WHY IT MATTERS MORE THAN EVER

Recently, two Student Executive members, Amy and Chloe, delivered a powerful address to our Penquite students on the challenges excessive mobile phone use presents in our lives. Their speech was engaging, informative, and, importantly, included proactive strategies to help achieve a healthy balance. A short excerpt from their speech is shared below:

“Here’s a quick challenge: Next time you reach for your phone, pause for a second and ask yourself, “Is this actually adding to my life, or am I just passing time?”.  If not, maybe swap some of that screen time for something that gets you moving—catching up with a friend in person, going for a walk, or trying something new. You might be surprised how much better you feel.

Phones aren’t the problem—it’s how we use them. It’s easy to let them take over without realising it. But you’re in control. So, next time you catch yourself endlessly scrolling, remember: a little balance goes a long way.

And hey, if you’re feeling brave, check your screen time stats. You might not realise how much of your life you are spending on your phone until the numbers are right in front of you.”

The challenges of mobile phone use have been well publicised of late. Recent research from McCrindle highlights just how deeply mobile phones have embedded themselves into our daily lives. The data shows that more than 9 in 10 Australians own a smartphone, and on average, people check their phones every 10 minutes. While technology offers connection and convenience, it also brings challenges — especially in learning environments.

We know that constant notifications and social media scrolling can significantly reduce concentration spans, increase anxiety, and affect interpersonal communication. Studies link heavy phone use with decreased academic performance and diminished face-to-face social skills, both critical for young people’s development.

At Scotch Oakburn College, we are committed to fostering an environment that promotes focus, wellbeing, and genuine connection. To support this, our policy requires that phones are off and away during school hours. By keeping phones off and out of sight, students are better able to engage fully with their learning, connect meaningfully with their peers, and develop healthy digital habits — effectively putting Amy and Chloe’s advice into action.

We encourage families to support this initiative by discussing responsible phone use at home. Some practical strategies include setting screen time limits, encouraging device-free zones (like the dinner table), and modelling balanced digital habits.

It is our hope that together, we can help students create a healthy relationship with technology — one that enhances rather than hinders their growth.

Ross Patterson
Principal

We are delighted to announce that the following staff have joined the Scotch Oakburn staffing team for the commencement of Term 2:

Cindy Chen (College Nurse – Penquite)
Scott Muller (Maintenance Manager)
Morgan Parker (College Nurse – Elphin)
Colin Peters (Percussion Teacher)
Daniel Priest (PAC Technician)
Sarah Williams (Year 1 Teacher)
MaddI Young (Year 5 Teacher)

Please join me in welcoming our new staff to the College. In addition, I wish to inform you that our College Chaplain, Cody Harwood finished up at the College at the end of Term 1 to explore new opportunities. Please join me in wishing Cody all the best for the future. We are currently liaising with the Uniting Church Australia on how we might fill this valuable pastoral and community role.

Ross Patterson
Principal

As we begin the new term, Principal Ross Patterson is excited to share some initiatives that continue to strengthen the sense of connection across our community.

Community Arts Coordinator, Carmel Dilger, talks about the opening of ‘Life if what you bake it!’, an exhibition from Artist in Residence, Katie Barron and TCE art students.  In what was a fantastic collaboration between artist and students, the exhibition explores the themes of play, appreciation, and joy and is inspired by the iconic Australian Women’s Weekly Birthday Cake Book. The opening was enhanced with the inclusion of cakes baked from the recipe book by our Year 9 Pastry Chef class which were enjoyed by all that attended.

On Monday, 28 April, all teaching staff engaged in some excellent professional learning with Dr Tom Porta, a lecturer and researcher from the University of Adelaide.  Tom’s recent PhD focuses on Inclusive Education and differentiation instruction.

The Robert Dean Senior Student Centre was a buzz with colleagues considering how we establish exactly what students need to know, understand and do and how we might be able to differentiate the learning by considering student readiness, the learning activities we provide and the assessments that we use.

From teachers of our 3 year olds through to our Senior Secondary teachers, we were all challenged to think critically about our practice and how we might continue to make it more inclusive for all learners.  We will continue to work with Tom throughout the year to stregthen our understanding and our pedagogy.

The support from our community to enable us to engage in these valuable Professional Learning days is much appreciated.

