Image: Scotch Oakburn College page – Brand Tasmanian

I am delighted to share that Scotch Oakburn College has become the first Early Learning to Year 12 institution to be officially recognised with the Brand Tasmanian brand and featured on the Brand Tasmanian website.

With plans to celebrate our 140 years of service to the Launceston community next year, it is an appropriate time to highlight our pride in being Tasmanian and to celebrate the outstanding holistic educational opportunities we offer.

There is a strong sense of pride and identity that comes with this partnership. It deepens our connection to the local community and encourages our students and staff to actively support and engage with Tasmanian enterprises.

Brand Tasmanian’s mission is to inspire and encourage Tasmanians, and those who want to be Tasmanian, to quietly pursue the extraordinary. This partnership aligns perfectly with our values, as we strive to ‘create the future’ by providing an exceptional educational experience that reflects the unique qualities of Tasmania. This was further highlighted with Scotch Oakburn receiving a Best Co-curricular Excellence Award as part of the Australian Education Awards, recognising our link to the Tasmanian environment through Education Outdoors.

Looking ahead, this collaboration opens the door to pursue innovative joint ventures — from community events and workshops to product launches and creative projects. These initiatives not only strengthen our partnership but also provide enriching experiences that further elevate the College’s profile.

In essence, our partnership with Brand Tasmanian is a powerful example of how local connections can drive positive change. It is about working together, celebrating our shared values, and building a stronger future for our students, our College, and our community.

Ross Patterson
Principal

Nicole Willcox, our Community & Events Manager, shares what an unforgettable evening Saturday’s Milestone Reunion was! From the emotional welcome of bagpipes to our Year 11 students showcasing the College and the incredible energy of the Big Band, it was a night of connection and celebration. Thank you to everyone who joined us.

At Scotch Oakburn College we encourage a healthy work/life balance for our staff.  To assist this the College has, as a part of our email protocols, guidelines for staff on when emails should be sent and actioned. We also understand that our community may need to send us emails outside of normal working hours.  From Monday 26 May, should you need to send an email to us outside of normal working hours, you will receive an automatic system reply acknowledging receipt and letting you know that the recipient will respond during our next working day.

We thank you for your support in this process.

Joel Brewer
Director of Marketing, Communications & Community 

A ship is safe in harbour, but that’s not what ships are built for.” — John A. Shedd

This simple yet profound metaphor by John A. Shedd captures the essence of life, growth, and purpose. Like ships, we are not meant to stay anchored in safety. We are meant to explore, take risks, and navigate the uncertain waters of life. While the harbour offers comfort and security, it is not where we fulfil our potential. True growth, fulfilment, and success lie beyond the breakwaters—in the vast ocean of opportunity and challenge.

Two years ago, I had the opportunity to embark on a Round Square trip to South Africa. One unforgettable night, we camped under the stars in the South African wilderness. As part of the experience, I was assigned to help guard the campsite, shining a torch through the surrounding bush to keep an eye out for wild animals. Sitting alone in the middle of the night, scanning the dark for movement, I found myself far outside my comfort zone. That moment forced me to “set sail” from the safety of my harbour and gave me a new sense of resilience and courage to face unfamiliar challenges.

Another significant moment of leaving my comfort zone was my decision to move into the boarding house at Scotch Oakburn College. It wasn’t an easy choice. I faced scepticism from people back home who believed it was a poor decision and urged me to stay in familiar surroundings. Despite the uncertainty of a new city, increased academic demands, and the challenge of building a new social circle, I made the leap in 2023. Had I stayed at my old school, I would have remained in a place of safety and predictability. But stepping into the unknown has brought me priceless memories and opened doors to new opportunities. This experience has shown me that true personal growth only happens when we are brave enough to leave the harbour behind.

Of course, once a ship leaves the harbour, it is bound to encounter storms. The ocean is unpredictable, and waves can be rough. In life, our storms come in the form of disappointments, failures, and hardships. But these challenges are not meant to break us—they are meant to shape us. Consider the example of Amelia Earhart, who took immense risks in pursuit of her dream to be the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Had she given in to doubts or the criticism she faced, this historic achievement—and its profound impact on feminism—may never have happened. Her courage in stepping into the unknown continues to inspire others to chase their goals fearlessly.

