A Spellbinding Success for Scotch Oakburn College

In a dazzling display of talent and teamwork, Scotch Oakburn College recently brought the enchanting world of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (High School Edition) to life at the historic Princess Theatre. The production captivated not only the College community but also the wider City of Launceston, with over 4,000 tickets sold. An extraordinary testament to the show’s impact and popularity.

From the moment the curtain rose, audiences were transported into a realm of magic, mystery, and heartfelt emotion. The cast, composed of dedicated students, delivered performances brimming with passion and authenticity, while the backstage crew ensured every spell, scene change, and lighting cue was executed flawlessly.

Pleasingly, this production was more than just a play, it was a celebration of a holistic educational experience. Students embraced roles that challenged their creativity, collaboration, and resilience, embodying the College’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. The experience fostered growth not only in performance arts but also in leadership, communication, and community engagement.

A huge congratulations to the entire cast and crew for crafting such a memorable experience, we will certainly not forget the dramatic scene leading into intermission. Their hard work and enthusiasm turned a beloved story into a local phenomenon, leaving audiences spellbound and proud.

On closing night as the final applause echoed through the Princess Theatre, one thing was clear: the magic of learning, imagination, and community spirit is alive and thriving at Scotch Oakburn College.

Ross Patterson
Principal

Head of Middle School Kiran Oates Pryor provides an overview of the rich opportunities happening at the Middle School this Term.

The Term 3 Secondary Northern Interschool tournament was hosted by Kings Meadows High School for the first time. It was a big event with five schools participating.

We finished second in the team competition, only ½ a point behind Launceston College. Himash Keerthiratne (Year 11) continued with his impressive winning streak and he won all his matches (some of them very close). Young Bosco Kwong (Year 7) had another great tournament with 5 1/2 points off seven matches. Justin Thompson (Year 9) won five, while the remaining team members, Maddi Gofton and Henry Chilcott (Year 8),  Shiv Kataria (Year 9) and Oscar Mann (Year 11) finished with four off seven matches which is an impressive overall result.

Great work from all. We are hoping for an even better result at the State Finals that we will host on Monday 27 October.  Our next event is the Primary tournament on 22 September at Launceston Church Grammar Junior School.

Fabrice Dauchez
Person-in-Charge of Chess

The Junior Foundation Oratory Competition lit up the stage with passion, poise, and powerful storytelling. Four exceptional speakers: Year 8 students Ingrid Mills, Maddi Gofton  and Peggy Handbury,and Shiv Kataria (Year 9), took to the stage in the Horton Auditorium, each delivering a speech that stirred thought, sparked ideas and showcased the depth of talent within our junior cohort.

After a close and spirited contest, Peggy Handbury was named the winner, impressing the judges with her intellect, passion and fluent delivery on the topic on ‘daydreaming’.

Congratulations to all four speakers for their courage, preparation, and brilliance. You reminded us all of the power of words to move, challenge, and connect.

Special thanks to our MC, Clancy Lilywhite (Year 10) for hosting the event, our timekeeper, Grayson Edwards (Year 9) and our three adjudicators: Mrs Carrie Dunham, Elizabeth Moore (Year 10) and Calan Young (Year 11).  Additional thanks to three Year 6 students who put together a wonderful dance routine:  Jessica Lowe, Maddy Bell and Lucy Kershaw.

Katie Lester and Aditi Kataria
Persons-in-Charge of Public Speaking

A group of eighteen Year 11 students volunteered to conduct a day of teambuilding activities at the Valley Campus for Year 6 students from St Marys and Bicheno Primary schools. These primary students will be all together at St Marys High School next year, and the program serves as a transition day for them to get to know each other. It also provides an excellent opportunity for our Year 11s to experience authentic leadership while strengthening the College’s connections to the community in the Fingal Valley.

The Year 11 students went out to the Valley the day prior to set up and rehearse the activities, and then the primary students arrived on Tuesday morning. The primary students were very excited and enthusiastic and were fully engaged in the program that our students had planned for them. Our Year 11s did an outstanding job of connecting with the students and providing them with a day of very fun and meaningful activities.

