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The Roar - Issue 11 Term 2 2026

Contents

Head of College - Mr Richard Ford

Over the next few days, students across the College will be exhibiting at the Bathurst Show. Junior School art will be on display, and both Sheep and Cattle Teams will be competing. On Friday evening at 5:00 pm, do also go past the main stage and catch two of our senior student musicians playing together. It is promising to be a great weekend, not only at the show but also with winter sports more fully underway and the Highland Dancing competition on Sunday.

By now, I hope mothers and grandmothers have registered for next week’s Mother’s Day events on Thursday for Prep, along with Kindergarten and Friday for Senior School. Please RSVP using the Paperly form you should have received. We look forward to a special time together on those mornings.

Looking further ahead, students in Year 10 and above are reminded that they should be planning to attend the Careers Colloquium on Wednesday 20 May from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. The evening is always strongly supported by past students, current parents and members of the local community who generously give up an evening to help students consider possible pathways for the future. This informative night of conversations with professionals and several tertiary institutions is compulsory for Year 10 and a terrific chance for Year 11 and 12 students to explore or firm up plans for their years ahead beyond the College gates.

Mr Richard Ford
Head of College

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Senior School

Well done, all students (and parents!) on a great first week of learning. It was wonderful to see our students back on campus, with learning picking up where they left off in Term 1.

This weekend, a number of our students will be attending the Bathurst show, with both Sheep and Cattle Teams participating. Well done and good luck to all those students. Similarly, the winter sports season has begun. Earlier in the week, I reminded students of why we play sport. Firstly, we play to grow in skills and fitness. Secondly, we grow in character, as sport gives a wonderful opportunity to learn how to relate well to others through learning habits of encouragement and teamwork. Sport also gives students the opportunity to practice how to lose with grace and how to win with humility – both outworkings of our value of respect. Of course, we also play to win – but I trust our students understand that this ranks below our other aims. I mentioned to them the old saying that culture eats strategy for breakfast – meaning, that a team with a positive culture is likely to enjoy more success than one focused on the strategy of winning, but with a miserable culture. I wish all our winter sports teams the best. Please take every opportunity to remind your student of the opportunity and importance of contributing to a positive culture in their teams, underpinned by respect for others.  

ANZAC Day 

A big thank you to all students who participated in ANZAC Day services on the weekend in different ways. I was immensely proud of our students who attended the march or the dawn service. On Tuesday morning, a service was held in the Senior School at which we remembered the ANZACs, acknowledged those who have served Australia in conflict, and reflected on the many blessings we enjoy as Australian citizens in 2026.  

Uniform reminders 

I’ve become aware of some confusion around a few uniform items, which I’d like to clarify for all students and parents, as mentioned last week. Those are: 

  • Grey socks (not black) must be worn by boys with formal uniform 
  • College sports socks must be worn with the sports uniform. 
  • Students must not mismatch sports and formal uniform. (i.e. sports jumpers must not be worn with formal uniform, and woollen jumpers cannot be worn with sports uniform.  
  • Layering: As the weather cools down, it’s worth remembering that students must wear jumpers and blazers before wearing the Kooga/Japara coat. (i.e. the large Kooga jacket can’t be worn unless the blazer is first worn underneath). 

 

The Resilience Project – Online Parent Seminars 

It’s the College’s continued desire to partner with parents and carers through providing information, resources and tools to equip families in raising young men and women. Through our partnership with The Resilience Project, we’re able to provide access to a range of parent webinars throughout the year. I’ll aim to share these as they become available. 

One upcoming opportunity is a 60-minute webinar entitled “Parenting With ACE”. This session will aim to assist parents in understanding and using the ‘ACE’ framework (authenticity, connection and self-esteem) and provide tips and strategies on how to help your child build strong relationships and strengthen their self-esteem, as well as help them develop the resilience needed to navigate life’s ups and downs. To register and receive a link to attend this free webinar, click here.   

Boarding

A long weekend in Boarding

Last weekend we had the unusual occurrence of two public holidays for Anzac Day, resulting in a long weekend. While the majority of our Boarders went home to their families or stayed with friends, a small number remained at the College and participated in a great range of activities.

