2018 - the scots school albury | the scots school albury · more important predictor of success in...

DRUM

2018

THE SCOTS

www.scotsalbury.nsw.edu.au

2 T H E S C O T S S C H O O L A L B U R Y2

2018 has been another big year in the alumni space here at Scots. Continuing on from the very solid foundations laid down in 2017, the Scotsonian Alumni Association continues to move along strongly and with three meetings this year, the framework for a united Alumni group continues to increase. Additionally, Alumni News, multiple reunions and increased engagement between the School and its Alumni has made for a busy and extremely positive year. We should be excited for where we are at as an Alumni group and for the future ahead.

Within the 2018 Drum, we hope to showcase the incredible talent of the School’s Alumni through a wide variation of characters doing all sorts of amazing things in their respective work forces. We are also hoping to increase the connectivity between the current school Alumni through the re-shaping of alumni events and an increased number of alumni targeted events. This we hope will be an incredibly positive step to creating a united Alumni group, made up of members of the current Scots community and the students who attended the schools that make for such rich history here at Scots.

I am incredibly excited for what the future holds for the Alumni group here at Scots. I wish all the best to our 2019 Alumni Relations Office, Olivia Cowell (Class of 2018).

DR

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THE SCOTS

WelcomeJoshua Morgan 2018 Alumni Relations Officer

3T H E S C O T S D R U M 2

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At the commencement of my sixth year as Principal, I wish to reflect upon what a difference five years makes. The key difference at The Scots School Albury is that since 2014, there has been a deliberate shift in philosophy and approach.

As we heard from our guest speaker and alumnus at the 2018 Speech Night, Jason Kleeman, the world is both an exciting and shifting space where the ability to fail and then bounce back, are crucial skills for life success. At Scots we have shifted our philosophy from seeing education as something that is inherently static and containable, to understanding that along with core knowledge, it is life skills, attributes and the capacity to think and be creative, that will be impactful in students’ lives long after that have finished formal study.

Another difference is understanding that education is not a contest to be won, alone or as an individual. Individual performance is critical, but it must also encompass the reality that team performance is vital too. Learning is a team sport and thus while there can and should be champions, the world needs learners who seek success for all and for objectives bigger and outside their own immediate and localised achievement. In many ways, our Pipe Band is a metaphor for this thinking – they have superstars – but more importantly, they coach, teach and uplift everyone.

I am proud that in a World Ready School we embrace inclusivity as being central to our values. Over the last five years, we have intentionally opened the gates of this wonderful school to those of different backgrounds, cultures and circumstances. We talk openly about difference and work with our students to understand that richness that diversity brings so that they recognise the energy and creative frisson that diversity offers communities.

I believe at Scots that we are united as educators about the value we place upon fostering curiosity among our students. Curiosity primes brains for learning. Researcher, Bryan Goodwin argues that it is a more important predictor of success in life than IQ. He says that it is as crucial as persistence in student success, it supports better job performance and leads ultimately to better relationships, where people with more of it have greater life satisfaction.

I see the proof of our great education become manifest in our departing Scots Year 12’s. I know that a strong holistic education - which is punctuated with challenge, intellectual and physical and founded on strong values - sets young people up for the future.

This is also made clear by the unfolding lives of our alumni, many of whom now are working directly with us for the benefit of current students. Whether they be in the ‘digital transformation’ space; Jason Kleeman (Class of 1995) or artistic, as Sue Maslin (The Dressmaker producer, Class of 1976), or even through our recent graduates, Emily Graetz (Class of 2016), Josh Morgan (Class of 2017) and now currently, Olivia Cowell (Class of 2018), we are greatly enriched by their inspiration for those emerging as newly minted, World Ready students.

The future of this great School promises to be exciting and commits to being utterly relevant. It will be a future which you, our alumni, can shape – we are keen to hear your ideas and to seize opportunities that help us continue to provide an outstanding education for the Border region.

From The SchoolPeggy Mahy Principal


Alumni ProfileJason Kleeman Class of 1995

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do?

After leaving Scots School I studied at Macquarie University where I read Ancient History & Geology. In Australia I worked in the Army (Infantry) and Banking before moving to the UK to play cricket. I spent twelve years in Europe, cricket was fun but not a career for me and I soon joined the National Health Service as a digital transformation officer. I enjoyed the process of helping shape the digital world and now work for a major software company where I lead a team of senior technicians as we help guide customers in their digital journey. I currently reside in Singapore with my wife and two small children.

Tell us about your time at Scots?

I joined the Senior School in 1990 and finished year twelve in 1995. I would probably be described as an average student. I was good at some subjects and not so good at others! I played hockey, basketball, tennis and enjoyed chess and debating. Personal computers and the internet age began and developed rapidly as my school years progressed. It was an interesting time.

You’ve recently come back to the school to speak, what do you think has changed about the school since you left?

I was fortunate to visit the school again and see the School through the teacher’s, student’s and, leadership’s perspective.

I very much like the immersive educational experience within the current school setup. Students (and teachers) can be more flexible with how to impart and receive knowledge. I liked the focus on creativity and flexibility as the world is more fluid than ever before. Knowledge is useful and can be learned in time but, focusing students on skills such as debating, leading and negotiating was very refreshing.

At the school in the 1990s there was a massive drive for academic excellence, i.e. push the knowledge and make sure you can remember it all for the exams. The learning styles of students were not always considered which I think did not always assist students who were not inclined towards that learning style. The modern school has changed this, and it seems to be working.

The new facilities like the Science Centre, Indoor Sports Centre are wonderful!


What sort of influence did Scots have on shaping your life after School?

Its always a hard thing to link effort to outcomes but let me try.

I think Scots gave me a sense of pride in achievement and I don’t mean in being the best in the class but, rather to do your best on the task that is in front of you. It's nice to be surrounded by students that were achieving their version of success. It made you want to push yourself and having teachers that were engaging and passionate about their subjects really helped me enjoy school and push onto University to complete a degree in something I enjoyed.

I learned how to interact with people. This is very important as it’s the basis for all aspects of life; work, relationships, family etc. The formal term is soft skills and these were not specific subjects at the school however I learned them through the syllabus and interactions with the school community.

If you had one piece of advice for current members of the school community what would it be?

