Social media platforms have ingrained themselves into our daily lives in a time when technology is constantly evolving and drawing millions of users with seductive features and never-ending streams of captivating content. Among these, TikTok has become a worldwide phenomenon, captivating users with its viral challenges and short-form films. Underneath the fun and inventiveness however, there is growing concern about the risks connected to TikTok and other social media platforms. TikTok's alluring content conceals the inherent dangers it poses to teenagers, as it interferes with authentic social connections and diverts attention from important activities like sports and academics.

It is impossible to emphasise just how negatively TikTok affects face-to-face interactions. A 2022 Headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey found more than 50% of young people reported experiencing significant feelings of loneliness, despair, and anxiety, and most blamed social media platforms as the main reason for this. People frequently find themselves isolated in a virtual environment, cut off from the richness of real human connections, and it’s vital to understand that we are not immune to this problem here at TGS. Our own school-based surveys show an equally alarming rate of mental health concerns linked to social media use.

Social media has its place; however, we urge boys to prioritise face-to-face interactions with friends. Simple things like chatting after school, having a kick on the oval, or taking the bus to Saturday sport are great opportunities for subtle communication, nonverbal clues, and shared experiences, all of which are crucial for building strong emotional and social relationships. These everyday interactions are the very best way to check in with mates and get a sense of whether they are doing okay.

Alongside reducing face-to-face interactions, social media is also stripping us of time for more important things, like extracurricular activities and academia. Let’s be real, it’s on the field or in the music rooms where we forge quality, supportive life-long friendships, not online, and this is especially so at TGS, where we have sports and activities for boys of all interests. As an added bonus, involvement in extracurricular activities also provides boys with an essential physical outlet. A 2021 University of Queensland-led study showed that just one hour a day of physical activity helps to provide optimal mental wellbeing and can even show benefits to academic grades!

In this ever-changing world, TikTok and social media are here to stay, and students need to be educated of the dangers associated with these platforms. These time-sapping apps are slowly eroding our free-time and our friendships. We need to look up from our screens and be honest about the situation. When used excessively, TikTok and social media do more harm than good, and we must heed this warning before it’s too late.

So, stop scrolling and make a change. Pave the way for our future generations. A future without distractions and a future with time for friendships, fun, and everything good that life grants you. Make a change. Make it now.

- Charlie Parrington, Year 9 Student

References

Excess screen time impacting teen mental health. (n.d.). Retrieved May 31, 2023 from https://www.uq.edu.au/news/art...

Young people cite social media as main reason for worsening mental health. (n.d.). Retrieved May 31, 2023 from https://headspace.org.au/our-o...



Latest Blog

Grammar 150
/
Thursday, 07 Aug 2025

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

Read More
Teaching Excellence
/
Thursday, 31 July 2025

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…

Read More
Old Boys
/
Thursday, 24 July 2025

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,”…

Read More
Stewardship
/
Thursday, 19 June 2025

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…

Read More
Blog Wednesday, 11 June 2025

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…

Read More
Sports & Activities
/
Thursday, 05 June 2025

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.

Read More
Character & Wellbeing
/
Thursday, 29 May 2025

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…

Read More
Blog Thursday, 22 May 2025

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.

Read More
Grammar 150
/
Thursday, 15 May 2025

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

Read More