Headmaster

Deputy Headmaster

Head of Senior School

Head of Junior School Director of Studies Established 1875

Director of Sport and Activities

Director of Boarding Headmaster’s Director of Performance Newsletter Library Tuesday, 19 February 2019 Cadets

Careers Adviser

School Counsellor

Boarder Parents’ Support Group

School Notices At a Glance... Parent Lounge Updates Preparing for Outdoor Pursuits and Activities Week Parent Teacher Meetings Assessment Periods School Counsellor and Mental Health ‘Elevate Education’ Parent Seminar Forthcoming Music Events Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School 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 Headmaster

Dear Parents,

On behalf of my wife, Thérèse, and myself I wish the entire school community a safe, rewarding, happy and fulfilling 2019.

January 2019 represented the commencement of my seventeenth enrolments as a long-term investment. The outcome will be seen in the year as Headmaster of this wonderful School, an honour of which I am longer term with both the School and you as parents combining in our extremely proud. In my first newsletter to the School, back in January efforts to produce well-adjusted, caring and well-rounded young men, of 2003, I mentioned the warmth of welcome from the parents, staff, who will be offered a range of positive options after leaving school to Old Boys and students, following our relocation from to live a full and rewarding life. Relevant to the current drought, my arrival TOOWOOMBA Toowoomba to become the Headmaster of this School. Some things to Toowoomba Grammar School in January 2003 was at a time when GRAMMAR SCHOOL have remained unchanged since 2003 and there have also been huge most of the ovals were without much grass cover and the embankments Established 1875 changes. I wish to consider some of these. on all ovals were bare Toowoomba red dirt. Today we are still struggling but all ovals show some illusion of lushness with our pop-up sprinkling A GPS School for boys Prep - Year 12 system from the bore. Boarders from Year 5 In January 2003 I arrived when Toowoomba and were PO Box 2900, Toowoomba QLD 4350 in a very serious drought. At present we can all relate to this and my 24 Margaret Street, East Toowoomba QLD 4350 AUSTRALIA thoughts go out to all, particularly those in regional, rural and outback My educational philosophy and the goals of the School have largely Telephone: (07) 4687 2500 Facsimile: (07) 4687 2666 Email: [email protected] regions who are reliant on favourable weather conditions. I take the remained constant throughout this period 2003 – 2019. We continue ABN 86 510 299 250 - CRICOS Reg No. 00525D opportunity of thanking all of you as current parents for the sacrifices to maintain a curriculum that is largely academic and relevant; you are making in enabling your son(s) to be educated at Toowoomba Grammar School. I hope you regard the necessary financial cost of Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library

Cadets however, we have seen significant changes in the subject offerings In this regard nothing has changed. This remains as current and Careers Adviser over time. When I first arrived we did not have the study of Drama in relevant now as it did then and I thank the teaching staff for their efforts the Senior curriculum. Several years ago we introduced a new subject in enabling the boys to learn to the best of their ability. Boys may not School Counsellor called Philosophy and Reason. This year we have introduced the study publicly acknowledge it but they appreciate structure and orderliness of Engineering, Design and Psychology in Year 11. Also, obviously the in their lives, as long as the rules are fair, understood and consistently Boarder Parents’ Support Group information technology (now Digital Solutions) subjects have grown applied. It is in a structured and disciplined environment that the boys School Notices enormously over the years. In other articles in this newsletter, you will are able to learn most effectively, realise that there are consequences also read of the new Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) and associated with their actions and feel secure and safe at school. various changes in names to subjects, such as General Mathematics,

Mathematical Methods and Specialist Mathematics replacing the In 2003, I re-iterated, as I do now, the School’s commitment to former Mathematics A, B and C from previous years. Basically in terms single-sex schooling. It is in an all-boy environment that we can best of academic study, the School remains committed to an emphasis on direct our teaching and learning strategies to meet the specific needs Boys may not publically academic endeavour and progress at an individual’s highest possible of boys. The School is a member of the International Boys’ Schools’ level. To this end, I was extremely pleased to see the very favourable Coalition, a world-wide body established to investigate the best acknowledge it but they Year 12 results for the School and our young men in 2018. possible learning and social strategies to promote the welfare of boys appreciate structure and in schools. Whilst we acknowledge that boys learn best in an all-boy Whilst we focus on an academic curriculum, we are still mindful that not environment, we are also actively engaging with the all-girls’ schools orderliness in their lives, all of our boys will seek to pursue academic tertiary study post school. in Toowoomba in a variety of contexts to enable our boys to interact as long as the rules are We therefore continue also to provide a vibrant and extensive program positively with girls. of vocational educational subjects and school-based traineeships for fair, understood and those with such a focus. Finally, the School continues to be committed to the provision of

consistently applied. quality pastoral care for the boys. It involves, as a priority, how we as a The School also continues to commit its energies and resources to school can seek to know, understand, care for and guide our students, offering an extensive and engaging program of co-curricular activities. not as a collective mass but as individuals. This is coupled with the This is consistent with our intent on developing the whole boy; that is, students displaying a consideration of the needs of others in the creating opportunities to develop well-rounded young men engaging School and the wider community. The values and behaviours exhibiting not only in academic study but also in sport, music, drama, public honesty, unselfishness, tolerance, initiative, kindness, politeness, speaking, community service, cadets, the outdoors and other offerings. co-operation, team work, commitment, perseverance and resilience are all promoted in the pastoral care program offered by the Houses and In my first TGS newsletter of 2003 I also referred to maintaining a their Pastoral Care Groups. structured, purposeful and supportive learning and social environment.

Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets

Careers Adviser So, what’s changed since my first year as TGS Headmaster in 2003. I conclusion of the 2020 school year. This will represent my eighteenth School Counsellor arrived to lead a school with an enrolment of only 886 students – 183 year as Headmaster and certainly time for the School to welcome students in the Junior School and 703 students in the Senior School. a new Headmaster who can retain the positive values and traditions Boarder Parents’ Support Group We commence 2019 with a student enrolment of 1,159. At that time of this wonderful School but also to embrace the many challenges of School Notices in 2003, the Year 7s were part of the Junior School and only in that the future. year were Junior School classes introduced to Year 1-3. Later we saw I wish you and your son(s) all the very best for this year. The School the introduction of the ‘Prep’ year and the transfer of the Year 7s to has been extremely fortunate in once again attracting some capable secondary school. In 2003 the Pastoral Care Houses were either for and experienced teachers and administrative staff to join us this year. boarders or dayboys, without an effective integration of both groups. I extend my best wishes to the new staff, new boys, new parents and This changed in 2004. Up until 2012 the boys had to select to play either the existing School Community as we embrace all that is offered at rugby union or soccer, unlike the far more preferable offering at present I extend my best wishes Toowoomba Grammar School. where the boys can participate in the playing of both sports. to the new staff, new

boys, new parents and Only some of the current staff can recall the times with me when we With best wishes, only had an outdoor swimming pool, a very small Junior School, no Yours sincerely the existing air-conditioning in the Assembly Hall or Library or classrooms, only one Peter B. Hauser gymnasium, a very small Pavilion, inadequate teaching spaces for art, Headmaster School Community. drama and industrial arts and Boarding Houses requiring refurbishment. Many of you may not be aware that in the early years, we had a driveway through the entire school with vehicles driving through the School entering via Margaret Street and exiting via Herries Street. The implications on the boys’ safety as pedestrians are obvious. In those times there were RIP no laptops and no wireless connectivity throughout the School. Parents, Nicholas Henry Barker consider our students not having mobile phones in those days… a joy for 03/04/06 – 03/02/19 a Headmaster. Forever in our Hearts I remain as enthusiastic and committed to being the Headmaster of Toowoomba Grammar School now as I was in 2003. The Chairman The entire TGS School community extends of the School’s Board of Trustees, Mr Glen McCracken, has publicly heartfelt condolences to the Barker family. announced my intention to retire in two years’ time, that is at the Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School 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 From the Deputy Headmaster School Notices Welcome to the new school year.