I will give two:

Your ability to interact with others. How you write and verbally communicate will be very important. Pay attention to these as it’s the basis of the soft skills I mentioned. Can you debate, discuss, influence and listen to others? These skills will serve you in all aspects of life and you learn them through both academia and sports.

Schooling is aimed at producing an outcome. For example; moving into tertiary studies, working life or a gap year. Do not worry that what you choose to do after school locks you into that career or choice forever. You can change degree subjects, move jobs, travel or stop working at any time. I have changed career, studies and countries several times over. Having the skills to manage change in your life will help you adjust more easily.

What goals are you working towards at the moment?

I am enjoying a new job at the moment which takes me across Asia. I wish to ensure that my team grows and that the people I support are happy in their roles.

Personally I am in training to represent Singapore at the Senior World Cup for Indoor Cricket next year. I have to make the team first!

Other goals are to travel in the region and learn about the cultures I encounter and exploring the world through the eyes of my children. I enjoy playing with their lego and making elaborate couch ‘forts’ in the lounge room.

What is your favourite part of your job?

Technology is interesting but I find people much more interesting. In the end all the technology in the world still supports human interaction so I like managing people, working out ways to overcome issues and learning from others. There is no substitute for overcoming a challenge when you have a diverse team to collaborate with. Teams that include women, men, different ages and cultures are always more successful.


Alumni ProfileSamara Gardner Class of 2009

Tell us a bit about your time at Scots?

I started at Scots in Year 7, having moved with my family from Sydney to Albury. Both my parents began working at the school - my dad in the music department and my mum in the boarding house. We lived across the road from the school, and spent a lot of time with the boarders so I was immediately immersed in the supportive, inclusive environment of Scots. That really directed my learning and my time at the school. I feel very lucky to have spent so many years at a school that really felt like a family and I really tried to take advantage of all the opportunities on offer to students at the school.

What stands out from your time here at Scots?

Definitely the people - friends and teachers. I always felt so much was invested in us as students. English and Drama were my favourite subjects, and some of my favourite memories are from my time in those classes. Being part of a number of productions - like The Taming of the Shrew, The Real Inspector Hound, South Pacific and 42nd Street, are memories I cherish. The extracurricular activities combined with the learnings of the school really made it such a special time in my life.

What was your journey like to become a journalist?

I studied a double degree in journalism and theatre at the University of Wollongong. I worked hard through those years to gain opportunities interning, ultimately getting my foot in the door with the WIN Network. My training ground has been in regional and rural Australia. I got a cadetship through WIN in Wagga, before moving to Orange as a senior reporter. Late last year I transferred to Wollongong where I now work as a health, crime and court reporter.

What does a normal day at work look like for you?

There’s no normal day in news! It’s part of the reason I love this job so much because every day is different. We’re following, chasing and breaking news as it happens. I’m usually at work by 8am and hitting the phones, researching stories for the day. I call police, check the court lists, and trawl through social media. It doesn’t slowdown from there. We’re constantly following up on news as it develops. We go to air at 6pm, so each day is working to that point putting together the best possible bulletin with the most current, accurate and informative stories we can for our audiences. It’s thrilling, challenging and extremely rewarding.


What’s the biggest challenge associated with your job?

There are parts of the job that can weigh heavy - it’s usually seeing the heartbreak of others that cuts most. The family that has just lost a daughter, son, mum, dad, husband or wife. We always strive to tell our stories with compassion and understanding, and I am lucky that I work for an organisation that is so supportive of its staff.

What was the most important advice you received from your time at Scots?

I always struggled through science and maths subjects - however much I tried. My year 9 science teacher, Mr Bishop told me that any problem, whether scientific or not, should be tackled a bite at a time, and I actually still think about that a lot when something feels too much or that it’s insurmountable.

Also, in choosing my HSC subjects, I was worried choosing the classes I had, may affect my ATAR as to how they were weighted. Teachers like Mrs Heitmeyer encouraged me to do what I love, and I really don’t think you can ever fail (in life or at school) if you do what your passionate about.

What goals are you working towards at the moment within journalism?

I’m working towards improving skills within my current role as a health, crime and court reporter with WIN News. I have also been lucky enough this year to gain some opportunities presenting. I’ve started crossing live into a national breakfast program - Headline News which airs on WIN and SkyNews on WIN. My focus is to hone in on those skills and become the best possible journalist I can be.

Our 2020 Scholarships are now open!

A scholarship can be the first step on the path to an exceptional future for your child, providing them with the opportunity to be the best they can be.

Key Dates

Applications Close13TH MARCH 2019 Scholarships Assessment

23RD MARCH 2019

To find out more visit:www.scotsalbury.nsw.edu.au

NOWOPEN


Alumni ProfileCharlie Spargo Student at Scots 2012 - 2014

Tell us a bit about your time at Scots?

I attended Scots from Years 7-9 (2012-2014), however I already had a taste of what the school was like as my mum taught in the Junior School and I played football there before I moved. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Scots, as I was introduced to many new extra curricular activities and developed relationships with students that I still strongly maintain today.

Looking back on your time at Scots, do any specific memories stand out?

Less of a specific memory, but one thing that stood out about my time at Scots was how staff and students consistently encouraged each other to step outside their comfort zone and try new things. One thing in particular was the Year 9 production. Although performing arts wasn’t and still isn’t my strong suit, it was something different that I enjoyed with my peers. House sports and activities were also a highlight.

During your time here how were you able to balance your time between trying to play elite football and being a student?

I found that as the school supported students in both their academic and sporting endeavours, it helped balance school and football. Undoubtedly, with football being such a big part of my life at times the two interfered however my parents always told me to not place too much pressure on myself with either and I found a way to manage the load.

What does a normal day look like for you now days?

During the season, priority is placed on rest and recovery. Most of the players will get into the club around 8am and have massage or treatment on any sore spots or niggles, before going out for some light skills and running. After that we will do weights for an hour then watch some vision with coaches to see how we can improve our performance on game day.

In pre-season, the training load is much larger, where training consists of a lot more running and physical work to condition us for the long year ahead. A typical day in preseason runs from about 8am to 4pm.


You had a very good rookie year in the AFL. Have you exceeded your personal expectations for the year and what are some highlights from the season?

