Welcome to Boarding
Boarders from across the globe
On the Hill overlooking Scotch College, a community of boys from rural Victoria, New South Wales, and all over the world, have the remarkable opportunity to call Scotch home .
BUILDING
Lifelong connections
Director of Boarding
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome all families to the heart of Scotch College – our boarding community.”
Boarding has stood at the heart of the Scotch story since the school was founded in 1851 and continues to play an integral role in school life today. Affectionately known as ‘The Hill’, boarding at Scotch is a proud tradition spanning 175 years of excellence, character and camaraderie, where every boy is known, valued and cared for.
Our 160 boarders come from rural and regional Australia, interstate and around the world. They are welcomed into a true home away from home, one that encourages independence, resilience and personal development, as they are challenged to become enlightened learners of good character.
Set within the expansive Scotch campus, our boarding community is centred across three Boarding Houses: School House, McMeckan House and Arthur Robinson House. Here, boys live and learn alongside their peers in an environment that fosters academic excellence, strong friendships and a deep sense of belonging. Supported by dedicated staff, a structured daily routine, and rich opportunities across sport, music, leadership and community service, Scotch boarders are well supported to thrive during their time at school and well beyond their years on our Hawthorn campus.
Our boarding community extends warmly to parents and families, whose engagement and contribution are essential to the strong sense of connection we seek to foster. We value our close collaboration with the Boarding Parents Association, which plays an important role in strengthening relationships and ensuring our community continues to flourish.
On The Hill, we provide boys with a nurturing environment and a purposeful foundation for life after Scotch. Celebrating success, both individual and collective, is central to our culture. Whether it be in academics, sport, music or life milestones, celebration brings us together to highlight the unique value each boy brings. At Scotch we pride ourselves on contribution to those around us and to the development of young men of good character.
Lawson Waser Director of Boarding
Three houses, one hill
School House, McMeckan House and Arthur Robinson House are more than just places to live; they are homes of rest, structure, safety and community. The houses form the basis of Pastoral Care in boarding. Working with resident boarding staff, Heads of House create a familial environment for boys to thrive.
Together, the three houses cater for 160 students from Years 7–12 from Melbourne, rural Australia and around the world.
From the Head of School House, Andrew Argent
When I started working at Scotch in 2000, one of the first things that stood out to me was the energy and close bonds formed between the boarders. With my sporting background, a previous Head of Boarding, Doug Galbraith, invited me to be a part of running the Wedderburn Cup competition. This further opened a window into boarding life and I was lucky enough to be appointed Deputy Head of Arthur Robinson House soon after. From here I have been privileged to have spent over a decade leading up the team running the mighty School House.
Growing up as an ‘Army brat’ and having to start at a new school every couple of years, I feel well equipped to help our boys navigate the challenges of starting at a new school and leaving the comfort and support of the family home in an empathic and understanding way.
All of our School House staff are passionate about guiding students through the maze of academics, sport, music, service and a social life. We watch proudly as they develop the self-confidence and independence to flourish once they move into the world beyond the Scotch gates to follow their goals and dreams. Our boys come from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures and seeing them develop a respect for and an understanding of what can be learned from each other is a highlight of my job.
From the Head of McMeckan House, Pino Cutinelli
Head of McMeckan Boarding is a highly rewarding and challenging role. Parents place an enormous amount of trust in Scotch when they send their son to boarding, and our team values this trust. Boarding creates an important opportunity for all students to learn and be the best that they can be in and out of the classroom.
My experience and strength is in the area of Pastoral Care of the students at Scotch. Living in the boarding house allows my family and I to be part of the growth and learning of the students on the Hill. I began teaching at Scotch in 2001, and since then have continued to deliver the utmost respect and care for the boarders on the Hill.
The most enjoyable aspect of leading my boarding house is fostering a sense of pride in students for their learning, and allowing each student to be themselves whilst pursuing their dreams and goals. I have a wonderful team of staff who put the needs of students and families ‘in the front of mind’ in all that they do. McMeckan House is a house which blends the rich traditions of the past with the adaptation of the new world, as the students embark on the path of Scotch boarding.
From the Head of Arthur Robinson House, Claire Jones
My journey at Scotch began in 2014 as a teacher of Geography and Form Teacher. In the following two years I coordinated Rugby and created the Adventurers program. In 2017 I was appointed as Head of Arthur Robinson House.