Mark Hassell
Head of Experiential Learning

Year 10 Humanities and Social Sciences class was privileged to be addressed by Ms Rebecca Cuthill (’89), Collegian, current parent and Deputy Chairperson of our Board of Directors. She spoke about her role with the UN when she was employed by The Hague.

Students are currently studying an International Law unit looking at war crimes and the International Courts involved. Ms Cuthill has a wealth of knowledge in this area and presented the groups with past war crimes whilst outlining the roles of the UN, International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice.

We are so grateful for her visit and for taking the time to share her experiences with us.

Jane Gregg
Deputy Head of Senior School

Year 10 student Sam Allen is currently spending six weeks on a Round Square Exchange at Stanford Lake College, near Haenertsburg in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. Now in his fourth week overseas, Sam has already immersed himself in school life, travel, and the rich culture of the region. Here is his reflection so far:

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I am currently lucky enough to be on a Round Square Exchange to Stanford Lake College near Haenertsburg, South Africa. I am in my fourth week of exchange, and I have already seen many parts of South Africa.

My most memorable experience so far has been visiting Cape Town, where we travelled up Table Mountain, drove inland to Stellenbosch and explored the general Cape Town area. I am also really looking forward to visiting the Kruger National Park.

Stanford Lake College is quite different from Scotch Oakburn College, with the school day starting at 7:30 am and finishing between 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm in the afternoon. However, students don’t leave school until around 5:00 pm, as sport takes place in the afternoons. Students also have tests most Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Most students, including my exchange partner and I, board during the week as he lives 50 minutes away from the school.

If I could bring one thing back from Stanford Lake College, it would be the school spirit that they have here. If a soccer, rugby or any other sporting event is taking place on one of the ovals at the College, all students go up to support and cheer on the school team.

Something that has surprised me in South Africa is how friendly everyone is here, whether that be in or outside of school. Another thing that surprised me was the number of gated communities in the city, and that almost every house has a high wall topped with electric wires.

Overall, my exchange experience has been unforgettable, and has been a journey of discovery – navigating a different school and boarding, and experiencing a completely different country and culture.

Sam Allen
Year 10

Collegians Share the Power of Financial Literacy

Senior students were recently treated to an inspiring visit from two past students, Clair Russell (’23) and Georgia Clements (’22), who returned to the Horton Auditorium to share their stories since leaving school. Just a few years ago, they were sitting in the same seats; now, they are building careers in accounting and navigating adult life with confidence and care.

Clair, currently working at Ruddicks and studying at UTAS, began her post-school journey with a bold leap into outdoor education in the UK through PGL, arranged via the Futures Centre. Her time abroad not only helped her grow but also funded a three-month European adventure. She spoke honestly about the importance of choosing subjects you enjoy, rather than just chasing a high ATAR, and encouraged students to start working and saving early. Clair even shared her personal budgeting tips – tools that recently helped her afford a trip to Thailand.

Georgia, now working at Newton & Henry, took a gap year to pause and reflect before pursuing an accelerated Bachelor of Business at UTAS. She spoke about the value of studying while working, and the variety in her role as an accountant. Georgia also highlighted how budgeting has empowered her to take steps toward entering the housing market.

Both women spoke with warmth and humility, reminding students that financial literacy is not just about numbers, it’s it is about choices, independence, and creating opportunities. Their stories were a powerful reminder that with planning, passion, and purpose, anything is possible.

Joy Russell
Teacher

Recent Wellbeing Presentations at Scotch Oakburn College

As part of our ongoing commitment to student wellbeing and personal development, the Penquite Campus recently hosted a series of impactful presentations aimed at empowering students to make respectful, safe, and informed choices.

Pat Cronin Foundation – “Violence is Never OK” & “Rethinking Anger”

On Thursday 4 September, students engaged with two powerful sessions delivered by the Pat Cronin Foundation. These presentations addressed the serious consequences of violence and the importance of emotional regulation.

