The boarding journey offers students a plethora of opportunities to step outside of their comfort zone and take advantage of new environments, relationships, and opportunities during their time at Toowoomba Grammar School.
We often talk about “character education” – a theory that originated in the US and has been increasingly embraced by leading schools globally. It is encouraging all students to develop new approaches to their learning, including aspects of morals and ethics, thinking, behaviour and risk taking.
Risk taking is not something we do naturally; and the older we become, the more risk-averse we become. Adolescence tends to be the time in the lives of boys when they are most likely to be ready to take risks, with the exception of in the classroom (unfortunately). Boys are particularly mindful of asking questions of their teachers or even putting their hand up in class. Why? The fear of getting it wrong.
Boarding at TGS opens a world of new opportunities and challenges all boarders, all students in fact, to step outside of the familiar and try something new. Since its introduction just over a year ago, the TGS Boarders’ Activity Program has offered a smorgasbord of opportunity. Furthermore, the appointment of new boarding supervisors in each of the residential houses has given the boys a greater level of exposure to members of staff with new and often diverse interests. Over the next year or so, the challenge for us is to ensure that the new staff are best utilised to support our boarders to explore new avenues and opportunities, and whilst they may not be ‘out of the comfort zone’ in the traditional sense (…think bungy jumping or free fall parachuting…!) they are simply different from what has been provided before.
Students are now able to play golf, get involved in music production or sampling, go indoor rock climbing or go-kart racing. These Sunday offerings get the boys out and about and we will be adding more, and richer, opportunities to the menu on offer.
In our post-COVID world, there were three year groups that had never experienced a social event with a girls’ school and whilst, at first, this does not seem to be an ‘edgy’ or ‘out of the comfort zone’ event, it truly turned out to be! Ranging from somewhat nervous to downright terrified – and that was just the staff – the trepidation of a ‘social’ was interesting to behold; however, upon their return from Somerville House in Brisbane, the excitement and enjoyment was real for these boys who had all just stepped out of their comfort zone, taken a risk and simply enjoyed themselves in the company of girls from another school in another city.
Activities take place because of the hard work of staff behind-the-scenes, from Helen Hemmings (Deputy Headmaster’s Secretary) co-ordinating the paperwork, Nick Byron (Director of Boarding) looking after the calendar and individual members of staff giving up their time to support the boys. The entire TGS community is supportive of trying to give every boy every opportunity to flourish and make the most of his time here – step outside their comfort zone, try new things and develop into men of good character, who are resilient and ready to face the challenges of life in the real world.
- by Phil Kefford, Head of Boarding, Stephens House
Latest Blog
Innovation at TGS: Preparing Boys for a Future of Possibilities
This commitment is reflected in how, for generations, our Old Boys have maintained strong connections with the School and their region, demonstrating a dedication to making a meaningful difference in the world. Having students who are able to think critically and evolve with technology will prepare them better for the workforce. Honouring the Past, Preparing for the Future The Grammar 150 celebrations this year offer a special opportunity to reflect on the significant contributions of our…
75 Years of Rivalry and Respect
This year’s match holds special meaning, as it marks 75 years since the very first O’Callaghan Cup clash in 1950. Among those who remember the early days is Malcolm Powell, a proud TGS Old Boy (1948-52) who played fullback for the First XV in 1951. Malcolm, now in his nineties, still vividly recalls the thrill of those early games. “I watched the first Cup from the sidelines, I was in the Thirds that year,” Malcolm recalls. The fiercest of rivals but the greatest of friends “Downlands won that…
Our Sesquicentenary
The day was filled with reflection, celebration and a deep sense of connection to the generations who have shaped the School’s legacy. From the opening of a time capsule sealed in 1975, to a Sesquicentenary Assembly that honoured our roots and looked to the future, the occasion was a powerful reminder of what it means to be part of the TGS community. And of course there was cake! A Message Across Time: Opening the 1975 Time Capsule
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…