On Friday evening after dinner, our traditional “Macca’s Run” made the short drive around the corner to McDonald’s for a special fast-food start to the weekend.

After a 4:00 am wake-up on Saturday morning, 20 Boarders, accompanied by staff, travelled to Bathurst for the Anzac Dawn Service, a significantly moving occasion. The speeches were thoughtful and centred on friendship, courage, and looking after one another. There was also a strong message that the world can feel fragile, and that compassion and unity matter greatly. There was plenty of discussion about these ideas on the way home on the bus.

Later that morning, some of the Boarders who had attended the Dawn Service, along with some others, participated in the Anzac Day March in Bathurst, marching behind our Scots All Saints College Pipes and Drums alongside other College students and staff. After lunch, Boarders took part in a pickleball competition on the Ives lawn and played a non-gambling version of “Two Up” – a popular Australian activity on Anzac Day afternoons.

On Saturday evening, Junior and Senior Boarding Houses combined to make their own pizzas for dinner. It was wonderful to see the older students encouraging and supporting the younger students with their culinary creations! After dinner, a movie night was held inside the Houses.

After a restful Sunday morning, the Boarders packed two mini-buses and a trailer and travelled to a property on the Campbell River at Tannas Mount. The students had a fantastic time fishing, exploring the area, making damper, and later enjoying a barbecue with marshmallows by the fire. It was a sensational afternoon and evening with plenty of laughter and fun. The weather was stunning, and it made for a memorable outing. Special thanks to Mr Jackman and Mr Odell for their organisation of this activity, and to Mr Ford and Ms Shanahan, who also attended with the boarding staff.

On Monday, Boarders had the opportunity for town leave, heading into Bathurst for some shopping and time in the College pool during the afternoon. By dinner time, almost all Boarders had returned from home and enjoyed a “regular” dining hall meal of roast capsicum soup, slow-cooked sticky pork belly, steamed rice, vegetables and salad bar, followed by apple berry crumble and custard!

Thank you to the Head of House on Duty, Madame Adamson, and the other Boarding staff for a wonderful, action-packed long weekend.

Mr Anthony Head
Head of Boys Boarding

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Junior School

Junior School Disco

Tomorrow, Friday 1 May, our Prep and Junior School Disco will be held in the Bickerdike Centre. The theme for the disco is “Out of this World”. Please note that parents must drop their children off at the door and pick them up at the door of the Bickerdike Centre.

Prep to Year 2 – 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Year 3 to Year 6 – 6:45 – 8:00 pm

Year 6 Cru Camp to Lake Macquarie

Next week, from Wednesday 6 to Friday 8 May, our Year 6 students will be attending their annual camp at Lake Macquarie. This provides students with many memorable experiences, such as abseiling, sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bush camping in tents. I look forward to joining our Year 6 students on what will be a wonderful time at camp.

Mother’s Day Breakfast

On Thursday 7 May at 8:00 am, we will be celebrating Mother’s Day for our Prep and Kindergarten mothers with a special breakfast in the Prep playground:

Head of Junior School Tour for 2027 Kindergarten

I am very much looking forward to greeting the families of our 2027 Kindergarten students on Thursday 14 May, for a tour of the Junior School and morning tea. This gives parents an opportunity to see the Junior School in action and to explore the many opportunities our wonderful school provides to its students. Please contact Lisa Ellery, College Registrar, if you would like to attend.

CWA Public Speaking

Congratulations to the following students who have been selected to represent their grade at the upcoming CWA Public Speaking Competition to be held in Orange. The competition will be held at the end of May, and we wish these four students well as they finalise planning and deliver their speech, and acknowledge all students who prepared and delivered some fascinating speeches.

Year 3: Jake Worswick

Year 4: Evie Mason

Year 5: Sophia Angelucci

Year 6: Patrick Lenehan

ICAS Registration

Every year, the University of NSW administers a range of academic competitions through the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) program.  This year, students in Years 2 to 6 at Scots All Saints College Junior School will have the opportunity to participate in the Mathematics, English, Spelling Bee, Digital Technologies and Science competitions. Years 3 -6 can also participate in Writing.

If you wish for your child to participate in ICAS, please refer to the email that was distributed earlier in the week.

