“The nurses in the Health Centre are like the mother's of the School and all the boys need that motherly love once in a while. They make the School a better place.”— Nicholas Denny, Year 12
Every year on 12 May, the world comes together to recognise the dedication and commitment of nurses worldwide.
International Nurses Day serves as a reminder of the vital role nurses play in our lives. Whether that is as frontline warriors in a global health emergency or a compassionate caregiver in the local community, nurses in many ways are the essence of humanity in healthcare.
Today we take a moment to shine a spotlight on these everyday heroes who selflessly dedicate their lives in the service of others, in particular the dedicated healthcare professionals who day in and day out look after the health and wellbeing of the TGS community.
With a skilled team of 11 nursing staff from vast areas of nursing, alongside GPs and physiotherapists who visit the School three times a week, the TGS Health Centre sees on average 110 boys every day of the school week. This can cover anything from administering regular medication to dealing with sports injuries and everything in between.
Our nursing staff have current certification as Immediate Care in Rugby responders and oversee the School immunisation programs, flu vaccinations for boarders and staff, and provide nursing care and assistance for the annual Sony Camp which offers respite for about 30 children with a disability or chronic medical condition from our community.
In addition, the team annually review the medical requirements and health histories of students; and train the wider School staff in anaphylaxis, diabetes and asthma care. They also support nursing students from our local university with practical experience and assist at School camps.
It’s a busy place, with the Health Centre providing more than just physical healthcare to our community. “We also offer lots of emotional support to our students,” says Stacey Smith, Health Centre Coordinator.
The Health Centre team embody the very essence of care and compassion – even completing a mercy takeaway dash to satiate the cravings of sick boarders.
“I absolutely love being able to help people in need and to see that, even though it may be small, that I can make a difference to someone's day.”— Stacey Smith, Health Centre Coordinator
Headmaster, Dr John Kinniburgh, thanked the TGS Health Centre nurses on behalf of all TGS staff, saying “On behalf of the Toowoomba Grammar School community, we express our deepest gratitude to our School Nurses for your unwavering dedication and exceptional care for all of us. Your tireless efforts, compassion and expertise make our School a healthier and safer place.
“Boarding school life can be challenging for the boys, as they are away from family and home comforts. Your role goes beyond medical assistance; you provide a sense of security, trust and warmth that helps our boarders feel at ease and supported. Thank you for your hard work, empathy, and the countless ways you make a positive difference in our lives every day.
“To our School Nurses we appreciate you more than words can express and hope you are celebrated wholeheartedly on this special day.”— Headmaster, Dr John Kinniburgh
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