Both personal experiences and historical examples remind us that growth only occurs when we are willing to face discomfort and uncertainty. Staying in the harbour might feel safe, but it also limits our potential and puts our dreams on hold. To live with purpose, we must be willing to set sail—embracing the risks, challenges, and rewards that come with charting our own course.

Will Routley and Bridie Payne
Student Executive

With great excitement and nerves, and a record number of participants, our students won both the Senior and Junior Divisions of Rostrum’s Youth of the Year Northern Finals on Saturday 10 May!

Audrey Green (Year 8) and Maximilian Wilson (Year 8) each won their respective Junior Finals, with Maddi Gofton (Year 8) receiving an Encouragement Award. They delivered their speeches with confidence and articulation, engaging their audience through well-written scripts and an impressive ability to think on their feet.

All other speakers rose to the challenge courageously, whether they were new to public speaking or experienced: Shylee Kurukulasuriya (Year 7), Grayson Edwards (Year 9), Shiv Kataria (Year 9), Sienna Nesbit (Year 8), and Peggy Handbury (Year 8).

Elizabeth Moore (Year 10) clinched the Senior Division with her powerful prepared and impromptu speeches, while Hamish Ayre (Year 10) was highly commended for his cleverly written speech on how introverted leaders can be powerful through their calm, caring, and thoughtful approaches.

Rostrum has long been recognised as an outstanding platform for young people to develop their communication skills. A special acknowledgment to Jenny Fraser OAM (nee Gerrard, Oakburn’74) and Rod Fraser OAM (Scotch’74) for their invaluable dedication to ensuring our youth are supported and encouraged throughout their public speaking journeys.

We now look forward to Rostrum’s state final on Saturday 14 June and wish Audrey, Max and Lizzie the best of luck!

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

Our Middle School students have recently enjoyed connecting with members of the Boarding House Community to celebrate National Boarding Week. This initiative was co-ordinated by the Head of Boarding, Lionel Randall, as an opportunity to engage students in fun, collaborative activities to showcase some everyday Boarding House experiences.

Year 8 Peer Leaders organised House teams, involving students from Year 6 – 8. Cheered on by their peers and supported by our House Captains, students took on team challenges, including making a bed and preparing a sandwich. It certainly was an entertaining lunchtime for everyone involved.

Dean House took out the overall win and received a trophy for their collaborative efforts.

Thank you to everyone involved in the organization and running of this event, it was a pleasure to witness collaboration in action.

Esther Croft – Elliott
Middle School Round Sqaure Co-ordinator

Term 2 continues to be filled with moments of student achievement and engagement across Penquite.

The Autumn Concert was a true highlight, showcasing the incredible musical talents of students across the College. From solo performances to full ensemble pieces, the evening offered a rich and varied program that captivated the audience and celebrated the depth of our music program.

Year 11 Principals’ lunches have provided a valuable opportunity for students to share their perspectives on College life. A hot topic of discussion has been our co-curricular programs. These conversations have been thoughtful and constructive, reflecting the maturity and insight of our senior students.

Middle School students have embraced new access to HPEC facilities during lunch times, with student leaders stepping up to design and lead inclusive programs that promote wellbeing and active participation.

The Southern Tasmania Experience continues to offer real-world learning beyond the classroom for our Year 9 students, exploring our state’s history and governance.

Year 8 students have been actively involved in Education Outdoors programs, with 8W completing their experience in Week 3 and 8X heading to Mt William National Park next week. These programs continue to build resilience, teamwork, and a strong connection to the natural environment.

The second Interschool Chess Tournament for the North was recently held at St Patrick’s College, with our students representing the College with focus and enthusiasm. Congratulations to all who participated.

As we approach the middle of Term 2, I thank you for your continued support and wish everyone a successful remainder of term.

