Different school cultures prioritise different values. Some schools place great emphasis on academics, while others focus on creative expression, or on graduating well-rounded students.
How we perceive a school’s philosophy, and the range of activities they offer, helps us select the right school.
An educational philosophy is a statement – or set of statements – that identifies and clarifies the beliefs, values and understanding (of an individual or group) with respect to education. We can also think of it as an organised body of knowledge and opinion on education – practically and conceptually.
At The Scots College, we want our boys to become confident, well-grounded young men who have a strong sense of identity and character.
To give the best possible outcome for our students, Scots’ staff have professional development days that focus on sharing and collaborating expert knowledge – in particular, how to cultivate ‘character’ through experiential education.
To build a student’s greater sense of responsibility and empathy, The Scots College support various organisations and activities, so that boys can discover how they can make a difference in their close community and the wider world.
For example at our Brighton Preparatory School (K-6) campus, students support The Salvation Army Streetlevel Mission, assisting the homeless financially but, most importantly, by giving their time.
There are three significant ways in which the boys participate:
The first occurs on a school day. The Year 6 students run their own ‘Red Day’. The boys are invited to wear something red and make a donation. They purchase a special Red Shield Appeal Lunch Pack and all proceeds are directly donated to The Salvation Army.
The second is held over a weekend. Students, with support from their parents or carers, donate their time to collect money for The Salvation Army at a local Bunnings Warehouse.
The final event is online. The Year 6 cohort and Student Service Council (SRC) work together to set up their very own inspiring and informative fundraising page for ‘The Salvos’. Families are invited to share the page with their friends, neighbours and anyone in their local community to encourage donations and help the boys reach their target.
“When we see a bright future and realise that our individual efforts are needed to move forward that vision, then the dream and the desire unite to solidify our will.” Dr Ian PM Lambert and Dr Philip SA Cummins, Brave Hearts, Bold Minds – Leadership for Young Australians