Virginia Berechree
Director of Staff Growth & Academic Operations (Timetabling)

ROUND SQUARE CONFERENCE

Over the Term break,  Chloe Atkinson (Year 6), Georgina Chilcott (Year 6), Ryan Dhanaraj (Year 7), Felix Harvey (Year 7), Chloe Atkinson (Year 8) and Meg de Deuge (Year 8), along with Mr Paul McKendrick and Ms Justin Clarke, headed to Perth for the Footprints of Unity Round Square conference. Hosted by Scotch College and Bunbury Cathedral Grammar, the conference brought together delegates from Australia, the USA, India, and Bangladesh to explore Aboriginal culture and the IDEALS of Internationalism and Adventure.

Following the opening ceremony, we engaged in activities such as didgeridoo playing, boomerang throwing and singing ‘We are Australian’, which was performed by delegates at the closing ceremony.

Throughout the conference we were pushed outside our comfort zones, conquering the rock wall and the ‘leap of faith’, climbing to the top of a 15m pole and then leaping to a trapeze bar suspended above the ground.

A highlight of the conference was a visit to Busselton where we went to the underwater observatory at the end of the Busselton Jetty. We also visited Ngili Cave, where we learned how Aboriginals lived and hunted on the lands and waterways, and how plants and animals reacted to the changing of the seasons.

Throughout the conference we formed friendships with delegates from around the world and have returned with a deeper understanding of Indigenious culture, ourselves and others.

Round Square Conference Delegates
Middle School 

Last week, Penquite Campus was delighted to welcome twelve students and two teachers from St Stithian’s Girls’ College, a Round Square school in Johannesburg, South Africa, as part of their Australia Study Tour. The group’s journey through Australia included stops in Melbourne, Sydney, Ballarat, and Launceston, with their time at Penquite offering an opportunity for cultural exchange and connection.

The visit was made possible through the global Round Square network, which fosters international understanding and collaboration among students. During their stay, the visiting students immersed themselves in school life by attending classes alongside their Tasmanian peers. Highlights of the visit included a memorable fire-lighting and damper-making activity in the school’s wetlands area, offering a hands-on taste of Australian outdoor tradition.

Another standout experience was a guided tour of Cataract Gorge, led by Aboriginal guide Geoff Mclean. His insights provided the students with a deeper understanding of local Indigenous culture and history, adding a rich layer to their Australian experience.

Although the visit was brief, the warmth and generosity of the Penquite community helped create lasting bonds. Deep gratitude goes to the host families who opened their homes to the visiting students, and to the boarding community for warmly accommodating the teachers. The Round Square Committee were on hand to welcome the students, tour them around the campus and then host a barbeque for the host families. The College thanks them for their leadership during this event.

In an age of global connectivity, the friendships formed during this exchange are sure to continue. Through Round Square, students from across the world continue to learn from each other, proving that cultural exchange is not just about travel, but about forging lasting, meaningful connections.

Stuart Walls
Head of Senior School
Director of Round Square

CULTURE, CONTRASTS, AND CONNECTION

I’ve spent five weeks in Colombia and have had an amazing and truly enjoyable experience. One of the highlights was spending a week in Anapoima, a small tropical town built around a lake. Everyone gets around in golf carts, and the area is full of natural beauty—vibrant butterflies, hummingbirds, and stunning flowers and plants.

I also loved going up Monserrate and taking a tour of the flower, fruit, and vegetable markets. One of the more confronting aspects of my visit was witnessing the stark socio-economic divide. It’s visible in everyday life—on the bus to school, walking down the street, or going out for a meal. From the mountain we visited and even from a certain spot at school, I could see the informal settlements where many lower-income families live. I was surprised by how far they stretched out from the city. The contrast in infrastructure between suburbs further highlights this divide.

One of my favourite things at Colegio Anglo has been the school cafeteria, where a hot lunch is served daily with multiple options, a salad bar, and juice or lemonade. It’s been a great way to try new Colombian dishes—and I’ve loved not having to pack lunch every day! I also wish we had the same easy access to fresh produce in Launceston; the variety of fruits and vegetables here is incredible.

Something I’d love to see at Scotch Oakburn is the Friday pop-up bakery stall. The freshly baked breads, pastries, and treats are delicious and such a treat to look forward to each week.

What completely surprised me was how green the city is. Despite some rivers now being directed underground, there are still many flowing through Bogotá. I expected a dense city with few trees or parks, but almost every walk to a shop or restaurant takes us past a park or a nature strip down the middle of the street.

Bogotá’s roads aren’t great, which leads to a lot of traffic—especially during the rainy season, which we’re in now. I’m really going to miss the city, the school, and especially the kind and welcoming people I’ve met here. I’ve loved going out at night with friends and experiencing daily life in Bogotá. The school environment and all my classes have been fantastic. I hope I get the chance to come back someday—or that someone I’ve met here visits Australia.