I extend a warm welcome to students and their families as we activities. Will highlighted to the boys, the following message: commence the new school year. In particular, I wish to welcome those “Standing up for our School is about actively modelling passion and who join our School community in 2019. Each school year provides for gratitude. Modelling passion is about having the strength to work with new opportunities and I am looking forward to working alongside the pride every day of your life, being fulfilled by your work today, and being boys and staff as we strive to achieve all that we can in the year ahead. inspired to come back tomorrow. Modelling passion can be honouring The manner in which the boys have commenced is most encouraging, those who came before us by showing pride in our uniform. It can be as with an air of vigour and enthusiasm. simple as endeavouring to be engaged in the classroom. Stand up for Prefects Grammar.” At the end of 2018, the elected Prefects for 2019 spent time away on a “Stand Up” is mentioned in two well-known TGS war cries and provides planning retreat. The team, led by Senior Prefect, Will Purcell, worked a reminder to boys of this message each time they are sung. together particularly well to establish key areas of focus for the new Along similar lines, my hope for boys in 2019 is that they are engaged in year. The Prefects, along with many Year 12 boys who hold House and all that they do. Specifically, I am seeking for boys to be actively engaged committee leadership positions, have got straight to task, implementing in their learning, engaged in their co-curricular activities, engaged many new initiatives as they work toward their 2019 goals. with their peers and their House, engaged with the community, be it TOOWOOMBA Will Purcell had the opportunity to address the Senior School at a through service to others or with clubs and activities, and engaged in GRAMMAR SCHOOL recent assembly and introduce the Prefects’ theme for the year. “Stand their own self-growth and improvement. Established 1875 Up” is the underlying motto this year and Will encouraged boys to Technology consider this in all areas of school life. Stand up for others; stand up for our academics and strive for our very best; stand up and represent The TGS Information Technology Department had a hectic school with intent in sport and activities; standup and volunteer for service holiday period preparing 450 new laptop computers for a mass Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library

Cadets

Careers Adviser roll-out to Year 7, 8 and 9 students and further laptops for Junior School our current Parent Lounge – Tours and Excursions. students in Years 4-6. Additionally, teaching staff in the Senior School School Counsellor This new module will not only be used for tours and excursions, but have new laptops with advanced features to enhance teaching and also other events and occurrences (eg. Year 12 Formal, and ordering learning in the classroom. Boarder Parents’ Support Group and paying for sports training shirts). We are pleased with the move to school-provided laptops rather than School Notices In preparation, parents are asked to ensure they have completed their iPads for the younger boys. The laptop is provided for educational use only and iPads are no longer required for school use at home. We are son’s details in the 2019 Update of Health History document. (Click here) hoping this provides less technological distraction with more time devoted to homework, sports and activities and other leisure pursuits Frequently Asked Questions: after school hours. Parents will be provided with laptop use monitoring • Where do I find Parent Lounge? tips in future correspondence. We are pleased to move The long way: www.twgs.qld.edu.au >> LOGIN > PARENTS > to school-provided School Photograph Changes Parent Lounge Co-curricular and other special school photographs are scheduled to The short way: laptops rather then iPads be taken by Advancedlife photography this year. We have arranged for all school photography packages to be ordered online. This will allow https://tass.twgs.qld.edu.au/ParentLounge/login.cfm for the younger boys. parents to have control over what photos are ordered throughout • What is my Username and Password? the year. Your Username is your 5-digit Family Account Number. If you can’t Orders for photography packages can be placed securely online at www. remember your password, please call the School Reception (46872500) advancedlife.com.au using our School’s unique 9 digit Advanced order or IT for assistance. code: CN5 ZBK YE5. As sporting teams and other co-curricular photos become available, a notification will be sent to parents. Should you • Why do I need to login to Parent Lounge? have any queries concerning school photographs or online ordering, Parent Lounge is a one-stop-shop for your son’s School information. please direct them via email to [email protected]. You can:

Introduction to the Parent Lounge • View a full history of your son’s Academic Reports Have you logged into your Parent Lounge lately? Notice anything new? • Approve for your son to attend Tours and Excursions (new) In an effort to reduce the amount of paperwork parents are required to • Book Parent-Teacher meeting times fill in over the school year, we are beginning trials of a new module in • Update Address Details Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School 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 • Pay School Fees via credit card (with no surcharge) The goal of the Container Exchange program is to reduce litter and marine pollution, increase Queensland’s recycling rate and boost • View Co-Curricular Activities fundraising opportunities for community groups. Over the holidays, • See Daily Notices we have installed a number of recycling bins at the School specifically for bottles and cans that can be exchanged and ultimately recycled. • Update General Medical Details The Interact Club will be co-ordinating the recycling program at school Over the holidays, we In preparation for the Camps and Activities week being conducted at and funds raised will be directed to charities of choice. the end of Term One, it is imperative that your son’s medical details have installed a number have been updated. You can help by looking to use the yellow recycling bins when at School of recycling bins at the Container Exchange for sport and other events. If you wish to collect containers at home, you can also “donate” these to the TGS account by quoting our ID number In November last year, Queensland introduced the Container Exchange C10080928 at exchange facilities. School specifically for scheme providing 10c for every returned bottle or can. Prior to this the bottles and cans that recycling statistics for Queensland were disappointing: John Anderson can be exchanged and • Queenslanders use nearly 3 billion drink containers each year. Deputy Headmaster • The majority of containers are not recycled, ending up in landfill or ultimately recycled. as litter. • Drink containers are the second most littered item in the state, accounting for 23 per cent. • Queensland has one of the lowest recycling rates in Australia at 44 per cent. Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets Careers Adviser From the Head of Senior School School Counsellor Boarder Parents’ Support Group It has been a bittersweet start to 2019. School Notices The boys have all started the year very well; however, several boys have term. It was pleasing to see so many boys turn up to support our 1st been, and continue to be, affected by personal and family tragedies XI players with Prefects and members of the Spirit Squad handing and accidents. My thoughts and prayers go to those who lost loved out ice blocks and awarding Pride Points to those who supported. ones recently, as well as to those affected by drought or flood. Pride Points badges are awarded on Prefect Assemblies throughout the year to boys from each House who show the most school spirit. It is energising to have all the boys back at school. Most have returned in good spirits, are well presented and ready for the year ahead. Thank Senior Prefect, Will Purcell addressed the Senior School boys on you to all of the parents who understand the importance of setting and assembly in week two and encouraged all boys to “Stand Up maintaining standards for young men. In the classroom the boys are for Grammar” in 2019. This motto from the Prefects resonates engaged, working hard and doing what their teachers ask. with me on a number of fronts. Firstly, it fits in nicely with our focus on the three “Rs”: Respect, Responsibility, Resilience. Orientation and Activities Day • Boys are expected to respect others and stand up to those who are On the second Sunday of this term orientation and activities sessions not being respectful. were run in the afternoon for all Year 7 boys. Senior leaders helped co- ordinate the activities with the main intention being to allow the Year 7 • We ask the boys to stand up and be responsible for their actions. boys to meet others, to begin to develop their connection to the School and their House, and to relax and enjoy themselves. The Senior leaders • We encourage the boys to stand up in the face of adversity, when ran a variety of games and activities, including learning the School the going gets tough and demonstrate their grit and resilience. Song and the School’s War Cry, Tug-O-War, Touch Football and Futsal. It TOOWOOMBA was especially pleasing to see the bond developing between the older I have no doubt that 2019 will be a rewarding year for our Seniors if they GRAMMAR SCHOOL boys and the Year 7s in what was an entertaining afternoon. continue to display the commitment that they have in the first three weeks. Established 1875 School Spirit Outdoor Pursuits and Activities Week

We have already enjoyed our first home GPS fixture for the year with All Senior School boys will be engaged in camps or activities our Cricketers hosting Gregory Terrace on the first Saturday of the in the final week of this term. There is a wonderful array of Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance

Library destinations and activities planned across all the ages. We view this Parent-Teacher Meetings – Term 2 Cadets week as a very important part of the Personal Development program at the School and, as such, expect all boys to attend. Parents will receive Please see the details below for Term 2 Parent-Teacher meetings. Careers Adviser an email with all the relevant camp information. Please contact the The meetings will be split between boarders and dayboys over Student Services Office if you have any questions regarding the two days and meetings can be booked online through the Parent School Counsellor Outdoor Pursuits and Activities Week. Portal. The portal will be open to commence booking meetings on Boarder Parents’ Support Group Monday, 1 April. House Colours School Notices Should there be interview space available on Tuesday, 23 April, day A significant number of boys have been to Student Services since term parents would have the additional option to book on this day. The started to apply for House Colours. To be eligible, boys need to show portal will be open for these particular bookings in the final week of consistent endeavour in a range of House and School activities. Boys the school holidays, commencing Monday, 15 April. need to accumulate points in four categories: Location Date Sessions Category A – House Sport/House Activity Boarders Hugh Rose Building Tuesday, 23 April 11:00am - 1:00pm; 3:00pm - 4:30pm Category B – Cultural/Academic/Cadets/Outdoor Activities/ Clubs/ The safety of the boys is Societies Dayboys Hugh Rose Building Monday, 29 April 3:30pm - 5:30pm; 6:00pm - 7:30pm Category C – GPS Sport and Other Sport paramount. Please take Category D – Service care when dropping off Leave from School Boys are first eligible for House Half Colours. They then continue to and picking up your sons. earn points towards House Full Colours and House Honour Colours. Full If your son requires leave from School for medical, representative details of the Colours process can be found from page 32 in the Senior sporting, bereavement or family reasons then please email me School Student Diary. Boys can collect their House Colour application at [email protected]. Please avoid using term time for forms from the Student Services Office. family holidays.

