At a Glance... TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL Established 1875 Headmaster’s Newsletter Tuesday, 13 June 2017 Director of Studies Careers Adviser School Counsellor Head of Junior School Head of Senior School Deputy Headmaster Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Cadets Library Boarder Parents’ Support Group School Notices Parent-Teacher Meetings Years 7 -12, Monday, 10 July Subject Information Afternoon for boys entering Year 11 in 2018, Assembly Hall, Monday, 10 July, 3:45pm First day - Term 3, Tuesday, 11 July Subject Information Afternoon for boys entering Year 9 in 2018, Assembly Hall, Friday, 14 July, 3:45pm
Transcript
At a Glance...
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Established 1875
Headmaster’sNewsletterTuesday, 13 June 2017
Director of Studies
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Head of Junior School
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Cadets
Library
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
Parent-Teacher Meetings Years 7 -12, Monday, 10 July
Subject Information Afternoon for boys entering Year
11 in 2018, Assembly Hall, Monday, 10 July, 3:45pm
First day - Term 3, Tuesday, 11 July
Subject Information Afternoon for boys entering Year
9 in 2018, Assembly Hall, Friday, 14 July, 3:45pm
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
From the Deputy Headmaster
Tied in with this question are many others that could be asked, such as:• Where does education occur? • What do you need to know to be considered educated? • What level of qualifications do you need to be considered educated? • Does being educated mean being prepared to join the workforce? • Are there certain books you need to read for you to be considered educated?
At the annual Australian College of Educational Leaders (ACEL) conference last year, former West Australian Premier and now Professor Emeritus at the University of Sydney, Hon Geoff Gallop AC, sought to answer this question. In a wide-ranging speech Mr Gallop surmised that ‘an educated person has met high standards in knowledge acquisition and cares for its validity. He or she has practical wisdom bred of self-awareness and respect for the context in which we apply our knowledge. There’s an open and inquiring mind and a capacity to adapt and innovate – in other words a creative capacity – in the face of change. Each of these is then wrapped up in a commitment to an open society and to the rights of all human beings.’
On further reading, I found some other defining characteristics of an educated person:
• The educated person is self-reflective and self-aware. • The educated person knows many things, but recognises there are many things he or she does not know. • To be educated is to be humbled by the enormity of the world and the limits of even the most talented individual. • Educated men and women are not always smarter, but they have a richer and more complex understanding of their surroundings. • To be educated is to appreciate, and ultimately benefit from, the many colours, shapes and sizes of the human experience.
Rather than consider education as a mere qualification or result, Mr Gallop considers education as a value or aspiration which few people can or do fully attain. Instead, education needs to be seen as a lifelong journey which, as Mr Gallop purports, ‘invites us to continuous improvement in our knowledge base, our investigatory skills, and our awareness of self and the world in which we have to adapt and innovate.’
At Toowoomba Grammar School, we seek to respond to the challenge of developing educated young men by offering an education that is broad and liberal, where the boys can experience a diverse range of intellectual, emotional, social and physical challenges.
Deputy Headmaster
Established 1875
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
A GPS School for boys Prep - Year 12Boarders from Year 5
PO Box 2900, Toowoomba QLD 4350 AUSTRALIA24 Margaret Street, East Toowoomba QLD 4350 AUSTRALIA
What is an educated person? This complex question is one that we, as a school community, must continually ask ourselves as we seek to best prepare our boys to lead meaningful and purposeful lives in the years ahead.
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
The School aims to deliver an education that is comprehensive, balanced and essentially academic, so that each boy may progress toward his full potential as an individual and as a member of society. As a result, the educational programs delivered by the School are wide-ranging and rigorous, designed to develop the minds of the boys both academically and morally. Alongside the academic development of the boys, we also see a large part of the educational process as being devoted to developing the personal qualities of our students so that they demonstrate the highest levels of integrity throughout their lives.The Grammar Schools in Queensland, of which TGS is one, have sought to educate in this manner since the late 19th Century. In his book, The Enduring Traditions, the School’s much-loved historian, the late John Keeble Winn, referred to Resolution 13 of the founding Queensland Grammar Schools’ Conference of 1908 whereby the following was stated about the role of Grammar Schools in providing a broad education:
We believe that Grammar Schools should above all other things aim at spreading a good general culture and public spirit among those who will thereafter be leaders in their professions, the public services, in commerce and in industrial and pastoral life, and that they should guard against the dangers of undue early specialisation.
Alongside the wide range of educational experiences on offer to the boys, Toowoomba Grammar School has developed many of its social traditions around the concept of playing the game. Again from his book, The Enduring Traditions, Mr Winn described the concept of playing the game in the following way:• that each boy should help, as best he can, the life of others and should make an effort for the School, not only himself, thus engendering self-control and co-operativeness.• that a boy must pull his weight whenever his School, district, nation or world needs him.
• that a boy embraces the tradition of consideration, to opponents as well as friends, preferring to lose rather than win unfairly, being modest in victory and humble in defeat, and helping the weak. • that a boy never lets down his School, family, friends, country or humanity, in school life or other.
The boys at this School have been learning these values since its foundation; today is no different, for Toowoomba Grammar School is still playing the game, and no doubt it will continue to do so for as long as it exists. To more mundane, but nontheless important, matters we move towards the conclusion of what has been a very enjoyable and successful semester. I have been pleased with the manner in which the vast majority of our young men have approached all of their commitments. They continue to impress with their dedication to attaining their academic potential and to being involved in the co-curricular program. The overall tone of the School has been very positive this semester.
On the boys’ return next term, I ask for your assistance in ensuring that your son’s uniform and appearance are of the highest standard. Expectations are clearly stated in the Student Diary and Senior School Handbook. Please enjoy the upcoming break with your son/s at home.
Yours sincerely
Timothy J. KellyDeputy Headmaster
Deputy Headmaster
The School aims to deliver an education that is
comprehensive, balanced and essentially academic, so that each boy may progress
toward his full potential as an individual and as a
member of society.
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
From the Head of Senior SchoolHouse ColoursIt is encouraging to see the number of boys achieving their House Colours. Boys working towards their House Colours are typically experiencing and contributing to all facets of School life. House Colours recognise a boy’s involvement in House sport and activities, academic achievement, participation in sport and activities, clubs and committees as well as service activities. The following boys have been awarded their House Colours recently.