Going into the season I was coming off a shoulder reconstruction, so I was eased into training. The slow start did frustrate me, which probably led to me lowering my expectations for the year so initially when I did play senior football I was quite surprised. However, when I was back to full fitness I gradually gained more confidence and felt like I belonged.

Highlights of the year were my debut, and the two finals at the MCG in front of 90,000 plus fans.

How much of your time at Scots has shaped you into your football career or into the person that you have become, and how has this been done?

As mentioned previously, the way that Scots provides a range of different things to participate at in school helps students become independent. I think this has helped me when moving out of home and stepping into the challenging environment that is AFL football. During my short time in the system, I have noticed that successful players certainly have independence, organisation and balance in spades which are all qualities that the Scots School helps develop.

What’s the most challenging thing about being a professional athlete?

There is no doubt that the sheer amount of training you do and the load that your body is put through is one of the more testing things about being a professional AFL player. However, one thing that is becoming more and more challenging is the rise of social media and the constant scrutiny that many players are put under. Win, lose or draw after a game it is more than likely that things are written about each player, positive and negative. It is something that players and their clubs work together at, to embrace the positive aspect of it but ignore the negative things that come with it.


Alumni ProfileGemma Harangozo Class of 2010

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Gemma Harangozo and I can proudly say that I’m a Performance Psychologist. The journey to becoming a Performance Psychologist was a long and competitive road that required a great deal of dedication, perseverance, and passion. So to be able to say I am working in my dream job is incredibly fulfilling.

I grew up in Albury, and attended Scots from 2008-2010 (Year 10-12) after transferring from Xavier High School. Whilst initially the thought of moving schools was terrifying, it was by far the best decision my parents made in setting me up for my future. My time at Scots was certainly memorable. Between the friendships built, the lunch times spent playing handball, the leadership opportunities, and the sporting endeavours, Scots had a lot to offer.

After graduating in 2010, I attended La Trobe University in Wodonga for the first year of my undergraduate degree before transferring to La Trobe University in Melbourne for my second & third year. I graduated with a Bachelor of Psychological Science in 2013 and progressed on to complete a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) at the Australian College of Applied Psychology. After graduating in 2014, I then embarked on a new journey to Brisbane to complete a

Masters of Applied Psychology: Sport and Exercise at the University of Queensland. In December of 2016, after 6 years of tertiary study, 3 degrees, and 2 theses later, I could finally call myself a Psychologist. I have since been practicing in the field of Sport Psychology and had the privilege of working with a number of professional, elite, and amateur athletes and teams across a range of sports including: AFLW (inaugural season), Archery, Diving, Squash & Water Polo.

What made you want to be a psychologist, did Scots play a role in this?

It’s actually hard to pinpoint exactly what it was that influenced my decision to become a psychologist. I have always had a genuine willingness to help people and I gained great fulfilment from having a positive impact on someone’s life. As I grew up I often had a number of friends who would reach out to me when they were struggling or when they were looking for guidance on how to work through particular life challenges. I learned that my ability to talk to people was a true strength, although teachers often said “Gemma has so much potential if she just stopped talking…” I believe that it was my ability to talk and listen to people that lead me to where I am today. Whilst Scots didn’t play a direct role in influencing my decision, I’m grateful for


the leadership opportunities I was given at Scots to build some of the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills required to be a psychologist.

More specifically, my desire to become a Sport Psychologist stemmed from my passion and love for sport. It was a huge part of my life growing up and taught me a great deal about myself. Initially I wanted to be a physiotherapist as I thought it was the best option to work in the sporting world, but at the time it was a popular choice for a lot of students in my year. I didn’t want to do what everyone else desired, I wanted to be different. My parents were instrumental in exposing me to the importance of mindset throughout my sporting endeavours and I believe it was through these experiences I developed a real curiosity and desire to learn more about the power of the mind for performance. Combine my desire to support others and my love for sport together that influenced my choice to pursue a career as a Psychologist.

Looking back at your time at Scots, what memories stand out?

I have so many wonderful memories from my time at Scots. Some of the ones that stand out the most are the lunchtimes spent with friends, Wednesday activities (best afternoons ever!), Year 12 production, sporting opportunities and trips (ICCES – swimming, netball, basketball, girls AFL), selection as Wilson House Co-Captain and Prefect, study periods with friends, playing handball at lunch, the delicious food at the canteen (chocolate cake & custard!), school camps, and Year 12 graduation.

What piece of advice would you have for current students at Scots?

Have the courage to let go of what others think and start the journey of being your genuine self. We all have the potential to achieve greatness, we just need to believe in that ourselves. It’s not the experiences you have in life that define you, it’s how you respond to them. Focus on your strengths and create connections that help you to achieve your ultimate potential. If you ever need someone to talk to, reach out to someone you can trust (friend, family, psychologist, counsellor).

Do you have any specific long-term future goals that you are working towards at the moment?

The long-term goals I am currently working towards are attending the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020 as part of the support team for Australian athletes, building my client-base in private practice or eventually opening my own practice, and potentially taking on a consulting role that manages a number of high performance teams in an organisational setting. As I’m an early career psychologist, I am open to taking on any opportunities that help me to build my skills and continually work to establish myself in the profession.

What is your favourite part of your job?

I have a deep passion for helping athletes and coaches achieve peak performance whilst maintaining a positive sense of wellbeing. The favourite part of my job is providing a space for people to learn more about themselves, recognise their potential and guide them to making change that leads to thriving in sport and life. I love teaching people about the brain and the role it plays in performance and behaviour. It is incredibly rewarding to see people step outside of their comfort zone and open themselves up to learn and grow. When they learn to

embrace their fear and make choices that are in line with their values, it leads to a fulfilling life. It is rewarding to know when you’ve played a role in someone’s journey and had a positive impact on their life.

Is there a specific event or athlete that you have enjoyed working with or at?

There are a number of athletes and teams I have loved working with since I started in the profession. Due to the nature of my work, I am unable to disclose the identity of clients that I work with. However, I have had the pleasure of working with a number of Olympic and Commonwealth Games athletes. A career highlight was working at the XXI Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast earlier this year. It is something I had always dreamed of and am grateful to have had the opportunity to be involved so early in my career. It was an experience that I’ll never forget.