GPS Championship Events Finally, we are conscious of how busy the traffic is around the School each afternoon. I ask all parents to please remember that they are The first GPS Championship event for the year is Swimming which driving in a school zone and need to adhere to the rules. The safety of will be held at Chandler on Friday, 8 March. It is a great event to start the boys is paramount. Please take care when dropping off and picking the year; many boys enjoy spectating and supporting our swimmers. up your sons. All Year 12 students are expected to attend as spectators and other boys are welcome to sign up to attend. We expect all boys in Years 9 Mark Oliphant to 12 to support one GPS event per year, and as noted in the School Head of Senior School calendar, all Year 9 boys will attend GPS Cross Country in Term 2 and all Year 10 and 11 boys will attend the GPS Track and Field Championships in Term 4. Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets Careers Adviser School Counsellor From the Head of Junior School Boarder Parents’ Support Group School Notices Dear Parents, this is a most optimistic time of the year in our School and is full of energy and enthusiasm.

New uniforms, shiny new shoes and a sense of working at Toowoomba Grammar School. joy have all been in abundance across the first Updated staff information is provided in the few weeks of the school year. Watching the following paragraphs. four and five year olds in Prep commencing ‘big school’ is a wonderful moment in time Mr Brendan Doherty has been appointed for the other boys, teachers and parents. It is as Junior School Sportsmaster. Mr Doherty good to have the boys back at school once has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Human again, full of excitement, noise and laughter. Movement Studies), majoring in physical education from the University of Queensland. L-R Will Phillips, Louis Ramia and James Jenkins enjoying reading in Prep M We welcomed 68 new boys to the Junior Mr Doherty has taught for over 20 years and School for the start of the year, along with has experience in Australia and overseas. their parents. I extend my very best wishes to He initially taught PE in a number of State all boys, new or continuing, for a successful Schools in South East Queensland early in start to the academic year and trust that 2019 his career. He subsequently taught in Japan is most positive for all concerned. for a decade at the International School of the Sacred Heart in Tokyo, where he became TOOWOOMBA Staff Head of Sport and Head of Department (PE). GRAMMAR SCHOOL Since returning to Australia with his wife and Established 1875 One of the greatest strengths of the Junior children, he taught at Downlands College in School is the quality of the staff. We have a range of subjects, while coaching various Prep boys enjoying their first wonderful teachers, teacher aides and sporting teams. Mr Doherty was educated at weekly swimming lesson administrative staff, all of whom enjoy Downlands College as a student. Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets Careers Adviser School Counsellor appointment being at Clairvaux MacKillop has teaching experiences both in Australia College in as a Learning Support and overseas. Jordan previously taught at Boarder Parents’ Support Group teacher. Mrs Costello also acted as Head of Dalby Christian College. School Notices Learning Support for a period of time at her previous school. In addition, several internal appointments occurred as follows: Two of our class teachers, Mrs Natalie Walker and Mrs Kathryn Stewart, remain on • Mr Rob Jeffries was appointed to the Aarav Desai and Arthur Sengaroun in Mrs Grills’ maternity leave for 2019. senior position of Head of Teaching and Prep class enjoying school. Learning in our Junior School following Miss Annabel Overell joins us as a Year Mrs Heffernan’s retirement. Mr Jeffries I wish Junior School 4 teacher on a one-year contract. Miss also teaches one of our Year 6 classes. staff, boys and parents Overell holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of New England and • Mrs Amy Casey was appointed as Co- all the very best for a was educated at Downlands College. Her ordinator of Years 4 to 6 and also teaches teaching experiences include a number one of our Year 6 classes. successful and positive of schools in as well as 2019. some international experience in Nepal • Miss Ellie McLiesh was appointed as and Uganda. As an undergraduate she Mackintosh Housemaster. Miss McLiesh’s Prep class giving a gained practical experience at both thumbs up to the school Grammar School (a GPS School in New South I wish Junior School staff, boys and parents Mrs Samantha (Sam) Costello has been Wales) and at Cranbrook, another large all- all the very best for a successful and positive appointed as our new Learning Support boys’ school in Sydney. Miss Overell taught at 2019. Teacher (P – 6). Mrs Costello has a Bachelor St Joseph’s Primary School in Wee Waa, New of Education (Primary) from the Australian South Wales last year. Catholic University and a Masters of Mr Jordan Swinney has been appointed as Education specialising in Autism from Griffith a Year 3 teacher on a one-year contract. Mr University. She has taught in both primary Swinney holds a Bachelor of Education from and secondary schools, with her previous the University of Southern Queensland and Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School 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 Year 6 School Leaders School Notices The Junior School assembly held in the second week of the school year was an important one, with our School Leaders being formally inducted into their positions. The boys were presented to the rest of our School community and recited the leaders’ oath, which relates back to our core values. Congratulations to our seven student leaders I look forward to a and best wishes to these boys, along with our entire Year 6 cohort as they lead the Junior School students in 2019. productive, positive and I am delighted by the optimism and energy that have typified our rewarding first term for School since the start of term, with boys and staff fully engaged in the the boys and staff. excitement of a new school year. I look forward to a productive, positive and rewarding first term for the boys and staff. Junior School Student Leaders (front row, left to right) School Vice Captain Hayden Fellenberg and School Captain Jett Regards, Heffernan. (back row, left to right) House Captains, Charlie Lachmund, William Dwan, Matthew Jacob, Hammond Briggs and Archer Onley Scott Campbell Head of Junior School Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets From the Director of Studies Careers Adviser School Counsellor There is always a feeling of “this is it” when boys enter Year 12 and realise that Boarder Parents’ Support Group everything now counts. School Notices While the media will draw a lot of attention their ability and how this might translate into year. Please note that applications for subject to the New QCE and the year 11 cohort, it final outcomes. As I explained to all the boys, changes have closed to Year 11 students until is essential that the boys in Year 12, who to truly reach their potential they need to mid-May. Under the new QCE, they must are the last cohort to work towards an OP believe in themselves, work hard to get the complete Unit 1 to gain credit to their QCE understand that the OP is a time tested and best academic results in their subjects and so further subject changes are not possible rigorous system for which we have a deep prepare fully for the QCS tests in September. this term. It is therefore essential, once understanding. We have a lot of data from assessments start, that any boy who is having previous cohorts and our current data on the In 2014, the Queensland Curriculum and difficulty with a particular subject and is likely cohort of 2019, indicate that this is a group Assessment Authority (QCAA) commissioned to want to change his subject in May, does with a lot of potential. I met with the boys the Australian Council for Educational his utmost to ensure a pass in that subject as in Week 1 to reinforce this message. The Research (ACER) to review the Senior we will record his satisfactory (or otherwise) academic rigour will be there, there will be Assessment and Tertiary Entrance procedures completion of Unit 1 with the QCAA. scrutiny on this group as the last cohort to in Queensland. Jump forward to 2019 and receive an OP and that they are as good as we are finally here, implementing the New Assessment Periods any cohort which has gone before them. QCE for the current Year 11 cohort which Every boy in Year 12 receives an academic will culminate in an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Parents may have noticed a new type of entry mentor; for those students who are on a non- Admission Rank) at the end of 2020. In in the school calendar; “Assessment Periods”. OP pathway they will meet with a member of the intervening years, every syllabus has Assessment Periods are anticipated periods the Careers Department. OP eligible students been rewritten by the QCAA, our staff have of intense assessment and boys can expect will meet with a senior member of staff and undergone extensive training and are fully that during this time they will encounter a at this first meeting will receive their OP prepared for the delivery of the new programs. number of longer examinations. Classes will TOOWOOMBA estimate. This estimate is produced based on The teachers are invigorated and excited not stop during these periods, but boys may GRAMMAR SCHOOL our data of previous cohorts’ results on the to be finally teaching the programs they be withdrawn from a class to sit a central Established 1875 QCS test and the boys’ subject results. The have put so much work into. The boys have exam. The concept of an “Exam Block” with majority of boys I met with left the interview started their Senior studies with diligence stand down periods will continue for Year extremely (and happily) surprised by their and enthusiasm and I look forward to this 12 students who are still studying under estimate. They tended to underestimate positive energy continuing throughout the the Old QCE in Terms 2, 3 and 4. However Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance

