Thank you Grandparents & Friends!

We’ve had an absolutely wonderful day welcoming the Grandparents and Friends of our Junior School students to the College.  This is a highly anticipated event that is special to the SCOTS community each year.  Last year’s event was unfortunately cancelled, so it has been a day that many students (and grandparents!) have been looking forward to for some time.

The morning kicked off with a special assembly where Mr Thompson reflected on his grandparents and what he loved about them.  A captivated audience listened intently as Mr Thompson recalled his Grandma spoiling him with delicious food and the time spent in the car on the way to cricket with his Grandfather which often involved a story or two. Our guests were then entertained by a number of performances.  The Junior School Choir delighted the audience with three songs, followed by an outstanding short skit from the Speech and Drama students about a naughty pug and sausage dog.  Our Prep students then braved the stage to share some of the things that they love about their grandparents.  There were lots of responses that we could all resonate with in some way or another – hugs, trips to the park, tickles and lollies seemed to be among the favourites.  The junior members of the College Pipe Band then performed a couple of tunes to round out the assembly.

Cups of tea, caramel tarts and sausage rolls were the order of the day; supplied by our College catering team. Students were eager to show their grandparents their classrooms which housed displays of schoolwork but the most popular attraction for the morning was definitely the new Junior School playground.  All in all, we’ve had a great morning celebrating the special relationships between children and grandparents – we hope our visitors enjoyed the morning as much we did!

 

From the Co-Curricular Desk featured image

From the Co-Curricular Desk

Mr Tom Bradbury | Assistant Director of Co-Curricular Activities Cricket Selections and News The summer season has kicked off with a flurry of activity. Currently, …

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From the Co-Curricular Desk

Mr Tom Bradbury | Assistant Director of Co-Curricular Activities

Cricket Selections and News

The summer season has kicked off with a flurry of activity. Currently, SCOTS PGC has a significant representation in the local Warwick Junior Competition with some 30 odd players gracing the turf each Saturday morning.

It hasn’t taken long for representative Cricket to get underway either and we congratulate the following boys from Warwick District heading to the South East Country Trials this weekend…

U13 – Ben March, Joshua Millard and Colby Miller

U15 – Ryan Bohm, Seth Esson and Tanner Henley

In Schoolboy Cricket news, six of our lads headed to Toowoomba Grammar this morning to contest the Darling Downs U15 Trials where they will take on the best of the best on the Downs at this trial.

Seth Esson, Joshua Millard, Samuel Bourke, Jack Ragh, Percy Kruger and Rory Farrell

We wish all our boys the very best at both these representative opportunities and look forward to hearing of their adventures on their return.

  

Queensland All Schools Athletics Championships

Last weekend Queensland Athletics held an All School Championship for the 15-19 years competitors in lieu of the Queensland Secondary Schools Championships cancelled by Education Queensland due to COVID concerns.

Two SCOTS PGC athletes trekked down the range to Brisbane to compete and were very successful in gaining placings at this event.

William Gilmore performed exceptionally well taking 2nd in the U20 Discus with a throw of 43.01m for the 1.75kg Disc. In a few weeks time, Will will contest his preferred event, the hammer throw and we look forward to hearing of his final schoolboy competition result.

Samuel Wainwright surprised even himself with a fantastic leap of 5.86m in the U16 Long Jump to take 1st place. He performed this effort on his first attempt and had a tense wait through the entire competition to realise his success. Samuel also finished 4th in the Triple Jump with an 11.73m performance and 7th in the 100m with a 1.76sec effort on the tartan track of QEII Stadium. He also competed in the 200m but finished outside the top 10 in this event.

We congratulate both lads on these impressive performances at such a high level.

 

South West Rugby Sevens

Last week the South West Sevens kicked off in Toowoomba and our Under 13 Girls are contesting this event.

The girls started their campaign with a heartbreaking but thrilling 25-24 loss to Toowoomba Anglican College but followed this up with a convincing 24-5 win against Mary Mackillop Catholic College.  Both games were excellent team efforts set up well by the individual efforts of Sarah Morris, Phoebe Bryant and the barnstorming Ivy Westley.

This week, the girls faced Downlands College and Concordia College. The girls were a little flat this week and Downlands took the advantage to give the girls a 30-10 lesson in Rugby 7’s. The second game was a forfeit by Concordia with a scratch match played between what was leftover of their team and ours.