Ben Marsland
Deputy Principal – Penquite

Students in Years 8 and 9 have the opportunity to attend a Round Square conference in New Zealand at the end of this year. The conference theme: Journeys without limits – Uniting the world through adventure.

This Round Square event offers an exciting journey filled with cultural discovery, physical challenge, and meaningful connection. Grounded in the IDEALS of Adventure and Internationalism, the programme will help Year 8 and 9 students explore new perspectives, build resilience, and form lifelong friendships.

A summary of the conference program is as follows:

• Cultural Connections
• Exploration & Resilience
• Outdoor Pursuits & Team Building
• Service & Celebration
• History

Conference Dates:  Friday 28 November – Saturday 6 December

All Year 8 and 9 students have been sent detailed information about this opportunity and an application form. If you would like to discuss this opportunity, please contact me or Esther Croft-Elliott, our Middle School Round Square Coordinator.

Stuart Walls
Head of Senior School / Director of Round Square

At the Elphin campus, part of our Wellbeing focus is to develop a whole-school friendship strategy that empowers students with the skills, language, and confidence to develop healthy friendships. This aligns with our College Wellbeing Priorities of Belonging and Resilience, which in turn supports a positive school culture. To strengthen the development of relationship skills beyond the classroom, Friendology offers a range of free online resources just for parents and carers.

Here’s how you can access the Friendology Parent Resources:

1. Visit the URSTRONG website – www.urstrong.com
2. Create a free parent account – Click on the “Join” button in the top right corner. Select “Parent” and follow the prompts to create a free account.
3. Explore the resources
   – Articles and videos about friendship skills
   – Conversation starters for home
   – Posters and printables to support your child
   – Recordings of parent webinars and more!
4. Stay connected

URSTRONG also offers regular newsletters and updates to keep you informed about upcoming workshops and tips on how to support your child’s social-emotional development.
We encourage all families to sign up and make the most of these valuable tools. By working together—school and home—we can help every child feel confident, connected, and capable in their friendships.

If you have any questions or need help accessing the resources, please feel free to contact me.

Renee Hodgetts
Director of Wellbeing – Elphin

This article brings together a range of student voices, sharing their reflections on the recent Year 9 Southern Tasmania trip. Through this collection of honest, thoughtful, and often insightful quotes, it captures the experience, and the learning that shaped their experience. These reflections offer a real insight into what the trip meant to the students—in their own words.

“I have just come back from an unforgettable journey to southern Tasmania…. This trip really changed my perspectives on how Australia has developed” Madeline Hall

“Last week four groups of Year 9 students from their respective Houses made the trip down to Port Arthur to investigate and learn about Tasmania’s convict history.  The Year 9s participated in numerous activities across the three days learning through activities held at Port Arthur and the Hobart surrounds.” Thomas Byrne

“We discovered that the Richmond Gaol was established in 1825 and was used until 1861. It was used for convicts, both men and women, and when transportation ceased, it became a Water House. We then set off to explore the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery….  One part of the museum that I loved was the environmental section the different biomes, this really interested me…” Amelia Carter

At the Richmond Goal … “We saw the flogging yards in which they [convicts] were punished and whipped by another convict, the small solitary confinement cells… (it was) interesting to see how worn down the stone steps were from years of people walking on them and the little errors in their bricks that were made by the convicts” Bronte Krapf

“The ghost tour was definitely my favourite part of the trip. The stories were very creepy, and it was interesting to hear the things that “happened”.” Ayla Rowlings

“I was moved by some of the stories from convicts about the punishments they faced and the treatment they received. Some people got lucky though, like Mary Leary …”  Noah Lovell

At the Isle of the Dead … “It was very interesting to see all of the tombstones that had lots of spelling mistakes as people weren’t as educated back then in those times.” Archie Young

“It is important for young Australians to learn about the convicts and how they were treated so we don’t repeat history and punish people the same way. It is also important, so we learn about Australia’s past and how we got to where we are today. This trip made me reflect a lot on how the convicts were mentally and physically harmed in the past and made me hope that nothing like this will ever happen again.” Aggie Lyne

“Seeing the historic sites changed my perspective about how cruel some convicts were treated I am glad Scotch Oakburn ran the Southern Trip because now I know how much Australia has changed over time.” Flynn McLoughlin

Joy Russell
Year 9 Humanities Teacher

Earlier this year Calan Young (Year 11) and Elizabeth Moore (Year 10) attended the Tasmanian UN Youth Australia conference in Hobart; this was self-organised. Following this they were selected in a group of six students to represent Tasmania at the national conference in Adelaide from the 6-12 July, Calan and Elizabeth were the only students from the north selected.