Library this shift to an assessment period reflects an appropriate medical certificate, or in the seminar to parents of students in Years 10- the greater responsibility we are putting on case of bereavement we are able to negotiate 12 on Wednesday 6 March at 6:00pm in the Cadets students to continually keep up with their changes with the QCAA. Jacaranda Room. This seminar is designed to Careers Adviser studies instead of leaving their studies to the provide strategies to parents to support their end when they might have relied on having a Please note that exams cannot be rescheduled son during their studies and exam preparation. School Counsellor period of study at home. for parents who are wanting to take their students out of class for extra-curricular Class Formation Boarder Parents’ Support Group Please note that assessment is not restricted to commitments or early leave. School Notices the identified assessment periods. Lessons will I have fielded numerous queries about how continue up to and including the last teaching Any Year 11 student with a long standing the core classes are generated and streaming day of each term and may include exams. If physical, cognitive, social-emotional or sensory within the year groups. Academic streaming boys take early leave, they will certainly miss condition must ensure that their paperwork is always done for the educational benefit of academic time and may miss assessment which certifying the condition is current, dated no the students. Year 7 classes are not streamed cannot be rescheduled early to accommodate later than 2018. Any medical certificate for as we do not have enough information about their early departure. either a short- or long-term condition must the boys when they first enrol. However, Year As I explained to all the be specific and include a diagnosis and not 7 students undergo a number of diagnostic boys, to truly reach their Access Arrangements and Reasonable contain the generic medical phrase “unfit for tests in the first few weeks of term. This Adjustments school”. Please communicate any illness or information is used to identify any students potential they need to condition that will impact on assessment with with specific learning needs and to provide With the commencement of the new QCE, we me as soon as possible teachers with academic insight to their believe in themselves and have entered a new era of accountability to students. Core classes are shuffled from Year the QCAA. While we have always maintained Elevate Education Parent Seminar 6 March 7 to Year 8 to enable the boys to mix with work hard. the highest professional standards, we different students, although they are not now are required to report far more to the Elevate Education provide engaging study skills streamed. Core classes are generated in Years QCAA in terms of our processes. Previously seminars to the students with the current Year 9-11 after consideration of student results students with special needs or who were 11 cohort starting their program back in 2018. in English, Maths and Science. The Heads of ill were processed under the term “Special This program will follow through their senior these respective departments analyse the Provision”, in which I had the authority to studies with 2 seminars each year and follow students’ results to make recommendations grant extensions, extra time or a new date up activities to reinforce the study skills they about the best distribution of students. Mrs for an exam. Under the New QCE, the name have learnt. The first student seminar for the Cathy Keeton, Head of Diverse Learners, then has changed to Access Arrangements and Year 11 students will be on 20 February while goes through the lists to identify any particular Reasonable Adjustments and only the QCAA the Year 10 students will start the program in students who might need consideration due has the authority to allow extra time or new Semester 2. Elevate Education has been to any other concerns. The change of classes exam dates. While I don’t anticipate that this working with schools in NSW and and getting new teachers can cause some should be a cause of concern for students, for many years, helping students prepare anxiety at the start of a new year, but as the QCAA is very reasonable, we will have for the intensive external exams of the HSC please reassure your sons that their less flexibility than previously. Of course, with and VCE. Elevate Education will present a placement in a new class is in their Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library best academic interests. Resilience is always the day for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. Congratulations to the following students Cadets needed at the start of the new year. We know who received Special Commendations at the some boys do not like change, but coping Speech Day Awards – End of Year Update end of 2018: Careers Adviser with change is an essential part of developing School Counsellor resilience. Within a few weeks, any anxieties Our Speech Day awards have been calculated in Special Commendations – Academic Effort should be well in their past as the boys settle two phases. The first group of award recipients, Boarder Parents’ Support Group into the new class and make new connections which represents the vast majority of the award • Augustus Bierhoff - Science- within the year group. winners, received their awards on Speech Day Examination Graph Work School Notices based on their academic achievements at that • Tom Charles - French – Academic Leaders point in time. To encourage all boys to work Achieving 100% in Year 7 French hard through to the end of the year, we then Year 7 • Riyan Khan - Japanese – I congratulate the 2019 Senior Academic re-calculated the Speech Day awards based Achieving 100% in Year 7 Japanese Leaders. This group of boys consistently on the entire year’s work and, as a result of this • William Smith - French – demonstrate a positive attitude to academic process, there are several students who are Achieving 100% in Year 7 French I congratulate the 2019 pursuits and show resilience in the face of now eligible for a 2018 Speech Day Award. My difficult academic studies. They stand out as congratulations are extended to the following • Ned Beasley - Japanese – Achieving 100% in Year 8 Japanese Senior Academic Leaders. role models to their peers and the younger boys on their fine achievements; their awards Year 8 boys. One of the most important roles they were be presented at the Scholars’ Assembly • Robbie Crooke - Japanese – This group of boys have is to provide academic tutoring in the on Thursday February 14. Achieving 100% in Year 8 Japanese library which is available to all students, consistently demonstrate whether it is a one-off homework problem or • John Anderson - Japanese – Year 9 a difficult subject the boy is wanting to master. • Max Durkin - Maxima Cum Laude Japanese Speaking Exam a positive attitude to Year 7 • Byron Farrington - Merit Younger boys in each house should identify 2018 • Samuel Christensen - Merit their prefects and academic leaders who will • Callum Francis - Merit academic pursuits and • Elijah McRae - Mathematics – be always available to lend a helping hand. Improvement in Effort and Results However, their greatest role may be less visible; • Charles Armytage - Merit Year 11 show resilience in the Year 8 • Jack Dann - Merit • Frank Mills - French – supporting their cohort through the continued 2018 • Harrison Mills - Maxima Cum Laude French Speaking Exam face of difficult academic encouragement of their academic endeavour.

studies. NAPLAN – National Assessment Program Year 9 • Lachlan Shultz - Merit Literacy and Numeracy 2018 • Luke Thornton - Merit Alison Young Director of Studies • Louis Denman - Merit The NAPLAN tests will be held on Week 4 of Year 10 • Arthur Hill - Merit Term 2. I ask parents to be aware of these dates 2018 and avoid making any appointments during Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities

