“I think HAP is the pinnacle of service. It really allows you to experience how it truly feels to make a difference in someone’s life. I encourage all boys to consider participating in this service opportunity and all other service initiatives that TGS has to offer.”— Harry Skobe, Year 12
A life-changing mentoring program continues to grow stronger, with more TGS boys helping young refugee students navigate schooling in Toowoomba.
The Anglicare Homework Assistance Program (HAP), run in conjunction with Darling Heights State School, sees many of our boys volunteer their time on Wednesdays after class to help many young refugee and primary school students facing challenging times with their homework, or to chat and play games.
Our boys thoroughly enjoy meeting, supporting and learning about the lives of the younger children. This forges community connections and fosters inclusion for the Darling Heights students; it also has a wonderful effect on the TGS students involved.
Two of our students taking part in HAP talked about the impact the program has had on their lives.
Harry Skobe, Year 12
I was so proud to be a part of HAP because it exposed me to something that many of us are desensitised to due to how fortunate we are to have been born in such a good country. Darling Heights State School has an incredibly diverse student body, with many of its students hailing from refugee backgrounds.
Some of the stories I have heard from the students and staff members were simply jaw-dropping. It really shows how strong and resilient these young people are, as they are always so caring, kind and genuine — despite everything they have been through.
As I continued to build a unique relationship with these kids, I felt a sense of guilt as I watched many of them come to school with no socks on or in unwashed clothes. I had ignorantly taken many of these privileges for granted. I decided that I wanted to do everything that I could to help these families that had been through so much already. This is why I started a drive to donate whatever cleaning equipment, clothes and hygiene products the TGS community could spare. With some assistance from Mrs Therese Manassero (Head of House – Groom Day), the donations rolled in. We filled two buses full of donations, which we drove over to Darling Heights State School to supply to families in need. This drive is now an annual event, one that I and many others who have contributed to its success are very proud of.
Hazim Murad, Year 11
Joining the Homework Assistance Program at Darling Heights State School was a decision motivated by a genuine desire to assist the students. I wanted to offer my support and make a positive impact on their educational journey. Many of these students have faced significant challenges, having to leave their homes due to conflict and hardship. As a refugee myself, I am profoundly aware of the struggles they face every day.
“I formed strong connections with those who faced challenges like mine; seeing the joy this partnership brought them is something I will cherish for a long time.”— Hazim Murad, Year 11
When at Darling Heights State School, my role primarily involves assisting students with their homework. This usually starts with helping them address any questions or difficulties they may have. Beyond academics, interaction extends to creating a supportive and engaging environment. Once the homework is completed, we engage in activities such as card games, promoting not only educational growth but also social and emotional development for everyone involved.
Throughout this experience, I’ve gained valuable insights into working with students from diverse backgrounds. Understanding their individual needs and learning styles has been key in improving my communication and interaction skills. Witnessing their resilience and determination in challenging circumstances has been truly amazing.
The importance of serving communities like Darling Heights cannot be emphasised enough.
By offering support and resources, we not only help them adjust to their surroundings but also empower them to achieve their goals and aspirations. Investing time in the education and wellbeing of these young individuals not only benefits their lives but also strengthens bonds within the community.
Latest Blog
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…
The Importance of Knowledge
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always enjoyed traveling great distances. As a child growing up in rural New South Wales, this was inevitable. The region was speckled with towns, some more vibrant than others, and diverse landscapes where hillside ruins whispered tales of bygone eras. Over time, these landscapes and towns transformed into familiar scenes, with even minor changes in the community and environment growing more noticeable during each visit. Education parallels this journey, as…
Senior TGS Students' Advice for Starting Senior School
Starting at a new school can be a time of mixed feelings – very exciting, but also quite daunting and challenging. Here are some tips from some Year 7 Grammar boys who started Senior School in 2023. Get involved in different sports and activities Toowoomba Grammar School provides many sports and activities that any student can participate in. As a current Year 7 student, I highly recommend trying out as many different sports and activities as you can. Throughout my first year in high school, I…
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…