Harriet Woolley
Year 10 Student

Our talented Penquite Students are deep in rehearsals for the Tasmanian premiere of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (High School Edition)! Their magical journey is just beginning, and you won’t want to miss a moment. 🪄

📍 Princess Theatre
📅 27–30 August
🎟 Tickets selling fast at theatrenorth.com.au/soc-harry-potter-cursed-child or call 6331 0052.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic! ✨

As we embark on Term 2, Middle School students are set for an engaging and enriching learning journey both inside and outside the classroom. This Term promises a blend of academic rigour and experiential learning opportunities, that include outdoor adventures, and community engagement.

This week, our Year 8W students have kicked off the term with an immersive camp at Mt William National Park. In the coming weeks the remaining Year 8 Mentor classes will also undertake the rich learning that the education outdoors ‘Odessey’ program provides.

Year 7V and 7W students will dive into the complexities of global diplomacy with the commencement of the World Peace Game, as they are challenged to solve international conflicts, honing their critical thinking and collaboration skills.

In English, Year 7 students will take their learning beyond the classroom with further SOC2City experiences in and around Launceston. In particular, making connections to their novel, A Long Walk to Water, deepening their understanding of the text through real-world experiences and discussions.

Our commitment to global citizenship continues with further Round Square experiences for our Middle School students. This includes some of Year 8 students attending other Round Square schools for a two-week exchange program, as they broaden their cultural understandings and explore the Round Square IDEALS.

Next Friday, the first round of winter sports competition begins for our Years 5 and 6. This offers our students a chance to develop their sportsmandship and teamwork skills through various sports, including hockey, AFL, soccer, table tennis, badminton and netball.

Finally, Year 8 students are preparing their Explore Year 8 (EY8) community service projects, engaging with groups in our wider community as they develop the Round Square IDEAL of Service, through practical experience that offers support and benefit to others.

We look forward to a term filled with growth, learning, and memorable experiences for all our Middle School students!

Kiran Oates Pryor
Head of Middle School

The Science & Engineering Challenge has become a regular fixture in the College calendar. This year, 25 students from years 9 and 10 participated in the event, held at UTAS’ Inveresk Campus.
Working in teams, students solved real-life problems that extended from communications to electricity distribution, from fish traps to flight and from power generation to  schedule optimisation.

While most teams completed two half-day activities, two teams spent a full day working on only one activity, either creating a polar research station or the engineering classic: a bridge.
The nail-biting conclusion to the day was the testing of the bridges. Our Silver Team designed a bridge that was able to carry a trolley weighing three kilograms, putting them in third place. The College also came third in the overall competition.

The Science & Engineering Challenge is a fun, engaging day in which students get to develop their STEM skills while developing an appreciation of the diverse applications of engineering. Importantly, they also demonstrate their ability to collaborate, to innovate and to be courageous.

Kate Gard
Head of Science

Congratulations to our House Captains for Term 2. We are looking forward to their leadership and courage to support others during the Term ahead.

Ben Green
Deputy Principal – Penquite

Last week, the Penquite Campus had the privilege of hosting Tanya Cavanagh., the CEO of the “Not Even Once” program, who delivered an insightful and impactful presentation on the dangers of vaping. Tanya, who is passionate about educating young people and building their resilience, shared valuable information about the myths and realities of vaping, the deceptive tactics of the vaping industry, and the serious health risks associated with e-cigarettes.

During her visit, Tanya engaged with students in an interactive session, answering their questions and providing them with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Her presentation was not only informative but eye-opening, highlighting the importance of staying informed and making healthy choices.

In response to the overwhelming positive feedback from students and the growing concerns among parents, our school is now offering a special session for parents and caregivers. This session aims to equip them with the tools and information they need to have meaningful conversations with their children about vaping. The parent session will cover topics such as recognizing the signs of vaping, understanding the health risks, and strategies for prevention and intervention.  Reserve your free seats via this link.

We encourage all parents and caregivers to attend this important session to stay informed and support their children in making healthy choices. Together, we can create a safer and healthier environment for our students.

Kylie Wolstencroft
Director Wellbeing – Penquite

COLLEGE ARCHIVIST VISITS YEAR 2

Yesterday I visited Year 2 Viney, Diepeveen, and Shaw to answer some of their questions about Lemana. The students were very enthusiastic and thoroughly engaged with the photographs and uniform items from the Archives I brought along on my visit to the three classes. The questions from the students were well researched before my visit and we had some great conversations about Lemana. Many of the students talked about family members who attended the College which encouraged many questions about the history of the College.