My love of boarding was instilled in my senior years of schooling when I boarded at the United World College of the Atlantic. Relationships with my peers, as well as staff, underpinned the experience and unsurprisingly, relationships remain at the core of boarding life today. I am still in contact with many of my friends (and some teachers) from Atlantic College, despite them being located across the globe. The bonds I created in just two years were deep and strong, and provide an insight into the life-long friends boarders at Scotch will develop.
It is a privilege to be entrusted with the care and development of the young men in Arthur Robinson House. The team works closely together to nurture and care for each student, respecting their individuality and supporting their passions and pursuits. We provide appropriate scaffolding and encourage boys to develop their life skills such that they can be truly independent at the end of Year 12.
My greatest joy is watching our boys achieve what they thought impossible, looking out for each other, contributing to the life of the boarding house and continuing our collegiate spirit as they become young men who fill us with pride.
Accommodation
Boys in Years 7–10 sleep in rooms of up to four with this number reducing as they progress through the school. Generally, boys will share a room with other students in their year level with each room having a separated area with their bed, wardrobes, storage and a safe for valuables. Room allocation is done by the boys’ respective Head of House in consultation with the Director of Boarding. Room allocation is done each term with shared rooms allowing the boys to develop friendships across the House along with community living and personal skills.
Boys in Year 11 have shared rooms of two or three with each student having a separated space with their bed, a study desk, wardrobes, storage and a safe for valuables. In some instances, Year 11 boys may have a single room if there is availability. This is done on a rotational basis each term. Year 12 boys have their own room with their bed, a study area, wardrobes, storage and a fridge in some instances.
Recreation rooms
There are recreation rooms in each house, providing comfortable areas for conversation, listening to music or reading. Table tennis tables, billiard tables and gaming consoles in the ‘rec’ rooms are well used. A kitchenette is also available for preparing beverages and light snacks.
Private study
Homework is supervised in the evenings by the Head of House or one of their assistants. Help is never far away, whether from a member of staff, an older boy, or from a student in the same year level. Prep is held Sunday through Thursday nights as part of a structured study approach designed to help all students perform to the best of their ability. Designated prep study rooms are situated in each boarding house and are fitted with lockers, private desks and necessary technology.
English and Mathematics tutors visit the boarders each week during prep time and are available to any boy.
Designed for living and learning
Dining
All meals, breakfast, lunch and dinner, are served in a communal dining hall adjacent to the boarding houses. The food is of a high standard and is prepared in a modern kitchen, staffed by professional chefs and their assistants. Attending the dining hall at designated meal times is compulsory unless leave has been granted.
Every endeavour is made to ensure that each boy receives a balanced diet and there is sufficient quantity for healthy appetites. Consultation with a dietitian takes place regularly. Boys with special food requirements are catered for within limits and all meals are supervised by staff.
Each house has a kitchenette, equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, toaster and sandwich maker. Boys may use the kitchenette for preparing beverages and light snacks. Supper boxes containing bread, cheese, condiments and biscuits are supplied.
Chapel
The Littlejohn Memorial Chapel at Scotch College is a cherished landmark, dedicated to honour the memory of former Principal William Littlejohn.
Nestled on a hill overlooking the campus, the chapel serves as a spiritual and communal hub for the school. It is a place where students, staff and the broader Scotch community gather for reflective and religious ceremonies. Compulsory chapel services are held for boys and staff on Sundays at 6.30 pm.
Medical/health
The College doctor, together with other consultants used by the College, provides a full range of medical services to deliver students’ healthcare. The boarders’ health centre is well equipped, with a six-bed ward, recovery room, doctor’s consulting room, dispensary and accommodation for nurses. A resident nurse lives on-site, providing care 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
A peaceful space for boarding families to gather, rest and recharge.
Errington Retreat
At Scotch, we are committed to supporting our families in all aspects of their son’s boarding experience.
The Errington Retreat is a magnificent building that provides a dedicated space for parents, who often travel long distances to visit their sons, to refresh and relax, and to interact with each other over a coffee or garden barbeque. It is a beautiful and serene environment at the heart of the boarding precinct and links to the Village Green, an open communal space for boarding families to enjoy.
The retreat offers comfortable lounges and a fireplace, a kitchen, dining area and an outdoor gathering space, and it connects to the boarders’ gymnasium and weights room.
Caring for the whole boy
Connection and wellbeing are important parts of each boy’s personal development. Our boarding program offers a range of accessible options to maintain physical and mental health.
