“Some of Theo’s teachers were mine, so it was lovely to reminisce on old times while also experiencing new things through his eyes.”— Nicholas Hess, TGS 1997-2001
For Nicholas Hess, Toowoomba Grammar School isn't just a place where he spent his school days, it’s a foundation for life, one that continues to influence him long after graduation.
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,” reflected Nicholas, who was a boarder in Taylor House from 1997-2001.
“You develop these bonds that last a lifetime. I still catch-up with some of my mates, and I bump into people who went to TGS in different facets of my life everywhere. Those connections and friends are the biggest thing for me.”
This sense of belonging is something Nicholas believes is unique to TGS. The friendships formed through shared experiences on the playing field and stage, in the classroom and in the boarding houses.
One of his favourite memories was playing for the First XV in the O’Callaghan Cup on Grammar Downlands Day in 2001. He missed playing half the game after breaking his thumb but recalls the thrill when Ashley Leeder (1997-2001) kicked the penalty right on full time for TGS to draw the game 24-all. It’s still considered one of TGS’s legendary matches.
For Nicholas, his relationship with the School didn’t end when he walked out of the gates in 2001. His return here, first as a coach (Rugby 2005-09 and Tennis 2007-09) and a Boarding Assistant (2007) then a member of the Old Boys’ Association committee from 2017, was a natural progression, a way to show gratitude for what the School and his parents had given him.
"My parents sacrificed a lot for me and my brother (Fraser 2002-06) to go here, and I just wanted to give back as a show of my appreciation for all they’ve done and what I experienced there," he shared.
And he has given back, not only through the TGSOBA, coaching and assisting in boarding, but drawing on his knowledge as a Financial Planner to start a financial literacy program for our students.
“It’s just an hour-long presentation, but it’s important. I teach the boys about budgeting, understanding tax, interest and the importance of being financially aware,” Nicholas explained.
“It’s basic stuff, but it sets them up for life.”
It was always a given that Nicolas would send his son Theo here (2022-24) which presented another dimension to this already strong Blue and Gold connection.
“It was great to be able to share similar experiences, despite our generational gap,” said Nicholas.
Now, with Theo pursuing his basketball career in the USA, Nicholas has more time on his hands and has answered TGS’s call for Boarding Assistants; he spends Friday nights or weekends guiding the young men he can relate to so well. That involvement on the frontline enhances his position on the TGS Old Boys’ Association.
“I like to see what’s happening behind the scenes,” explained Nicholas.
“It’s imperative that TGS maintains many of our old values and traditions, but it’s also important that we grow and move forward - I can help achieve that balance by being on the OBA.”
The OBA is a chance to relive the past, as well as shape the future of the School. Nicholas is passionate about encouraging other Old Boys to reconnect with TGS, either as Boarding Assistants, organising reunions, coaching/volunteering or joining the OBA committee.
“There’s always a place to come back to,” stated Nicholas.
“Even if it’s just supporting the boys at games, that’s a good start and you never know who you will bump into."
“We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and it’s great to be able to give back.”
Latest Blog
A Safe, Welcoming and Joyous Community
Tell us about yourself My background, at least that associated with boarding and teaching, is long and varied with a number of different aspects leading to this chosen career path. For the most part, I was schooled in Canberra but had extended periods in Lesotho, Norfolk Island, and Samoa as a result of my father’s work in foreign aid. My schooling was quite disruptive, and I wasn’t a model student! I was always passionate about English; often distracting myself (amongst other things) immersed…
Facilitating Respect
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…
The Benefits of Early Learning at TGS
Making a decision about our children’s education can be difficult; especially when there are so many options available. Once upon a time parents simply sent their children to the school that was a walkable distance from home. Much research has evolved since the early 1900s about what is best for our children to foster a love of learning and feel confident and safe in the classroom. Here at Toowoomba Grammar School, we take this very seriously. Pastoral care comes before anything else; we see…
Outside of the Text Book
“The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” — Ludwig Wittgenstein There is no denying that learning a foreign language can sometimes be a challenging experience, particularly with limited opportunity to practise outside the classroom. However, learning a language is a skill that will add to many facets of your life, often without you even realising, and as part of a well-rounded education, the value of language learning cannot be underestimated. "A different language is a…
TGS Academic Enrichment Program for Boarders
Toowoomba Grammar School provides an inspiring and broad curriculum for boys, delivered by dedicated educators who understand how to engage boys in their learning. Our staff go above and beyond in providing an outstanding education and support network for our boys. They are regularly available to answer questions, assist with homework and assignments and provide academic support for all our students. This is particularly so for our boarders, thanks to our Academic Enrichment Program (AEP). All…
Teacher as a Student
As a teacher at Toowoomba Grammar School, I teach mathematics and business studies, and manage the GPS Chess team. Prior to teaching, I worked as a financial analyst. Recently I have completed a master's degree in science at the University of Southern Queensland. My study was focused exclusively on data science, and I have become an expert in the management of big data with a specialisation in modelling and forecasting using machine learning techniques. The motivation for this study was…
Developing Healthy Relationships
Healthy relationships are extremely important for the development of mental health in our youth. When you spend time with people you care about, who care about you, this can help you feel connected and supported. This term is one of the largest in regard to boys participating in activities and sports ranging from field, to court, to thought. This is in addition to music and drama programs. At Toowoomba Grammar School, we believe this allows for plenty of opportunity to develop the ability to…
Striving for the Best
Director of Volleyball, Mr Eric Smith has spent the past 20 years at Toowoomba Grammar School not only shaping the minds of the young men in his science classroom but also working tirelessly on improving his capacity to coach volleyball to the highest level. Starting at the School in 2003, Eric quickly rediscovered his passion for volleyball, something he had not experienced since playing for Ipswich Grammar School during the ‘90s. “I felt completely at home back on the volleyball court and…
When it comes to Music, Variety is the Spice of Life
In the Queensland Curriculum, the content of the music syllabus includes the study of the people, places and cultures involved in musical creation and performance. As our country becomes increasingly diverse, it is important for students in every school setting to study a wide variety of musical styles, cultures and genres. The Toowoomba Grammar School Music program of 2022 embraces this holistic approach to the study of music, encouraging teachers and students to explore a variety of musical…
