Toowoomba Grammar School provides an inspiring and broad curriculum for boys, delivered by dedicated educators who understand how to engage boys in their learning. Our staff go above and beyond in providing an outstanding education and support network for our boys. They are regularly available to answer questions, assist with homework and assignments and provide academic support for all our students. This is particularly so for our boarders, thanks to our Academic Enrichment Program (AEP).
All teaching staff contribute to this AEP throughout the year. They will make themselves available on a Tuesday or Wednesday during ‘Prep’ time. ‘Prep’ is a one and a half to two-hour homework session conducted Monday to Friday in a dedicated study room in each boarding house. Maths, English and Science teachers are always available, and specialised subject staff attend on a rotational basis. They work with the students in small groups or individually.
“The boys feel supported through this program, and it encourages them to be aspirational in their academic endeavours so that they will have a go and do their best,” stated TGS Director of Boarding, Mr Nick Byron.
It also provides staff with a more personal insight into the students, and a greater understanding of their backgrounds.
“Interacting in the boarding setting enables staff to get to know the boys on another level which further strengthens and nurtures relationships and helps with pastoral care,” Nick said.
The AEP is taken a step further for our Year 5 to 7 Corfe House boarders. Staff not only help with homework and assignments but with developing good study skills. This ensures a smooth transition for boys at key times throughout their education.
“We understand that our boarders come from a multitude of backgrounds; from school-of-the air or one-teacher schools to traditional larger schools,” said Nick.
“They come from a variety of different learning experiences and our focus is developing good study habits and skills, so they have a strong foundation as the workload increases. We support all our boys to achieve their best no matter what their ability.”
Our Senior boarders are particularly appreciative of the AEP, along with the diverse pathway options provided to them through our TGS Careers and Vocational Education and Training (VET) program.
From Year 10, careers counsellors work closely with the students, providing them with opportunities to expand new interests or follow their passions.
“We understand that not all boys want to go to university,” stated Nick.
“Some plan to return to their farms or are interested in a trade so we’re very conscious of offering courses in all these areas, equipping them with skills for the life that they want to pursue.”
These courses include everything from hospitality or trades during school hours, to extra-curricular courses such as a certificate in aviation or welding.
“The boys relish these opportunities and find them extremely valuable,” Nick said.
“It’s just another way that we ensure a high-quality boarding experience for our boys.”
Latest Blog
Developing Generational Change in our Men – Stand Up and Speak Out
The devastating effects of domestic and family violence (DFV) are more prominent today as this previously ‘taboo’ issue is finally being publicly recognised and addressed. Toowoomba Grammar School is proud to be leading the way in creating generational change for this sensitive issue through a variety of School initiatives and by supporting community groups associated with DFV. Our programs are aimed at developing good men of the future who will “Stand Up and Speak Out.” TGS became a White…
The Barbour Connection
They will tell tales of meeting someone on the other side of the world whom they spotted wearing a TGS cap. It led to an instant connection. Of getting their dream job by simply proudly sporting a TGS Old Boy tie at the interview. It led to an instant connection. There is no denying that Toowoomba Grammar School students share a special bond. We celebrate it with our annual Old Boys’ Sons and Grandsons photo and our Old Boys’ Generations Gathering dinner. You see it in the playground at…
“I’ll Be There for You” at Toowoomba Grammar School
“I’ll be there for you” was the theme of National Boarding Week. This statement is particularly relevant at Toowoomba Grammar School as the boarders, the dayboys and the staff, help each other in the good times and the bad. We see our school as a ‘boarding school’, not a ‘school with boarders’. We are proud to be one of the oldest and most highly regarded boys’ boarding schools in Australia, providing a home away from home for boys for almost 150 years. TGS came from very humble beginnings. The…
Helping families navigate rules, rewards and consequences for boys
Recently I was in a webinar that aimed to tackle the issues surrounding technology and its effects on students. Some members of the forum started openly criticising boys for their poor behaviour. Whilst their criticisms were not directed specifically at our boys, I was offended at their general statements. We can be too quick to criticise boys and we forget that their frontal lobes are still developing. We also forget that their brains are “wired” differently from girls and that they don’t see…
Accepting Our Past, Creating Our Future
Toowoomba Grammar School has added the new role of Indigenous Education Coordinator to the School’s offering, to further promote a culture of diversity, inclusivity, and reconciliation. Mr Scott Gale has been appointed to this ground-breaking position that aims to spread awareness and understanding of the significance of Australia’s culture and history. “That’s something that has been lacking in Australia’s education system for so long,” said Scott. “It’s an extremely significant part of our…
The Gift of Music
You can feel the pride and passion exude from Janelle Fletcher as she reflects on her thirty-year career as a Music Tutor at Toowoomba Grammar School. “It’s a long time to stay in any job,” she admitted. “But working with the boys, seeing how important it is to have music in their lives and to develop not only as musicians but as people, that’s what’s kept me here.” Janelle believes staff in an all-boys’ school have a real understanding of boys. “It’s been very positive for me to see the…