06 March 2025
On Monday, the Year 1 cohort had the pleasure of welcoming three distinguished old scholars to share their experiences of being students at SPSC decades ago. This experience enriched our Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) learning about families, roles and responsibilities and changes over time. Our panel included Bill Papps (FLL 2005 – father of Peter), James Edginton (MAC 2001 – father of Henry), and Robert Welch (FLL 1955 – grandfather of Walter), who engaged the boys in a lively and insightful Q&A session. Year 1 students grilled the panel with pre-prepared questions to learn about school life in the past, exploring topics such as uniforms, favourite games and subjects, technology (or the lack thereof), changes in the school, memorable moments and words of advice.
The boys were captivated by the old photographs and the fascinating stories shared. Highlights included intercollegiate rivalries, favourite teachers and the reasons they were so well regarded, the memory of a student receiving the cane and the cane coming off second best, and the amusing anecdote of Mr Welch earning the nickname ‘Froggy’ after a student once jumped over him.
What resonated most, however, was a shared message from all three guests: while academics are important, it is the friendships and sense of community that remain with them long after their school days. This sentiment provided a meaningful reflection for our students, reminding them of the enduring value of connection, camaraderie and their own place in SPSC’s vast history.
Mr Robert Adcock
Year Level Coordinator – Year 1