Head of Senior School
Established 1875
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
NAME YEAR HOUSE AWARD
Harry Jensen 11 Mackintosh Honour
Sam Adamson 12 Taylor Full
Tom Clark 12 Taylor Full
Rhett Klein 12 Taylor Full
Wyatt Lowe 12 Stephens Full
Will Melbourne 12 Taylor Full
Sam Sparke 12 Mackintosh Full
Fynn Donaldson 11 Stephens Full
Jack Kennedy 11 Taylor Full
James Kleidon 11 Stephens Full
Gacenga Njoroge 11 Groom Full
Rowen Osborn 11 Stephens Full
Harry Schatz 11 Mackintosh Full
Christian Wilson-Smith 11 Taylor Full
Tom Heath 10 Groom Full
Howard Litzow 12 Stephens Half
Dylan Stevens 12 Groom Half
NAME YEAR HOUSE AWARDBrock Wendland 12 Mackintosh Half
Michael Aird 11 Groom Half
Willem Baines 11 Boyce Half
Charles Boot 11 Groom Half
William Boyce 11 Boyce Half
Tom Coonan 11 Boyce Half
Nicholas Galea 11 Boyce Half
Ben Horsley 11 Stephens Half
Sebastian Ingold 11 Groom Half
Isa Kasim 11 Groom Half
Kudzaishe Maphosa 11 Groom Half
Riley Morrison 11 Taylor Half
Ross Staude 11 Taylor Half
Luke Tatzenko 11 Taylor Half
Hendrik Van Aswegen 11 Boyce Half
Henry Wunsch 11 Mackintosh Half
Bryce Callaghan 10 Taylor Half
Lachlan Dolzan 10 Taylor Half
Adriaan Lamprecht 10 Stephens Half
Patrick McKay 10 Taylor Half
Xavier Schubert 10 Mackintosh Half
Lachlan Sellars 10 Taylor Half
Andrew Crothers 9 Taylor Half
Tulloch Lowe 9 Stephens Half
Matthew Murphy 9 Stephens Half
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
School AkubrasHousemasters and I will be checking the state of boys’ akubras in the final week of term. Hats are expected to be in good shape and free from holes or tears. Boys with hats not up to standard will be directed to purchase a new akubra or have it repaired. We have a private milliner who can assist with the repair and reshaping of hats and the holiday period is a good time to have these attended to. Charges for akubra mending will be added to school accounts.
End of Semester Parent-Teacher MeetingsParents will receive detailed end of semester reports during the school holidays. Parents will have the opportunity to make bookings for Parent-Teacher meetings taking place on Monday, 10 July. The School Portal will be open for meeting bookings from Monday, 12 June.Boys are encouraged to attend the Parent-Teacher Meetings and, if they do, they should be dressed in blues uniform.
How to Book Parent-Teacher MeetingsAn online booking system is used to book meetings with subject teachers. Please click on this link for a User Guide to assist you with making your meeting bookings. You will also find the User Guide in the Parent Portal on the School’s webpage. Please note the following with regard to the booking system:
• For parents who have used the Parent Lounge previously, it may be necessary to add the Parent-Teacher Meetings option as per the User Guide. For parents logging into the Parent Lounge for the first time the Parent-Teacher Meeting option should be visible but if not please follow the User Guide.
• A print out of your meetings cannot be made until the booking system has been closed to allow for possible changes to teacher availability. This will occur at 5:00pm on Sunday, 9 July. If you wish
to print your meeting bookings prior to the closing date, please click on Print Screen and paste this into a Word document. After the booking system has been closed, an option for printing your bookings will become available through the meeting booking system.
If you have any concerns or issues with making interview bookings, please do not hesitate to call the Student Services Office on 4687 2653.
Conclusion of TermAs this short nine week term comes to a close, I look back with amazement at the whirlwind of activities and events that have taken place since the boys returned from Easter: ANZAC Day ceremonies, eisteddfod, socials, cadet bivouacs, GPS Football, Tennis, Cross Country, Debating, musical rehearsals, NAPLAN and end of semester examinations. These have no doubt kept the boys engaged. I have been pleased with the focus and intent of the boys to perform at their very best throughout this term and I trust that their end of semester report reflects this.
With examinations having concluded on Monday, normal classes are being held on Tuesday, 13 June and Wednesday, 14 June where boys will receive important feedback from recent assessment items and review their overall performance for Semester 1. The school term concludes with the House Track and Field Championships on Thursday, 15 June and boys are free to depart from 3:30pm. Rather than boarders leaving early at the end of term, it is a clear preference that families utilise the travel day on Friday, 16 June.
I hope all boys and families enjoy their mid-year break.
John AndersonHead of Senior School
Boys are encouraged to attend the Parent-Teacher Meetings and, if they do, they should be dressed in
Recently we hosted another presentation in our ongoing series of seminars for parents.
Head of Junior School
Mr David Neilson and Ms Sara Black, behavioural optometrists and parents of boys in the Junior School, presented at a staff meeting and then to parents later the same evening. The topic was titled ‘Assisting your son with reading’ with the presentations being well received. I thank David and Sara for being generous with their time and offering their expertise to staff and parents.
Junior GPS Cross CountryToowoomba Grammar School’s Year 5 to Year 7 Cross Country team competed at the GPS Championship event, with some very pleasing results. Charlie Randall (Year 6) won the 11 years event, repeating his success of last year. Archer Black (Year 6) finished in second place in the same race. Judd Rei (Year 6) took out fifth place in the 12 years event. Our team finished in equal sixth place overall, which was a pleasing result given we were one of the smaller teams
Teaching SpellingOur core message remains consistent – we offer a high quality education that is designed specifically for boys, with this operating across three tiers:
• Outstanding pastoral care of boys and high level communication with parents
• A rigorous and robust academic program • A broad and dynamic co-curricular program.
While these are the sweeping global goals, it is the finer detail that brings this together. One aspect of the Junior School’s academic program that is receiving particular attention is work around spelling. This does not solely relate to mastery of a set spelling list each week, but more importantly focusses on improving boys’ capacity to spell accurately in context within their writing.
Professor Beryl Exley from the School of Education and Professional Studies at Griffith University recently met with a team of Junior School staff to examine our approaches to the teaching of spelling. Professor Exley will work with us for an extended period of time on this long-term project. I believe examining our current approaches in an effort to improve the way spelling is taught to our students is both timely and important.
Regards
Scott CampbellHead of Junior School
The Under 10 boys starting their race at the GPS Cross Country in Ipswich
Charlie Randall and Archer Black
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
Established 1875
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
From the Director of Studies
Director of Studies
The assessment load has been very heavy this term and the boys need to consider how they have managed. Preparation and timeliness in their approach to their assessment go a long way to relieving the pressure and anxiety at this time of year. Many young people suffer with anxiety at this time and it is important to understand that some anxiety and stress can be productive in helping the boys perform at their best. However, if that anxiety becomes counter-productive, it is essential that the boys learn to control it. From 2020, boys will be sitting high-stakes external exams, so the boys currently in Year 9 will be in the first cohort to experience this new assessment model as we move from the OP system to ATAR. Therefore, boys must start to develop strategies for managing their stress and anxiety to ensure optimal outcomes.