One of Launceston’s most outstanding Federation style buildings, built in 1906 and acquired by the College in 1941, the heritage listed Lemana (also including The Stables and Heritage Building) is currently home to our Year 2, 3 and 4 students.

Veronica Macno
College Archivist

Term 2 at Penquite has kicked off on a positive note, bringing a wave of excitement and engagement across the College. The term began with a moving ANZAC Day Service with guest speaker Nic Wardlaw sharing his family’s deeply personal connection to World War Two.

Week 1 also featured educative sessions from the Not Even Once Project Australia. These seminars, for students in Years 7 – 12, aimed at raising awareness among students about the latest scientific and medical evidence associated with vaping, alcohol and other drug use. Next week, parents are invited to a follow-up seminar, scheduled for 6:30 pm in the Horton Auditorium. This session will provide valuable insights and guidance on how to address these issues with your children.

Alongside these sessions, reminders about the ‘off and away’ mobile phone policy were reiterated to ensure a focused and distraction-free learning environment.

Teachers at Penquite also had the opportunity to enhance their professional skills during a professional learning day with Dr. Tom Porta, who focused on differentiation strategies.

The Year 8 Ed Outdoors programs are set to take students on an adventurous journey to Mt William National Park this term, offering them a chance to connect with nature and develop essential outdoor skills. Additionally, the TCE Housing Design and Art students experienced an inspiring trip to MONA this week, where they explored innovative design concepts and artistic expressions.

Our s.p.a.c.e. Gallery is currently hosting an exhibition titled ‘Life is What You Bake It,’ featuring remarkable works from our artist-in-residence Katie Barron and our talented TCE students. This exhibition is a testament to the creativity and dedication of our art community.

Lastly, we wish everyone a terrific night at the TCE Ball. Themed ‘A Night at the Oscars’ this promises to be a memorable celebration for all attendees.

Ben Marsland
Deputy Principal – Penquite

On Tuesday, 6 May, 32 Middle School dancers represented the College at the annual Launceston Drama Competition, performing in the Creative Dance section.

Our Middle School Dance Ensemble took out first place with their powerful piece titled Kindness, choreographed by senior students Lily Ayre, Sienna Nesbit and Macie Robertson. This moving performance explored the theme of being curious rather than judgmental, encouraging the audience to lift others up through empathy.

The Year 8 Dance class also impressed, placing third with their evocative piece Light in the Underworld, choreographed collaboratively by myself and the students.

Congratulations to all students for their dedication, consistent weekly rehearsals, and the outstanding teamwork that was evident in each performance.

Kathryn Gray
Teacher

Junior School House teams came together this morning to reflect on what it means to move out of our comfort zones, in preparation for the Junior School Cross Country on Friday 23 May.  House Heads Andrew Sulzberger (Nance), Nicky Reid (Briggs), Jude Coombe (Dean) and Louise Ockerby (Fox) invited student to reflect on:

– what it means to be out of our comfort zone
– what we can say to ourselves to help us to be more comfortable in being comfortable, and
– how we can support others at Cross Country

House meetings are an important part of building a sense of belonging and fun.  These also proactively support key understandings linked with our College Values in a practical way, such as our key sporting events across the calendar.

Renee Hodgetts
Director of Wellbeing – Elphin

EXCHANGE, EXPLORATION, AND ENDLESS MEMORIES

I currently have the incredible privilege of attending St Cyprian’s School in Cape Town, South Africa, as part of an exchange program.

After 19 hours of travel and navigating unfamiliar airports, I arrived exhausted—but was instantly uplifted by the warm welcome from my exchange family, complete with balloons, snacks, and smiling faces.

The very next day, still jet-lagged but in awe of the breathtaking view of Table Mountain, I started school. I was nervous, but the girls were so friendly and inclusive, making it easy to settle in. Three other Colombian exchange students helped me find my way and introduced me to the teachers.

That same afternoon, we flew to Johannesburg for a national touch rugby tournament. Cayleigh, my exchange partner, and her sister played in the team while their parents coached and refereed. I was constantly hearing new accents, slang, and Afrikaans phrases. My attempts at pronunciation were met with lots of laughter and playful teasing—but also encouragement, and I soon picked up the basics.

