Scotch Celebrates 175 Years

Today marks Scotch College’s 175th Anniversary.

175 years ago today, the Melbourne Academy first opened its doors on 6 October 1851. As we reflect on the vision, courage and determination of those who established the School in a young colonial settlement, we acknowledge the foundations they laid for what would become one of Australia’s most enduring educational institutions. As generations of students, staff, parents and Old Boys have done before us, we pause to celebrate the rich history, traditions and community that have shaped Scotch over the past 175 years.

Scotch is the oldest surviving secondary school in Victoria, and its 175th anniversary marks a significant milestone in Australian education—celebrating not just longevity, but a legacy of enduring purpose, service and achievement. In 1851, Presbyterian minister the Reverend James Forbes wrote to the Presbyterian Church in Scotland requesting support to establish a school for higher learning in Melbourne. Forbes did not live to see his vision realised; he died on 12 August 1851. Just weeks later, the Melbourne Academy (now Scotch) opened on 6 October 1851.

From its earliest years, Scotch was committed to academic excellence and character formation, producing men of influence who helped shape a young nation. In the nineteenth century alone, Old Boys included Premiers of Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia, as well as Australia’s fourth Prime Minister, Sir George Houstoun Reid, who was elected in 1904. Old Boys went on to become explorers, pioneers and leading professionals, including medical innovators such as Sir Neil Hamilton Fairley and Dr John Frederick Joseph Cade.

Among its most distinguished Old Boys is Sir John Monash—soldier, engineer and nation-builder—widely regarded as one of Australia’s greatest military commanders and a defining figure in the nation’s history.

Beyond public life, Scotchies have left an enduring mark on sport, particularly in Australian Rules Football, with more Old Boys playing in the VFL/AFL than from any other school.

Central to Scotch’s story is the strength of its Old Collegians community. The Old Scotch Collegians’ Association (OSCA), has long fostered connection and lifelong engagement among Old Boys, ensuring the spirit and values of Scotch endure well beyond the school gates.

As Scotch marks 175 years, it is not only honouring tradition but reaffirming its commitment to shaping future generations. This milestone is a celebration of education, service and achievement—past, present and still to come.

Timeline: 1851 – 2026