Next week’s draw is still pending but many of our girls are improving with every game.

 

Darling Downs Futsal Trials

Last Monday several students from the College attended the Darling Downs 13/14 Years Futsal Trials in Toowoomba. Oliver Swift was our sole male participant whilst Amira Duffy, Phoebe Sellick, Briana Groves, Eleanor McFarland, Abbey Petersen and Ellyse Kruger all trialled for the girl’s team.

Oliver, unfortunately, did not progress to the final selections but I am excited to announce that Amira, Phoebe, Briana, Eleanor and Abbey all made it through to the Possibles v Probables which were the top 18 identified players from the near 40 in attendance.

From this, I am proud to announce that Phoebe Sellick was subsequently selected in the Darling Downs Team of 10 to attend the State Championships in November to be held at Nissan Arena. We congratulate not only Phoebe but all the students on their efforts and wish Phoebe all the best for the upcoming championship.

 

SCOTS Junior Touch Competition – Term 4

The Junior Touch Competition moves into Week 3 this week with great support from our older students. The first two weeks have gone very well. We remind all participants that next Friday 29 October there will be no games due to College excursions which impact our staffing, but we will be back in action for the final 2 weeks of competition on 5 and 12 November.

 

Basketball Expressions Of Interest

We are asking for Expressions of Interest in playing Basketball in 2022 for the College. In 2021, we were unable to field senior teams into the Toowoomba Competition and we will not be playing in that competition in 2022.

We are in negotiations with schools here on the Southern Downs to create our own competition so basketball will continue but it will offer greater flexibility for our participation. The intention is to boost the profile of the sport in our region, create opportunities for schools in our community and create a competition that allows for our teams to develop in a more appropriate environment.

We currently have six schools interested with teams nominated across four divisions including:

  • Years 7-9 Girls
  • Years 7-9 Boys
  • Years 10-12 Girls
  • Years 10-12 Boys

The competition will be held in Term 2 on either a Monday or Thursday afternoon/evening.

This format will give us the flexibility to create fewer or more teams across the divisions pending interest.

If you / your child is interested in playing Basketball in 2022, I ask you to forward your EOI to Mrs Michelle Brown by Friday 5 November so that we can start to consider how many teams we need to enter. Please indicate what year level you will be in for the 2022 Basketball season when replying to Mrs Brown.

 

Darling Downs Triathlon Trials

We wish Bailey Harm all the best at the Darling Downs Triathlon Trials to be held at Kawana on the Sunshine Coast this coming weekend. Bailey will take on the best of the Downs for a spot in the Darling Downs Team to contest the State Championships next February in Hervey Bay.

 

Upcoming Events

  • Speech Day and Co-Curricular Awards Years 9-12 –  18 November
  • Speech Day and Co-Curricular Awards Prep – Year 8 –  19 November
Boarding Reflections – Hawkins House featured image

Boarding Reflections – Hawkins House

Our Year 12s have now officially graduated and last week marked a time of reflection for those leaving the SCOTS PGC school gates.  Our Head …

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Boarding Reflections – Hawkins House

Our Year 12s have now officially graduated and last week marked a time of reflection for those leaving the SCOTS PGC school gates.  Our Head of Senior Boys’ Boarding, Mr Dave Marriott caught up with a few of our senior boy boarders to learn more about their time at SCOTS and what they’ve enjoyed most as a boarding student.

Darcy Zammit

How, why and when did you become a boarder at SCOTS PGC? 

I became a boarder in Year 8 in 2017 because when I came to have a look at SCOTS, it was a little country school, and my parents thought it would be a good school for me.

What were the early days like for you? 

It was a tough time in Year 8, but a few of the boys really helped me to settle in and find my place within the school.

How have you grown, changed and matured during your time in Boarding?

Boarding has turned me into a young man. It has taught me to be independent and to appreciate many of the things we would normally take for granted. I believe that I have matured in my time at boarding because of the people that were here to help us along the way. Now I have a bunch of boys that I can truly call ‘brothers’.

Share a highlight, event or story that you loved during your time…

Just a lot of fun times, especially in Year  10.

Describe how will you remember your boarding experience

It will always be the best part of my days here at SCOTS; all the good times we had, and all the brothers we made along the way.

A ‘Message’ for all the younger boys in Boarding as you leave:

Don’t take your friends for granted, cherish every moment you get with them because before you know it, they will be gone. Take every opportunity that comes your way with an open mind, and do it to the best of your ability.

