Welcome back to Autumn Term. I trust everyone had a refreshing break and found some space for quality family time amidst our busy schedule of ongoing personal and professional commitments. I know how great it is to see our boys return bringing their energy and vibrancy into our three sub-schools and boarding.

Not that I needed any convincing of the benefits of a Pre K-12 environment, however, if I did, then Friday's Junior School ANZAC Day service simply reinforced my love of working across all the grade levels. The quality of our young boys' speaking, singing and level of reverence at such an important event was heartwarming. Seeing our School Captain, Harry Gilchrist, speak to our Junior School boys about the importance of ANZAC Day, demonstrated everything that is important to us at Scotch College, especially the concept of aspirational leadership. Congratulations to Mr Stewart, his staff and especially our young boys for making the ceremony so special.

Over the next couple of weeks, our Senior School boys will have their hatches battened down as they commence on a very important series of examinations. These are aimed at giving our Year 11s a sense of how well they have adjusted to a new regime of Senior School.  Most importantly, the exams will provide our Year 12s with a very important window into how things are progressing in their final year. We wish all of our senior boys well and know that they have been well prepared by their respective teachers.

One of the things we very much value at the College is the opportunity for our students to step up to the leadership plate. With our Year 11 and 12s busy on exams and not on campus day to day, except for when they are attending exams, our Year 10s become our senior leaders at the College. This is a great opportunity for them to role model their charisms and attributes to their fellow students, staff and the wider community, and assume senior leadership with events such as marching, assemblies and general role modeling across the school. I hope they enjoy this opportunity, which is just part of their journey as young men at Scotch College.

This week, to be specific on 8-10 May, in partnership with cultural not for profit 'FORM', we will again host the three days school programme of WA's biggest children's literature and arts festival, Scribblers. The Scotch based events will be attended by our boys, alongside students from 64 other visiting schools. This will make for a very busy campus this week.

Our College is delighted to once again partner with this amazing festival. Furthermore, I strongly encourage the Scotch community to get involved with the 'Scribblers Festival Family Weekend' happening in and around the Claremont Goods Shed on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 May. During the coming weekend you can access free literature-based activities with internationally renowned children's authors, immerse your boys and yourself in art exhibitions, hands on workshops, and a dedicated Mother's Day Bakers Market. If you want to find out more go to www.scribblersfestival.com.au.

Finally, as a College that owes it foundation to a mother and wife, Jane Alexander, who in 1896 demanded that a school for Presbyterian boys be started in Perth in 1897, we should not need reminding about the importance of Mother's Day on Sunday 12 May. Happy Mother's Day to all of the Mums, Grandmas and any other Mum who has been associated with our College over the years. Enjoy your well-earned celebration.

Have a great fortnight.