The UN Youth Australia is a youth-led not-for-profit organisation, coordinated entirely by volunteers aged 18-26 and educating over 15,000 young Australians annually about international issues and the role of the United Nations. The National Conference gathers together some of the nation’s most exceptional students to learn about a diverse array of international and local issues. For more information on The UN Youth Australia CLICK HERE.

Calan and Elizabeth will travel to Adelaide during the Term 2 holidays, again self-organised and funded, to represent both Scotch Oakburn College and Tasmania. They have applied to the Launceston City Council and their local MP (Jess Teesdale) for financial assistance.

We wish them all the very best and can’t wait to hear what they have learnt upon their return.

Stuart Walls
Head of the Senior School

The 2025 Autumn Concert was a resounding success, showcasing the extraordinary talent and dedication of Scotch Oakburn College’s music students and staff. Held on Thursday 22 May, the evening featured a rich and varied program that delighted a full house of families, friends, and staff.

From the stirring opening by the College Bagpipes and Drums to the final notes of “Rock and Roll” by The Association, the concert was a celebration of musical diversity and student achievement. Highlights included powerful performances by the Concert Band, Big Band, and College Choir, as well as captivating solos on voice, flute, piano, guitar, clarinet, and even erhu.

The program also showcased the stylistic and technical proficiency of our most experienced performers in groups like Wandering Notes, Stay Sharp, and the Contemporary Music Ensemble. Each performance reflected the hours of rehearsal and the passion of our young musicians, guided by the expert direction of our Music staff.

Congratulations to all performers, ensemble directors, and the student emcees who brought warmth and professionalism to the evening. The Autumn Concert continues to be a cherished tradition that reflects the spirit and creativity of our College community.

Ben Marsland
Deputy Principal – Penquite

Our Year 3 classes have visited the Gentle Protagonist: Art of Michael McWilliam’s, exhibition at QVMAG Inveresk. McWilliam’s paintings depict wildlife, domestic & introduced species in Tasmanian bushlands, farmyards & gardens.  His works stimulate thinking around climate change, impacts of introduced species and extinction.

This relates directly to the Year 3 inquiry focus on lifecycles of creatures in Tasmania.  The purpose of the visit was also to inspire ideas, stimulate thinking and to provide a rich learning experience that included opportunities to reflect on and respond to the artworks.  The experience will lead into creating multi layered artworks using drawing and collage mediums.

Suzanne Creese
Arts & Learning Environment Coordinator

On Wednesday 9 April, two teams of eight students each from Scotch Oakburn College competed in the Da Vinci Decathlon at The Hutchins School in Hobart. The competition was held in the school’s library, it was a full day of challenging and creative tasks across ten areas: engineering, mathematics, art and poetry, science, English, ideation, creative producers, cartography, legacy and code breaking.

Both a Year 9 and a Year 10 team represented the College. We were excited (and a bit nervous) to take on such a wide range of topics. The theme this year was light, which we explored in many ways, from studying the human eye in science to mapping tools in cartography.

We really enjoyed the art and engineering papers because they let us be creative and work with our hands. The hardest challenge was Creative Producers, where only two team members had just eight minutes to come up with a performance about the differences between younger and older generations.

A big highlight of the day was winning the Legacy Paper; we were so proud. After the event, we celebrated with a snack stop at Mood Food before heading back home.

Overall, it was a fun, challenging, and unforgettable experience. We learned a lot and worked well together as a team. Thank you to Dr. Waites and Mr. Peterson for taking us to the competition and providing some workshops prior to the event.