Mr Chris Jackman
Head of Junior School

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Sports

Sports Draw

The preseason for winter sports has now concluded, and we look forward to the commencement of competition fixtures. ISA Rugby will continue with trial matches for a further two weeks, while ISA Football begins its season with a Round 1 fixture against Chevalier College. Local Bathurst competitions for Football, Hockey, and Netball will also get underway this week.

We wish all students and teams the very best for the season ahead.

Last Friday, we hosted the Summer Sports Awards and Colours Presentation. It was a fantastic evening recognising the achievements of our students throughout the 2025/26 Summer Sports season. Thank you to everyone who attended, and a special acknowledgement to Emily and William for their efforts in ensuring the event ran smoothly.

The HICES Netball Gala Day was held at Orange Anglican Grammar last week. Our teams competed strongly in round-robin matches against CCGS, MAGS, and OAGS, with Possibles and Probables teams selected at the conclusion of the day. Congratulations to Pippa Berry and Alexa Erickson on being named in the final 20 students. A special mention to Alexa, who was selected as a shadow player for the HICES team.

The AICES Netball trials were held at Netball Central on Wednesday 22 April (Opens) and Friday 24 April (Under 15s). Five students proudly represented the College, competing against strong opposition from across the association.

Congratulations to Seona Chapman on her selection as a shadow player for the AICES Opens team. This is a fantastic achievement, and it is the second year in a row that Seona has been selected.

Well done to the following students who have been selected in the WAS Girls Football team and will compete at the upcoming AICES Football Championships:

Opens – Paige Moffitt, Abigail Brakell, Layla Fearnley, Ashley Mullins.

15s – Isla Moffitt, Jemima Sellers, Paige Moffitt.

Mr Beau McClintock
Director of Sport and Activities

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Book Buzz

We hope you enjoyed the long weekend and found some time for a bit of reading. If not, be sure to make the most of your borrowing sessions this week and grab a great read for this weekend. While you’re at our shelves, remember that the Premier’s Reading Challenge is in full swing. Keep reading and recording those books and see Mrs Mackay if you have any questions.

A reminder that Bathurst will once again be holding the Bathurst Writers’ and Readers’ Festival, running from Tuesday 19 to Sunday 24 May. The festival will feature six days of author talks, live-streamed sessions from the Sydney Writers’ Festival, and exciting local events at Bathurst Library and the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre. Head to their website to check out all the action:

https://www.bmec.com.au/event-category-whats-on/bwrf/

Speaking of action, the Senior campus library will be alive with some fast-paced discourse over the latter part of the week, with our Year 8, 9, 11 and 12 debaters contesting Round 2 of HICES. Be sure to keep an eye out for the results next week.

The Roar Recommends

Junior Campus

Younger Readers  

Older Readers                                            

Senior Campus

Junior Readers

Senior Readers                

Happy Reading!

Mrs Angela Davis
Head of Library Services

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Careers

Australian Defence Force – TONIGHT AT BATHURST PANTHERS

We will be holding an ADF Careers Information Session on Thursday 30 April 2026, at Bathurst Panthers from 6:00 pm–8:00 pm. If you have any students who may be interested, they can register via the link:

ADF Careers – Bathurst Defence Careers Information Session

Careers Colloquium – Wednesday 20 May, 6:00 pm-7:30 pm

We are three weeks out from our Careers Colloquium, which is looking to be a fabulous College event. A very big thank you to the many parents who have volunteered their time to participate in the evening. We will also have tertiary institutions (USYD, ICMS, CSU, UOW, and WSU), TAFE and large regional employers like Essential Energy. For some students, this is the first step in their career investigation and a real opportunity in familiar surroundings to start the conversation.

All students at the College are welcome to attend, and we ask that they wear full school uniform for the night. For Year 10, this is a compulsory incursion. For Year 11 and 12 this will be a great networking opportunity and a chance to reaffirm post school pathways.l

We still have a few tables left to fill and would love to fill them with any of the following careers: plumbing, building, metal fabrication, hospitality, pharmacy or dentistry, law, or real estate. If available, please complete this Google form or email directly.

https://forms.gle/u4JLKAcM9HTwRNpV8

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Helen.jones@scotsallsaints.nsw.edu.au

Looking forward to seeing you all soon.