 

Ewan McFarland

How, why and when did you become a boarder at SCOTS PGC? 

I became a boarder in Year 7 after my parents decided they wanted to send me and my twin sister to a co-ed boarding school that wasn’t too big, and so that my sister and I could be together. Additionally, being a bagpiper, my parents wanted somewhere where we could continue playing in pipe bands, so ultimately the decision was made to become a boarder at SCOTS

What were the early days like for you? 

I was a much quieter boy back then, and of course, it all seemed quite daunting, but I only remember getting homesick on the third night, but fortunately, due to the many other boys in the same position as me, we were all able to push through and make it work well together.

How have you grown, changed and matured during your time in Boarding?

I have changed tremendously since starting here in Year 7. There wasn’t much to marvel about with me, a whole lot shorter and probably a bit wider too, I hadn’t really found out what I was all about. Throughout the next 6 years, I was able to grow and mature into a young man you would never have been able to see back then. Starting in the ranks of mediocracy, I have come to excel in different areas, ranging from state-level distant running, my academics or just setting me up for my future careers. So much of this is due to my time in SCOTS boarding.

Share a highlight, event or story that you loved during your time…

Some of my best days come out of the 3 years we spent in Junior Boys’ Boarding in the dorms, sometimes misbehaving too I guess, which seemed great when we were younger. Lately, the best times have been just the banter and time spent with each other at dinner or in the common room and just having the best laugh with your mates.

Describe how will you remember your boarding experience

I will remember boarding with complete fondness and as the best way, I could have spent my prime developmental years as a teenager. Sure, there were times where things were less than ideal, but ultimately my experiences in boarding allowed me to become much more than I would have ever been able to somewhere else.

A ‘Message’ for all the younger boys in Boarding as you leave:

Whilst boarding can be tough at times, things do get better, especially if you do the right thing whenever you can because there is nothing better than looking back and seeing where you started the journey and much you have grown.

 

Darcy Brennan

How, why and when did you become a boarder at SCOTS PGC? 

I started in 2020, both of my sisters came to SCOTS PGC (Grace 2013-2014, Giorgia 2015-2016). They loved their time here, so it was always a given that I was going to come for years 11 and 12. I have a lot of family in Warwick; therefore, it was the most sensible choice when choosing a boarding school.

What were the early days like for you? 

Early days were unreal, not once did I feel homesick or excluded. I was welcomed in immediately and encouraged to partake in all aspects of the College from day one.

How have you grown, changed and matured during your time in Boarding?

I’ve matured to be more independent. Although some aspects of boarding life are quite easy and some things are done for you, like cooked meals, washing, cleaning; you still have to be independent because you’re essentially responsible for yourself. Boarding has been great for new opportunities and meeting new people from all different backgrounds.

Share a highlight, event or story that you loved during your time…

No specific event, just boarding life, in general, is unreal. Living with your mates 24/7 is enjoyable.

Describe how will you remember your boarding experience.

Mainly will remember the lifelong mates I’ve met, the great food, boarding facilities and staff. All the boys get really well looked after and we’ve had some great times together.

A ‘Message’ for all the younger boys in Boarding as you leave:

Make the most of every opportunity in boarding and at school, don’t leave yourself empty-handed when you graduate. There are plenty of opportunities available at the College, take them and run. Even if you think you might not like something, have a go and at least you can say you’ve done it regardless if you liked it or not. You only do school once, so make the most of it, turn everything into a positive!

 

A visit to the Hermitage featured image

A visit to the Hermitage

Kaysan Miles | Year 11 Student On Thursday last week, some of the indigenous students including Jorgi, Summer, Martina, Sophie, Jekeira, Bryoni, Nelson and I …

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A visit to the Hermitage

Kaysan Miles | Year 11 Student

On Thursday last week, some of the indigenous students including Jorgi, Summer, Martina, Sophie, Jekeira, Bryoni, Nelson and I went to the Hermitage Research Facility here in Warwick along with Miss Berriman and Mrs Fredrickson.

The Hermitage Research Facility is a major centre for plant breeding and agronomic studies of agricultural crops grown in Queensland and northern New South Wales. While there for the majority of the morning, we listened to speakers talk about the native bush tuckers that were traded back when Australia was first colonised.  They spoke about the importance of the plants and that some, only the men could eat and others were just woman’s business. There were many other speakers, who spoke about food security, the importance of the younger generations in agriculture, genomics and also brainstormed ideas for a mosaic mural that will be displayed on a picnic bench at the Hermitage at the start of next year.