Namaha Palle (Year 10) and Will Price (Year 10)
Da Vinci Decathlon Competitors

Recently, two of our Year 8 classes have undertaken the Education Outdoors Odyssey journey at Mt William National Park. Over the coming weeks, the remaining three Year 8 Mentor classes will also have the opportunity to experience this amazing and engaging outdoors classroom program.

Student Max Wilson, has kindly shared his reflections about 8V’s time in the north east of Tasmania.

Students and staff steeled ourselves for an adventurous week with friends where we would work together and use many of our Learner Attributes, including being inclusive, effective communicators, and collaborative in order for us to achieve our goals.

On our second day we hiked up Mount William, splitting into two groups, and reflecting on the wildlife. Carrying up the lunch meant we had to collaborate. The view from the top of the mountain was spectacular, and the 13-14 km hike from the coast was well worth it.

On Wednesday, we packed up the campsite, and loaded their bags into the trailer, ready to go to Woolnorth windfarm. Another of our Learner Attributes, namely curiosity, had us asking many deep and thoughtful questions, and connecting our Term 1 learning in Science to the wind turbines. We got to go inside the turbines, as well as to see them stop when eagles came too close to them. Inside the Visitor Centre, we learned about Mannalargenna, the aboriginal past of the place where the windfarm was built, and the history of the windfarm, including learning many interesting facts about it.

The next day, we went wading at the beach, with many people jumping off the tall sand dunes and sliding down them, and although we urged each other to join in, everyone was respectful of people’s decision if they chose not to. Later in the day, we hiked to Eddystone Point Lighthouse, played games on the beach, and had a rock climbing competition around the granite walls of the lighthouse, with rules that stopped people from going too high.

Friday still held one more surprise for us, after we packed up our campsite and headed to Bridport. The chip wraps that we had were a delectable surprise that we all indulged in and enjoyed massively. We then headed back, handed back our hire gear, and departed, all with a smile on our faces, bestowed upon us by a great week at camp.

Max Wilson
Student

Sunday 1 June marks an exciting event coming to our lovely city of Launceston – the McGrath Launceston Running Festival!

This year, there is a School Teams Challenge.

This is a wonderful opportunity to promote health, fitness, and school spirit within our community. Students are encouraged to take part in the LIVEAT 1 Mile race – a fun and inclusive event suitable for all levels of fitness. We’d also love to see siblings (older or younger) join in the fun – the more the merrier! The aim of the event is participation. No one is expected to win, nor even run the whole way. The idea is to encourage our community to participate. Thank you to those who have already entered!

How to Enter:
1. Go to the Launceston Running Festival website
2. Find the LIVEAT 1 Mile race and click “Enter Now”
3. Enter your child’s personal information
4. Towards the end of the registration, there will be an option to enter as part of a team
5. Scroll through the team options and select Scotch Oakburn College

On Tuesday 27 June, Year 5 Clark are hosting a Registration Booth at the Junior School during break times to promote participation in the Launceston Running Festival. This will be an exciting opportunity for students to take a leadership role, build school spirit, and encourage others to get involved in this fantastic community event.

Milly Clark
Teacher

My Round Square exchange to Lyford Cay International School in Nassau, The Bahamas has been an unforgettable adventure, filled with unique cultural experiences, eye-opening realisations, and moments of true connection.

One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had so far was when my exchange family took me out on their boat to a secluded beach in Old Fort. It was a picture-perfect day, and we spent hours snorkelling through vibrant reefs teeming with marine life. I got the chance to see a variety of colourful fish species up close—an experience I’ll never forget. Thankfully, my exchange family kindly lent me a GoPro, allowing me to capture some of these magical underwater moments to look back on.

While many aspects of life in the Bahamas have been exciting, one of the more confronting realities I’ve encountered is the high cost of living—especially when it comes to food. I was genuinely surprised by how expensive everyday items are compared to Tasmania. For instance, I came across a bag of chips—similar to Smiths—that cost USD 10.99, which is roughly AUD 17. This was a real eye-opener and made me reflect on the different economic challenges people face in various parts of the world.