Morrisby Testing – All Year 10, Thursday 7 May

As part of the Careers Education program, all Year 10 students will take part in the Morrisby Testing next Thursday. Morrisby Online is a Psychometric Testing & Guidance tool that helps students identify potential progression paths to make informed decisions about their study options. The Morrisby Profile helps an individual find their true career direction using scientific profiling of abilities, personality, interests and motivation to help them discover their own unique characteristics. With this awareness and knowledge combined with one-to-one guidance, they can make more informed choices regarding subject selection and further tertiary studies.

The students work over two hours on mini assessments, and this will be followed up with a webinar presented by Emma Goodsir. Emma is a Consultant Educational Psychologist from Morrisby. She will go through what the testing results mean in detail and how to interpret individual reports. Student results will be released immediately after the webinar, while the information is ‘fresh’. This will create a fabulous foundation from which to start the conversation about all things careers. The parent webinar will take place on Wednesday 13 May at 6:00 pm.

REMINDER … Year 12 FACTS Day Friday 1 May, CSU Campus

All Year 12 students will be heading up to CSU on Friday to investigate facts about careers and tertiary studies. There are 68 different exhibitors covering all post-school pathways. This is a very informative morning and an opportunity to cement what comes next.

UAC (University Admission Centre) – Information Session TONIGHT, Thursday 30 April 6:00 pm onsite, Senior Campus in the library

UAC administers the ATAR in NSW, and understanding the process around this can be very confusing and difficult to navigate. While you can Google endless searches on the topic, it is probably best to hear direct from the source. Thus, we will be hosting (albeit very last-minute) UAC this Thursday 30 April, on our senior campus. Trudy is the Community Engagement Manager from UAC, and she will be giving a Scots All Saints UAC presentation for all parents and students who may be interested in knowing how it all works, including what the ATAR is, how scaling works, and how to apply for UAC. You will also have an opportunity to ask questions directly to the UAC representative, who is graciously giving her time after work hours to accommodate as many people as possible. This will not be the last conversation we have about this, but a great starting point.

I encourage everyone to come along if you are free (not just Yr12 Parents) and gain an understanding of the ATAR and university application process. We will record this evening for future reference and have a live link to watch remotely.

WHEN: Thursday 30 April at 6:00 pm

WHERE: Senior Campus Library

UAC Parent Information Session | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams

Discover Western Webinar – For Parents and Supporters: Your Role and How You Can Help Guide Them to University

Organisation: Western Sydney University

Location: Online

Date: 4 May 2026

This webinar is for parents and supporters to learn how they can support their child through their HSC and while they make those big decisions about their future. Discover university entry options, careers and courses, and pathways they can explore should they not achieve their desired ATAR.

Find out more

UOW Future Talk for Parents – Degrees and Alternate Pathways

Organisation: University of Wollongong

Location: Online

Date: 4 May 2026

Year 12 can be a stressful time for students and for the parents and carers supporting them. With big post-school decisions ahead, these sessions are designed to provide clarity, reassurance and practical advice to help you navigate the year with confidence.

Across the program, you’ll gain insights into:

  • Supporting students through the HSC and common challenges
  • Understanding UOW degrees, pathways and study options
  • How AI and emerging technologies are shaping degrees, careers and the future workforce
  • Navigating university applications, Early Admission and UAC
  • Financial planning for university, including scholarships, budgeting and accommodation
  • Accessing UOW support services for a smooth transition to university
  • Connecting with other parents and carers in a supportive environment

You’ll also receive regular emails with practical tips, resources and expert advice to help you and your young person feel informed, prepared and supported throughout Year 12 and beyond.

Find out more

University of Newcastle Parents and Carers Information Webinar

Organisation: University of Newcastle

Location: Online

Date: 5 May 2026

We will be hosting an information webinar touching on key topics for parents and carers in supporting their students considering studying at University.

Presentation topics:

  • Insights into data surrounding student success outcomes
  • Admissions pathways (options, key dates)
  • Application preferencing via UAC and Early Entry
  • On-campus accommodation information and how to apply
  • Support services available to students

The session will be approx. 1 hour including 15mins for Q&A.