Director of Boarding The 2019 1st XI were too strong for 1999 1st XI in the annual 20 year Cricket Reunion Match. Click here for highlights. Director of Performance Library Cadets Careers Adviser Director of Sport and Activities School Counsellor Boarder Parents’ Support Group The adoption of student-centred value system based on the three ‘R’s, School Notices Respect, Resilience and Responsibility are a school year, it is important to acknowledge to Mr Ben Schuhmacher, Director of Cricket, key focus areas in the Senior School for 2019. the efforts of both staff and students in in his organisation of these events as well as These values are none more evident than representing the School over the holiday the numerous staff and coaches who were in the realm of Sport and Activities and the period. In particular, the sport of Cricket involved. vibrancy on display each and every day. In saw the players exposed to a multitude of promoting this ethos within the School, we opportunities that served to not only develop Three Volleyball teams also travelled to can look towards the student body who can them as cricket players, but to develop them Melbourne to compete in the southern be considered the stewards of the underlying as young men of character. The New Zealand hemisphere’s largest school-based sporting principles that drive this message. Respect Cricket Tour in December of last year and an event, the Australian Schools Volleyball Cup. within the co-curricular activity begins with interstate tour to Sydney were significant Led by Director of Volleyball, Mr Eric Smith, our students having respect for themselves, events with the players representing the the three teams competed with vigour and the staff, the opposition and for the crest School with distinction, winning the majority pride as they came up against some of the they wear on their uniform. Resilience is of their tour matches. In January, the annual strongest school Volleyball programs in the their ability to bounce back from defeat, an Neil Dansie Festival saw another opportunity country. We look forward to our continued omission from an auditioned ensemble or for the squad to hone their skills prior to the involvement in this competition as it transfers not achieving a leadership position within GPS season. The team was unfortunate to its base to the Gold Coast in December of this the Cadet Unit. Responsibility focuses on the lose in the final to a formidable opponent year. student taking ownership of his journey and in the form of St Peter’s College, leading the charge in being an example for in the Neil Dansie Festival held at Knox Our Cadet Unit continues to develop our TOOWOOMBA others to follow. These core values continue Grammar, Sydney. The more recent Cricket future leaders with nine cadets involved in GRAMMAR SCHOOL to be promoted across all facets of the Development Camps held just prior to the leadership courses over the holiday break, all Established 1875 School and I am confident that our students commencement of the school year were a of whom were successful in their promotion. will further develop the attributes necessary great success and we continue to forge strong Particular mention must go to the recently for success. relationships with key community groups as appointed Cadet Under Officer (CUO) Tom As we settle into the routine of the new we facilitate these events. My sincere thanks Wallis for achieving a meritorious second Headmaster place in one of the major awards; Student of his team, the 8Cs and the 1st VI match. As with the start of any new year, the setting of Merit - 6RAR Battle of Long Tan Sword of From our Performing Arts Department, of goals is ever present and the department Deputy Headmaster Honour. The Toowoomba Grammar School Director of Performance, Mrs Natalie Otto of Sport and Activities is no exception. Australia Army Cadet Unit (TGSAC) with its continues to push the program into the realms New initiatives include the implementation Head of Senior School rich history, will no doubt continue to develop of excellence with the enhancement of the of a new communication platform that serves Head of Junior School such leaders both with formal recognition Music Tuition program, ensemble auditions as a ‘port of call’ for the TGS community to see such as the aforementioned awards and and rehearsals, as well as providing a level of the latest news, events, team lists, ensemble Director of Studies leadership promotions but also the informal pastoral care for the students that is beyond rehearsals and the like. The promotion of Director of Sport and Activities leadership skills that are inherently forged in reproach. 2019 will be an exciting year as all areas within our dynamic department is such an environment. the School Production takes shape under at the forefront of my philosophy and I am Director of Boarding the guidance of Mrs Otto and Producer Dr confident that continued development of The commencement of this term has been Young and we look forward to strengthening the Sport and Activities portal will serve as Director of Performance one of a hectic nature with the induction of our relationships with the wider Toowoomba a crucial element in raising the profile of not Library new students, both Year 7 and other years, community in this endeavour. only the highly visible sport arenas, but those into all that is ‘Grammar’. The sport seasons of Performing Arts, Debating, Cadets and the Cadets began in earnest with our Cricket program A key strategic direction for the Sport array of other Clubs and Activities on offer. I Careers Adviser hosting St Joseph’s, Gregory Terrace in a day and Activities department in 2019 is the would encourage the community to visit the of significant achievements for some teams strengthening of key relationships both aforementioned site to further engage with School Counsellor and a day that some teams may want to internal and external. The Sports Darling information and news of the wide array of co- Boarder Parents’ Support Group forget. Of note was an incredible 161 runs Downs Awards evening held on Saturday, curricular areas that you might not otherwise by Chace Oats for the 8A team and in the 9B 10 February was one such example of how be privy to. We will continue to develop School Notices Charlie Ploetz followed in his stead with a we as a School continue to forge bonds this platform and I appreciate any feedback commendable 106. with external stakeholders fo r the benefit from our TGS community with regard to the of our students. The evening was one of communication of Sport and Activities. Our Volleyball program began their 2019 promotion and acknowledgement as young journey with their first round against St athletes across the Darling Downs had I look forward to seeing the boys involved Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace in what their sporting success highlighted to the in our co-curricular programs as we would be tightly contested affairs across all community. It was fantastic for a number of progress through the year as well as grades. The program, under the stewardship Toowoomba Grammar School students to be seeing parents and friends supporting of Director of Volleyball, Mr Eric Smith and acknowledged with nominations across key the School and your sons in their journey. his dedicated staff may not have seen the areas in both state and national sport arenas. results they would have liked, but there is Our Under 15 Football squad were victorious Wes Dunne no doubting the effort of the young athletes in being announced joint winners of the 2018 Director of Sports & Activities involved in the sport. The battles on the Team of Year for their efforts in the nationally court were fought in honour of TGS student, accredited Bill Turner Cup. Henry Reardon Nicholas Barker, a keen Volleyball player (Year 11) won the Junior Para-Athlete of whose recent passing shocked the School the year for his incredible feats in the pool and Volleyball community. His love of the and a number of TGS Old Boys including game and the crest he wore each Saturday Matthew Denny and Cameron Shields was passed along in a heartfelt message were acknowledged for their excellence in from his parents prior to the commencement Athletics and Motor Racing respectively. Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets From the Director of Boarding Careers Adviser School Counsellor Dear Boarding Parents, Boarder Parents’ Support Group It has been great to welcome your sons back into the Boarding Houses recently. School Notices

At the beginning of each year in boarding at Toowoomba Grammar • How to keep your room tidy and managing your laundry School we welcome a large number of new boys to our community. This year we have 57 new boarders joining our returning boys across • How to use the online ‘Reach’ leave system the six Boarding Houses. We also welcome some new staff members in boarding this year. Mr A great deal of planning and hard work goes into helping the new boys John Hill is the new Boarding Housemaster in Stephens House and he settle in and to gradually master the many routines associated with life will also be teaching Mathematics in the Senior School. Welcome to Mr as a boarder. All of our Year 5 – 7 boarders in Corfe House benefited from Hill and his family. Another new appointment in Stephens House is the a formal program of transition activities during their first week at the Assistant Boarding Housemaster, Mr Peter Woods. Mr Woods is known School. These activities took place in the evenings and were designed to many of our boys because he has been a regular supply teacher over to be both engaging and interactive for the boys. A summary of the recent years. In addition, we have an Old Boy Alex Fessey commencing transition activities is listed below. The feedback from the boarding staff as a Resident Master in Mackintosh House and Bradley Grayson as a in Corfe House was that this transition program was very beneficial and new Resident Master in Boyce House. Welcome to all of our new has helped set the boys up for a great first year in boarding. boarding staff.

• Ice breakers and get-to-know-you activities A full program of tutoring is available to support the boarders with their school work. This tutoring is provided during the evening Prep sessions • Managing homesickness and how to make friends – presented by and we have a fantastic line up of tutors to assist the boys this year. TOOWOOMBA our School Counsellor Almost all of the tutors are teachers in our Senior School who know GRAMMAR SCHOOL the curriculum the boys are studying and they are available to assist Established 1875 • How to use Prep time effectively – basic study skills and time individual boys or work with boys in groups. This service is a tremendous management opportunity for the boys to get help when they need it and to seek improvement academically. Please encourage your son to make use of • IT troubleshooting to assist boys with using their laptops the boarders’ tutoring service. Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets Careers Adviser One of the challenges when looking after teenagers in a boarding School Counsellor setting is managing their use of technology. The School has introduced Boarder Parents’ Support Group a pro-active initiative to monitor the boys’ technology use, encourage more social interaction and ultimately help boys to develop positive School Notices habits with their use of technology. In summary, boys in Years 5 – 10 who are having some free time for recreation on their device are required to sit in the common room of their Boarding House. This is both so that staff can monitor what the boys are doing and also so the boys can be together with their peers and socialise during some recreation time (rather than isolating themselves). Early signs are positive that this new The School has initiative is having the desired effect. The common rooms are busier and noisier than ever with boys enjoying some time to relax in the company introduced a pro-active of others. Many have also made the positive decision to put their device away and head outside instead. Ultimately, this change will help the initiative to monitor the boys to enjoy their boarding experience more and to develop positive boys’ technology use, technology habits as they grow up. encourage more social I hope you are happy with the way your son has started the year at Toowoomba Grammar School and I look forward to catching up with interaction and ultimately many of you through the term. help boys to develop Best wishes, positive habits with their Jim Noble use of technology. Director of Boarding

