of Gilray House role in 2020 . Despite COVID interruptions I really found the true sense of the Scotch Family within the ‘ Ray ’, and have been so thankful to our boys and parents who were so incredibly receptive and supportive .
What are your initial thoughts , in your new capacity , about Years 9 and 10 at Scotch ?
Years 9 and 10 are massive developmental years for an adolescent ; the individual changes that happen in our young men are incredible to observe . Many of the comments that I associate with these year levels are about ‘ how far the students have come ’ during this integral period of physical and mental growth .
With demanding academic VCE years on the horizon , it is a time of introspection , reflection and realisation for the boys , identifying what qualities they already have and how they can develop further within the nurturing and safe red bricks of Scotch . It ’ s about creating a space that allows students to make choices , make mistakes and to learn from these .
What is so exciting about this role is how we can focus , diversify , and improve what we already do to support our boys to be ready for their life challenges . We can use the existing opportunities in our Retreat programs , Respectful Relationships , our pastoral care curriculum , and forthcoming exciting programs in Mallacoota .
How would you define some of the key pedagogical philosophies that underpin your everyday approach and interactions at school ?
I believe that students should be aware of your expectations , which should be both high yet achievable , that can shift to encourage future mastery . We reinforce positive behaviours , both big and small , and critically examine behaviours that do not reflect Scotch values , looking to reframe these in future experiences . Parity , empathy and integrity are essential Scotch character values . Creating the opportunity and space for students to embrace these qualities leads to wiser , more insightful and caring young men .
Could you share with us some of the projects you are currently working on and are hoping to implement in the near future ?
Last year we ran two trial programs . One was based in Tiwi focusing on Indigenous culture and we have expanded this to Year 10 visiting Tiwi in Term 3 this year , with a view to incorporating this experience as a service in 2025 . The other was implementing Toolbox to introduce Psychological CBT strategies in everyday situations to strengthen the social and emotional toolkit of our Year 9 and 10 boys . This year we are continuing to develop these programs , with Year 9 students undertaking ‘ Dealing with Conflict ’ and Year 10 ‘ Overcoming Procrastination ’ in May in the lead-up to exams .
What roles would you like to see Scotch students play in their future lives ?
I would love to see more of our students becoming positive role models in the allied health space , where there is a need for more male psychologists . Or taking up roles that address present and future environmental and climate issues , being inspired by their education to influence future generations . I would also like to see them have the courage for a political voice or to follow their creative passions and talents in the arts . In short , to go out and make a difference to the lives of others .
In your opinion , what are some of the key advantages of a boys ’ education ?
Some of the key advantages of a boys ’ education include creating an environment for tailored teaching practice , where educators can customise strategies to better suit the learning styles and needs typically associated with boys , such as incorporating more hands-on activities , movement or friendly competition .
Another advantage is the opportunity to address the social and emotional development of boys . Students may feel more secure expressing themselves , developing emotionally , and building social skills in an environment where they ' re surrounded by peers who face similar challenges and expectations .
In addition , teachers can specifically focus on the academic and developmental needs of boys without the distractions that can arise in coeducational settings . They can encourage boys to explore a wider range of leadership roles , where they can build confidence , teamwork and communication skills . Finally , they can further develop their interests and activities without feeling judged or feeling the pressure to perform in front of girls .
Would you mind sharing with us some of your key passions or hobbies ?
I love running , and I completed my first marathon in 2016 . I enjoy diving and snorkelling , and generally being in water ( stemming from one of my childhood heroes , Jacques Cousteau ).
I also love outdoor activities , such as hiking or camping . I enjoy reading – all sorts of novels – and visiting art galleries , going to the theatre or listening to live or online music . I enjoy yoga , Pilates and going to classes at my gym . I believe in the ‘ Ch ’ diet – cheese , chips , chocolate and chardonnay . I play backgammon , card games , Scrabble and Sudoku . I support Arsenal ( in the UK ) and Richmond at home . I love walking my two groodles , at the beach or in the park . And finally shoes – my first Saturday job was at a footwear and handbag retailer , Russell and Bromley ( Charles Jourdan being a firm favourite ).
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