Scotch College is a prestigious independent day and boarding school for boys, located in the leafy suburb of Hawthorn in Melbourne, Victoria. Founded in 1851 as “The Melbourne Academy” by the Free Presbyterian Church of Victoria, the school is widely recognised as the oldest extant secondary school in the state.
It was established under the vision of Reverend James Forbes, who believed deeply in the Scottish ideal of education, where academic excellence was closely linked with faith and community service.
Over its long and distinguished history, Scotch has grown from a small house in Spring Street into a world-class educational institution, occupying a sprawling campus along the Yarra River. It has played a central role in shaping generations of leaders in Australia and beyond, and in 2001, the school proudly celebrated its 150th anniversary.
Throughout its evolution, Scotch has remained grounded in its Presbyterian roots, with a strong commitment to tradition, character formation, and high academic standards. It was among the founding members of the Associated Public Schools of Victoria (APS) and is affiliated with several esteemed educational coalitions both nationally and internationally.
The school has had a lineage of distinguished principals who have contributed to its reputation for excellence in leadership and innovation in education. The current principal, Dr. Scott Marsh, leads the school into a new era with a focus on holistic education, wellbeing, and global engagement.
With one of the largest endowments of any school in Australia and a long-standing culture of excellence, Scotch College continues to uphold its motto: “Deo Patriae Litteris” – For God, For Country, For Learning.
Basic Information
Name
Scotch College Melbourne
Establishment Year
1851
School Type
Independent boys’ day and boarding school
Location
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Denominational Affiliation
Presbyterian Church of Australia (historical links)
Current Principal
Name
Dr Scott Hugh Marsh
Term Start
2023
Qualifications
PhD
Prior Experience
Principal & Headmaster roles at William Clarke College, School Inspector, Director of Learning & Teaching, Music Director
Fee Structure (Indicative)
Tuition Fees (Day Students)
Approx. AUD 30,000 to 40,000 per year (varies by year level)
Tuition Fees (Boarding Students)
Approx. AUD 50,000 to 60,000 per year (varies by year level)
Additional Fees
Camps, excursions, uniform, co-curricular activities fees may apply
Student & Staff Data
Student Population
Approx. 1,700 boys (K-12)
Teaching Staff
150+
Support and Administrative Staff
100+
Boarding Students
Significant number; state-wide and international
Academic Performance
Curriculum
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), extensive academic, co-curricular programs
Results
Consistently high VCE scores, strong university entrance rates
Specialist Programs
Music, Arts, Sports excellence programs
Comparative Rankings
Position Among Melbourne Boys’ Schools
Among top independent boys’ schools in Victoria
National Ranking
Frequently ranked in top 10 independent schools Australia-wide for academic and co-curricular excellence
Program Metrics
Co-curricular Offerings
Rugby, cricket, rowing, music ensembles, debating, robotics, leadership programs
Boarding Program
Comprehensive pastoral care, academic support, and extracurricular engagement
Pastoral Care
Strong welfare and mentoring systems
Facilities & Resources
Campus Size
Large historic campus with modern expansions
Academic Facilities
State-of-the-art science labs, art studios, libraries
Sports Facilities
Multiple ovals, gymnasium, aquatic centre, rowing shed
Boarding Facilities
Modern boarding houses with extensive pastoral care
Student Development
Leadership Opportunities
Student council, house captains, leadership camps
Community Engagement
Service programs, volunteering, international trips
Wellbeing Programs
Counselling, psychological support, health services
Operational Metrics
Governance
Council comprising Presbyterian Church nominees, Old Scotch Collegians, and community members
Leadership Team
Principal, Vice Principals for Senior, Junior School and Teaching & Learning, Bursar, Head of Strategy, Advancement, IT, Staff Development
Chief Operating Officer
Tim Rowler (’99 Old Boy and current parent)
FAQs
What is the school’s mission?
To provide an outstanding education within a supportive Christian environment developing boys into men of character.
What are the school hours?
School operates Monday to Friday with varying start and finish times by year level. Boarding is 24/7.
Is the school only for Presbyterian families?
No, Scotch accepts boys from a range of faith backgrounds while maintaining its Christian ethos.
How is the school’s boarding program?
Offers a supportive, safe, and engaging environment with strong academic and pastoral oversight.
How to apply for enrolment?
Application through the school’s admissions office, including referral, testing, and interviews.