MootingOur Year 12 team competed in the National Finals of the Bond University Mooting Competition on Saturday, 3 June. The 76 teams in the preliminary rounds were whittled down to the top 10 teams. Senior Counsel James Scott, Junior Counsel Christopher Spanner and Instructing Solicitor Joel Beveridge performed admirably in this field of top scholars from across the nation. Unfortunately, they did not progress to the Grand Final; however, they are to be commended on
their efforts. Special congratulations go to James Scott, who received an Individual Oralist Award from the preliminary rounds.
Our Senior Mooters: (L-R) Christopher Spanner, James Scott and Joel Beveridge
As the term comes to a close, it is timely for the boys to reflect on how they have performed academically this past semester.
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
Subject Selection Week 1 next term is an important one for our Year 10 and Year 8 students as they start to formally go through the process of selecting their subjects for Years 11 and 9 respectively. The Year 10 students and their parents will have the opportunity to discuss the various options with Subject Co-ordinators at the Subject Information Afternoon on Monday, 10 July from 3:45pm in the Assembly Hall. This is a compulsory event for the boys and they are expected to be in blues uniform. This will be followed by the finalisation of the boys’ Career Plans. The boys have been working on these documents throughout the term as they have explored careers and considered their future pathways. During Term 3, parents and boys will be invited to a formal interview with a senior staff member to sign the career plan. The purpose of this interview is to ensure that all boys in Year 10 have gone through a thorough decision-making process, have fully considered their interests and aptitudes and are making realistic choices going into Year 11.
The Year 8 students will have their Subject Information Afternoon on Friday, 14 July from 3:45pm in the Assembly Hall.
Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD)The Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability is an annual collection that counts the number of school students receiving an adjustment due to disability and the level of reasonable adjustment they are receiving. The national data collection counts students who have been identified by a school team as receiving an adjustment to address a disability as defined under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (the DDA).
This information will help schools, teachers, education authorities and families to better support students with a disability to take part in school on the same basis as other students.
The national data collection provides an opportunity for schools to review their learning and support systems to continually improve education outcomes for their students with disability.
For more information please go to www.education.gov.au/nationally-consistent-collection-data-school-students-disability.
Special CommendationsCongratulations go to the following students who received Special Commendations recently:
Special Commendations – Academic Effort
Year 7Douglas Ahern History – The Battle of Cannae AssignmentDarcy Browning History – The Battle of Cannae AssignmentGabriel Donaldson History – The Battle of Cannae AssignmentLachlan Milton History – The Battle of Cannae AssignmentJames Parkin History – The Battle of Cannae Assignment
Year 8Brodie Brimblecombe Mathematics – Measurement TestWilliam Freeman History – Diary of a Samurai AssignmentIsaac Miles Science – Chaos in the Sky Assignment
Kind regards
Alison YoungDirector of Studies
Director of Studies
Preparation and timeliness in their approach to their
assessment go a long way to relieving the pressure and
anxiety at this time of year.
The Year 12 Mooting team competed in the National Finals of the Bond University Mooting Competition
Director of Sport and ActivitiesSwimmingDylan Stevens (Year 12) has been ranked in the top 25 swimmers nationally across age groups in six events and ranked number 1 for U17 50m Backstroke. Interestingly, this was not enough to earn him a place on the Junior Commonwealth Games squad competing in the Bahamas mid-year. This will serve as powerful motivation for the coming year.
The TGS Swimming Program is now back in full swing after a successful 2016/2017 campaign. In the off-season we have had two TGS students selected in the Queensland Talent ID Squad as part of the Swimming Australia (SA) guidelines for up and coming athletes. Seniors Fraser Stewart and Simon Geldenhuys have been identified by SA as swimmers they wish to target. The boys will be subject to specific SA test protocols and will undergo a number of sports science tests and will be monitored through their training and performances going forward.
GymnasticsJosh Ridley (Year 11) recently attended the National Gymnastics Titles and performed very well, placing seventh overall in Australia and third on the Roman Rings.
ChoralLachlan Hammond (Year 8) has been selected for the Gondwana National Choral School singing tour to the Baltic States (Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania).
Lachlan, along with 12 other interstate participants, will meet in Sydney for a week of practice before the choir embarks on the tour in the June-July holidays.
TennisThe last half of the season has pitted our Tennis players against some quality opposition and our boys have performed admirably.
After seven rounds, the boys have managed some impressive win-loss statistics. The win percentages for each age bracket are as follows: Open (24%), Year 11 (62.5%), Year 10 (78.57%), Year 9 (54.17%), Year 8 (50%) and Year 7 (62.5%). The following figures highlight the performances of our boys through each division. A teams have won 36.84%; B teams (62.16%); C teams (56.76%); and D teams (67.57%). These figures demonstrate the depth of quality that our tennis teams possess.
The First IV have played some much improved tennis over the latter half of the season. Despite going down to BBC and BGS, they have has been playing some excellent doubles. Our match against ACGS was one of the closest matches we have played and we dominated by winning 3 of the 4 doubles rubbers. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to win any singles, despite having chances in three other rubbers. Lachlan Grigg (Year 12) has been inspirational to his team over the last few matches with some outstanding efforts. Tom Harris (Year 12) made his Firsts debut against BGS and performed solidly.
We thank all of the tennis boys for their efforts and commitment to training during the season and congratulate them on their performances in 2017.Established 1875
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Director of Sport and Activities
Josh Ridley on the parallel bars
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
Director of Sport and Activities
Football
GPSRound 8 in the 2017 GPS competition was also TGS’s last game for the year with the bye falling in Round 9. In the final match against Gregory Terrace, the First XI took the opportunity to finish the season with six wins and repeat the 18 point mark of 2016.
There have been other teams who have performed very well with the 10As and 8As unbeaten in their divisions in 2017. The 10A squad has been undefeated in GPS competitions in the last three years.
The GPS competition provides immense challenges for all the boys. The boys learn the value of team work and the need to work hard in training to be successful. They are provided obstacles on a weekly basis and develop the resilience needed to overcome these. In our current society, these are values we will continue to work on and promote.
Bill Turner CupAfter qualifying by defeating Harristown State High School 5-1 in the regional semi-final, the Under 15 boys recently travelled to Stanthorpe
for the regional final of the Bill Turner Cup. The boys won the final 4-1 in cold, blustery conditions. A State quarter-final against the winner of the Brisbane West region now awaits.
SWQ Futsal Toowoomba Grammar School teams put on a dominant display in the recent SWQ Futsal titles held in Gatton and Highfields. The boys won the 14s and 16s age groups and were runners-up in the 12s and 13s age groups. All teams now qualify for the Champion of Champions tournament to be held in Brisbane in late July.