Pastoral care
The boys’ pastoral care is pivotal to all that is done in boarding. A range of staff are available to ensure care for the boys is at the highest level.
Overseen by the Director of Boarding, each boarding house has a residential Head of House, Deputy Head of House, Matron/House Manager along with a team of live-in tutors. Additionally, Hill Chaplains and the Hill Psychologist provide an understanding and caring presence within their allocated houses, providing support for the boys and staff in times of need.
Interschool sport
On Saturday mornings, school sporting teams of all age groups compete against other APS schools. Sports help boys learn cooperation, determination and the importance of exercise for their physical and mental health. Participation in the program is compulsory and there are an endless number of different sports to choose from, catering for different levels of ability and every type of interest.
Socialisation
Respectful relationships are an important part of preparing boys to become good friends, partners, fathers and colleagues. To foster these relationships, activities are often conducted with neighbouring independent girls’ and co-educational schools, such as social dances and workshops. Heads of Houses ensure that arrangements for transport and other details are appropriate.
WELLBEING Sports
Boarding at Scotch College offers boys immediate and consistent access to the school’s exceptional facilities. Living on campus means boarders can make use of these spaces well beyond the standard school day, with many facilities available during leisure time and weekends.
This access is complemented by a dedicated boarding gym and weight training space, allowing boys to build strength and fitness as part of their daily routine. Whether it is an early morning session, recovery work, or extra conditioning outside of team training, boarders are able to integrate sport seamlessly into their week.
Beyond the boarding-specific facilities, boys benefit from the College’s extensive sporting environment. The campus features multiple ovals, indoor and outdoor courts, fields, pool and the Yarra River.
Sports amenities include a high performance gymnasium, indoor heated pool and diving pool, badminton courts, three squash courts, indoor basketball courts and table tennis
twelve tennis courts and seven ovals with facilities for cricket, football, hockey, rugby and soccer
the Cardinal Pavilion: world-class rowing facilities comprising sculls, four and eight-oared boats, a weights and training centre, changing rooms, a meeting room and a large function room.
the Glenn Centre, the College’s indoor sporting complex, is open at various intervals at weekends. Boarders may swim in the heated swimming and diving pool, under the supervision of duty staff, or use the other facilities of the Centre for a game of squash, basketball, badminton or volleyball.
Music
For boys pursuing music, living on campus allows students to practise regularly, collaborate with peers and take full advantage of the College’s extensive music program. The College offers access to private tuition and expert staff, with additional academic and co-curricular support.
Boarders have access to dedicated music practice rooms within the James Forbes Academy, as well as additional practice spaces within each boarding house.
Importantly, music is not confined to formal lesson times. The boarding environment fosters a culture of participation, where boys can rehearse informally, collaborate with others, and immerse themselves in the creative life of the school. Supported by stateof-the-art facilities and a strong performing arts
program, boarders are well positioned to develop both skill and confidence.
Our exceptional music program includes specialist staff of more than 70 music educators a wide range of instruments for student hire two computer-equipped music teaching classrooms a 500-seat performance auditorium
more than 30 pianos in the Music School and a pipe organ in the Memorial Hall.
BOARDING AT SCOTCH
The best backyard in Melbourne
Growing and learning within a stone’s throw of Melbourne CBD, boys form lifelong connections as part of a community where they are supported, nurtured and challenged to become the best men they can be.
The campus and beyond
Scotch College’s main campus is located in Hawthorn, in the heart of suburban Melbourne. Our riverfront location, directly on the Yarra River, provides a peaceful natural environment for everyday learning.
Because Scotch College is located only a short train or tram ride from the centre of Melbourne, boarders have the opportunity to be exposed to and benefit from its cultural life. Large groups frequently go to sporting events, theatre, art galleries, special exhibitions and the cinema, often at a cost considerably less than normal.
This inner-city Hawthorn campus is coupled with our beautiful rural Victorian properties in Healesville, Cowes and Mallacoota, where our boys are given opportunities to learn and grow in a peaceful, natural environment throughout their years at Scotch.
Weekend
activities
The Hill remains a busy and vibrant place at weekends. Whilst older boys often have homework to complete and may need to study for forthcoming exams and tests, there is much more for boarders to do, including interschool sport, socialising and leisure activities. Boarders are also encouraged to join the various clubs and societies which exist within the school.
On Saturday mornings, College sporting teams of all age groups compete against teams from other private schools. All boys participate in this sporting program and more than 20 different sports are catered for, at different levels of ability.
