Thank you to our Year 3 – 5 students who supported our recent Rural Alive and Well (RAW) fundraiser on Tuesday 27 May. It was lovely to see our students dressed as farmers, bringing a fun and vibrant energy to the Elphin Campus. From flannel shirts to straw hats, the creativity and enthusiasm was fantastic!

This event was not just about fun; it also helped raise awareness and celebrate our farming communities. RAW are a genuine and passionate local organisation working to ensure people in regional Tasmania have access to help when they need it most. More information about RAW can […]

The past fortnight at Penquite has been filled with rich experiences that have inspired learning, reflection, and community spirit.

Our Year 8Y students embraced the rugged beauty of Mount William National Park during their Education Outdoors program. Immersed in nature, they developed resilience, independence, and a deeper appreciation for Tasmania’s unique environment.

Year 7V students took part in the World Peace Game—an immersive simulation that challenges students to resolve global crises through diplomacy and collaboration. This powerful experience fosters empathy, critical thinking, and a sense of global responsibility.

We also celebrated “Dress Like a Farmer […]

On Wednesday 4 June we welcomed Tanya Cavanagh, CEO of Teen Challenge Tasmania and founder of the NotEvenOnce program. Tanya has been at the forefront of educating young people and their families about the dangers of vaping and delivered a very engaging and informative session to parents. Her insights are crucial for parents aiming to protect their children from the growing vaping crisis.

Tanya’s presentation unpacked the myths young people believe, the dangers of vaping, how the industry targets youth, and the increasingly discreet ways vaping is being hidden in school and at home.

Myths Debunked

Common misconceptions about vaping:

• “It’s just water […]
  

In alignment with one of Scotch Oakburn College’s strategic priorities, we’re proud to unveil new visual markers installed across our campuses to highlight and celebrate our core Values: Respect, Compassion, Courage, Commitment, and Responsibility.

This initiative is about more than signage—it’s about fostering a shared culture where our Values are not only understood, but actively lived. We invite all members of the College community to engage with these touchpoints and consider how each Value shapes our actions, decisions, and relationships.

Joel Brewer
Director of Marketing, Communications & Community

The “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Proficiency Competition is the largest international Chinese language contest in the world — a prestigious platform that brings together students from across the globe to celebrate language learning and cultural exchange.

On Sunday 18 May, two of our students, Eva Shaw (Year 10) and Jack Duncan (Year 12), proudly represented Scotch Oakburn in the 2025 Tasmanian regional final of the competition. Their hard work and passion shone through, with Eva taking out second place and Jack placing third: an incredible accomplishment that reflects their dedication and love for the Chinese language.

Through speeches, cultural insights, and language skills, […]

In Amharic, Tariku means “I have a story to tell.” And hopefully that’s fitting, because today I want to tell you why Reconciliation Week matters to someone like me.

I’m Ethiopian, Indian, English, and Australian. Not in parts, not switching between them depending on who’s asking, but all at once. I was born here, my dad was born here, and in every way I am Australian. But I’m also in every way every part of my other heritage too. That’s not a contradiction, that’s just who I am.

When we talk about reconciliation, we’re […]

At Scotch Oakburn College, small group sessions focused on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) are helping students develop essential life skills in a fun and engaging way. These groups bring together students to explore important topics like empathy, communication, emotional regulation, and problem-solving.

One of the most effective and enjoyable tools we use is games. Whether it’s a team challenge, role-play scenario, or a simple card game, these activities create safe spaces for students to practise turn-taking, managing frustration, reading social cues, and supporting peers.

Through laughter, teamwork, and structured reflection, students build confidence […]

Over the past four weeks, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to take part in a Round Square exchange at St Stithians Boys’ College in Johannesburg, South Africa. Although I’m only halfway through my time here, I’ve already made unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships.

From the very beginning, I was exposed to so many new and different experiences that pushed me out of my comfort zone. One of the highlights so far has been the electric atmosphere at the First Team rugby game. The war cries and school spirit were like nothing I’ve ever seen before – it was a truly unforgettable […]

On Wednesday 21 May, the senior debating roster had supper prepared and served by the Year 10 Food Truck under the capable guidance of teacher, Bec Rockcliffe. We were treated to minestrone, Tuscan lamb soup, bread rolls, hummus, tzatziki, bacon and corn dip, homemade crackers and Mars Bar slice. It was wonderful to have such a nutritious and delicious supper prepared for us on site by our own students.

Thank you from the debaters as we hosted St Patrick’s College and Launceston College for the final round of the 2025 season.

Sharon Beattie
Person-in-Charge Debating

On Friday 23 May and Saturday 24 May, the annual Parliamentary Shield Debating weekend was contested at St Patrick’s College. This marks the culmination of our 2025 senior debating roster and for Year 12 students, Harriet Lynch (C), Blaise Fitzallen and Eliza Duigan it was their final time debating together after six years in the program.

The Year 11 Parliamentary Plate team of Meg Kilby, Georgette Wilks, Makaela Fulton and Calan Young won the Parliamentary Plate this year with a victory on the topic, “that popular culture is a better reflection of society […]