• “Violence is Never OK” challenged students to reflect on the impact of violent behaviour and encouraged peaceful conflict resolution.
• “Rethinking Anger” provided practical strategies for managing anger, promoting emotional intelligence, and fostering empathy.

These sessions were deeply moving and sparked important conversations about personal responsibility, respectful relationships, and the kind of community we want to build together.

Tasmania Police – Respectful Interactions & Online Safety

On Wednesday 10 September, Senior Constable Annabel Shegog addressed Year 9–12 students in a presentation focused on respectful interactions and staying safe online. Annabel spoke candidly about the importance of treating others with dignity—both in person and in digital spaces—and explained recent changes to laws surrounding online behaviour and image sharing.

Her message was clear: our actions online have real-world consequences, and it is essential to understand the legal and ethical responsibilities that come with digital citizenship.

Continuing the Conversation

We encourage parents to talk with their children about these presentations. Ask what stood out to them, what they learned, and how they might apply these lessons in their daily lives. These discussions help reinforce the values of respect, empathy, and safety that we strive to cultivate at Scotch Oakburn College.

Kylie Wolstencroft
Director Wellbeing – Penquite

Congratulations to Year 12 student Jock Johnstone, who recently represented Tasmania at the National Merino Sheep Young Judges Championship, held at the Royal Adelaide Show. Jock competed against five other state representatives, all aged between 17 and 25, in an event aimed at showcasing the skills and knowledge of our future industry leaders. Jock was awarded Runner-Up Champion, a great achievement.

Kate Gard
Teacher

Last week at the College, we proudly celebrated Learning Support Week, a time to recognise and honour the invaluable contributions of teacher aides and support staff in Australian schools. These dedicated professionals play a vital role in fostering an inclusive learning environment, offering essential support to both students and teachers. Their hard work and commitment ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. At Penquite, we marked the occasion with a morning tea, extending our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all of our Learning Support staff for their unwavering dedication and impact on our school community.

Yvette Cassidy
Head of Inclusive Education – Penquite

City Mission Spring Food Drive

Our Principal, Ross Patterson and I attended the launch of the annual City Mission Spring Food Drive 1 September. We have a long standing community connecton with City Mission and are once again supporting their drive to help to restock their Emergency Relief pantries. Every item goes straight to someone doing it tough in our local community. You may remember Prep student, Arthur’s work earlier this year when he organised a winter collection for City Mission at Elphin (pictured above).  I invite those in our community who are able, to help us continue our support of their programs by donating what you are able.

Where can I drop off donations?

Donations can be dropped off and placed in the City Mission Spring Food Drive containers in conneXions at Elphin Campus, or Middle School Reception and Robert Dean Senior Student Centre at Penquite. A list of suggested items can be found on this link. For further information visit https://www.citymission.org.au/spring-food-drive.

Cancer Council Tasmania Event

Some of our Year 11 and 12 students will be supporting Cancer Council Tasmania by volunteering their time at the Launceston Pearl Gala. This is the 30th anniversary of the event, being held Saturday 25 October, 6.30pm – 10.00pm at the newly refurbished Albert Hall. Information and tickets can be found on this link.

Recycle Rewards Update

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to recycling program. City Mission has collected our first container donation for Term 3. Across the Penquite Campus we collected 563 containers, raising $56.30. All money raised goes back to City Mission to help their community programs. A new collection bin is now located at Elphin Campus. Bring your recyclable containers in and drop them off!

Jamie Breden
Community Service Coordinator

As we welcome the arrival of Spring—with its longer days and warmer temperatures—the College is entering the Term 3 Uniform Transition Period, commencing next week. For the final two weeks of Term 3, students are permitted to wear either the Summer or Winter Uniform, depending on comfort and weather conditions. However, combinations of the two uniforms are not permitted, and students are reminded to wear one uniform in its entirety.