Click Boarders’ Tutoring Planner to enlarge >> Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Big Band rehearsing in the refurbished Baynes Centre Cadets Careers Adviser School Counsellor Director of Performance Boarder Parents’ Support Group Welcome back to another busy and exciting year in the Performing Arts Department. School Notices

Music lessons and Ensemble rehearsals are well underway, and it is a he can join one of the Instrumental Ensembles. The Music Program delight to hear the glorious sounds of our Music students rehearsing has Core and Enrichment Ensembles that are designed to provide and practising all day long. We have welcomed Ms Wendy Evans as an opportunity for musicians of any level to become involved in the Teacher-in-Charge of Music Curriculum to our Performing Arts team. program. Further information and enrolment links are located here: Ms Evans has an extensive vocal and choral background, as well as many years’ experience as a Head of Department and Senior Music • Music Tuition Enrolment Form teacher. We are delighted that Ms Evans is now at Toowoomba • Co-curricular Ensemble Information Grammar School to share her passion for Music Education with the • Co-curricular Arts Program Enrolment Form boys and staff. The Baynes Centre is now sporting a fresh new look thanks to the renovations that took place in the holidays. Thank you An easy way of becoming involved in the TGS Music Program is to very much to all TGS staff involved in the renovations. The professional sing in one of the TGS choirs. The TGS Choral Program has an excellent finishes in the building have received many compliments from the reputation, and the program has grown this year with the permanent boys, and everyone in the Department is thoroughly enjoying working addition of a Year 7 to 9 Choir for unchanged voices. This choir rehearses in this newly revamped space. on Tuesday mornings from 7:30 am and during lunch on Fridays. The Senior Choir, for changed voices in any year level, rehearses at the same rehearsal times as the Year 7 to 9 Choir. There will be a streamlined How does my son become involved in the music department at TGS? approach between these two choirs to provide an opportunity for TOOWOOMBA boys at all stages in their vocal development to participate in the Many parents and students ask about involvement in the TGS Music Choral Program. In addition, these choirs will be joined together for GRAMMAR SCHOOL Program. Parents can formally request Music Tuition with one of Music various concerts to provide an opportunity for the boys to sing in a Established 1875 Tutors for private music lessons, or if your son plays an instrument large massed choir. There are no prerequisites required to join these Headmaster choirs as music staff firmly believe that all boys can be taught how to enjoy singing and performing. After a year of singing in one of the choirs the Deputy Headmaster boys will be given an opportunity to audition for the elite TGS vocal group, Head of Senior School the Grammarphones.

Head of Junior School Music Tuition Director of Studies Parents of boys who have enrolled in the Music Tuition program Director of Sport and Activities would now be aware that an online Music Timetable system Director of Boarding is in operation through the TGS Sports and Activities Portal - Music Tuition Timetables. Parents and students have been given a Director of Performance password to access each individual tutor’s timetable. Parents and students are encouraged to regularly check the Music Tuition timetables as many Library changes can occur at the beginning of the year due to the complicated Cadets nature of organising a large P to 12 Music Tuition program. Please click here to view the 2019 Music Tutor team. TGS boasts one of the finest teams of Careers Adviser Music Tutors in Toowoomba, and I thank the tutors for their commitment School Counsellor to the School and for their outstanding encouragement of your sons. Boarder Parents’ Support Group School Notices

2019 Concert Calendar

TIME EVENT DATE LOCATION

7:00pm Welcome Concert Friday, 15 March Assembly Hall TGS boasts one of the finest

teams of Music Tutors 7:00pm Music Showcase Friday, 7 June Assembly Hall in Toowoomba, and I thank the tutors for their Armitage Centre commitment to the School 7:00pm Big Band & RnB Band Extravaganza Saturday, 31 August and for their outstanding encouragement of 7:00pm Take Note Concert Friday, 25 October Assembly Hall your sons.

7:00pm Battle of the Bands Friday, 8 November Assembly Hall Headmaster Student News Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets Careers Adviser

School Counsellor Harry Gallagher, Year 9, attended the Cuskelly College of Music’s Sound Joshua Brown, Year 10, took part in the McGregor Music Retreat at the Boarder Parents’ Support Group Thinking Australia Summer School Program in Brisbane. He was awarded University of Southern Queensland. During the week-long course Joshua an Empire Theatre Youth Bursary to be able to attend this course. During studied with world renowned vocalists, and learnt about healthy vocal School Notices the two-week course Harry studied Musicianship, Music Theatre, Youth technique and stagecraft. Joshua also spent time in Sydney completing a Choir and Jazz Choir. A highlight for Harry was the Music Theatre’s class course in Radio and TV presenting. production of Romeo and Juliet.

It is a delight to hear the glorious sounds of our Music students rehearsing and practising.

Ruben Fitton, Year 8, was invited to attend the Gondwana National Choir Congratulations to Oliver Schubert, Year 10, for recently being named as one of School at the University of NSW in January. Singers from across Australia six finalists in the Queensland Symphony Orchestra Young Instrumentalist Prize travelled to Sydney to form six choirs. After 8 days of intensive rehearsals, for 2019. The competition is open to any student in a Queensland Secondary Ruben performed at the Festival of Summer Voices. To watch Ruben School who is at a minimum standard of AMEB Grade 8. Oliver is an outstanding perform in the Closing Gala please click here. young trumpeter and demonstrates great promise on the instrument, and to be named as one of six finalists from a field of over 50 young musicians is quite an extraordinary accomplishment. We wish Oliver all the very best for his performance in the Finalist’s Recital on Monday, 4 March in Brisbane. For ticketing details please click here. Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets Welcome Concert 7) have featured roles in this Empire Theatre Careers Adviser production. Tickets are being sold through School Counsellor The TGS Community is warmly the School to take advantage of the group invited to attend the Welcome booking prices. Parents will find payment Boarder Parents’ Support Group Concert on Friday, 15 March at details in the Parent Lounge. Ticket sales will School Notices 7:00pm in the Assembly Hall. close on 10 March, and parents will be notified The audience will be treated to when the tickets are ready for collection from an evening of entertainment the School closer to the performance date. provided by the TGS boys in We look forward to seeing many of the TGS various Instrumental and Choral community at the show. ensembles. Parents are very Sean Johnston (Yr 12 2018), welcome to attend the SOTA (Supporters of the Arts) Function Hamish Wells (Yr 10) before the concert at 6:00pm. and Darcy Meagher (Yr 7) have featured roles Kinky Boots

in the Empire Theatre Tickets have been reserved for all production ‘Kinky Boots’ members of the TGS Community to attend a performance of Kinky Boots on Sunday, 24 March at 2:00pm. Sean Johnston (Year 12 2018), Hamish Wells (Year Left to right - Hamish, Darcy, Sean. 10) and Darcy Meagher (Year

Natalie Otto Director of Performance Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets Careers Adviser School Counsellor From the Library Boarder Parents’ Support Group School Notices As another busy year begins I would like to remind everyone of our wonderful service here at the W.M. Dent Library. Library Opening Hours Monday to Thursday: Library hours can be seen to the side of this article. The library is a levels on many occasions helping with this. Most people learn best 7:30am – 5:00pm very busy place during the day with boys coming to study, research, at point of need, so if your son requires assistance at any time, read and finish homework. Many boys like to gather in the library please ask them to come and see me. We also have tools to help Friday 7:30am – 4:00pm for social catch-ups, but as the library is the only place in the school with referencing and planning assessment tasks. where quiet study and reading can be performed during break Sunday 1:00pm – 5:00pm times, we do not encourage social gatherings. The Bookmarkers is running again this year, as is the Pageturners. The Bookmarkers, for boys in Years 7-12, meet every Friday lunch time in We have a wide range of resources in the library and if we do not the library to discuss books and take part in fun bookish activities. The have a book your son would like to read, please encourage him to Pageturners is a literary group for Years 10-12, reading the same book see one of our staff so we can add it to our collection. We now have and discussing it as a group. If you think your son might enjoy one of three eBook and eAudio book platforms, including ePlatform by these groups, please encourage him to see me. I hope everyone has Wheelers, Overdrive and Bolinda audio. Information about these another enjoyable year. I look forward to working with your sons. can be found on the library homepage. Liz Derouet I would also like to remind readers of our vast range of online Head of Library and Information Services TOOWOOMBA research databases. With the amount of information available on GRAMMAR SCHOOL the internet growing each day, it is important our boys know how to Established 1875 find and use reliable information and data for their research. Much of this information is contained within secure research databases of journals and research papers. I work with classes across all year Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadet Warrant Officer Ben Peacock, Headmaster Mr Peter Hauser, Cadet Under Officer Tom Wallis, Cadet Officer Harry Rogan and Captain (ACC) John Wells Cadets Careers Adviser School Counsellor Cadets Boarder Parents’ Support Group School Notices We welcome back all cadets, our recruits and their parents to 2019