International TourSixteen boys and three staff depart on Thursday, 16 June for a three-week training camp at Botafogo FC in Brazil. The boys are looking forward to the opportunity to train and play under the watchful eye of one of the best coaches in Brazil, Thiago Kosloski, a regular attendee at our Rale Rasic camps. Following the camp, the boys will enjoy the sights of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro before returning home.
Josh Ridley (Year 11) recently attended the National Gymnastics Titles and
performed very well, placing 7th overall in Australia and third on the Roman Rings.
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices Cross Country ChampionshipsA long season of training and racing culminated at the 2017 GPS Championships at Ipswich’s Limestone Park on Wednesday, 31 May. The Cross Country team had prepared well for the event with a strong culture of friendly competition and team running. For our younger athletes, it was their first experience of competition at this level and they applied themselves well. All runners representing the School did so with passion and determination. They gave everything for the blue and gold.
The Cross Country team had a very simple motto for the 2017 GPS Championships: ‘want it more than the runner next to you’. Our strategy was to race the whole distance and compete for every available place. With this motto and our strong team belief, the boys competed to the best of their ability. The Under 15 division runners were standouts in this regard, as they had the smallest team; however, they showed the most determination and heart among the age groups.
Toowoomba Grammar School had some outstanding individual results throughout the day.
Of note was Pat McKay, who ran up an age group, finishing 21st overall and placing 2nd for the TGS runners. Paul Draheim ably led the U13s with a top 10 finish. Teketel Tyson competed with a strong lead group to finish 7th and Sam Morris and Fynn Donaldson came 13th and 14th respectively in the highly competitive Open age group.
Our top finishers included:
Congratulations to all boys who have represented the School throughout the Cross Country season and at the GPS Championships. I encourage all boys to continue training throughout the Track and Field season to further develop their fitness, and to always enjoy their running and the rewards associated with this great sport.
On behalf of the Cross Country team, I would also like to extend a big thank you to the coaching staff – Mr Budnick, Mrs Millar, Ms Connelly, Mr Fryer and Ms Davies – for their support and enthusiastic approach during the season.
David BellDirector of Sport and Activities
13 Years10th - Paul Draheim
14 Years21st - Nick Coonan23rd - Oscar Cass
15 Years31st - Will Purcell
16 Years7th - Teketel Tyson21st - Pat McKay23rd - Max Manassero
Open13th - Sam Morris14th - Fynn Donaldson23rd - Bryn Winter
The Cross Country team had a very simple motto for the 2017 GPS Championships:
‘want it more than the runner next to you’.
Director of Sport and Activities
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
From the Director of Boarding
Before holidays can be enjoyed, the boys have many commitments which need to be attended to and completed. Our co-curricular program runs through the busy end of term period. Many of our boarders are coming to the end of one sporting season and are also involved in pre-season training for a Term 3 sport or other activity. The boys also have had to sit their end of semester examinations, with the majority having six or more to complete. For our Year 7 boarders, negotiating an examination block is a new experience and this can be particularly stressful for them. Making things harder again is the inevitable sickness which hits many of our boys at this time of year. By the last week of term many of the boys are worn out and in need of a break.
The Housemasters and the staff in each Boarding House are committed to helping your son during stressful periods like the end of term. Often, the support and guidance these staff members can provide are sufficient to help boys through this period. We are very fortunate to have other key staff at Toowoomba Grammar School who can assist. Our School Counsellor, Jennifer Johnson-Saul, is available to work with boys and support them through stress and other personal problems. We also have our School Nurses at the Health Centre who assist boys with personal struggles in addition to the wide range of illnesses and injuries they manage. Please make contact with any of the key staff mentioned above if you are worried that your son is struggling and needs support.
I have mentioned previously that, as part of their employment, all teachers at Toowoomba Grammar School are required to work
six hours each year to assist our boarding students. The boys are benefitting greatly from this because they have access to teachers after hours. This teacher presence is a further layer of support in our pastoral care in addition to the academic advantages. Many of the teachers organise tutoring sessions in their subject areas to meet their six hour commitment. These are being run in the evenings and are being strategically placed in the lead-up to assignments being due and examinations being conducted. There have been many sessions in Weeks 7 and 8 of this term and it has been really positive to see large numbers of boarders attending. Please commend these opportunities to your son as he moves ahead with his studies.
The Boarder Parents’ Support Group Meeting is held on the last day of each term and I encourage all boarding parents to attend. The group of parents who attend regularly are very positive and welcoming. The group aims to work with the School to ensure that the boarders receive the best care. The meeting is regularly attended by the Headmaster and other senior staff. Your involvement and contribution to this group would be much appreciated.
I hope you enjoy the upcoming holiday and the time spent with your son/s.
Best wishes
Jim NobleDirector of Boarding
Dear Boarding Parents
The end of each term is a challenging time for students and this is especially so for boarders.
Established 1875
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Director of Boarding
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
Director of Performance
Established 1875
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Director of Performance
Year 12 Music Extension Concert – Tuesday, 23 May, Old HallStudents in the Year 12 Music Extension class were able to showcase their work to an appreciative audience of parents, friends and staff in an enjoyable concert held in Old Hall. The program was varied, by the performance students, ranging from JS Bach - a Gavotte from violinist Harry Egerton, an Allemande from violist Jeremy Egerton, a Debussy reverie from pianist Nick Wigan through to our rock vocalists, Fred Perrottet singing a Pierce Brothers song Mama Please, Hotel California from Gage Howard-Secombe and the Dire Straits classic, Romeo and Juliet, from Finn Collison. Two of our composition students, Joe Willis and James Buk, provided audio recordings for the audience to appreciate, while the other two, Lachlan Gabbett and Tom Bellinger, provided us with live performances of their works. The talent across
the class was very easy for the audience to see and it still stands as one of the most enjoyable pieces of assessment students will take part in during their senior courses.
Big Band and R’n’B Band Extravaganza – Friday, 26 May, Empire Church TheatreThe TGS contemporary ensembles, Big Band, R’n’B 2 and the R’n’B Band, took over the Empire Church Theatre recently and performed, to a capacity crowd, one of the highlight concerts of the year so far. All of the students played to an exceptional standard and, with over two hours of music on the night, impressed everybody with their versatility and talent. SOTA provided fantastic cheese platters to make the night complete. I thank SOTA president, Jeremy Osborn and his team.
Jeremy Egerton
Tom Bellinger and James Buk
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
Director of Performance
All the students played to an exceptional standard and with over two hours
of music on the night, impressed everybody with their versatility and talent.