This seasonal transition not only supports comfort and practicality but also contributes to student wellbeing.

We appreciate the community’s support in maintaining high standards of presentation and consistency across the College. Let’s embrace the change of season with pride and positivity!

Ben Marsland
Deputy Principal – Penquite

On Exchange in South Africa

Earlier this year, we were lucky enough to spend time on Round Square exchanges in South Africa—Lila in Cape Town for three months and Lachie in Johannesburg for two. It was honestly one of the most transformative experiences of our lives.

When most people think of South Africa, the first images that come to mind are lions, safaris, or poverty. What we found instead was a country full of vibrancy, diversity, resilience, and joy. South Africa is often misperceived, but living there showed us the truth: a place bursting with creativity, optimism, and an energy that seemed to shine through every single interaction.

First Impressions

Even though we were in the same country, our environments were very different—Lachie in the chaos and opportunity of Johannesburg, and Lila by the coast in Cape Town. What we both felt straight away, though, was how welcoming and open South Africans are. The nerves of stepping off the plane disappeared quickly, replaced with a real sense of belonging thanks to our host families, who made us feel instantly at home.

Yes, South Africa has its challenges with crime and inequality, and we definitely noticed that. But what stood out far more was the friendliness, humour, and positivity of the people we met. Lila couldn’t believe the beauty of Cape Town in real life, while Lachie was struck by the contrast of poverty and affluence—but also by the resilience and community spirit everywhere.

A Different Way of Life

Daily life was full of differences from home. School started a lot earlier—7:00am for Lachie and 7:20am for Lila—but finished earlier too, which left plenty of time for sport and activities. We both went to single-sex schools, something we weren’t sure about at first, but in the end, we really valued the strong friendships, the focus, and especially the energy and school spirit that came with it.

We also had to adapt to new languages and slang—Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, and unique South African phrases that made us laugh once we got the hang of them. Learning to communicate across cultures was challenging at times but ended up being one of the most rewarding parts of our exchange.

Beyond the Classroom

What made exchange so special went far beyond school. For Lachie, rugby was at the heart of his experience—training hard, travelling with his team, and playing in intense derby matches where the war cries and school spirit created something unforgettable.

For Lila, highlights included safaris, hiking, bungee jumping, shark cage diving, and plenty of time by the ocean. But more than the activities, it was the friendships that made the biggest impact—both with other exchange students from around the world and with her host family, who quickly began to feel like her own.

Lessons for Life

Looking back, it wasn’t just the breathtaking landscapes or adrenaline-filled adventures that stood out to us. The biggest lessons came from being fully immersed in a multicultural country and stepping so far outside our comfort zones. We learned resilience, independence, and empathy in ways that no classroom could ever provide.

Exchange gave us a whole new perspective on the world and showed us what’s possible when you dive headfirst into a different way of life.

Why South Africa?

South Africa might not have been our first choice when we signed up for exchange, but now we can’t imagine going anywhere else. The mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, school spirit, and community warmth makes it such an extraordinary destination.

South Africa has inspired us and made us appreciate the world in a whole new way. We’ll definitely be back—and if you’re a Year 9 student thinking about exchange, we’d absolutely recommend choosing South Africa.

Lila Sims and Lachlan Mayes
Year 10 

Football

After finishing the roster season on top of the ladder with nine wins and one loss, our Middle School Boys Football team hosted the NSATIS Final against St Brendan Shaw College this week.

Andrew Nichols 
Sports Administrator

Hockey

Congratulations to our Under 14 Hockey Girls team who ended the season as joint Northern Tasmanian Premiers, tying 1-1 with Queechy Penguins Hockey Club in the Northern Under 14 Grand Final.  Coach Keegan Jacobs steered them through an undefeated season and so were also the Major Premiers in the competition.  Hockey Tasmania’s Northern Competition Committee (representing all clubs and schools participating in Hockey) awarded Keegan the Junior Coach of the Year Award.

David Morris
Person-in-Charge of Girls Hockey