School life at Lyford Cay International School has also stood out in many ways. If I could bring one thing back to Scotch Oakburn, it would definitely be the incredible sports facilities available to students during lunch breaks. The upper campus features two padel courts, a futsal court, two tennis courts, a basketball court, and three volleyball courts. These facilities are open to all students under the light supervision of just a couple of teachers, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere during breaks. It’s a fantastic way for students to explore new sports, meet new people, and stay active in a fun, informal environment.

Another aspect of Bahamian life that took me by surprise in my first few days was the prevalence of gated communities. From what I’ve observed, especially in the western part of Nassau, many people live in these secure residential areas. This was a completely new experience for me, as gated communities are quite rare in Tasmania. Living in one has given me a different perspective on lifestyle and community structure.

Overall, my exchange in The Bahamas has been a journey of discovery—from swimming with tropical fish in crystal-clear waters to experiencing a new school culture and navigating the nuances of daily life in a different country. It’s been an incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and appreciate both the similarities and differences that make each place in the world so unique.

Declan Cocker
Year 10

I am currently enjoying the tremendous opportunity to take part in a Round Square exchange program at LVS Ascot, a boarding school located in Berkshire, England. Now in the third week of my seven-week exchange, I’ve already experienced a wide range of memorable and enriching moments.

One of the highlights so far has been exploring London and finally seeing some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. From Big Ben and Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace—along with the classic red telephone boxes and the lively bustle of city streets—my first visit to the capital felt almost surreal. I particularly enjoyed walking along the River Thames, where I took in the vibrant energy of rowers, people relaxing by the water, and even the roar of football fans during a game at Fulham Stadium. The riverside is constantly alive with activity and full of character.

Life at LVS Ascot has been equally rewarding. I’ve especially enjoyed the hot meals and the warm camaraderie shared during break times in the dining hall. The lively atmosphere and the simple joy of sharing food and conversation with friends have been some of my favourite everyday experiences.

Beyond London, I’ve had the chance to visit surrounding areas such as Barnes, Notting Hill, Putney, Ascot, Bracknell, and Windsor. These outings have provided a wonderful contrast to the fast-paced city life, revealing charming neighbourhoods, historical sites, and a more relaxed rhythm. From the regal beauty of Windsor to the suburban feel of Bracknell and Barnes, it’s been eye-opening to see the diversity of England’s landscape and way of life just beyond the capital.

One initiative at LVS that I believe could enrich student life at Scotch Oakburn is their LVS4 co-curricular program. This 40-minute session, similar in structure to a tutor group, is centred around four key pillars: Exercise, Enrichment, Enjoyment, and Extension. It offers a wide range of activities—from sport and performing arts to clubs, wellbeing programs, and academic support—all designed to foster a balanced and engaging learning experience.

One surprising difference I’ve noticed is LVS’s relatively relaxed attitude toward sport. Unlike at Scotch Oakburn, participation in seasonal sports is not compulsory. While the school has excellent facilities, including a gym and pool, many students choose not to use them regularly—something that stood out to me.

I’ve also really appreciated the school’s daily structure and class layout. Lessons are one hour long, and the day runs from 8:40 am to 4:00 pm, with five academic periods and two main breaks at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. The variety of elective subjects and the overall school environment have been outstanding, offering a unique and stimulating learning experience.

I look forward to the weeks ahead and to sharing more reflections as I continue this unforgettable journey.

Kayla Flood
Year 10

I’ve spent just over four weeks in California so far, and it’s been an incredibly memorable and enjoyable experience. I’ve had the chance to take part in a variety of school events, including Senior Prom and student theatre productions, and I’ve travelled around the state, taking in the natural beauty that California has to offer.

The school I’m attending, The Athenian School, is quite different from Scotch Oakburn. One of the biggest differences is that Athenian does not have a uniform or dress code, which encourages greater self-expression among students. This contributes to a more relaxed atmosphere, and students here tend to be more individualistic in how they present themselves.

