Relationships and serving others  

Welcome to 2020, a year that has already proved challenging but, like any other year, an opportunity for great things! It was wonderful to hear Rev Gary challenge our community to commit to two things in 2020; investing in relationships and getting involved in serving others.

The College Service and Citizenship Programme did not stop over the holiday period and a big thanks to the boys who were involved in activities through December and January. The biggest undertaking was most certainly the India Tour and a huge thanks to Michael and Dawn Scaife and Dr Nick Spaddacini . I am fully aware of the challenges of taking students to India and the only thing that matches these is the immense impact the country can have on individuals. It is an assault on the senses and tends to leave memories that last a lifetime and a positive impact on people's character and outlook on life. From Mr Scaife's report, I know the tour was a huge success and I am so pleased that we are ready to build the next phase of the India Tour which has been running since 1997.  I encourage you to read Mr Scaife's report '2019 Scotch India Tour' in this edition of the Thistle.

Other activities that the boys were involved in include  Disabled Surfing Australia , a  fundraiser for the fires  (that has raised over $35,000), a Scorchers game with the Claremont-Nedlands Cricket Club All Abilities team  and  The Salvation Army  soup run. Thanks to all the boys who got involved.

      

Finally, on Friday we had the first week of our Year 10 Friday Service Programme. The afternoon was a great success with the boys being punctual, correctly dressed, and from my observations, displaying outstanding character. Thank  you boys  and thank you to our new partner,  North Cottesloe Surf Lifesaving Club , where we have started a 10 week 'introduction to surf lifesaving' course.

Please be aware that the Programme is an integral part of the Year 10 Curriculum and is noted on the student's Western Australian Certificates of Education. Attendance is compulsory and the school day finishes at 3.15pm.