I thank the three ensemble directors, Gavin McKenzie (Big Band), David Sandford (R’n’B 2), and Jonathan Willis (R’n’B) for their dedication and commitment to the students allowing them to reach the amazing standards on show for the evening. Special thanks go to Eylece Blaikie and Alison Young for photography/video assistance. The event was so successful that next year we will be moving it to the larger Armitage Centre.
‘Voices from the Trenches’ – Sunday, 28 May, Empire TheatreAfter Saturday rehearsals at Downlands, the students from the combined Glennie/Grammar vocal ensemble Xpression took to the stage on Sunday, 28 May at the Empire Theatre, alongside some of Toowoomba’s finest choirs at the themed concert series, ‘Voices from the Trenches’, run by renowned Brisbane vocal ensembles, Voices of Birralee and the Birralee Blokes. Fresh from Battlefields performances, the Birralee singers delighted audiences with many pieces devoted to this theme, while each Toowoomba choir provided pieces of music
also thematically linked. Xpression performed the highly challenging piece ‘Armistice 1918’ and the traditional spiritual, ‘City Called Heaven’, to a very appreciative audience. The students also took part in massed choirs with all of the other singers which was truly breathtaking. I extend my congratulations to all involved in this very special afternoon of singing.
SHEP Darling DownsCongratulations are due to Angus Mohr (Year 8), Harry Gallagher (Year 7), Ryan Murphy (Year 7), Oliver Schubert (Year 8) and Izaak Schefe (Year 7) for their recent work with the State Honours Ensemble Programme (SHEP) Darling Downs. The boys had an amazing experience working with some of the best clinicians from South-East Queensland and alongside many wonderful students from our region.
GPS Music Day of Excellence (Years 5-7) – Tuesday, 1 AugustComing up next term, we have the second exciting event on the GPS calendar and that is the Day of Excellence. This involves Years 5-7 students from the GPS schools joining together for a day of rehearsing in a Choir, Concert Band and String Orchestra.
Big Band R’n’B Band
Ryan Murphy (Centre) working with the SHEP ensemble
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
Director of Performance
Congratulations are due to Angus Mohr, Harry
Gallagher, Ryan Murphy, Oliver Schubert and Izaak
Schefe for their recent work with the State Honours Ensemble Programme
Darling Downs.
The rehearsals culminate in a concert that evening. This year the event will take place at St Joseph’s Nudgee College in Brisbane. I am pleased to announce that the conductor of the Concert band this year will be our very own Mrs Jayne Davidson. Many of our students were successful in gaining positions and I look forward to announcing these names in the next newsletter. Thank you to all of the boys who applied.
‘Oliver’ – Fairholme College/Toowoomba Grammar School Production, Thursday, 17 - Saturday, 19 August, Empire TheatreOur combined production, ‘Oliver’, is now moving ahead in leaps and strides and when we return next term we will be on the countdown to production week.
The boys and girls are working hard to make the stage come alive. Meanwhile, another set of hard working staff and students is busily preparing and building our scenery and props whilst another group of very talented musicians is rehearsing their orchestral parts.
Term 3 sees all these aspects and more come together. For all involved, it is an extremely exciting time.
As we have double-cast many of the roles, one of the things that I am really enjoying at the moment is how the different actors are turning their roles into their own. As audience members you will definitely need to come and see the show twice to witness all of our wonderfully talented musicians, actors and dancers transport you to London in this family friendly spectacle!
Make sure you snap up tickets for this amazing event. Keep an eye on our Facebook page and School website for the opening of ticket sales.
Holiday Adventures and PerformancesWe have a number of students involved in activities happening over the coming Winter holiday season.
Ensemble-wise, the Grammarphones and other musicians will be contributing small items to the Empire Theatre’s Open Day to be held Sunday, 25 June, while the R’n’B Band will be opening the ASPIRE
Music Festival in Brisbane with a special dinner dance performance on Thursday, 6 July at St Peter’s Lutheran College.
The QSO Prodigy Project – Thursday, 22 June, Empire TheatreThe Queensland Symphony Orchestra is holding a special concert, entitled the ‘Prodigy Project’, with three of our students successfully auditioning and joining the QSO for a concert on Thursday, 22 June. Congratulations are extended to Harry Egerton (Year 12), Jeremy Egerton (Year 12) and Julian Lachmund (Year 9) for this prestigious opportunity.
Opera Australia – The Marriage of Figaro, Tuesday, 18 July, Empire TheatreAlso successfully auditioning for an opportunity to work at a national level, was Year 7 student Harry Gallagher, who, alongside Year 5 student Nicholas Beilby and students from all around the region will appear on the Empire Theatre stage in the Marriage of Figaro with professional opera singers on Tuesday, 18 July. Harry and Nicholas auditioned and both gained a place in the 24 strong choir, which is an amazing achievement.
ACO, AYO and GondwanaWe have previously reported on Jeremy Egerton (Year 12) joining the ACO (Australian Chamber Orchestra) in Sydney, Harry Egerton (Year 12) working with the AYO (Australian Youth Orchestra) also in Sydney, and Lachlan Hammond (Year 8) travelling to the Baltic States with the Gondwana Choir. However, as this all happens over the holidays, we wish all three boys the very best with their endeavours and I look forward to reporting on their experiences after the break.
Staff news
Jesse JonesWe would like to sincerely thank old boy and former leader of Arts, Jesse Jones, for his work in the last three weeks replacing Mrs Melissa Buckholz while she was adjudicating at a number of regional eisteddfods. Jesse worked with our woodwind students and also our Junior choirs and Senior woodwind groups. We are very grateful for his time and dedication.
Karina CappWe welcome back to the School Mrs Karina Capp, upper woodwind specialist, who will be returning after a semester of maternity leave to tutor some of our advanced flute and oboe students.
Neil Roche-KellyDirector of Performance
Fagin’s Gang in the Thieves’ Kitchen
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
From the Library
Established 1875
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
One panel chair started his session by asking the guest speakers what book most impacted them during their teen years. The answers were interesting and led the discussion. It might be a good idea to discuss with your children books that made a difference to you in your teen years, and why.
Our boys will certainly have a vast range of books to choose from if asked this question in the future as many are voracious readers. The last newsletter of Term 1 featured the top loans from our fiction and biography sections for all year levels in the Senior School. This term I thought I would break it down to two year levels per list. The results are below. Not surprisingly, John Flanagan features in all lists. His books are loved by all ages.