The Glenn Centre, the College’s indoor sporting complex, is open at various intervals at weekends. Boarders may swim in the heated swimming and diving pool, under the supervision of duty staff, or use the other facilities of the Centre for a game of squash, basketball, badminton or volleyball.
The Hill Activities Coordinator arranges numerous leisure activities for the boys, ranging from day activities such as rock climbing, mountain bike riding, AFL matches, bowling and museums. Activities are communicated to parents at the beginning of each term. Some activities incur a cost to families, however, every effort is made to minimise costs.
The boys also have the use of television, computers, gaming consoles, cinema, chess, Foxtel cable television, pool, billiards and table tennis within their house.
IN THE CLASSROOM
Learning at Scotch
Our teaching staff are highly qualified specialists. Many are at the forefront of curriculum development and teaching innovation in Victoria, Australia and abroad. The curriculum is designed to identify students’ areas of interest and strength, remaining broad and comprehensive until the middle years when an elective program is introduced.
Academics
In Years 7 and 8, boys undertake core subjects in a team–teaching structure that provides exposure to diverse intellectual disciplines and offers opportunities for boys to identify and develop their areas of interest and strength. Languages are core subjects, with students in Year 7 studying two languages, selecting from Chinese, French, German and Italian.
In Year 8, most students continue on with their selected languages, although they may alternatively choose to study one language and add an additional History and Geography elective. In Years 9 and 10, boys broaden their horizons through elective subject choices, including visual, dramatic and creative arts, and languages. They access state-of-the-art facilities for Science, Design and Technology, Drama, and Music, as well as classrooms and other specialist facilities that are equipped with ICT and audiovisual resources to support individualised learning in a connected world.
In Years 11 and 12, boys work in specialist areas within the VCE curriculum. In these years, our academic emphasis shifts towards high-level problem solving.
Scotch has a strong tradition of boys continuing to university, with the two most popular tertiary institutions being the University of Melbourne and Monash University. Some boys study overseas and others choose to join the workforce or take a gap year once completing their Year 12. Careers guidance is provided to boys and families through the School’s Future Pathways Centre.
Co-curricular (sports, music, etc)
We believe sport and physical activity is for everyone, and helps boys build resilience, collaboration and problem-solving skills as part of team or individual sports. Our dynamic and diverse sports program offers 11 winter sports and 17 summer sports, as well as athletics, water polo and activities during the spring season. All students are required to participate in APS sports in the summer and winter seasons.
Our world-class Music Academy gives boys the chance to explore their creative passions, artistic development, critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. Whether they enrol in individual or group lessons, or join one of our 50 different ensembles, students hone their musical and public performance skills, and gain a sense of community and connection.
Service
As boys progress through the school, Scotch offers a range of age-appropriate service activities.
In the Senior School, participation in the after-school Wednesday Service Activity Program is mandatory for boys in Years 9–11. From 2027, this program will become part of the Wednesday afternoon curriculum and will be mandatory for all Years 7–11 boys.
In Year 11, boys participate in immersion programs with community organisations in the areas of children and family support, community service, conservation, EmpowerEd, environmental action, food support and music. Scotch has established relationships with many organisations and charities, offering boys the chance to contribute to the causes they care most about.
Scotch Family
Scotch College boys become members of the Scotch Family from their first day of school and for the rest of their lives. This family not only welcomes them into a global network of peers, mentors, champions and supporters, but also makes them a part of the collective impact of the school that is over 175 years strong.
Old Scotch Collegians’ Association (OSCA)
Scotch College is home to one of the largest, and most active, alumni associations in Australia, keeping our students connected to the Scotch Family long after they leave school.
Established in 1913, the Old Scotch Collegians’ Association seeks to provide the best alumni experience in the world.
A day in the life
7.00 am Lights on
Time to get ready for the day, reminded with a gentle knock at everyone’s door by a staff member or student Prefect
7.30 am Breakfast
8.15 am Prepare for school
Collect books and belongings for morning classes
8.25 am Head to classrooms
8:30 am School starts
Periods 1 and 2 10.10 am School Assembly 10.40 am Recess
Gather books for Period 3 11.10 am Classes resume
Periods 3 and 4
12.50 pm Lunch on The Hill and free time to socialise at either the Boarding House or with their classmates.
