“ School is... a most important engine, not only for the imparting of knowledge, not only for the propagation of intellectual light, but for the formation of character, the inculcation of principles, the regulation of habits.”
A legacy of improving society through education
Scotch College was founded in 1851 by Scottish Reverend James Forbes, the first Presbyterian minister in Victoria. The vision and values of Scotch College today reflect the enduring legacy of its founder, who believed that education“ must be regarded as the great remedy for the ills of the body politic, the basis on which must be mainly rested all hopes of its amelioration, and of its future generations being better than the present.”
As the concept of using education as a means to improve society was formed, people saw that by understanding the world better, they could improve it.
During this period, many philosophers and scientists started to write about how education could shape better citizens. It helped society to see education as a way to promote equality and social justice; to give everyone a chance to learn, no matter their background.
Since its establishment in 1851, the Scotch College education model has grown from these principles. Today, more than ever, they remain at its core. Within the nurturing embrace of the wider Scotch Family, our boys are encouraged to think critically, act with integrity, be curious about the world and live a life of purposeful contribution.
“ School is... a most important engine, not only for the imparting of knowledge, not only for the propagation of intellectual light, but for the formation of character, the inculcation of principles, the regulation of habits.”
Reverend James Forbes Founder of Scotch College
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