Find out more

UNSW Law & Justice Information Evening

Organisation: University of New South Wales

Location: Online

Date: May 6, 2026

You are invited to join the UNSW Law & Justice Info Evening.

Join us online to hear from our academics, professional staff and current students on our undergraduate programs and student experience.

During the event, we will delve into:

  • The undergraduate degrees on offer at UNSW Law & Justice
  • Explore double degree options, entry requirements, admission pathways & scholarships
  • Discuss career options, student careers and employability support
  • Student life, student clubs and societies
  • Have all your questions answered as part of our Q&A!

Find out more

ACU Talk with Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists

Organisation: Australian Catholic University

Location: Online

Date: 6 May 2026

Curious about where your study could take you? Join our Talk with Industry Series – a range of online Q&A sessions connecting you directly with ACU students and graduates across diverse fields.

Hear authentic stories from those who’ve walked the path you’re considering. Our alumni share real insights about their careers post-graduation, while current students offer a genuine look at campus life and coursework. Whether you’re certain about your direction or just starting to explore possibilities, these conversations will provide the clarity you need.

No matter where you are in your decision-making journey, you’ll gain valuable perspectives on what studying and working in your chosen field truly involves.

Find out more

Your Pathway to Study Medicine at Sydney – Webinar for Future Students

Organisation: University of Sydney

Location: Online

Date: 6 May 2026

Join us for an informative and engaging overview of the University of Sydney’s double degree medicine program with Program Director Dr Rosa Howard.

In this session, you’ll gain a clear understanding of the program structure, entry pathways, key eligibility requirements, and how the integrated undergraduate degree leads into the Doctor of Medicine.

You’ll also have the opportunity to submit questions live and hear insights directly from the program’s academic lead.

Find out more

Bachelor of Accounting at UTS Information Evening

Organisation: University of Technology Sydney

Location: Online

Date: 6 May 2026

If you are a high-achieving school leaver and believe you could be one of Australia’s future business leaders, then our Bachelor of Accounting (BAcc) and cooperative education scholarship program has been designed just for you.

The UTS Bachelor of Accounting provides you with a multi-skilled accounting degree with a strong emphasis on both accounting and financial management, both essential business tools.

Come along to this webinar and meet current students, graduates, sponsors and staff of this elite program.

Find out more

CSU Online Parent Information Session

Organisation: Charles Sturt University

Location: Online

Date: 7 May 2026

As your teen starts thinking about their future, this online session is here to help you support them through one of the biggest decisions they’ll make – choosing a university.

Hear from experts as we guide you through key topics and processes, share tips for navigating Year 12 and highlight the unique opportunities available at Charles Sturt.

Whether you’re looking for general information about university or specific advice to assist your teen, this is your chance to ask questions and get the answers you need.

Find out more

ACU Talk with Teachers and Educators

Organisation: Australian Catholic University

Location: Online

Date: 7 May 2026

ACU Talk with Nurses, Midwives and Paramedics

Organisation: Australian Catholic University

Location: Online

Date: 13 May 2026

Curious about where your study could take you? Join our Talk with Industry Series – a range of online Q&A sessions connecting you directly with ACU students and graduates across diverse fields.

Hear authentic stories from those who’ve walked the path you’re considering. Our alumni share real insights about their careers post-graduation, while current students offer a genuine look at campus life and coursework. Whether you’re certain about your direction or just starting to explore possibilities, these conversations will provide the clarity you need.

No matter where you are in your decision-making journey, you’ll gain valuable perspectives on what studying and working in your chosen field truly involves.

Find out more

Macquarie Year 10 Guide to Uni Webinar

Organisation: Macquarie University

Location: Online

Date: 13 May 2026

The first big step towards senior school? Choosing your Year 11 and 12 subjects.

Before making your selections, it helps to think about what you enjoy studying, where your strengths lie and how your choices may influence what you choose to do after high school.

Our Year 10 Webinar outlines key considerations, common misconceptions and practical realities of subject selection, so you can make informed and confident choices.

