Recently the 2022 TGS Prefect group spoke at the Headmaster’s Assembly about respecting individuality. But what does this mean? The foundations for a successful relationship with peers, family, co-workers, and others is framed and supported by a two-way street of respect. However, for this two-way street to be functional it is important to know that respect cannot be demanded, it can only be earned.
Toowoomba Grammar School is no different and respect is nurtured in various forms such as in the classroom, sporting realms, cocurricular activities and the boarding houses. TGS prides itself on being a family and community where respect is integral between staff and students, allowing positive relationships to flourish. The School promotes the assistance for staff and students via professional organisations that focus on relationship development such as RUOK, National Humanities Alliance, Lives Lived Well and other groups. These groups focus on the development of respect and relationships and allow the students to utilise their experience to support and promote better pathways for respect to be fostered in our community.
The main message of respect centres around being mindful of what is happening in another person’s life and to consider their needs before our own. Independent School’s Queensland recently released the results of a study into student wellbeing. “A July study into the wellbeing of Australian school students has found that almost a third of students reported that they were not coping well over the first half of the year.” (ISQ News, August 2022). The report suggests that this figure is growing in 2022 and students are becoming increasingly concerned over matters relating to respect, health and acceptance.
National Manager Schools at Headspace Kirsten Douglas has stated “Right now, we need to talk to each other, reconnect and slowdown in order to speed up. There is an inclination to move at great speed; it feels counterintuitive to slow down, stop and communicate, but if we don't do this, we'll spiral out of control.” What this suggests is that in our rush to get back to ‘normal’ we are forgetting the importance of positive and respectful relationships. Students need to feel a connection with their teacher whilst feeling safe and respected. However, the same must demonstrated in return, as suggested earlier – respect is earned, it cannot be demanded or simply expected.
In summary – it is important to know that Toowoomba Grammar School is working hand in hand with leading groups and staff to develop a culture of understanding and the need to respect yourself, respect your family, respect your teachers and respect the work of others that take pride in keeping the school looking the best at all times. The students are encouraged to follow the procedures of pastoral support and meet with mentors, heads of house or heads of department if they feel they are not being respected. The Toowoomba Grammar School belief is that if you are respectful towards others, then you will generate a platform of respect in return for yourself.
Mr Michael Hall
Acting Head of Senior School - Students
Latest Blog
Better Together - 2025 IBSC Conference
With its global network of over 300 member schools spanning more than 20 countries, the IBSC advocates for educational opportunities that focus on the holistic development of young men. This year, the IBSC Annual Conference was hosted by Belmont Hill School in Boston, United States, where teachers, school leaders and experts in boys' education gathered under the inspiring theme of "Better Together". Toowoomba Grammar School was proudly represented by Mr Luke Rawle, Ms Abby Varley and Mr Henry…
Reliving the Past, Shaping the Future
Mr Nicholas Hess has been a coach for both rugby and tennis and a boarding supervisor after he finished Year 12 His connection to the School runs deep, from the friendships he formed as a student to his dedication now as a Boarding House Assistant and long-standing member of the Old Boys’ Association (OBA). TGS has had a lasting impact on his life, and he has been only too willing to give back to the place that he loves so much. “There’s something special about being part of the Blue and Gold,”…
Never Give Up
Six years ago, after experiencing ongoing muscle weakness, he was given a life-changing diagnosis - Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2i (LGMD2i). Basically, Matt’s body doesn’t produce the chemical substance, Ribitol which is crucial for muscle function. He was told there is no treatment or cure, that he would be wheelchair bound in five to ten years and require oxygen, with the likelihood of an early death. But Matt would not accept that fate. Instead, he took up the fight – not just for…
A Magical Collaboration - “Midnight: The Cinderella Musical”
A co-production between Toowoomba Grammar School and Fairholme College, this enchanting musical captivated audiences at the Empire Theatre for two nights in early June, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. A Story Brought to Life “Midnight” is a fresh take on the Cinderella story, featuring music and lyrics by John Foreman and Anthony Costanzo, with orchestrations by Anthony Barnhill and additional contributions from Kate Miller-Heidke. The book, written by Dean Murphy and Pip…
Pioneering Excellence: Launching TGS's Athletic Development Program
Our Athletic Development Program represents a paradigm shift in how schools nurture sporting talent—combining cutting-edge technology, evidence-based practices and a whole-person philosophy that prepares young men for success beyond the scoreboard.
Reflecting on the Past, Walking Forward Together
This week is an important time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to reflect on how we can each contribute to achieving reconciliation. The theme for NRW 2025, 'Bridging Now to Next,' calls on us to honour the past, acknowledge the present and actively build a better future. It reminds us that reconciliation is not a destination, it is a journey guided by reflection, respect and a shared commitment to walking together. As we look back on the…
A Bright Start to our Rising and Leading Series
More than 150 members of the Toowoomba and Darling Downs community joined us to hear from leading demographer and data commentator Simon Kuestenmacher, whose presentation sparked fresh thinking about the decade ahead.
Women of Grammar Luncheon
A Tribute to the Heart of the School Originally scheduled for International Women's Day but rescheduled (thanks, Cyclone Alfred!) to the eve of Mother's Day, the timing felt serendipitous. It was a day to honour the women—past and present—whose quiet strength, tireless support and enduring love have shaped the School's legacy and the lives of its boys for 150 years. The marquee was beautifully appointed for a day of merriment
Lachlan Stuart's Marathon Feat
Mr Stuart will return to TGS again for the event held on Wednesday, 28 May to support the Year 12's significant fundraising G150 Gift Run event. The boys are running 1500km in a relay format to honour a 1968 TGS Interact Club fundraising project that will help upgrade the original School gates on Herries Street, along with raising funds for the Nerve Connection Foundation.