Alumni ProfileSam Beverly Class of 2009

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I grew up out near Beechworth on a small hobby farm. I graduated in 2009 and enlisted in the Army, going through ADFA and then RMC. I thoroughly enjoy playing AFL, rock climbing, and adventure racing.

What are some highlights from your time at school?

For me, one of the highlights of my time at school was the Duke of Edinburgh scheme. I loved the group we had going through the hiking discipline and think that played a significant part in me enlisting in the Army. I also thoroughly enjoyed playing footy for the school; its something that has stuck with me through the years.

Can you tell us a little bit of time in the defence force?

I enlisted in 2010, along with Matt Reid. We both went to ADFA, completing degrees there, then to the Royal Military College – Duntroon in 2013. On graduation from RMC-D I posted into the School of Infantry in 2014, before posting into the Second Battalion,

the Royal Australian Regiment in Townsville in 2016. I deployed on Operation FIJI ASSIST in February 2016 to assist the cleaning up after the cyclone, before posting to the 8th/7th Battalion, The Royal Victoria Regiment in Ballarat in 2017. In 2018 I deployed to the UAE and Afghanistan for seven months as a watch keeper based out of Dubai and Kabul.

Did Scots shape your decision to join the defence force at all, if yes how so?

All of my friends through school and my teachers were very supportive of my decision to enlist in the Australian Army. In my final year at Scots I was given a position working with the associated Infantry Battalion with Scots, which was a significant influence on my eventual decision to enlist. I think my time in the Duke of Ed scheme gave me a love of outdoors activity as well, which was important in my enlistment.


Living in Canberra?

Vote 1: Canberra Scotsonians Community Celebration 2019!

When: Sunday 17th March 2019

Time: 4.30pm – 7.30 pm

Where: Black Mountain Peninsula Play Park

What: Ballot paper: Family cricket, Swimming, FREE BBQ (Vegetarian options available)... plenty of great banter!

Of course voting is not compulsory, but as a valued member of the Scotsonian party we'd love to see you (and your kiddy tribe...if you have one) there!

canberrascotsonianscc19.eventbrite.com.au

For further information, please contact Olivia Cowell, Alumni Relations Officer [email protected] or 02 6022 0030.

BOOKNOW

What traits did you learn at school that assist you in your career?

In all honesty, I think the public speaking lessons were the most beneficial. The amount of times I have had to stand up and brief something, often with limited preparation, is significant, and the ability to do so with confidence and brevity has gotten me out of more trouble than it should have.

What’s the biggest challenge associated with your job?

As a junior leader within the Australian Army you have a lot of responsibility and influence over the lives of your soldiers. As a 22 / 23-year-old, you have soldiers in their thirties coming to you with all kinds of personal problems, looking to you for advice. I think one of the biggest challenges is ensuring you do the hard work to understand the problems these men and women have and to ensure you provide the best possible advice and assistance you can, as it can take a lot of time and effort. However, being able to have a positive impact, and to watch a team develop and perform, is one of the most satisfying things I have ever done.

You’ve toured Afghanistan, what was that experience like?

My experiences in Afghanistan have given me perspective on a lot of things. There are a lot of very good people in Afghanistan who want their country to develop and to provide the same opportunities to their people that we have here, but there are powerful elements preventing this from happening. The people are really positive and great to interact with, but constant conflict has made the provision of basic items such as shelter or materials to provide warmth hard to get. In winter, Kabul has some of the worst air quality in the world as the people burn anything they can to stay warm; Kabul is ringed by mountains that are snow capped a lot of the year. Whilst I was there, Afghan National Police and the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces were fighting a bitter campaign in Uruzgan against the Taliban, something which is not reported at all in Australia anymore; this is the province Australian soldiers fought in earlier in the conflict.

Sam was Scots first 2nd 23rd Battalion student Ambassador in 2009.


Speech Night AddressJason KleemanClass of 1995

Change and failureI was lucky enough to visit Scots School in July this year. I met the students and staff where I presented on the Digital world and projects I worked on demonstrating some of the different aspects of technology transformation.

We talked about fake news and how you might go about assess-ing what is opinion and what is fact. I mentioned some of the ways you might like to become involved in technology. Not just in the digital industries but as part of wider careers.

And lastly, I made an appeal directly to the young women and girls in the school. The digital world needs you, needs your involvement and experiences if we are to bridge the gap in gender inequality.

The theme of that presentation, although discussing my life experiences, was actually about change which is folds into the subject of my discussion tonight.

Let’s call it: How to fail

The school is working towards the goal of being ‘World Ready’. Indeed many academic of vocational organisations discuss the need to ensure course materials or training match as closely as possible to conditions in the real world.

The question of everybody’s lips is ‘what am I going to do next? University, TAFE, workforce, GAP year, working for the family business, travel or nothing? I am sure that advice is forthcoming from every quarter. Everybody is focused on helping you.

When I was your age……enjoy this time it’s the best time of your life….what I would do if I were you……..anyone heard those?

You’re searching on the internet about careers that fit your personality, grades or ideas of future self. But here’s the thing: a lifelong or long term career doesn’t always exist anymore. Equally, many of the jobs or fields of study that you might find yourself in one day, don’t exist yet.

When I was looking at careers, I had no idea what job I wanted, I knew I wanted to go to Uni and study ancient history and geology but the roles I have held over the past fifteen years didn’t exist in 1996. Data scientists, digital transformation, big data, cloud computing, social media. They weren’t in the lexicon. (127k new words).

The world has changed so much in a decade and a half. How much will it change in the next fifteen years? We are at the beginning of the fourth industrial age. Every single aspect of our lives is now impacted by technological change. Every indus-try, every stage of your life, your relationships, your mental & physical health. It has led to amazing leaps forward, bringing us together and, also to environmental issues, cyber crime, online abuse and people feeling more disconnected than ever. Technol-ogy isn’t good or bad. It is simply a platform for both.

So throughout all this our constant companion is what? its change. Some things will change slowly and others might come suddenly. Leaving home to go to university, a career move, sudden illness, the birth of a child. A few years ago I came into work and was told that the programme I was working on had lost its funding and that I was to be made redundant. The day before I was dealing with, what I thought at the time, was big work issues, the next day that is all swept away and I am left with these thoughts: what am I going to do now? How will I live? Well I am here to tell the tale so I clearly managed to find a new job and move on but at the time it was a massive shock which left me floundering.

