How do we adequately develop a teenager’s 'sense of belonging' in boarding?
Head of Boyce House, Boarding, Mr Michael Hall has investigated how 'Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs' applies to boarding. It is a psychological theory that suggests human beings have a set of fundamental needs that must be fulfilled in a hierarchical order. The theory proposes that individuals must first satisfy their physiological needs before moving on to higher-level needs, such as the 'belongingness' that is so crucial for building trust and a feeling of home. When it comes to teenagers living in boarding schools, their sense of belonging plays a crucial role in their overall well-being and academic success. This article explores how this pyramid of holistic development relates to the boarders at Toowoomba Grammar School.
Physiological & Safety Needs:
Maslow's theory states that physiological needs, such as food, shelter, and safety, form the two foundational levels of the hierarchy. The trained staff of TGS focus on ensuring students have a safe and secure environment where students' physiological needs are met. Regular meals, a comfortable living space, and access to healthcare contribute to their physical well-being, allowing them to focus on higher-level needs. Although this is a basic level and should be evident in any boarding school, these foundations must be firm as they are critical to build the next three layers.
Belongingness Needs:
The third level of the hierarchy includes the need for genuine relationships, care and a sense of belonging. Children, especially during adolescence, seek social connections and acceptance from peers and adults. TGS Boarding works on the principle of being a family, offering a close-knit community where students and staff live together, forming strong bonds and friendships. The shared experiences, common goals, and constant interaction within the boarding environment create a sense of belonging, making students feel part of a supportive community.
Esteem Needs:
‘Esteem needs’ involve gaining recognition, respect, and a positive self-image. TGS provides numerous opportunities for teenagers to develop self-esteem. Engaging in extracurricular activities, such as sports, arts, or leadership roles, allows students to showcase their talents, receive recognition, and build their self-confidence. Furthermore, positive feedback from boarding staff and fellow students contributes to the development of a healthy self-esteem. Students also value being recognised for their hard work and dedication, be it in academia or cocurricular activities. Our boys understand that hard work and perseverance will eventually be rewarded with recognition.
Self-Actualization Needs:
The highest level of Maslow's Hierarchy is self-actualization, which pertains to fulfilling one's potential and achieving personal growth. This starts to become evident in Years 11 and 12. Staff work closely with students presenting them with opportunities to showcase what they have learned through the holistic education, aiming to support students in reaching their highest potential. By offering a wide range of leadership opportunities, staff are able empower our boys to explore their interests and embark on a journey of self-discovery and actualization.
Having the courage to commit to a set of values that may not always be the most popular with their peers but it evokes a strong message of what can be attained when you commit to servant leadership for the benefit of others. These moments embody the highest level of Maslow’s Hierarchy that is inherently the essence of self-actualisation. An ability to build relationships with their peers and lead without being asked to, a quality that is evident in so many of our boarders when they complete their journey at TGS and step into life beyond School.
- Mr Michael Hall, Head of Boyce House Boarding
Latest Blog
Transition to Senior School at TGS
Starting at a new school can be a time of mixed feelings – very exciting, but also quite daunting and challenging. Irrespective of whether your son is joining us from the TGS Junior School, or if they are just starting at Toowoomba Grammar School, this is the start of a long and special journey. Your son will have a lot to digest with a new, possibly larger campus to navigate, different teachers and lessons, making new friends, where to go and what to do at morning tea and lunch. There can be a…
The Transition to Year 7 - from a Parent and Staff Member's Perspective
Regardless of your history with the school, you are all equally welcome here and should feel comfortable in knowing that we value every family and their son’s contribution to our School. Toowoomba Grammar School was built by the community, for the community and it is a School that I am immensely proud of. In 2025 we will celebrate our sesquicentenary or Grammar 150 and your sons will play a vital role in those celebrations. Our pedagogy is modelled on explicit instruction which has its roots in…
Boarding Families - Surviving Homesickness
Homesickness can be brutal for both the child and their parents. As a parent it can feel like your heart is being ripped out in some cases daily. It is extremely hard hearing how sad your boy may sound on the phone, and then you are left reeling for 24hrs until the next call, you are often left worried that they are feeling like this ALL DAY. Rest assured only vary rare cases are that bad, they usually improve as they settle in, and it is temporary. The reality is that most boys tend to save…
Helpful Tips for New Boarding Parents
Name absolutely everything! Socks, undies, phone chargers, water bottles, caps. EVERYTHING!! Make sure you name items with Boy’s name & House number; most parents will put their senior house number if printing the tags so they don’t have to rename items when they move the following year (Corfe House doesn’t have a house number). Some boys find a double bed doona is a better option than single doona as it hangs down the sides of the bed a little more to keep them warmer in winter. An…
Parenting Styles: Parties and the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, parents and caregivers find themselves immersed in the joy and bustle of festivities. Amidst the celebrations, it’s essential to pause and reflect on the pivotal role our parenting styles play in shaping our children’s attitudes and behaviours, especially concerning alcohol and other drug use. As a father of four young people with my fifth child coming into our family on 8 December 2023, I’m particularly mindful of my parenting style and my role as School…
Building the Boarding Experience - at Home
Family connections is a vital aspect of our Toowoomba Grammar School boarding program that we hold close to our heart. Our Heads of House regularly make the effort to visit our boarding families so they have a better understanding of our boarders' lives, the challenges and experiences, and staff always enjoy the warmth and hospitality provided by families. Head of Corfe House, Henry White and his wife, Samantha recently spent a weekend with the Acton family on Dalgonally Station near Julia…
A New Season for Coach Kabe
Highly respected Head of Basketball and 1st V Coach, Kabe Ciccolini is embarking on a new and inspiring chapter. This season, he takes up the role of Assistant Head of Corfe House, guiding our youngest boarders with a warmth and passion that is uniquely his own. Kabe’s decision to transition into the role of Assistant Head of Corfe House reflects his unwavering commitment to mentorship and leadership. For him, this move signifies a positive step in his career. “It’s an opportunity to further…
Embrace Every Moment
In the words of one of the greatest leaders of all time, Albus Dumbledore, “it does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” The wise wizard spoke these words to Harry as he stood before the Mirror of Erised, a magical artifact that reveals one’s deepest desires. These words tell the story of the balance between our dreams and the richness of the present moment. We live in a world that often urges us to focus on our aspirations; , sometimes we get so lost in our dreams that we do not…
What is the TGS Athletic Development Academy?
As a TGS Old Boy (2003-14), sport has always been an integral part of my upbringing. As a young boy I discovered the joys of cricket, track and field and touch footy. This love of being active led me to studying Exercise Science at University and I was fortunate enough to work with a range of national and international level athletes, culminating in an internship at the Brisbane Broncos. This experience launched my career in the strength and conditioning space, allowing me to work with…
