From the Director of Boarding
Welcome back to Term 4! Whilst we are already at the end of Week 3, I have been really pleased with the manner in which the term has started. I give my congratulations to our newly appointed student leaders for 2027. Leadership in boarding is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I look forward to working closely with this group as they prepare to leave their mark on TGS Boarding next year. At the same time, I would like to acknowledge and thank our 2026 boarding leaders. They will be remembered as a group that worked tirelessly to create a culture where every boy felt that he belonged. The sense of connection, inclusion and community that has been evident throughout the year is a credit to their leadership and the example they have set for younger boarders.
This week has also marked the beginning of an important period for our Year 12 boarders as they commence preparations for their external examinations. For many boys, particularly those who have pursued vocational education and training (VET) pathways, their boarding journey has effectively come to an end, with work placements, apprenticeships and other employment opportunities now underway. It is always a bittersweet time of year as we see students move towards the next stage of their lives, and we are incredibly proud of what they have achieved during their time at TGS.
As we look ahead to 2027, families should be aware that there will be changes to mobile phone access and screen time arrangements within the boarding houses. This topic was discussed at the end of Term 3 during our Boarding Parents’ Support Group (BPSG) meeting and received strong support from the parents in attendance. Since significant changes were introduced two years ago, further research continues to emphasise the impact of smartphones on young people, and we are seeking to align our practices more closely with the recommendations of industry experts such as Susan McLean, who has been a regular presenter to our students and parents. I have also commenced discussions with current boarding student leaders and will continue to seek student feedback as we refine our approach. We will provide further updates throughout the term. In the meantime, I would like to thank parents for their ongoing support in helping boys develop healthy habits and balanced relationships with technology. As every parent knows, getting boys off their phones is often easier said than done.
I would also like to draw families' attention to the recent letter from the Deputy Headmaster, regarding parties, social gatherings and teenage safety, together with the accompanying Parent Guide. The guide contains a dedicated section for boarders and serves as a timely reminder that when boys are on approved leave, clear communication between parents, hosts and the Boarding House is essential. In particular, the guide emphasises the importance of knowing where a boarder will be staying, who is supervising him, how he will travel and ensuring that any significant changes to arrangements are communicated to both parents and the School. As we approach the end of the year and social activities become more frequent, I encourage all boarding families and hosts to take the time to read this section and discuss expectations with their sons before leave weekends.
The Boarders' Cup competition continues to be a highlight of the term, with strong participation and plenty of healthy rivalry between houses in the first two rounds of the competition. Participation in weekend activities has varied, with some events attracting strong attendance and others fewer registrations. I encourage all families to check the Parent Lounge and ensure boys sign up for opportunities such as Friday afternoon golf, fishing excursions and our end-of-term Wet'n'Wild trip. These activities provide valuable opportunities for boys to build friendships, develop new interests and make the most of their boarding experience.
Finally, I would like to wish all Year 12 boarders every success as they prepare for their external examinations. Whether the next chapter involves university, an apprenticeship, employment or further training, we are confident they are well prepared for the opportunities ahead. We thank them for the contribution they have made to the boarding community and wish them every success as they begin their careers and lives beyond Toowoomba Grammar School.
Mr Nick Byron
Director of Boarding