Years Seven and Eight:1. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen2. Bill the Bastard: The Story of Australia’s War Horse by Roland Perry 3. Don’t Call Me Ishmael! by Michael Gerard Bauer4. Loyal Creatures by Morris Gleitzman5. The Ruins of Gorlan by John Flanagan
Years Nine and Ten:1. Middle School: Just My Rotten Luck by James Patterson, Christopher Tebbetts and Laura Park
2. New Guard by Robert Muchamore3. Agent 21 by Chris Ryan4. The Battle of Black Heath by John Flanagan5. Bill the Bastard: The Story of Australia’s War Horse by Roland Perry Years Eleven and Twelve:1. The Battle of Black Heath by John Flanagan2. Brisingr by Christopher Paolini3. Colour of Magic by Terry Pratchett4. Destined to Witness: Growing up in Nazi Germany by Hans J. Massaquoi5. The Fallen by Charlie Higson
The W. M. Dent library will be open for some of the time during the holidays, staffed by Mr Wilson. If anyone needs to access the library during this time, please phone beforehand to check it is open. Our number is 4687 2537.
Liz DerouetHead of Library and Information Services
Last week I attended a conference about Young Adult Literature. I was introduced to a myriad of new authors and books for teens, as well to some good ideas to promote reading and literature to our boys.
Library
Library Opening Hours
Monday to Thursday: 7:30am – 5:00pm
Friday 7:30am – 4:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
Established 1875
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Cadets
Cadets
A week prior to the activity LT(AAC) Hallam went out to site to set up the checkpoints. The location is ideal as it lends itself to providing a safe environment for navigation with no dense vegetation and boundaries that are easily identified. On the Friday before the bivouac, a small advance party left school at lunch-time and headed to the site location at Gordon Country, Goomburra. The intent was to set up the command post before the arrival of the main party on the Saturday morning. Upon arrival we re-assessed our location as other campers were in the area and advised those close to us that a party of 70 cadets was arriving in the morning for the weekend.
On Saturday the main party arrived and pack-marched about a kilometre to the bivouac location/command post and was given the main safety brief by the Officer Commanding, CAPT(AAC) John Wells. The unit was split into three platoons for the weekend to do different activities with the main objective being navigation. This was an opportunity for all involved to hone in on their theoretical skills and put them into practice. Platoon 3 focused on the skills required for the
upcoming Junior Leaders Course. Platoons 1 and 2 went immediately to participate in an orienteering exercise run by Toowoomba Road Runners. This enabled the cadets, who are new to navigation, the opportunity to learn how to read map to ground. After lunch Platoon 2 went on a navigation hike of approximately 6 kilometres up to the spot height 972, due east of the command post. This entailed some untracked navigation and an opportunity to learn or revise their skills at resections on the upper ground. Platoon 1 was given some revision on the compass and how to use it, together with some RATEL revision, before doing some short legs to practise new navigation/radio skills, which proved successful.
The night activity was again split and 1 Platoon did a night navigation in small groups with cadet rank, whilst 2 and 3 Platoons were night navigating but with a tactical twist to the orders. All were successful and returned to the command post for supper before bedding down for the night.
On the weekend of 27-28 May, the Cadet Unit conducted its second bivouac for the year, Exercise Tarin Kowt.
The Cadets contemplate the upcoming events for the day
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
On Sunday, reveille was early so we could fit in the program for our own mini ‘Amazing Race’. The cadets were split into seven groups and were given bearings and distances to get to their start points. Then at an agreed time the activity commenced and at each checkpoint there were staff/cadet staff to run each of the activities which were all related to the orders. There were a few hiccups initially with the bearings but the activity was a success. Upon our return we had lunch, packed up and marched out to the bus collection point for return to Toowoomba. I take this opportunity to thank staff and volunteers, Mrs Allison Stalley and Mr Andrew Baker, for their support over the weekend. Mrs Stalley excelled again with her cooking skills and provided a three-course
meal for Saturday night and home-cooked cakes for supper. We were fortunate with the weather as it was not too cold or wet on the weekend.
Training continues at the Unit and last Friday we instructed all cadets on drill, which also allowed our recruits to catch up on their new skills. We also started our preparation for the next bivouac, which is our annual tactical activity conducted as a school activity, so we can spend a whole weekend with Darling Downs Laser Skirmish. This Sunday our drum corp will have instruction with Mr Len Bowden to continue their training for the March Out Parade. In addition, the TGS Honour Guard continues to practise their rifle drill skills every Wednesday.
The Junior Leaders’ Course will be run by the South-East Queensland Brigade at Greenbank Military Training Area in the last week of the holidays. Although we nominated twenty-three cadets to attend this course, Brigade have accepted only fourteen of our cadets and we wish them the best. In addition, four of our cadet staff and LT(AAC) Hallam will assist on course as directing staff or instructional staff. We all look forward to the holidays and a break from training and I wish everybody safe travels.
LT(AAC) Ann HallamTGSCU Executive Officer (XO)
Cadets
The Junior Leaders Course will be run by the South-East Queensland Brigade at Greenbank Military
Training Area in the last week of the holidays.
The Cadets erecting the wet weather tarpaulins
Orienteering
Head of Senior School
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Junior School
Director of Studies
Director of Sport and Activities
Director of Boarding
Director of Performance
Library
Cadets
Careers Adviser
School Counsellor
Boarder Parents’ Support Group
School Notices
Established 1875
TOOWOOMBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Careers AdviserFrom the Careers AdviserFor Parents of Year 12 Students On-time applications for QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre) close at the end of September 2017, as do those for the interstate admission centres. The boys are issued a hard-copy of a QTAC guide. These should be available for them to collect prior to going home for the holidays and I will email the boys as soon as they arrive.
In Term 3, I will assist the boys with their applications and have also arranged a number of speakers to visit the School throughout the term. Late in Term 3, I will offer parents a QTAC Information Seminar which will cover application procedures and timelines for Year 12 students, HECS and HELP Loans, Youth Allowance and the proposed changes to the cost of tertiary study.
University Open Days usually run in late July and August and are a great opportunity for parents and their sons to visit prospective universities, discuss course offerings with university experts, get a feel for the culture and vibe of the university, become familiar with accommodation options and find out about opportunities such as scholarships and overseas exchange programs. Information on Open Days and Tertiary Study Expos can be found here - http://www.qtac.edu.au/courses---institutions/open-days-expos
Some universities offer Early Entry Programs. Below, I have summarised a few and included relevant dates.
Australian Catholic University Early Achievers Program – applications close on Monday, 17 July.Australian Catholic University has a campus in Brisbane and offers a wide range of courses in business, information technology, health and education. Their Early Achievers Program recognises students who have been engaged in volunteering or leadership activities in their
community – through their school, community organisation, cultural group, or religious group. Go to https://www.acu.edu.au/study_at_acu/pathways_And_entry_schemes/year_12_student_entry/early_entry
Bond University Scholarships – applications close on Monday, 31 JulyApplications for scholarships to Bond University close on Monday, 31 July. Students wishing to apply for a scholarship need to complete the online Application Form, accompanied by the required documentation. Go to https://bond.edu.au/future-students/study-bond/how-apply/scholarships.
