Philip Roff 13.9.1938-27.4.2017

The Scotch community was saddened to learn of the recent death of former Principal, Philip Anthony Vere Roff. Taking up office in 1975, Philip served the School until 1982.

As Scotch’s seventh Principal, Philip modernised the School by giving staff greater input, experience and professional development, employing more female Senior School teachers, and bridging the gap between Junior and Senior Schools. The Scotch College Foundation was strengthened with an office at Scotch, and Philip actively supported its work, including promotion of the Glenn Centre project, which opened in 1983. By broadening the House system, appointing a counsellor, expanding remedial education, improving boarders’ conditions and enabling parents to meet with staff, Philip directed pastoral care to the level of each boy.

Philip’s time in office coincided with the disquiet emanating from the struggle for ownership of the School. A progressive leader of Scotch, who was, in many ways, ahead of his time, Philip will, perhaps, be best remembered for putting the interests and welfare of Scotch boys first.

The School extends its condolences to Philip’s wife Barbara, sons Jonathan (’80) and Benjamin (’92), daughters Caroline, Katharine and Charlotte, and their families. 

Tom Batty
Principal