The Power of Character and Connection Every Day

As we mark R U OK? Day, it’s a timely reminder of the importance of looking out for one another and staying connected. Whilst today is a National Day of Action, the message is clear: asking “R U OK?” should not be reserved for just one day of the year.

By having regular, meaningful conversations with each other, we create trust and normalise talking about what’s really going on in our lives. This simple but powerful practice ensures that when someone is struggling, they know they have a colleague they can turn to.

At our School, we pride ourselves on the strength of our community and the way we support both our students and each other. This spirit of connection is at the heart of what makes our workplace strong and compassionate. We encourage you to carry this approach into your daily interactions — taking the time to check in, listen and show genuine care.

Thank you for the role you play in building a culture at Toowoomba Grammar School where we see wellbeing, openness and connection matters. Together, we can continue to ensure no one feels they have to face challenges alone.

A reflection on our Wellbeing Assembly

Last month our School community gathered for a special assembly that highlighted the importance of character, connection and ultimately courage. The assembly featured a number of powerful addresses and we're going to highlight just two. One is sharing the sentiments from our Senior Dayboy Prefect, Hedley Donges and the other is focusing in on the key messages from our Head of Pastoral Care, Mr Michael Hall.

Standing Up with Strength – Hedley Donges

Hedley Donges opened the assembly with a heartfelt reflection on character. Speaking not just as a leader but as a peer, he challenged students to consider what it truly means to live with integrity.

“It’s about standing up for what is right, even when it’s hard, even when it’s uncomfortable and especially when no one else will” Hedley said.

He spoke candidly about moments when mateship was tested and the importance of being an upstander and not just a bystander. His message was clear: silence in the face of mistreatment is a choice and not one that reflects strong character.

“Being an upstander means having the strength to say, ‘That’s not okay.’ It means checking in on someone who’s been left out, speaking up when someone’s being mocked and yes - sometimes it means telling a teacher or even your parents when someone is being mistreated. That’s not weakness. That’s integrity.”

Hedley’s challenge to his peers was simple but profound: be the one who steps in. Be the one who makes a difference.

Building Character Through Challenge – Mr Michael Hall

Mr Hall’s address expanded on the theme of character, focusing on how it is shaped through adversity and connection. Using the metaphor of a tree weathering storms, he reminded students that strength is forged in tough times.

He shared encouraging data from the School’s wellbeing program, noting significant improvements:

• A 50% reduction in students feeling disconnected from school
• A 50% drop in over-regulation among Year 9 students
• A 76% improvement in students’ sense of belonging

These wins, Mr Hall explained, are the result of intentional moments of connection - hallway chats, classroom discussions, lunchtime banter and genuine interactions.

But challenges remain. Many students still feel pressure to present a version of themselves that isn’t authentic and some struggle to open up about their difficulties. Mr Hall urged students to lean into their relationships and trust the support network around them.

He also shared insights from the School’s recent bullying survey:

• 52% of students told a friend
• 57% confided in a parent or family member
• Only 36% reported to a teacher or staff member
• Alarmingly, 51% chose not to tell anyone

This data underscores the importance of fostering a culture where students feel safe speaking up - not just to friends and family, but to trusted adults at school.

Three Challenges for the Stretch Zone

As students navigate the pressures of Weeks 5 to 8 - what Mr Hall called the “Stretch Zone”, he offered three challenges:

• Dig deep – show patience and empathy, especially when others are struggling
• Continue building relationships – lean into your connections; they are your lifeline
• Focus on authenticity – be your true self and give others permission to do the same

This assembly was a powerful reminder that character is not just a word - it’s a way of being. Through courage, connection and authenticity, our students are building a foundation that will serve them for life.