Sometimes changes happens to you and other times you might enforce the change yourself. My favourite novel is the "Count of Monte Cristo" by Victor Hugo. If you don’t like reading then watch the movie, it's pretty good.

The quote I love in the book and its possibly the summary of this talk is: one day you will bask in the sun and the next be dashed on the rocks of despair. Its what you do in those mo-ments that define you.

How you respond to change will impact on your ability to live life the way you want to. Sometimes things will not work out the way you want, the dreaded f word…failure. But failing at things is ok. Indeed the company I currently work for mantra is ‘lets fail our way to success’. Nobody gets things right every time and rarely ever the first time. Embrace failure as a learning experience and come back at the situation either harder or find another way.

Its also ok to be clueless in the face of such a change. I didn’t have the answers when I was told I was losing my job. I was up-set, angry and felt hopeless for a while. But eventually I realized that I could find another job, I was employable and I needed to put energy into embracing what might be a new and exciting change. It certainly turned out to be a chance to evaluate what I really wanted in a new role. I had the chance to pivot and now I look back and realise that it was a great thing. The process of the change was hard and not always enjoyable, but the outcome was amazing!

When I look back on my career / life to date. I realise that I have changed physical location several times, lived in three different countries, worked in many different types of jobs with most of it unplanned. Life is not perfect, there were some hard times, frus-trating moments and a lot of hard work. Maybe an element of luck as well but I have found more often than not that someone who is mentally prepared can seize an opportunity if it presents itself.

I have been employed in jobs that turned out to be crap, failed subjects at Uni (don’t tell my mum) and dated the wrong girls. I have had to learn how to public speak, play high level sport, secure an excellent job and communicate effectively by stuffing up all of those things along the way. I try to learn from my fail-ure by a) doing it in the first place (you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take) and b) learning as I go.

Can you learn to deal with change? To be resilient in the face of failure? Well there are courses and many books that tackle some elements of the subject but the essence of managing change is developing emotional intelligence and soft skills.


What are these? The ability to discuss, to reason, to assess, to lead, understand others, reading body language, using experi-ence and having empathy. I would argue that the skills needed for life. To be world ready, are those that help us manage the changes that will occur in our lives. They help us when we are dashed on the rocks and to advance when basking in the sun-light.

Educators that can tease out ways to include soft skills in the curriculum will certainly help students to be world ready. Class discussions, debating, community service, playing sport, learn-ing to lead and learning to be part of a team are places to help bring to the fore those skills I mentioned. Discussing subjects such as mental health, discrimination and equality, whilst some-times difficult: exposes students to how to put across a point of view and to listen to others.

Listening, that is a skill in itself. How much of the media we receive today is about people forcing other people to listen to them. It seems the art of compromise and reaching consensus has been overwhelmed by an ‘I win you lose’ mentality. Respect of another point of view is not always possible, but learning to understand why someone thinks the way they do will serve you very well in life.

Take courage from failure. Courage is something hard to define but stepping out of your comfort zone to change something takes courage. Standing up to an injustice takes courage. Tell-ing the truth, even when it leads to misfortune for you, takes courage. Looking out for others, speaking out when you see discrimination, bullying, sexism and racism. You have been given the gift of a strong education and ethical platform at the school. Remember that leadership is not always about setting direction on a sporting field. It is leading by example and having the cour-age to be the first to do the right thing.

Maybe not everyone here will appreciate 18th century French novels so another take on this is from one of the great philoso-phers of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Iron Mike Tyson.He said after losing his world heavyweight crown in 1990: Every-body has a plan until you are punched in the mouth. It’s what you do after that matters.

So tonight, as we farewell the class of 2018 and the end of another year, I say its ok not to know what you might do next. Its ok to fail. Try to remember when things are not always going to plan, that things do get better, don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, families or even sometimes strangers. You can always change degrees, jobs, locations. My mum decided to go to Uni at age 55. Seek advice from others but in the end you make the decision on what to do next. Listen more and learn to apologise when you are in the wrong. Help others when you can. Take a leap into the unknown, be courageous. Continue to learn and you will be ready for what comes next.

Jason is passionate about data, digital transformation, change management, and the growth of successful teams within the technology industry.

Over the past fifteen years he has been involved in large trans-formation programmes with financial services, government (healthcare, central & policing), retail, insurance, pharma and publishing.

His current role is focused on building a multi-regional prac-tice with a shared strategy, common processes and develop-ment plans for an enterprise software vendor.

He worked and lived in Australia, the United Kingdom and Singapore.

UPCOMING EVENTS

AT SCOTS

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY BREAKFAST 8th March • 7.30am – 8.45am • Dining Hall

WHY SCOTS? INFORMATION SESSION 10th April • Wagga Wagga

EQUESTRIAN INTERSCHOOL CHALLENGE 4th & 5th May • 8.00am – 3.00pm

Albury Wodonga Equestrian Centre

EXPERIENCE SCOTS: BE A BOARDER FOR A NIGHT

23rd May • 4.00pm • The Scots School Albury

EXPERIENCE SCOTS: BE STUDENT FOR A DAY

24th May • 8.45am - 3.25pm • The Scots School Albury

EXPERIENCE SCOTS INFORMATION SESSION24th May • 2.30pm - 3.30pm

The Scots School Albury • Senior School Library

PRIMARY MUSICAL: LION KING JR5th June • 12.00pm - 1.30pm

6th June • 7.00pm - 8.30pm

Alistair Todd Chapel Hall

MUSIC FESTIVAL27th June • 7.00pm - 8.45pm

Alistair Todd Chapel Hall


Graduation Ball SpeechMatthew CarringtonClass of 2007

Late last night I was driving home to Albury via Griffith on the back roads. There was a truck heading towards me, and a small hill in-between. We both disappeared from each other as we sped closer, the hill blinding us both as we approached it from either end. Upon our passing moment, a small car decided to overtake the truck. Lights going everywhere, and horns being blown I slammed on my breaks as the passing car played chicken with me. With us 3 meters away from each other, the car swerved back into the lane in front of the truck and proceeded into the distance in my rear-view mirror. I sat in idle in the middle of the road, as the blood pumped through my body. Thinking. That could have been the last hour of my life. Certainly, gives you a bit of perspective, doesn’t it? Ladies and Gentlemen, Ms Peggy Mahy – thank you for having me here tonight, It is a real privilege. I’ve written this speech on the premise that you have all watched in one medium or another, the play, “The Lion King”?.

