Education is a transformative journey where the path we choose exerts a profound influence on our ultimate success.
A streamed class is like an express locomotive: swift, efficient, and filled with eager passengers zooming towards their educational destination. Meanwhile, an unstreamed class resembles a motley group of hikers who accidentally wandered onto the wrong trail, stumbling and bickering as they struggle to find their way. Imagine the express locomotive of streamed classes, full of students lounging in plush seats, indulging in gourmet meals, and admiring breathtaking views from a luxurious observation deck. They have it all - the resources, the support, and the perfect learning environment. Now, let's contrast that with our motley crew of hikers. They're weighed down by massive backpacks, stumbling over rocks, and wearing mismatched socks. One hiker even has a map upside down, leading everyone in circles. It's a hilarious sight, but not exactly a recipe for academic success. So, let's ditch the hiking boots and hop aboard the train of streamed classes. All aboard the express train of academically streamed classes - where learning is unique and engaging.
As a year 9 student venturing into the world of streamed classes for the first time, I am thrilled to discover the immense benefits they offer. Streamed classes have proven to be a remarkable educational journey. This tailored approach has undoubtedly enhanced my academic growth and instilled in me a sense of confidence and enthusiasm for learning. However, if streamed classes had been introduced in Year 7 and Year 8, the benefits would have been even more profound for students like me. Commencing streamed classes at an earlier stage in our educational journey would have enabled us to establish a robust foundation for the future.
Academic streaming benefits every student, regardless of their cognitive abilities. By grouping students based on their academic level, we create a harmonious symphony of learning. Tailoring classes to match students' abilities allows them to dive deep into learning at their own pace. It fosters an environment of encouragement and motivation, reducing stress and frustration. Streaming eliminates the demoralising effects of age-based grouping, promotes equity, and propels every student towards their full potential. Empirical research conducted by esteemed institutions such as the University of Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology unequivocally supports that academic streaming cultivates an environment of support, effectively alleviating stress, and minimising frustration. Why settle for a one-size-fits-all approach when we can embrace academic streaming and unleash brilliance? Let's create classrooms where learning becomes an exhilarating adventure tailored to each student. So, unite with us on the journey towards a brighter and more inclusive future.
Academically streamed classes also create mini ecosystems mirroring real world workplaces, promoting connections between students of different ages and abilities. These interactions cultivate maturity, emotional intelligence, and a range of skills crucial for future opportunities. Moreover, academic performance sees significant improvements, allowing students to align their achievements with their true potential and experience holistic growth. In fact, experts writing for the Oxford Review of Education confirm that students in academically advanced and multi-age classrooms exhibit positive attitudes towards school, enhanced leadership skills, and reduced aggression tendencies. Now, who's ready to raise the bar and take their education to the next level? Don't be shy; this train is departing soon, and you don't want to miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!
Let us embrace academically streamed classes, where learning becomes an exhilarating adventure tailored to each student. Together, we can create an inclusive educational environment where every individual can thrive. It's time to elevate education to new heights of excellence.
- By Taj Khan, Year 9 TGS student
References:
Angrist, J., Cohodes, S., Dynarski, S. M., Pathak, P. A., & Walters, C. R. (2019). Why Academically Streamed Classes are Important?
Vignoles, A., & Kirby, P. (2009). The Effects of Streaming in Secondary Schools: Evidence from the National Child Development Study. Oxford Review of Education, 35(3), 293-308.
Latest Blog
Country Roads Take Me Home
Toowoomba Grammar School boarding provides the ideal living environment for our boys while they develop the values that will define their character. Throughout the course of this year, I have been privileged to visit many of the towns and properties that our TGS boarders call home. When walking around those towns wearing a shirt with a TGS crest, it doesn’t take long to meet an Old Boy or to be asked about one of the boarders currently at the School. Our boarding staff pride themselves on…
TGS Corfe House - A Home for Young Boarders
In Toowoomba Grammar School’s Boarding Program, Years 5 to 7 students reside at Corfe House – a nurturing environment providing close pastoral support and guidance to the School’s youngest boarders. The skills, relationships and perspectives that boys develop here set them up for the rest of their boarding and school journey. Toowoomba Grammar School understands the challenges for young students transitioning into boarding. Leading the way in creating a ‘home away from home’ is the Corfe House…
TGS Mates Program - Character Building Education
Current research into character education has shown that educators should not be focusing solely on preparing students for their Year 12 final exams but should be supporting them to become humans who exhibit good character and virtues to contribute to creating a healthier society (The Jubilee Centre, 2022). The Jubilee Centre, which is attached to the University of Birmingham in the UK, maintains that good character is the foundation for improved attainment, better behaviour, increased…
Our TGS Old Boys' Wall of Achievement
The next time you visit the School grounds, pause for a moment at the Toowoomba Grammar School Old Boys' Wall of Achievement. This concept was the initiative of the then Deputy Headmaster, Mr Roger Buttenshaw, and was supported by the Board of Trustees, Headmasters Mr Hugh Rose and Mr Peter Hauser, and the TGSOBA - Toowoomba Grammar School Old Boys' Association. The opening of the Wall of Achievement took place in 2003. Thousands of TGS Old Boys have gone on to lead productive and valuable…
A Musical Reflection
As Director of Performing Arts, there is perhaps no bigger undertaking than a School musical. It requires an enormous effort from a huge team of teachers and students, and to get all these moving parts heading in the same direction is certainly no mean feat. The 2023 co-production of Footloose was my first time involved in a Toowoomba Grammar School and Fairholme College musical, and I found it to be a very rewarding, though exhausting, experience. The process began in Term 3, 2022, as my…
TGS Success in GPS Sport
In 2023, Toowoomba Grammar School witnessed a remarkable resurgence in several of our sports programs, marking a year of triumph and growth. Although an elusive GPS premiership did not fall our way, a number of our 1st teams competed to the final whistle in Round 9 of their respective competitions, vying for their premierships. The achievements of our boys on the field and court were nothing short of exceptional, reflecting the commitment, dedication and character development that participation…
An Exceptional Learning Experience
As a member of the Junior School Leadership Team at Toowoomba Grammar School, my role involves ensuring that the Junior School’s Teaching and Learning programs are designed, implemented and managed effectively. This role is grounded in the vision, mission, and values of TGS and is crucial in supporting the Head of Junior School and the Director of Studies in providing an exceptional learning experience for our boys. At TGS Junior School, we prioritise the use of explicit teaching to ensure that…
An Inclusive Education
Toowoomba Grammar School is proud to introduce the newest addition to our education team, Amanda Gibson. Amanda commenced in Term 4, 2023 in the pivotal role of Head of Diverse Learners and will bring new direction and focus to the position in alignment with our commitment to inclusive education, aligning seamlessly with our Strategic Plan 2022-2026 and the Inclusive Education Policy. “I am very excited about developing this role,” said Amanda. “I have a passion for fostering environments where…
Get Involved in Everything
As Senior Prefect at Toowoomba Grammar School, I have had the opportunity to witness the benefits of being an all-rounder firsthand. With the various activities and programs the School offers, the ability to be involved in as many things as possible is not only enjoyable but brings about numerous benefits that extend far beyond the school years. Ranging from sports to drama and debating, participating in anything the School has to offer is an excellent way to make friends and build networks of…
