“I think HAP is the pinnacle of service. It really allows you to experience how it truly feels to make a difference in someone’s life. I encourage all boys to consider participating in this service opportunity and all other service initiatives that TGS has to offer.”— Harry Skobe, Year 12
A life-changing mentoring program continues to grow stronger, with more TGS boys helping young refugee students navigate schooling in Toowoomba.
The Anglicare Homework Assistance Program (HAP), run in conjunction with Darling Heights State School, sees many of our boys volunteer their time on Wednesdays after class to help many young refugee and primary school students facing challenging times with their homework, or to chat and play games.
Our boys thoroughly enjoy meeting, supporting and learning about the lives of the younger children. This forges community connections and fosters inclusion for the Darling Heights students; it also has a wonderful effect on the TGS students involved.
Two of our students taking part in HAP talked about the impact the program has had on their lives.
Harry Skobe, Year 12
I was so proud to be a part of HAP because it exposed me to something that many of us are desensitised to due to how fortunate we are to have been born in such a good country. Darling Heights State School has an incredibly diverse student body, with many of its students hailing from refugee backgrounds.
Some of the stories I have heard from the students and staff members were simply jaw-dropping. It really shows how strong and resilient these young people are, as they are always so caring, kind and genuine — despite everything they have been through.
As I continued to build a unique relationship with these kids, I felt a sense of guilt as I watched many of them come to school with no socks on or in unwashed clothes. I had ignorantly taken many of these privileges for granted. I decided that I wanted to do everything that I could to help these families that had been through so much already. This is why I started a drive to donate whatever cleaning equipment, clothes and hygiene products the TGS community could spare. With some assistance from Mrs Therese Manassero (Head of House – Groom Day), the donations rolled in. We filled two buses full of donations, which we drove over to Darling Heights State School to supply to families in need. This drive is now an annual event, one that I and many others who have contributed to its success are very proud of.
Hazim Murad, Year 11
Joining the Homework Assistance Program at Darling Heights State School was a decision motivated by a genuine desire to assist the students. I wanted to offer my support and make a positive impact on their educational journey. Many of these students have faced significant challenges, having to leave their homes due to conflict and hardship. As a refugee myself, I am profoundly aware of the struggles they face every day.
“I formed strong connections with those who faced challenges like mine; seeing the joy this partnership brought them is something I will cherish for a long time.”— Hazim Murad, Year 11
When at Darling Heights State School, my role primarily involves assisting students with their homework. This usually starts with helping them address any questions or difficulties they may have. Beyond academics, interaction extends to creating a supportive and engaging environment. Once the homework is completed, we engage in activities such as card games, promoting not only educational growth but also social and emotional development for everyone involved.
Throughout this experience, I’ve gained valuable insights into working with students from diverse backgrounds. Understanding their individual needs and learning styles has been key in improving my communication and interaction skills. Witnessing their resilience and determination in challenging circumstances has been truly amazing.
The importance of serving communities like Darling Heights cannot be emphasised enough.
By offering support and resources, we not only help them adjust to their surroundings but also empower them to achieve their goals and aspirations. Investing time in the education and wellbeing of these young individuals not only benefits their lives but also strengthens bonds within the community.
Latest Blog
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.
Remembering Private Colin Stirling, a TGS Old Boy (1899-1900)
This was the headline that screamed out on the pages of the Toowoomba Chronicle and Darling Downs General Advertiser on Thursday, 15 August 1901. With ANZAC Day just last Friday, this week we continue to honour many of our Old Boys who gave the ultimate sacrifice including Private Colin Stirling, a TGS Old Boy (1899-1900) and our first former student lost in the Boer War. The story began with: “News was received on Tuesday afternoon that in an engagement at Kopjesfontein, on the 6th instant,…
Honouring Tradition: Toowoomba Grammar School and ANZAC Day
This year marks 98 years since TGS and the 13 Army Cadet Unit (Toowoomba Collective Unit) first participated in ANZAC Services in Toowoomba. The School's commitment to these services is a testament to its deep-rooted military traditions and the enduring spirit of remembrance. Mounties out the front of School House in 1908. A Legacy of Service Toowoomba Grammar School's military traditions date back to its early days. The School's Cadet Unit, formed in 1892, has been a cornerstone of its…