Simba, the son of Mufasa, is born and raised to take over the family empire and become part of the circle of life. Simba and Mufasa go on this lovely walk together through the savanna and discuss the big stuff – Mufasa says – “One day this will all be yours son”, He goes onto say how life works, the do’s and do not’s, passing down the baton so to speak. In a lot of ways, you are experiencing this long walk with your parents and mentors right now.

My fondest memory of school for me was this day. The day that it finished. Graduation. I was never one to be in a class-room, I think, that the teachers that are in here tonight, who taught me, would all agree on this. I remember sitting in the chair that you sit in now, having a profound feeling. A school event – outside of school, but with a glass of wine? Out of uniform, I wasn’t sure who was more out of their comfort zone; myself, my family or my teachers. We were all dressed up, we all appeared to be equal. There were no students in the room. If you haven’t realised, you are now an adult, entirely in control of the steering wheel of your life.

Now, after Simba has this great chat with Mufasa, his eyes light up, he sees all of his opportunities, this endless hori-zon in front of him. Soon enough he sparks up into song, Singing, “I just can’t wait to be king!” Ecstatic about no one telling him what to do. He screams “I’m going to be the main event like no King was before”, and he’s working on his roar. Well, it’s an inspiring moment in the film. I sang this song on

the ride home from a wedding 2-3 weeks ago in the back-seat with my old school friends. The lyrics and exciting nature of the tune reminded me of my eagerness when I was your age, a passion for putting my stamp on earth. A desire be my own voice, to make my own decisions, as Simba sung beauti-fully “Free to run around all day, free to do it all my way!”.

The opportunities that you have at your feet are grand. What-ever aspirations you have in life, you are seated in one of the most prosperous times of civilisation. You live in one of the best countries in the world, and tonight you graduate from a private school that has provided you with a first class Educa-tion, but more importantly, a community who will keep you grounded as you step out in the world. The support your family have provided you up until now will serve as a springboard to the challenges that you will face in your future. In short, your toolbox is better than most.

Although we haven’t found true equality in the world today, women can now be engineers, architects and miners, men can be dancers, or nurses and house husbands. Today, someone born in regional Australia, such as yourself has access to almost everything that a privately educated student at Harvard would have. Technology has equalised the platform. If you wish to be the new CEO of Google, practice law in the magic circle, or learn how to fly, you are in the right years of civilisation. If you want to create an empire, be the new Mark Zuckerberg, or the First female elected Prime minister, then it’s sitting right in front of you. If you want to be the king of your jungle, you merely have to go out and get it.

Now, I know it’s not in line with the rest of the Disney storyline, but I’d like you to imagine that Mufusa turns to Simba after he finishes his fabulous song and says, “You will be dead soon son, so best get started”. Something that we don’t think about too often is our expiry date, and when I was 18, I didn’t believe that concept existed. Time for me was infinite, vast and never- end-ing. Out of all the magical things I have come across in the past 11 years, the one that I have never appreciated until recently is time itself.

The Huffington Post broke down our entire lives into hours spend doing tasks over an 80-year lifespan. 26 years of this is spent doing what we do best – sleeping. That’s just over a third of our lives. With millennials expected to spend another 4 years trying to get to sleep. We spend 13 years working. With an additional 3 years getting ready and to and from work. The list goes on, years spent doing your laundry, exercising, clean-ing, eating, studying.

Bottom line – after we get all this done, we have just over 20 years of free time left. Time to go on holidays, spend on ro-mance, do real-time socialising, weekend adventures and time for all your aspirations outside of your chosen work profession. Basically, all the good stuff! However, The Post also says that we, as humans spend 8 years in front of the TV, and another 3 for social media. To make it a tad more overwhelming, as you come up to mark your 20th birthday, you would have already spent four years of this free time. Parents and teachers, you have a lot less time left.

Time is not something that can be bought, borrowed, replaced or swapped out. Once it passes’, it’s gone forever, you can never redo your high school years, how much you studied, who you dated, what you wore and the memories you would or would not like to remember. Your childhood, as you know it, has finished. Tonight marks the end of a significant chapter in your lives and a much bigger one than graduating from school. A common question my friends ask as we look back on our schooling years Is, “if you could do school again, what would you change, as I lean on the edge of 30, I’m sure this will be asked of my 20’s.

I realised I had tied myself down. I found myself working 7 days a week and had become lost in the daily tasks of life.


So, I sold the television, deleted social media apps, got rid of the big house and pool that I was always cleaning. Removed unnec-essary subscriptions attached to my life. I changed my working environment, removed unnecessary meetings and said no to overtime. Got rid of excess clothes to eliminate laundry time. Stopped buying materialist items and paid off debts.

I now find the time to paint by my dining room window, work on my culinary skills in the kitchen with a glass of wine. I read books and watch TED talks. Embrace nature and ponder on life like Robert Frost as much as I can. I try to work for a passion, not a title and I fill my minutes with romance and music, I spend more than doing the things I care for, and not what is in front of me. I fill my life with things that stem from my true aspirations and happiness.

Knowing now, that you have little free time, I wonder if you’re still willing to sacrifice all those years to TV and your phone? Or would you like to replace it with something more significant to you?

What career path will you choose that will generate links to your happiness and aspiration in life? Life is too short to work for someone or something that you don’t love, or at the very least gain from.

Are you willing to sacrifice the next four years of your life at university? Will it contribute to your aspirations, if it does, make it happen, follow your happiness.

If you had to be selfish with your time, would you buy a one- way ticket and travel overseas? Would you walk the Camino or climb Everest? Follow your happiness.

The truth is that it’s your life. Not your parents, not your teach-ers, not your mentors or your friends. For the first time in your life, you get to fill it with what you would like! It doesn’t matter if you want to live it like Christopher Robin and his friends in the woods or become an astronaut, I encourage you to follow the road that makes you genuinely happy, in the short and long term.

Now Simba goes off on a wrong tangent here, his father dies, and finds a new life in paradise, returns to Hell and “accidental-ly” kills Scar, Timon and Pumbaa get involved. Basically, Simba does what his father wanted – so, not a great finish to help out my argument, so I’m going to finish on a different note.