A number of cadets were very active during the holidays and we soldier of 6RAR who fought during the Battle of Long Tan. As a result all wish to congratulate all those who participated. In December both cadets were promoted recently. Cadet Sergeants Harry Files and Ben Peacock attended the selection training week for the Chief of Army Challenge Team (CACT) and Our Senior team for this year is Senior Cadet Under Officer Thomas the National Adventure Training Award. (NATA). Cadet Sergeant Wallis, Cadet Under Officer Harry Rogan, Cadet Under Officer Alannah Ben Peacock was successful in being selected for the Southern Munn and Cadet Warrant Officer Class Two Ben Peacock. Corporals that Queensland Brigade Team for the CACT which will be held in July attended the course were promoted to Cadet Sergeant and include: in Victoria. Both cadets were successful in being nominated for Lachlan Campbell, Cameron Dean, Jake Hewett, Olivia Lewis and Eloise the Brigade team for the NATA which will be held in April this year. Radford. Promotions this year were also given to the following cadets Cadet Sergeant Harry Rogan attended the Northern Queensland who were promoted to Cadet Lance Corporal include: Olivia Campbell, Brigade Cadet Under Officer and Warrant Officer Courses (CUO/WO) Daniel Da Silva, Harry Fortune, Penny Lamshed, Baxter McDonald, in December and had to leave early due to the forecasted weather Adam Peacock, Quinn Proctor and Emily Webster. Captain John Wells, conditions but was successful. Cadet Sergeant Tom Wallis assisted the Unit Officer Commander, stated that all the cadets were either on the selection training week. starting or continuing their journey of leadership within the Unit and congratulated all of them. In January a number of our cadets attended senior leadership courses at Canungra Military Training Area. This course was the On Friday 1st February we held our Recruit Muster and we welcome TOOWOOMBA first conducted with the new National Package and we would like all our Recruits and their families. We are still open for recruiting and to thank all staff and cadets who assisted and attended. We must welcome any students from Toowoomba Grammar School, Fairholme GRAMMAR SCHOOL congratulate Cadet Sergeant Alannah Munn who won the ‘Student College and The Glennie School. Cadets is a full year co-curricular Established 1875 of Merit’ Award. The award is given to the cadet who is the most activity which provides a program which has an impact on an individual outstanding cadet throughout the entire course. This award involves which includes: Communication, Teamwork, Problem Solving, Initiative receiving the 6RAR Battle of Long Tan Memorial Sword of Honour, and Enterprise, Planning and Organising, Self Management, which is a prestigious award carrying a long-standing tradition as the sword was presented to the SQLD cadets by the family of a fallen Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Cadet Under Officers, Cadet Warrant Officer, Sergeants, Corporals and Cadet Lance Corporals that attended our first Non Commissioned Officer Library Training Day on Sunday, 10 February, together with Lieutenant (ACC) Fiona Langston and Captain (AAC) John Wells Cadets Careers Adviser School Counsellor Learning of Life Skills and Leadership. On Sunday 17th February we held a full day of training for our Recruits here at the School. Boarder Parents’ Support Group School Notices On the weekend of 2nd and 3rd February three staff members attended the Commanders Conference in Brisbane for updates on the Cadet Program and Policies. Last Sunday on 10th February we conducted our first NCO Training Day here at the school and all cadets with rank attended for a session of training. On Saturday 16th February a small number of our cadets were part of the vigil for the National Servicemen’s Association Commemorative Service conducted at the Mother’s For those new families the Memorial here in Toowoomba. School has a tradition of Headmaster Mr Peter Hauser and Cadet Officer Harry Rogan Our Drum Corp has started training and positions are available to any supporting the Toowoomba cadet or recruit. Tuition is free and you don’t have to have a sense of rhythm as we teach you to play on a snare or bass drum. Lessons are held ANZAC services and has every Thursday after school here at Toowoomba Grammar School. We done so since 1923 must publically thank Mr Jim Cohen for his support with this program. Our Toowoomba Grammar School Honour Guard has also started rifle drill training for the upcoming ANZAC services. This is a school activity and available to any cadet who is in the second year and above as basic drill is required. For those new families the school has a tradition of supporting the Toowoomba ANZAC services and has done so since 1923. Training is on a Wednesday afternoon from 4.00-5.00 pm. Cadet Sergeants and Cadet Lance Corporals after their Ann Hallam promotion on Friday, 8 February Cadet Officer Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School 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 Careers Advisers

Welcome back to the 2019 school year. We are certainly looking forward to the busy and productive year that is ahead of us all.

In our Carers Department, we have two Careers Advisers. Mrs It includes, Jenny Ball will be working with the Year 11 and Year 10 boys this year and will be available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. • A Career Calendar is available on the website under “Important Mrs Stacy Nottle will be working with the Year 12 and Year 10 Info”. Go here to check dates for university open days and due boys and will be available Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. The best dates for applications. contact for Mrs Ball is [email protected] and for Mrs Nottle is [email protected] and we will get back to you as soon • Instructions on how to get a Tax File Number is also available as possible. under “Important Info” on the website.

Mrs Marian Rathie, our VET Co-ordinator, is available 8:00am- 4:00pm Monday to Friday. Please contact Mrs Rathie on 07 Course Seeker is a new website that helps students make 4687 2597 or [email protected] if you wish to discuss informed decisions about their future study by allowing them TOOWOOMBA school-based traineeships or apprenticeships, TAFE courses, work to access clear and meaningful information on ATARs/OPs, GRAMMAR SCHOOL experience and for any other urgent careers-related matter. prerequisites and enrolment policies. Information has been Established 1875 sourced from across Australia and presented in a nationally Careers Website consistent and comparable format to improve the transparency across the higher education sector. Visit our TGS Careers website for information on Careers. https://www.courseseeker.edu.au https://www.twgscareers.com Headmaster The UCAT ANZ is a compulsory entry requirement for Australia Deputy Headmaster Study Overseas and New Zealand Consortium universities. Students are required Head of Senior School to sit the test by 31 July 2019 for entry in 2020 to a relevant course The Australian Government has a Study Overseas – Student or programme. UCAT results cannot be carried over from one year Head of Junior School Information Gateway website with tips, advice and resources to to the next. For example, results from UCAT ANZ 2019 can only Director of Studies make it all happen. https://www.studyoverseas.gov.au be used to apply for courses commencing in 2020. There are no general exemptions from the test. Director of Sport and Activities Overseas Gap Years Mrs Nottle will be assisting any boys interested in Medicine and Director of Boarding Applications are currently open for Year 12 boys wishing to Dentistry. If you have any questions, please contact her. Director of Performance undertake an overseas Gap Year. The following agencies can assist with your son’s placement. Queensland Training Award nominations for 2019 are now open. Library If you know someone who is an outstanding student, apprentice, Cadets Letz Live trainee, or educator, you can nominate them for the 2019 Queensland Training Awards. Awards are now open and close on Careers Adviser A Gap Year tutorship program; applications are currently open 17 March 2019. Go here for more information: https://training.qld. School Counsellor and close 8 March. Face to face interviews will occur in April and gov.au/qta May with final placements allocated in June and July. Further Boarder Parents’ Support Group information and application details available: Australia National University Observatory Work Experience http://www.letzlive.org School Notices The Research School of Astronomy & Astrophysics at the ANU Lattitude Global Volunteering offers a limited number of work experience places to Year 10, 11 and 12 students each year. Successful students will have Post-school volunteer opportunities working in Europe, the an opportunity to work on an astronomical project under the Americas, Africa and Asia/Pacific are available. Applications are supervision of professional astronomers, learn computing skills, currently open and close 8 March. www.lattitude.org.au attend departmental talks and be provided with information If you know someone about university courses and potential career paths. Subject to Gap Year Help weather conditions and staff availability, they are also usually who is an outstanding invited to attend an evening stargazing session using the student, apprentice, This is a website that may help students narrow down their observatory’s outreach telescopes. options for an overseas Gap Year. https://www.gooverseas.com/ trainee, or educator, you gap-year Local, interstate, and international students are invited to apply. However, students outside Canberra must organise and pay for can nominate them for the their own travel and accommodation arrangements. 2019 Queensland Training Entry into Medicine and Dentistry Programs 2019 - UCAT Applications for 2019 are currently being accepted and are competitively sought. Awards The UCAT is a two-hour computer-based test which assesses a https://rsaa.anu.edu.au/study/work-experience range of mental abilities identified by universities as important to practicing in the fields of medicine / dentistry / clinical sciences. Stacy Nottle and Jenny Ball https://www.ucat.edu.au Careers Advisers Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library From the School Counsellor Cadets As we return to school for a new year, it is a good time to think about Careers Adviser and plan for the new school year.