Another noticeable difference is that all students are served lunch in the cafeteria—one of my favourite aspects of school life here and something I’d love to see implemented at Scotch Oakburn. Additionally, the amount of homework students receive is significantly higher. On average, my exchange partner spends two to three hours each night on homework, which makes it difficult to balance academics, sports, and family time.

One cultural difference that really surprised me was how students address their teachers by their first names. At first, I found it confusing—I wasn’t sure whether my exchange partner was talking about a friend or a teacher! While this practice is meant to promote a sense of equality between students and staff, it still feels a bit strange to me.

Two of my favourite experiences so far have been attending the Senior Prom and visiting Yosemite National Park. The Prom was a highlight—it was very different from our Year 10 Formal, with most of the evening spent dancing and listening to a rapper who’s an Athenian alumnus. Visiting Yosemite was equally unforgettable. The towering cliffs, massive cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks offered some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever seen.

My host family has been incredibly welcoming, showing me places I may never have had the chance to visit otherwise. I’ve also made many new friends among the Athenian students and fellow exchange participants.

Overall, this Round Square exchange has been one of the most rewarding and unforgettable experiences of my life. I strongly encourage any future Year 10 students to take advantage of this amazing opportunity—you won’t regret it!

Charles Corrigan
Year 10

The annual TCE Ball – A Night at the Oscars was held at The Grand Chancellor Hotel, on Saturday 10 May. Organised by The Seniors Committee, this year’s ball theme, A Night at The Oscars, was a star-studded event following weeks of preparation.

Greeted by parents, friends and the paparazzi, the evening did not disappoint as invited guests walked the red carpet in all the glitz and glamour of a Hollywood event. Invited guests relished the atmosphere of a true Oscars evening where awards were presented, a delicious meal was enjoyed and guests danced the night away to DJ Reid’s music compilation.

Congratulations to the Seniors Committee, led by Year 12 chairs Angus Scott, Blaise Fitzallen and Saskia Boden on their dedication and hard work in making this a most memorable occasion for the TCE cohort of 2025.

Jane Gregg
Deputy Head of the Senior School

This week, Early Learning Hurd were joined by Mr Mark Hassell during their Bush Learning program at the Scotch Oakburn Park Wetlands.

Mr Hassell led the session, demonstrating how to make a fire and how to start it without matches. The children learnt how to make damper, and then cooked it on a stick using the fire. Even better, they had the chance to enjoy the damper, with butter, jam and honey.

Once the fire had been extinguished, some of the charcoal from the fire was collected and taken back to their classroom at the Elphin Campus, where it will be used in various learning experiences. The bush learning program continues to excite and educate this group of young learners.

Catriona Hurd
Teacher

2025 Australian Age Championships

As mentioned in our last news, during the Term break, six Scotch Oakburn students competed in individual events at Swimming Australia’s prestigious national championships for swimmers aged between 13-18 years, held at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre, 10-18th April.

As well as the individual results shown in our last news, some swimmers were also members of successful relay envents.  Well done to all swimmers.

Steve Hanson – State Relay: Boys 14–15 4x50m Freestyle Relay

Samuel Fischer – State Relays: Boys 14–15 4x50m Freestyle Relay, Mixed 14–15 4x50m Medley Relay. Club Relays (South Esk Swimming Club): Boys 14–15 4x50m Freestyle Relay – Set a new Tasmanian State Record, Boys 14–15 4x50m Medley Relay

Sienna Nesbit – State Relay: Mixed 14–15 4x50m Medley Relay

Sophia Vincour – State Relays: Girls 13–14 4x50m Freestyle Relay, Mixed 13–14 4x50m Medley Relay

Jane Gregg
Deputy Head of Senior School

Our community connections are important. We encourage our community to get behind Old Scotch Collegian Football Club this season and support our extended community.

On Saturday all teams are playing at home at the NTCA ground.

All fixtures can be found here:

Mens Fixtures |  Womens Fixtures | Under 18s

We look forward to following the teams this season.