As society, I believe we mistake the meaning of 'success in life' with 'success' in general. We say, “Oh She’s so successful, do you know how much money she makes?” We idolise people of fame and power and watch their every move on social plat-forms. Your success in life doesn’t need to be measured by your bank account, social status, looks, or a position in the company, but more the journey you travel, and how you spend your time on this earth to maximise your true happiness. Your success is from where you started, to where you get to, and how you spent your time in between. You are walking in the savanna, you are about to sing your song. Make it ecstatic, dazzling, memorable. Days are made of hours, and those hours are made of minutes. Don’t waste them on things that don’t make you happier and fulfilled, don’t settle for what society suggests. Time is not something that can be bought, borrowed, replaced or swapped out.

Congratulations to you all for reaching this pivotal point in your life, I wish you all the time in the world.

Matt commenced at Scots in 2005, completing Year 12 in 2007. After graduation, Matt took a working gap year and lived in both London and Kenya.

Upon his return Matt commenced his architectural and con-structions management degree in Geelong, then film and television, and finally arts in Melbourne.

More recently, Matt has started two restaurants, one that still operates in Albury and is looking forward to starting a third.


Reunion ReportClass of 1968Celebrating 50 Years

The 1968 Reunion saw 55 members and partners of the class come from all corners of the country to have an incredibly successful and enjoyable weekend. The former Albury Grammarians’ weekend started at Friday afternoon where informal drinks occurred at Soden’s, for some it was the first time catching up in 10 years since the last major reunion! Saturday was made up of a tour of the current school campus, followed by dinner in the dining hall with drinks and many laughs!! It was an incredibly successful weekend, and the effort made by some of the class members to attend is a real testament to the closeness of the group in creating a weekend thoroughly enjoyed by all. Hopefully it won't be another 10 years before the next catch up!

BirthdaysMITCHELL John Clayton (Class of 1955) Celebrated his 80th birthday in May 2018. John was a Boarder from 1950 to 1954 and Sports Captain for Robertson House.

DeathsLAMB, Gordon William (Class of 1944), late of Karingal Gardens Taree and formerly of Roper Street, Albury, passed away peacefully on Friday 13th July 2018. Aged 93 Years 'Forever on the Weir' Beloved husband of Carmel. Loving Dad of twins David and Anthony, Katharine (dec) and Suzanne 'Sue'. A special father-in-law to Jane, Linda and Grant. Much loved Grandpa 'GP' of Thomas, William, Elizabeth, Jessica, Rebecca, Oscar, Liam, Jayme and Cody. Gordon is listed on our World War II Honour Roll Board in the Senior School Foyer having served during 1939 – 1948. Gordon was a Boarder from 1938.

HERIOT Peter (Class of 1961) passed away at ‘Old Carabobala’, Culcairn on 11th October 2018. Aged 74 years. Loved husband of Jill and father of Jonathan, Susan and Penny, father-in-law to Rachel, Scot and Mark. Proud and adored pops of Zachary, Alexander, Samuel and Kate. Son of Robert Mitchell and Margaret Heriot (both dec). Fondly remembered brother of Neil (Class of 1966), Jan and Angela (dec) and their children. Peter was a Boarder from 1955 – 1960.

MALLON Beatrice Janet 'Janet' (class of 1935) passed away at Wagga Base Hospital on Tuesday 15 May 2018. Late of 'Lansdowne' Cullivel, Urana. Aged 98 years. Beloved wife of Jack (dec). Cherished Aunty Janet to her nieces and nephews. Attended Rosehill as a Boarder for 5 years 1931 – 1935, Janet was a school Prefect. Brothers Marcus Reid (Class of 1939) and Curtis Reid (Class of 1940), both deceased attended Albury Grammar as did their late father Gordon Reid (Class of 1903). Aunt to Dulcie Mitchell wife of John Mitchell (Class of 1955). Janet lived all her married life on a farm near Urana. She didn’t have any of her own children but devoted a lot of her time to her many nieces and nephews. She was involved in farm life, the local CWA and other activities in the area.


Christopher Warren (Class of 2002) lives in Singapore and noted his most recent achievement would be his new role as Managing Director and Technology Advisory Lead for South East Asia for Accenture. His team focuses on defining how new and emerging technology can support citizens and businesses into the future. Projects include how technology can support Smart Cities and disrupt industries via Industry 4.0. Christopher also married in 2017.

Bryan Victor William Winchester 12th June 1918 – 11th August 1943 Albury Grammar History Teacher (1939 – 1940) name has been added to the WWII Honour Roll in the senior School Foyer having paid the ultimate sacrifice. It has been discovered, through some investigating by our 2018 2nd 23rd Student Ambassador Sebastian Turner, that Bryan was ranked a RAAF Flight Sergeant and flew in a Wellington LN422. His last mission was for squadron 466 based in East Yorkshire, it was the 5th flight for crew 67 and he was the designated bombardier for this the crew’s 5th flight. He was fatally shot down in France during WWII and is buried in Guidel Communal Cemetery in France. During his time at Albury Grammar he was Master in charge of cricket, Tennis and Athletics. It has been reported in the Merlin publications of his enlisting and participation in WWII.

Ian Aubrey Reid (Class of 1967) was Awarded Medal For Gallantry (MG) Australian Army.

For acts of gallantry in action in hazardous circumstances as the Platoon Medical Assistant with 7 Platoon, Charlie Company, 7th Battalion the Royal Australian Regiment during a platoon ambush near the village of Phuoc Loi in South Vietnam on 30th April 1970. The Honour Roll in the Senior School Foyer has been updated.

MCDONALD Clive Dudley passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. Beloved husband of Jan. Loving father and father in law to Scott, Deidre (Class of 1985), Johan, Melanie (Class of 1986) and Damien. Loving Grandpa to Mitchell (Class of 2020), Tabitha, Ava (Class of 2021), Toby, Litia, Sarah (Class of 2024) and Archie.