Session highlights:

  • What subject selection really impacts – and where flexibility exists
  • How strengths and interests should guide decisions
  • The difference between uni prerequisites and assumed knowledge
  • What happens if plans shift later on
  • Live Q&A

Find out more

UNSW Engineering Information Evening

Organisation: University of New South Wales

Location: Online

Date: 13 May 2026

Discover Engineering at UNSW. Join us to learn about our programs, entry pathways and vibrant student experience.

Join us online to hear from current UNSW Engineering students about their experiences and how they’ve navigated their engineering degrees, offering tips to help make your own journey a rewarding one.

You’ll hear from our expert academic staff and advisers, where you’ll gain insights into our range of programs designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the engineering landscape of today and tomorrow via an in-depth Q&A panel discussion.

Additionally, we’ll discuss UNSW Engineering’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, what it’s like to be a first-year engineering student, and how you can progress through your studies while immersing yourself in the many student opportunities available.

Whether you are interested in civil or mechanical engineering, or in an emerging area like quantum or nuclear engineering, UNSW Engineering has a program tailored to your interests and goals. We offer an extensive and diverse range of world-class programs for you to study, with more than 40 study areas and the largest range of engineering degrees in Australia.

Find out more

Sydney Design School Online Information Session

Organisation: Sydney Design School

Location: Online

Date: 13 May 2026

Find out everything you need to know about our world-class courses and personal support. Our Director, Amanda Grace, will introduce you to our unique approach.

Find out more

ACU Industry Series

Curious about where your study could take you? Join our Talk with Industry Series – a range of online Q&A sessions connecting you directly with ACU students and graduates across diverse fields.

Hear authentic stories from those who’ve walked the path you’re considering. Our alumni share real insights about their careers post-graduation, while current students offer a genuine look at campus life and coursework. Whether you’re certain about your direction or just starting to explore possibilities, these conversations will provide the clarity you need.

No matter where you are in your decision-making journey, you’ll gain valuable perspectives on what studying and working in your chosen field truly involves.

Find out more

Mrs Helen Jones
Career Development Officer

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Events & Announcements

More details regarding the cancellation can be found: https://scotsallsaints.nsw.edu.au/bathurst-highland-festival/

Book Online Click HERE

Apply Now Click HERE

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From The Archives

The Michael Aikman Building Boom

At a Speech Day during his time as Chairman of the Council of The Scots School, Campbell Alexander, remarked that “the British may have had the empire on which the sun never set, but at Scots we have the empire where the mortar never sets”.  During his time as Chairman, two headmasters, Michael Aikman and John Hunter, presided over a building boom at Scots that has not been matched since, and was one of the notable periods of the history of the School.

Michael Aikman was a sportsman, having been in the Australian Olympic rowing team at Melbourne in 1956. He attended Geelong College and Ormond College at Melbourne University before joining the staff of Camberwell High School in 1956. Appointments as Senior Chemistry Teacher at Scotch College in Melbourne and Trinity Grammar in Sydney followed before he was appointed to The Scots School from the beginning of 1966.

In his Annual Report for Speech Day in 1965, John Bulkeley reported that enrolments at the start of that year had stood at 129. Twelve months later, Michael Aikman took over a school of 95 boys.   Photo albums donated to the Betty Ives Archives Centre from early in Mr Aikman’s career reveal a school that was in desperate need of attention. In an oral history interview in 1979, Mr Aikman noted that the School Council had tried to encourage enrolments by reducing the fees, but that resulted in less money for maintenance and facilities, and when he took over, the school was in a downward spiral.

Discipline was also a problem. Mr Aikman, in the oral history interview, said he had to go over the top to improve the boys’ behaviour.    When he travelled around the school’s feeder areas, he was being told by Old Boys and past parents that they would not send their boys to it.  He understood that he had a year to turn it around or the Trustees of the Church would close it.

Backed by a new and dynamic council, and with support from Mr R. K. Yorston, the Chairman of Trustees of the Presbyterian Church, Michael Aikman began by spreading 1,000 gallons (about 3785 litres) of paint around the school, and laying 500 square yards of floor tiles.  Planning also commenced for a new Science building and an extension to Cooerwull House. Both of these were opened in 1967 and paid for with money advanced by the Church.  The Library was also reorganised with Mrs Davidson appointed as the first librarian, and the collection catalogued using the Dewey Decimal System.