School Counsellor As we return to school for a new year, it is a good time to think about 3. Set a good study routine and get on task early Boarder Parents’ Support Group and plan for the new school year. With the excitement of catching up with friends and sharing holiday stories starts to wear off, our minds will Decide right away that you will put some effort in early and you will School Notices naturally shift to the year ahead. With this shift, we might be left with a reap the benefits come exam time. If you find you have a hard time mix of anxiety, excitement, fear and trepidation. In support of a smooth focusing studying alone, see if you can find a study partner or study start to the school year, there are some things students can consider to group. Visual reminders are also very useful to help keep you on task, assist in starting the year positively: so using your school diary is key. When you get an assessment task, mark it in your school diary and on a study planner at home. There are 1. Start fresh a range of study planning templates and apps available online for free to make staying on task even easier. Whilst it is important to reflect over and learn from the previous school year, starting a new year provides an opportunity to start fresh. This 4. Set some goals is not only related to new uniforms or school books, but also to our mindset. Commencing with a positive and optimistic attitude can go Set realistic, time focused and achievable goals for both academic and a long way in setting the tone for the entire school year. Continue to personal pursuits. This will not only assist to increase your motivation show respect to all staff, be friendly around the school yard and say hi and focus, but also aids in the development of time management skills. to any new people you might see. Be sure to share your goals with as many people as you can. The more people who know about what you intend to achieve, the more support 2. Over prepare and then go with the flow you have access to and the more accountable you become.

Organise yourself and your belongings the night before each new 5. Be open to new experiences school day. Check your timetable, pack your bags and prepare yourself before you go to bed. Not only will this help to avoid not having the Whether this means trying a new sport or activity, introducing yourself TOOWOOMBA correct materials for class, but it will also save you time in the morning to a new class mate or even talking to your parents about your day. GRAMMAR SCHOOL and helps in reducing stress levels within the entire household. On the Trying new things not only helps in potentially learning a new skill, it Established 1875 topic of going to bed, going to sleep at an appropriate and regular time also builds confidence and keeps life interesting. Whilst this might is vital for brain functioning throughout the school day. take us out of our comfort zone, remember it is ok not to know all the answers or get things right the first time. Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Library Cadets 6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help Careers Adviser School Counsellor We all inevitably have difficulties from time to time, and the new school year can often bring many challenges along with it. At times, these Boarder Parents’ Support Group challenges that arise may be overcomplicated by our own thinking. School Notices Asking for help not only improves our relationships with others but also provides a fresh perspective in working to overcome any challenges or barriers to success.

In closing, I would like to wish students and families a productive start to the year. Additionally, our thoughts remain with the Barker Family I would like to wish during their difficult time. I would personally like to thank the students, parents and staff of Toowoomba Grammar School for their support and students and families a care at such a difficult time for many. productive start to the year If I can assist or support any student or family at any time, please do not hesitate to make contact with me directly.

Best wishes,

Jennifer Johnson-Saul School Counsellor

From the Headmaster - I am committed to doing everything I can to provide the boys of TGS with a safe, secure and nurturing environment. Click Poster to enlarge >> Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Director of Studies Director of Sport and Activities Director of Boarding Director of Performance Boarder Parents’ Support Group Library Hello Boader Parents, welcome to Boarding at TGS 2019. Cadets I hope your sons have settled in well and are making boarding parents and hear directly from Executive Careers Adviser the most of their time at school. If they are new to staff members of TGS. Our first meeting for 2019 is boarding, encourage them to become involved in scheduled for 4th April. 1.30pm – Jacaranda Room. School Counsellor whatever activities are offered. If you have queries Boarder Parents’ Support Group or suggestions regarding boarding, you are most If you are in town while your son is playing home welcome to contact the Boarder Parents’ Support games of GPS Sport, we would appreciate donations School Notices Group and we will help you or direct you to the of home bake for the canteen. Alternatively, perhaps appropriate staff contact. volunteer for an hour helping in the canteen. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Boarding contact details and other information relevant to boarders can be found on the School This year the Art Show Committee has extended Portal by going to http://www.twgs.qld.edu.au/ click an invitation to all boarder parents to attend the Jenny & Alistair McKay Year 7, Corfe House on the “Parent” tab, enter your details and then click ‘Boarder Parents High Tea’ at 2pm on Saturday, 30th on the “Boarding” tab. March. Tickets are $45.00 each and bookings can be made through Toowoomba Grammar Art Show Each Boarding House has a BPSG House website or school office: (07) 4687 2500. It is a Representative. Your House Rep’s Role is to act as perfect opportunity for you to catch up with boarder a spokesperson for the parents of their House at parents you may know and to also meet some new meetings and during discussions that the BPSG has parents. Dads are most welcome. throughout the year with the Senior Staff of TGS, as well as assisting with any concern you may have. We look forward to your involvement and support Please know that your comments, opinions and throughout 2019. suggestions are valued and that if something is concerning you, or you are simply unsure of Kind regards, something, there is always a solution or answer to be found. All of your correspondence and ideas are Kym Wright TOOWOOMBA respected and will be treated confidentially. President of the Boarder Parents’ Support Group GRAMMAR SCHOOL The Coleborn Family Established 1875 We will circulate a Notice of Meeting and encourage you to email any input to your House Representative Dates for your diary: to be included in the Agenda which will then be sent 30th March – TGS Art Show Boarder Parents High Tea out to you prior to the next meeting. Everyone is 4th April BPSG Meeting 1.30 – Jacaranda Room most welcome to attend as the meetings are very Saturdays – GPS Sporting fixtures. Home bake needed. relaxed and offer a great chance to meet other Headmaster Deputy Headmaster School Notices Head of Senior School Head of Junior School Health Centre Director of Studies Welcome back to school for 2019. Director of Sport and Activities We are available during school hours for first aid and mental Director of Boarding health assistance for all students. We are a 24-hour facility for our boarders. Director of Performance Please let the nurses know if your son has any medical condition Library that may impact him while at school. This includes recent Cadets fractures and severe illness.

Careers Adviser Please do not send your dayboy to school if unwell with illness. We have students attending school that are immunocompromised School Counsellor due to their own medical conditions and we would like to reduce Click Posters to enlarge >> Boarder Parents’ Support Group exposure to virus, such as flu and colds, to these students

School Notices If you are aware of anyone in your family/ friends circle that has been exposed to infections such as chicken pox, confirmed influenza, please inform the Health Centre as soon as possible.

Year 7 Vaccination: March 21

Please ensure your forms are returned to the Health Centre before 28 February. This is regardless if you choose yes or no for receiving the vaccination.

2019 Health history update

It is advised that all students have their school Health History information updated every 2 years If you have not completed this in the last 2 years, please complete it. We’re excited to announce Toowoomba Grammar School is one of the first schools in Queensland to have a virtual reality tour. TOOWOOMBA This is an online form found in the Parent Portal, in the section titled ‘Sign-up and online forms’. The form is titled ‘2019 Update There are fly through’s, 360’s and great images that take our beautiful campus GRAMMAR SCHOOL to the world, all with the click of a button. Established 1875 of Health History’. You can view it here. A GPS School for boys Prep - Year 12 We hope you have a healthy 2019. Boarders from Year 5 PO Box 2900, Toowoomba QLD 4350 AUSTRALIA From the TGS Health Centre 24 Margaret Street, East Toowoomba QLD 4350 AUSTRALIA Nurses Sharon, Meg, Gemma and Rebecca Telephone: (07) 4687 2500 Facsimile: (07) 4687 2666 Email: [email protected] ABN 86 510 299 250 - CRICOS Reg No. 00525D