Also, Bond University is offering a Bond with Bond Seminar. Parents and students are invited to attend an information session about Bond University in Old Hall on Tuesday, 11 July at 5:00pm. At this seminar you will also be able to meet and speak to current Bond students. Please visit https://bond.edu.au/event/47654/bond-bond-toowoomba for further information and to register your attendance.
The University of Southern Queensland – Applications close August 2017.The University of Southern Queensland offers high achieving Year 12 students the opportunity of a guaranteed place in a USQ program. All students who receive a Principal’s Recommendation will also be considered for the Vice-Chancellor’s Principal’s Recommendation Scholarships valued at $12,000 each. Those who do not receive a monetary scholarship will be offered guaranteed entry into
a USQ program providing the admission pre-requisites are satisfied. Further information regarding USQ’s Principal’s Recommendation Scheme will be provided to the boys in Term 3.
University of New England Early Entry – closes Tuesday, 29 SeptemberMr Brian See from UNE will be in the Careers Classroom during Year 12 Assembly on Wednesday, 19 July to assist boys with their application. He will also answer any questions you have about course preferences, scholarships and accommodation. Applications are due before Tuesday, 29 September. The application is to be completed online at http://www.une.edu.au/study/study-on-campus/get-early-entry/apply-online. There is no requirement to also complete a QTAC application but students may decide to submit a QTAC application for other courses.
University of the Sunshine Coast Early Offer Guarantee – closes Monday, 9 OctoberThe Early Offer Guarantee enables Year 12 students to be offered an early and guaranteed place at the University of the Sunshine Coast in November. These offers are made prior to the release of Year 12 results, rather than students having to wait until the main QTAC offer round in January. Early and guaranteed offers will be made to students based on the recommendations of their school Principal. Applications open on Thursday, 3 August. To participate, a student needs to submit his application, with a copy of his Year 12 Semester 1 school report to me before Monday, 9 October. Go to http://www.usc.edu.au/learn/how-do-i-apply/pathways-to-study/pathways-from-year-12/early-offer-guarantee
Students also need to list their preferred course as their first preference on their QTAC application which is due by Saturday, 30 September.
UQ Accommodation Guarantee for new studentsFor students commencing study at UQ and looking for accommodation, UQ’s accommodation service is providing guaranteed accommodation for eligible students. Students who will be studying as an international, regional or interstate student at the St Lucia or Herston campuses will receive guaranteed accommodation through the UQ Colleges and UQ’s external partners. For further information, go to h t t p : / / w w w. u q . e d u . a u / s t u d e n t - s e r v i c e s / g u a r a n t e e d -accommodation
UQ College ApplicationsThis term, we have had visits from a number of the Heads of UQ Residential Colleges, including Mr Stephen Foley from St Leo’s College and Professor David Brunckhorst from Emmanuel College. I have also met with Reverend Professor Rodney Wolff from St John’s College.
In Week 3 of Term 3, we will be visited by Mr Greg Eddy from King’s College on Monday, 24 July. While he is here, he wishes to interview any boy who has submitted an application and I have emailed the electronic application form out to the boys. Also, on Friday, 28 July, Mr Ross Switzer from Cromwell College will be available to speak to the boys at lunch time.
I encourage the boys to submit their application for a place at a residential college as early as possible. If they are still unsure about which college, they can visit the colleges at the UQ Open Day on Sunday, 6 August.
TC Beirne School of Law Leadership, Excellence and Diversity ScholarshipApplications for the LEAD Scholarship will close on Thursday, 31 August 2017. The LEAD Scholarship, offered to current Year 12 students wishing to attend UQ in 2018, offers financial assistance of $7,000 per year for up to five years of a UQ law program, access to the academic and pastoral support of a residential college, and priority access to valuable work experience and internship opportunities. For more information about the program: https://law.uq.edu.au/lead To apply: https://law.uq.edu.au/lead-scholarship-application-information
2018 Accounting CadetshipsStudents planning to study accounting at university in 2018 can use Google or a Job Search site to find cadetships like these:https://www.seek.com.au/job/33378799http://www.pitcher.com.au/careers/locations/sydney/cadetships
For Year 11 Students, applications for the University of Queensland Young Scholars Program closes on Friday, 11 August 2017.UQ’s Young Scholars Program is designed to nurture and develop exceptional high school students. Students will gain valuable insights into university life and fields of study they may not have encountered as part of the school curriculum. They will hear from leading thinkers and engage in discussions and collaborative forums in group settings. A range of social, sporting and cultural activities will complement the academic program. https://young-scholars.uq.edu.au/node/3/0#0
Aviation Australia Expo Brisbane - Saturday, 19 August The Aviation Expo (formerly known as the Aviation Careers Expo) returns in 2017 to offer the ultimate aviation showcase. Encompassing the areas of Careers, Lifestyle, Community and Experiences, this year’s event will have something for everyone, including career aspirants, aviation enthusiasts, thrill seekers and the wider aviation community.http://www.aviationaustralia.aero/aviation-expo/
The Agricultural Skills and Technology Experience: School Holiday ProgramLongreach Pastoral College: Sunday, 25 June – Thursday, 29 June, Sunday, 17 September – Thursday, 21 September.Emerald Agricultural College: Sunday, 2 July – Thursday, 6 July, Sunday, 24 September – Thursday, 28 September.
TASTE allows students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to get a hands-on experience at farm scale properties and meet experienced instructors who are working in the industry. Suitable for anyone who would like to work with animals, learn how crops are grown, and how to manage machinery or the environment.http://www.qatc.edu.au/Learn%20with%20us/Pages/TASTE.aspx
Projects Abroad: Brisbane Information SessionMonday, 17 July from 6:30pm until 7:30pm, Hotel George Williams, 325 George Street, Brisbane. Learn about how you can volunteer on one of their international projects. http://www.projects-abroad.com.au/more-info/information-events/
Year 13Year 13 is an online resource which provides advice and information on life after high school. The website provides information on a number of topics including apprenticeships, gap year programs, job vacancies, studying, and internships. https://year13.com.au
Defence Work Experience Programs• Army Malaria Institute Research Centre - Secondary Students:
Gallipoli Barracks Monday, 19 - Friday, 23 June, Enoggera QLD Application closing date: Friday, 2 June https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/cp/index.cfm• Army Familiarisation and Field Experience: Gallipoli Barracks Monday, 24 July - Wednesday, 26 July, Enoggera QLD Application closing date: Friday, 30 June https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/cp/index.cfm • Army Health and Medical Secondary Work Experience Monday, 14 - Friday, 18 August, Townsville QLD Application closing date: Friday, 30 June https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/cp/index.cfm For further Work Experience Placements: https://defencecareers.