By the end of 1967, enrolments had gone up again to 142. In 1968, the peak number previously set of 160 boys in 1961 was exceeded for the first time with 165 enrolments.  The confidence that the Council and the Trustees of the Church had in the future of the School was proved right.  That year, construction began on another boarding house that would, in time, become New House, then Bulkeley House.  The foundation stone for a purpose-built library was laid in October 1969.

A building appeal was launched to fund further expansion.  This resulted in the construction of the Thompson House Cottage—although the boarding house would be a project for John Hunter.  The Kennel was relocated to its present site of Ives House in 1972 to make way for the construction of an Assembly Hall that would also serve as a gymnasium.  When Michael Aikman resigned at the end of 1973 to become Headmaster of Haileybury College in Melbourne, this project had stalled because an inflation crisis in the national economy had forced building prices way over the budget.

A contribution that Michael Aikman made to the school was to appoint a number of staff who went on to have long careers at Scots.  A look at the Staff List for 1973 includes Graeme Cook (Agriculture), Ian Pike and Bob Craine (Science), George Falconer (Geography), Bruce Holmes (English), Laurie Lynch, Bill Parmenter, Grant Wood, and, of course, John Hunter. Frank Clayton, Howard Davoll and Don Wiburd were retained from earlier years. High standards were expected from the Scots staff, and Michael Aikman, in a time before staff unionisation, did not keep on staff who he felt were not meeting his criteria.

When Michael Aikman left at the end of 1973, he left a school with a record high enrolment of 230 boys.  There were a number of new buildings and a school that was in much better physical shape than it had been. Boys from his time comment that he earned their respect by the work he did to lift Scots out of the state it had fallen into. Morale amongst both staff and boys was high.

There was one sad episode.  In 1972, David Atley, who had recently completed his Higher School Certificate, was killed in a car accident.  Because David had been a keen member of the Cadet Corps, his family donated the Sword of Honour that was presented to the best C.U.O. in the unit from 1973 until 2018.  It now forms the centrepiece of the Cadet Unit exhibit in The Scots Museum.

Mr Andrew Maher
Archives

Photo 1: 1972. Michael Aikman with a drawing of the then proposed second storey of the Science Block.

Photo 2: A photo from a photo album donated to the school by Michael Aikman showing a classroom in The Stable Block as he found it on his arrival at the school.

Photo 3: The same room a year later. It is now Mrs Nelson’s English classroom.

Photo 4: A boys’ shower area from 1966.

Photo 5: Cooerwull House in 1967 with some new bedspreads, blankets and pillows. The chests of drawers were still in use into the 1980s.

Photo 6: The Stable Block in 1972 with the still single-storey Science Block. The second story was added in 1975 during John Hunter’s time.

Photo 7: A photo of the Pipe Band from 1968 taken for use on The Scots School Christmas Card. The red jackets were introduced that year. They were more than 40 years old when eventually replaced.

Photo 8: 1972. The Kennel is piped from its old location, where Aikman Hall now stands, to its present site, where it has, in the intervening years, been renamed Ives House.

Photo 9: The first stage of Bulkeley House under construction in 1967.

Photo 10: 1970. Chairman of Council Cam Alexander, Michael Aikman and Governor of NSW Sir Roden Cutler,

Photo 11: 1972 Sir Roden Cutler and Peter Stewart. A famous Scots photo.

Photo 12: A photo from around 1966-1967, taken for publicity purposes of Rugby on the Old Boys Oval.

Photo 13: During Michael Aikman’s time, Scots acquired a fleet of small yachts that were sailed at Chifley Dam.

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Calendar

Friday 1 May
JS Disco
Bathurst Show

Saturday 2 May
Bathurst Show

Sunday 3 May
Bathurst Show

Monday 4 May
Senior School Cross Country
WW1 Fighting the Kaiser 1:45pm

Wednesday 6 May
Year 6 Camp
HICES Debating Year 9

Thursday 7 May
Prep and Kindy Mother’s Day Breakfast
Year 6 Camp

The latest Term Dates can be found on our website HERE

SS: Senior School   JS: Junior School

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