Driving back to the airport was a humbling moment. I had seen the beauty and wealth of South Africa, but passing through the townships gave me a much deeper perspective. I became more aware of the country’s social inequalities—from people asking for money on the streets to jobs like petrol attendants and lift operators that are uncommon back home.

Our holiday week was packed with amazing experiences: visiting the vineyards in Paarl, playing hockey, exploring the vibrant Oranjezicht Market, and relaxing at stunning beaches.

When school resumed, I felt right at home. I knew my way around, and the caring environment at this all-girls school continued to surprise me. From Sokkie dance competitions to school picnics and guest speakers, there’s always something going on. Teachers have been incredibly supportive, even taking time to understand the Australian curriculum to help me keep up.

Cape Town’s beauty still takes my breath away. Wherever you go, mountains frame the skyline, and the food and people make every day memorable. I’m so excited for what’s ahead—safaris, rugby games, hikes, bungee jumping, ostrich riding, shark cage diving—and all the unexpected adventures in between.

I’m forever grateful for this experience, and just as thankful for the beautiful place I call home.

Lila Sims
Year 10 Student

Australian Athletics

Year 12 students Izzy Wing and Sophie Marshall competed at the Australian Athletics Championships recently.  Izzy won Bronze in the Heptathlon, which includinded a personal best in the 800m; a fantastic achievment. Izzy recently broke three records at the NSATIS Athletcis and won three events at the SATIS carnival.

Sophie also had a great performance, running a personal best in her 800m event, narrowly missing a place in the U20 Women’s final.

Ali Foot
Head of Sport – Penquite

Equestrian

Year 2 student Darcy Watkins achieved a top 10 finish at the Grand National Saddle Horse Championships in Sydney over the term break.  Congratulations Darcy!

Ben Green
Deputy Principal – Elphin

2025 Australian Age Championships

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.

Congratulations to Bella Shaw (Year 11), Douglas Hyde (Year 9), Jed Routley (Year 11), Sienna Nesbit (Year 8), Sophia Vincour (Year 8), and Steve Hanson (Year 10) for achieving some amazing results and PB’s (listed below).

In particular, congratulations to Bella Shaw for setting a new Tasmanian State Record in her morning heat swim for the Girls 16 200m Backstroke, and then breaking her own record on the same day in the A Final that evening, placing 6th in Australia for her age group in that event overall.  Bella also qualified for the B Final for the Girls 16 100m Backstroke, along with Steve Hanson who qualified for the B Final for the Boys 15 100m Freestyle.

Samuel Fischer also attended the championships as a member of a club freestyle relay who set a new Tasmanian State Record for the Boys 16 & U 4x50m Freestyle Relay. Sienna, Sophia and Steve also competed in freestyle and medley TAS state relays.

Results for individual events:

Bella Shaw: Girls 16 200m Backstroke – 6th (PB, SR), Girls 16 100m Backstroke – 11th (PB), Girls 16 50m Backstroke – 30th

Douglas Hyde: Boys 14 200m Freestyle – 20th (PB), Boys 14 100m Freestyle – 24th (PB), Boys 14 50m Freestyle – 27th (PB)

Jed Routley: Boys 16 50m Breaststroke – 26th (PB), Boys 16 100m Breaststroke – 47th

Sienna Nesbit: Girls 14 200m Butterfly – 18th (PB), Girls 14 100m Butterfly – 47th

Sophia Vincour: Girls 13 50m Butterfly – 17th (PB), Girls 13 100m Butterfly – 37th (PB), Girls 13 50m Backstroke – 48th (PB), Girls 13 100m Backstroke – 76th

Steve Hanson: Boys 15 200m Freestyle – 13th (PB), Boys 15 400m Freestyle – 19th (PB), Boys 15 50m Butterfly – 19th (PB), Boys 15 100m Freestyle – 20th, Boys 15 50m Freestyle – 22nd, Boys 15 100m Butterfly – 37th

Jane Gregg
Deputy Head of Senior School

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

Saturday 10 May, teams are plaing away against Rocherlea.  On Saturday 17 May, the club celebrates its 90th year, the 1975 and 2015 Senior Premierships teams and a 20 year reunion for the Scotch Oakburn College SATIS Premiereship team.

Tickets can be purchased through the OSFC website and include entry to the ground and marquee, food and a drink on arrival with additional beverages able to be purchased at old school prices.

The day will also see the unfurling of the 2024 Reserves and Seniors Premiership flags.

All fixtures can be found here:

Mens Fixtures  |  Womens Fixtures  |  Under 18s

We look forward to following the teams this season.