Every day we experience new things and interpret what is happening to us, around us and within us. At times, we can often interpret what is happening without even realising or taking notice, and this can have a significant impact on how we think and feel about ourselves. Our inner voice plays a major role in interpreting and understanding experiences. Often, this inner voice is also called ‘self-talk’. How we might behave emotionally, academically and even socially can be enormously impacted by the messages we send ourselves. Self-talk about achievements, our peers, situations, disappointments and our own personal view of ourselves will determine what lens we view our world with, and ultimately guide our interactions within it. For the most part, our self-talk is directed by our assumptions, values and beliefs, and can guide us in our efforts to overcome obstacles or challenges that may arise. It can, however, also hold us back or distort our view of what we think we are capable of.
Increasingly, I am finding that students are presenting with a distorted view of their capabilities, which often coincides with negative self-talk and a relatively low opinion of themselves. Subsequently, it is important to challenge any negative or unhelpful aspects of self-talk. This can support a reframing of thinking styles, and aids in a more adaptive and helpful approach to situations or challenges. Further, it can help to support more confident interactions with others and may lead to better outcomes personally and academically. Unfortunately, challenging negative self-talk does take practice and is not something that will change overnight. That being said, here are some simple strategies to improve your self-talk:1. Tune in as often our self-talk is automatic and subtle. Tuning in and
listening to your inner dialogue will help you to understand times or
situations when your self-talk may be distorting your view of yourself. 2. Take notice of what is happening in your day to day life and identify
any stressor impacting your inner dialogue. You might ask yourself, “Is my self-talk becoming increasingly negative at times of stress or at a particular point in your day?” This could signal an increased need for self-care at certain times over others.
3. Be inquisitive by investigating your self-talk further and separating fact from fiction. Challenge your assumptions and consider if there is a more positive way of viewing a situation, thought or event.
4. Challenge black and white thinking, so that, instead of saying “I can’t do this, I am never going to be able to do this, I may as well not even bother”, try adding shades of grey with “This seems scary and is something I might find difficult. Are there any steps I can put in place to help me achieve my goal/complete the task?”
5. Commit to making a change by setting realistic challenges for yourself or writing a plan. You might also want to tell someone you trust about your ideas to improve your self-talk and ask them to check in with you about what you are trying to do differently.
6. Reach out if you continue to find your self-talk impacting your thinking or view of yourself. Seek support from a trusted adult, teacher or friend and start a conversation.
For more information, tips and strategies, check out:http://au.reachout.com/what-is-self-talkhttp://au.reachout.com/challenging-negative-thinking
School Notices Please remember to contact your House Representative or me if you have anything you would like raised at the next Boarder Parents’ Support Group meeting, which is to be held on Thursday, 15 June at 1.30pm. Please note the meeting will be held in Old Hall due to the athletics carnival running that day from the Pavilion.
A reminder to new parents that the laundry now offers a jumper wash which is separate from the normal wash. This will be continued in Term 3. Jumpers are washed at the end of a laundry day on a cool cycle with a wool wash sanitiser. Boys need to keep in mind that jumpers might not return as quickly as a normal wash.
Hopefully, everyone has received an invitation to the Boarder Mothers’ Luncheon, to be held in the TGS Pavilion on Friday, 21 July. This is the second weekend in Term 3 and is a great opportunity in
an informal atmosphere to get to know mothers from your House and other Houses. Please don’t feel uncomfortable that you won’t know anyone, as your House Represetative will be there to make introductions. We recommend that you make the effort to attend, as it is an ideal occasion to meet other families and feel more a part of the School community. Please reply by Monday, 17 July as it is important for catering numbers.
Kind regards
Anita PerryBoarder Parents’ Support Group President 2017
Position Name Email Home Phone MobilePresident Anita Perry [email protected] 0417 762 159Secretary Gaylene Stanford [email protected] 07 4625 7544 0427 279 288Groom House Representative Ruth Johnston [email protected] 0418 575 550Stephens House Representative Gaylene Stanford [email protected] 07 4625 7544 0427 279 288Mackintosh House Representatives
Taylor House Representative Jayne Webster [email protected] 07 4676 4155 0427 764 209Boyce House Representative Rachel Welsh [email protected] 0428 599 948Corfe House Representative Rose Smith [email protected] 0408 751 725
Boarder Parents’ Support GroupI find it hard to believe that we are already nearing the half way mark of the school year; however, I am sure the boys are ready for a well-earned break after another busy term.
School NoticesAs per usual the school year is full of activity and action, and Term 2 has been no exception.
I think that the building of the new gymnasium would adequately reflect the “building and renovation phase” that the P&F currently find themselves in. Formalising operational structure, the laying of solid and sound foundations for years to come for the P&F and all the various supporter groups, has been the motto for 2017 and we are happy to report this is all moving along.
A recent addition to the P&F supporter groups has been that of a Track & Field Supporters’ Group, which was quick off the starting line, taking advantage of the opportunity to raise funds at the Inter-house Cross Country event.
The canteen during home Football games has had steady support and takings, and the Football Supporters’ Group is working tirelessly behind the scenes to make the annual Race Day another resounding success.
Big preparations are already under way for the hosting of the Grammar vs Downlands Rugby games in Term 3, so there are many opportunities for anyone to get as involved as their schedule allows.
We encourage parents to attend our meetings held on the third Tuesday of the month as they are informative and inclusive, with our next meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 18 July at 7:00pm in the Pavilion. For those parents who still are still reasonably new to the School, this is a great way to meet fellow like-minded parents, so please make a note in your diary to attend.
For suggestions or advice of your willingness to help out at our next event, please email us on [email protected] as we would enjoy seeing new faces.
Adele Spurgin P&F Secretary
Seeking volunteer nurses for the Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday CampDuring this camp in September, we are seeking volunteer nurses from our parent group, as nurses are required on a 24-hour basis during the camp. Duties include first aid and assisting our very capable Year 11 students with the children they care for. So, if you are available for a few hours on Saturday, 16 or Sunday, 17 September, please let us know. You will work with another nurse and will be well supported by our Health Centre nursing staff.
We hope everyone has a good break over the holidays.
Kind regards
Sharon, Meg, Gemma and Rebecca
Student Accident InsurancePlease be aware that the School has in place an Insurance Plan to provide financial benefits to students in the event of accidental injury. The policy has been designed to protect students worldwide for 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, against injury (as defined by the policy), which means an injury to the body caused by an accident, but does not include any condition which is also a sickness or disease. This plan is included in your General Purpose Levy.
Further information or Claim Forms are available from the office of the Chief Financial Officer, telephone 4687 2516, or on the School Website: www.twgs.qld.edu.au
From the Parents & Friends Association From the Health Centre
Uniform Shop Opening times during Term:
Monday 8:00am to 5:00pmTuesday to Friday 1:00pm to 5:00pm