1.40 pm Classes resume
Periods 5 and 6
3.20 pm Classes end
3.30 pm Sports training
Alternatively students can attend the Centre for Learning (CFL) to meet with dedicated staff who are available for extra tuition each weekday
4.45 pm Leisure time
Short visit to local shops, relax with friends, play pool or tennis, or work out in the gym
6.00 pm Dinner and announcements
6.30 pm Weekly house meetings
7.00 pm Study and homework
8.45 pm Supper
9.00 pm Leisure time
Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or coffee in the recreation room, watch TV or call parents and friends
9.15 pm–10.30 pm Bedtimes staggered by year groups
11.00 pm All Year 12s must be in their rooms
Boarding staff structure
Boarding leadership
The Principal and the Director of Boarding provide overall guidance, holding responsibility for students’ academic progress and wellbeing across the boarding environment.
House and year-level leadership
Each student’s development is overseen by his Boarding Head of House, together with his Director of Year in the day school, ensuring consistent standards and a strong sense of structure and care.
Pastoral and academic support
Heads of House, House Tutors, Form Teachers and Deputies of each house work closely with students on a day-to-day basis, supporting their academic, physical, emotional and spiritual growth through direct guidance and relationships.
Student care and wellbeing
Overseen by the Heads and Deputy Heads of House, roles such as the Matron/House Manager, Overseas Student Coordinator, Chaplains and Hill Psychologist focus on individual student welfare, providing targeted care and support to meet diverse needs.
Operational and enrichment support
Catering and housekeeping staff, along with the Activities Coordinator and the Boarding Administration Assistant contribute to a safe, well-run and engaging boarding environment that supports students’ daily life beyond the classroom.
A tight knit community
Tom – Year 11 Boarder
“Boarding has made the transition into Year 11 so much smoother. The structure of each day has helped me build a routine that I know will benefit me later in life. The support from tutors has been incredible; they’ve helped me settle in, introduced me to people, and guided me through everything from academics to daily processes. It genuinely feels like home.”
Alex – Tom’s Mum
“It’s been wonderful seeing Tom thrive in boarding. Seeing the older students connecting with the younger boys and that sense of community is special. I’ve noticed he’s clearly very happy, which makes it easy for us. If he’s happy, we’re happy. The other parents have been so welcoming too. We’ve already connected with families from Tom’s dad’s time at Scotch, and even shared a lovely dinner at a local pub. It’s reassuring to know he’s in such a positive and supportive environment.”
Eliza – Henry’s Mum
“Being a boarding mum for five years has been one of the most rewarding experiences. I’ve seen my boys grow in independence. They come home with tidier rooms, manage their own schedules, and get themselves around with the support of the wonderful boarding staff. What I didn’t expect was how strong the parent community would be. I’ve made lifelong friends through the boarding house events. And Pino is like a third parent. The staff care for the boys as if they were their own.”
Dante – Year 10 Boarder
“I chose boarding because I wanted to push myself to study harder and meet people I’d never have met otherwise. I’ve made friendships I know will last a lifetime. I love exploring the campus and constantly finding facilities and places I didn’t know existed. When I leave Scotch I want to look back on the friends I made and know it wasn’t just a school I went to, but that it was an experience I appreciated all of.”
Henry – Year 12 Boarder
“Boarding has given me a second home. Coming back each day to a group of boys who are always up for a chat or a game of backyard cricket makes a huge difference, and sometimes you just need that. I started in Year 9 and it was so easy to transition from home to the big smoke because of all the other boys and their consideration for each other. Boarding has taught me independence and encouraged me to grab every opportunity that comes my way. Thursday’s fried chicken lunch is a highlight too; we all look forward to it!”
Anthony – Dante’s Dad
“Dante needed structure, and boarding has given him that in spades. His daily routine, the friendships he’s formed, and the food, he loves it all. We speak every night, and he’s consistently upbeat and positive. Honestly, it’s been better than we imagined. We rarely have questions for the staff because everything is so clearly laid out. It’s one of those rare experiences that truly lives up to its reputation.”
Join the Scotch Family
Junior School Prep–Year 6
Senior School and Boarding Years 7–12
For more information on enrolling your son, please contact admissions:
+61 3 9810 4203
admissions@scotch.vic.edu.au
Find out more
Scotch College acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as Australia’s First People. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners of Country throughout the continent of Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We respectfully acknowledge the Wurundjeri and Bunurong people, who form part of the Kulin Nation, as the recognised Traditional Custodians on whose country our school stands.