OKE Graham Lewis: 6th January 1935 - 3rd June 2018. Son of Florence Emma and Lewis Armstrong Oke (both dec). Brother of Lois Ruth (dec 24th April 1933). Darling husband of Noelle Margaret (m 1959) (ex Board member, Honorary School Archivist). Beloved father of Warwick (Class of 1983), Alexandra (Class of 1986) and Bronwyn (Class of 1987). Respected and revered father in law of Nicholle and Stephen. Adored Pop to Isabel, Josephine, Beatrice and Georgina.

PATON Rosemary (nee Watson) (Class of 1947) passed away peacefully on 5th December 2017 at Riverwood Retirement Village. Aged 88 years. Dearly loved wife of Charles (Dec). Loved mother and mother-in-law of Louise & Ken, Susy, Phillip & Carmel, Penny & Terry. Adored ‘Gran’ of Matthew, Leigh, Cameron, Elizabeth, Alex, Alice, Mitchell, Ryan and Ben. ‘Great Gran’ of James & Isabel.

ROBERTS Hugh George (Class of 1958) 29th April 1941 – 27th July 2018. Hugh was a Boarder at Albury Grammar from Cootamundra. Loved husband of Jennifer. Much loved father and father-in-law of Justin and Kylie. Devoted and cherished grandad to Joshua, Samantha, Angus and Meghan. Aged 77 years.

SINCLAIR Rhonda Leonie 15th April 1960 ~ 2nd March 2018. Loved wife of Hugh and Mum of Cassie and Lachlan Dunchue (Class of 2013). Passed away peacefully 2nd March.

WHITLEY Jody (nee O’Brien): 7th March 1969 - 22nd December 2017. Wife of John, mother to Joel (Class of 2018) and Oliver (Class of 2020).

UEBERGANG, Frederick John (Class of 1945) 13th January 1928 – 24th July 2018. John attended Albury Grammar School from 1941 – 1942; Brother to Dudley (dec) (Class of 1942), Ian (dec) (Class of 1944), Colin (dec) (Class of 1946), and Alison Schuster (Class of 1946). Survived by his wife Ruth.

Isaac Simpson (Class of 2015) was invited into the ‘Golden Key International Honour Society’ in October 2018. That means out of all the students at UOW, he is in the top 15%. Congratulations Isaac! Isaac credits his business knowledge starting at Scots and thanked Mrs Karen Ennis for her role as his teacher.

Golden Key is the world's largest collegiate honour society. Membership into the Society is by invitation only and applies to the top 15% of college and university sophomores, juniors and seniors, as well as top-performing graduate students in all fields of study, based solely on their academic achievements. As an international honor society with more than 400 chapters at colleges and universities around the world, Golden Key is committed to a high standard of scholastic achievement, and an ethos of integrity, innovation, respect, collaboration and diversity.

With more than 2 million members, including honoraries like Desmond Tutu, Elie Wiesel and Bill Clinton, Golden Key carries an esteemed legacy of achievement. Members are a community with a linkage to widely respected individuals and ideals All part of the continuum of excellence.

News

Ian Aubrey Reid


PIPE BAND 65 YEAR REUNION

The Scots School Albury Pipe Band are inviting all past members, staff, parents and supporters to a very special

reunion to celebrate 65 years of Pipe Band music at The Scots School Albury.

We also invite your assistance in helping spread the word to former Pipe Band members around the world who we may have lost touch with over the years and please feel free send us your year level's Pipe Band school photo for display in the Pipe Band rooms.

The Pipe Band reunion will also coincide with the inaugural Young Drummer of the Year competition and

the opening competition of the 2019 Victorian Solo Drumming season to round out a jam-packed weekend

of festivities.

One of the fundraising goals of the weekend will be to install an honour board at school to recognise past

leaders of the Pipe Band from last year’s graduates all the way back through the band’s proud 65-year history.

Sunday 26th May 2019

Bookings @ http://go.tssa.nsw.edu.au/pipebandreunion

Close 9.00am 17th March

$50.00 pp (includes alcohol)

10.00am: meet and greet followed by tour 11.45am: Performance by the current band

12.00pm: Mass Band 1.00pm: Lunch & Refreshment

The Scots School ArchivesNoelle Oke Honorary Archivist

The Archives and You!

What many past students may not know is the role that the Archive plays in assisting with the contact of members of the Scots Community for specific events.

As I wrote in the 2017 edition of ‘The Drum’, the long task of accumulating the names of past students from all of the schools from the very early years until the early 1990s, has already proven of use.

At present we are attempting to identify members of the school’s Pipe Bands, reaching back to the very beginning of that entity in the 1930s, when the band was only a typical military band consisting of just drums and bugles.

The bagpipes were not introduced until the mid-1950s, and of course they then became an essential component of the band.

It was not until 1975, (co-incidentally International Women’s Year) that the recruitment of enough senior boys into the band became a problem and the band was looking at being disbanded. At that stage seven girls volunteered to join and from that time on the girls have provided an essential and equal component in the band’s ongoing success.

With a Pipe Band reunion on May 26th this year now in the planning stage, it would be good to hear from any of its past members. Photographs of the band as a Cadet Unit and then as its own Scots music entity were not common in those earlier years, so the school does not have a separate data base to call upon. It is relying on former players to identify themselves and to spread the word. See details next to this article.

For more archives information email Honorary Archivist Noelle Oke: [email protected].

1946 Cadet Drum Band on Wilson Oval


RETURNING TO SCOTSThroughout the year we have various

opportunities for Alumni to share their achievements and journeys since

graduating. This can be through Profiles in The Scots Drum, the Alumni News, or speeches at assemblies or special events.

In 2018 we had a remarkable array of Alumni come and join us at events. Jason

Kleeman (Class of 1995) joined the students at assembly to talk about his successes as a specialist in the digital data and cyberse-curity space. While Matt Carrington (Class of 2007) spoke at the Year 12 Graduation

about the importance of time and following your passion. At our 2018 ATAR Assembly, our students also had the opportunity to

listen to some reflections from the Class of 2017 about their HSC experiences.

If you are interested in sharing your own achievements or adventures since finishing

at Scots, please email: [email protected].

DRUMTHE SCOTS

DRUM 2018

393 Perry Street Albury NSW Australia 2640

(PMB 6006 AMDC ALBURY NSW 2640)

P: +61 2 6022 0000 F: +61 2 6041 3210

www.scotsalbury.nsw.edu.au

THE SCOTS

2018 - the scots school albury | the scots school albury · more important predictor of success in...

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