calendar that brings cuttingedge scientific discussion to the wider Scotch community. Professor Kerrie Mengersen is this year’ s orator. In her talk she will explore how Bayesian statistics unlock insights into jaguar conservation, citizen science on the Great Barrier Reef, and modelling cancer survival.
On a different note, the NASA Space Tour to Florida over the Term 2 break will enable students to travel to the United States to attend Space Camp and Mission Robotics at the famous Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. Boys attending the tour are highly engaged in science and have been selected based on their interest and / or academic results.
Which outcomes are you most proud of?
We are particularly proud of the targeted initiative in Junior Science, focused on Scotch Advance as well as the Year 7 and 8 program setting the boys up with scientific skills, leading into the Years 9 and 10 trimester courses.
This is the first year that a Year 10 General Science class has run, so this is also a highlight, successfully catering to a broader range of students, rather than the trimester teachings of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Which experiences are students most engaged in?
They thrive in various competitions, including the STEM Grand Prix investigation, national science competitions and international science Olympiads such as the Junior Science Olympiad( JSO). These programs create excitement and a spirit of healthy competition across the department.
How does the OSCA community play a part towards science at Scotch?
We are fortunate to have a strong and active alumni network. Many former students return to support current boys through the YOBS( Young Old Boys’) program, providing tutoring and mentoring after school. We also frequently hear from OSCA students who reflect on the strong scientific foundations and love of learning they developed during their time at Scotch. Looking ahead, we hope to further strengthen these connections by inviting Old Boys working in science-related fields to speak with students, sharing their experiences and offering insights into future career pathways.
Great Scot | Issue 173 | 2025
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