Scotch College

Reflections of the Class of 2009 President’s Column

With exams imminent and our schooling year fast drawing to a close, it is perhaps appropriate that we pause and reflect on the year gone by.

For the Class of 2009, these last few weeks mark the end of our time at Scotch. It is often said that ‘you don't know what you have got till it’s gone’, and in the twilight of our Scotch schooling days this reality is evident. There is, of course, nervous anticipation for the impending exams and the barely-contained enthusiasm for that day when school and exams are finished; the dawning of a new chapter in our lives of greater freedom and independence. Yet there remains a real sense of what we will be leaving behind, a poignant reminder of the good times we have been fortunate to enjoy at Scotch.

The Class of 2009 has had a memorable year, excelling in all the disciplines of school life. Whether it was music, drama, academic or sporting achievements the Year 12 cohort has had astounding individual achievements. Yet a year group is remembered not by individual brilliance but by the strength and success of all its members. So what will the Class of 2009 leave as its legacy?

For me, the thing that stands out the most is the unity with which the Year 12 cohort has approached the many challenges of the year. The friendship and camaraderie that has characterised the Year Level has provided invaluable support to all the boys in a demanding and stressful year. This is essential for any Year Level, especially in its final year. In this respect, I believe the Class of 2009 has led by example for the whole school and future Year 12 groups to come.

I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Class of 2009, to thank the parents and teachers, whose support and guidance has been so important over the course of the year. In particular, I would like to thank our Head of Year Mr Byrnes who has put in so much hard work with our best interests at heart.

As the Class of 2009 embarks on a new chapter in our lives, we leave with the knowledge, that whilst our schooling may be over, our education still continues.

Ayrton Eldridge
School Vice-Captain