The gift of education

Zeke Leaupepe Perkins began his BGS journey in January 2014 when he was granted a bursary to attend the School. Just under five years later he graduated with the Class of 2018, leaving the gates as a student for the final time in November 2018 and becoming a BGS Old Boy.

Zeke’s bursary covered school and boarding fees from Years 8 to 12, and was funded by siblings Lesley Huxley AM and Nicholas Heath, and their mother Betty Heath. Mrs Huxley was moved to establish the bursary after listening to Indigenous leader and lawyer Noel Pearson deliver an address at a BGS Speech Day. She was struck by the contribution she could make by giving a boy an education at Brisbane Grammar School.

The trio have found the bursary personally rewarding, having seen how their gift of education for one boy has made an impact and difference to his future. Lesley and Nicholas’ grandfather received a scholarship to attend BGS in the early 1900s and the family regards the bursary as a way of repaying this generosity.

“The education of our two sons at BGS impressed us with the understanding and encouragement boys receive to develop into self-reliant but courteous young men, able to value learning and achievement, and willing to accept responsibility,” Mrs Huxley said. “The School has a lovely spirit. Through Zeke’s education we have enjoyed continued participation in that positive BGS environment. It’s been a privilege to share in the life plan of another young man.”

Mrs Huxley said her family were motivated to support Indigenous advancement and could do so through their bursary donation. “As a family we have been really thrilled to see Zeke graduate and to know that he has participated in so many of the extracurricular options at BGS,” she said. “I’m sure it hasn’t been a one-way exchange and that the School has benefitted from Zeke’s presence and unique contribution.”

From his first days at BGS Zeke appreciated the bursary, but he now understands more fully what it means for him. “Receiving a bursary to attend Brisbane Grammar School was a life-changing experience for me,” he said. “Being given the chance to attend BGS is something I’ll always be grateful for.”

This sentiment was echoed by his mother, Lee, who said the generosity was overwhelming. “This bursary was like winning the lotto for your child’s education. How can we ever repay the Heath and Huxley families, what beautiful people they are?” she said. “To have someone put such faith into your child is a rare gift.”

In a fantastic development, Zeke’s younger brother Micah now attends BGS, also on a bursary. “It’s especially satisfying to know Micah developed an early determination to attend BGS and that the School found a way for him to join his brother,” Mrs Huxley said. “That shows why BGS is such a wonderful school. We wish Zeke and Micah every success. They are a great credit to their parents and family, and to their school.”

If you are interested in giving to the BGS Bursary Fund or would like further information visit www.brisbanegrammar.com/OurCommunity/bgsgiving