Overall, the day was absolutely amazing and I would recommend it to anyone interested in agriculture.

 

Adopt a Boarder | Next weekend! featured image

Adopt a Boarder | Next weekend!

Our next Adopt a Boarder weekend is fast approaching on 29-31 October (yes – that’s next weekend!).  If you’re a day family and interested in …

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Adopt a Boarder | Next weekend!

Our next Adopt a Boarder weekend is fast approaching on 29-31 October (yes – that’s next weekend!).  If you’re a day family and interested in hosting a boarder next weekend please get in touch with our respective Heads of Boarding:

  • Girls’ Boarding | Mrs Susan Everson (susan.everson@scotspgc.com.au)
  • Senior Boys’ Boarding | Mr David Marriott (david.marriott@scotspgc.com.au)
  • Junior Boys’ Boarding | Mr Stewart Bailey (stewart.bailey@scotspgc.com.au)

 

 

Results | Solo Piping and Drumming featured image

Results | Solo Piping and Drumming

Congratulations to our Pipers and Drummers who represented the College beautifully over the weekend at the Solo Piping and Drumming competition and Jimmy Durham Cup.  …

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Results | Solo Piping and Drumming

Congratulations to our Pipers and Drummers who represented the College beautifully over the weekend at the Solo Piping and Drumming competition and Jimmy Durham Cup.  This competition was hosted here at the College and adjudicated by the Queensland Highland Pipers’ Society.  Our students performed really well during the event and earned placings in the following events:
Results
Event 1 (Chanter)
  • 1st Hamish Bayley
  • 2nd Georgina Buchan
  • 3rd Bridgit Evans
Event 3 (Over 50s)
  • 1st Bill Stuart
  • 2nd Dugald Macfarlane
Event 4 ( D March)
  • 1st Jaydan McArthur
  • 2nd Nic McGahan
  • 3rd Rory Macfarlane
Event 5 (D S&R)
  • 1st Jaydan McArthur
  • 2nd Euan Graham
  • 3rd Nick Jackson
Event 6 (C March)
  • 1st Liam Docherty
  • 2nd Bruce Campbell
  • 3rd Ewan McFarland
Event 8 (C jig)
  • 1st Nic McGahan
  • 2nd Ewan McFarland
  • 3rd Liam Docherty
Event 13 (Piob res.)
  • 1st Nic McGahan
  • 2nd Rory Macfarlane
  • 3rd Bill Stuart
Event 14 (Piob int.)
  • 1st Ewan McFarland
  • 2nd Nic McGahan
  • 3rd Rory Macfarlane
Event 16 (Jimmy Durham march)
  • 1st Euan Graham
  • 2nd Jaydan McArhtur
  • 3rd Nic McGahan
Event 17 (Drum Pad)
  • 1st Darcee Milnthorpe
Event 25 Novice Tenor
  • 1st Lauren McAdam
Event 26 D Tenor
  • 1st Joshua Hullock
  • 2nd Ella Hutchison
  • 3rd Lauren McAdam
Event 27 C Tenor
  • 1st Joshua Hullock
Event 31 D Bass
  • 1st Eliana Amos
IT’S PLAYTIME! featured image

IT’S PLAYTIME!

Yesterday was a momentous day as it marked the official opening of our brand new Junior School Playground!  After many weeks of watching the team …

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IT’S PLAYTIME!

Yesterday was a momentous day as it marked the official opening of our brand new Junior School Playground!  After many weeks of watching the team from Everything Outside Playgrounds install climbing towers, slides and swings, our students were finally able to test out their brand new play space.   Handmade paper chain lined the playground perimeter which was shortly ripped open as our Junior School students, Matilda, Austin, Andrew and Maddy declared the playground ‘open for play’.
It was wonderful to spend the afternoon with our College community while being entertained by our very talented rock bands – ‘The Clan’ and ‘The Highlanders’. Thanks to everyone who came along to celebrate this special event – we’re glad Mother Nature provided us with a window of time to come together, share some food and enjoy our collective achievements – this is a memory that we will treasure for a long time to come!
Thank you also to our Parents and Friends Association, who generously co-funded the playground with the College to recognise and celebrate our centenary – here’s to the next 100 years of play!