Brad Allen Mackintosh Head of House - Boarding

Brad Allen

Mackintosh Head of House - Boarding

My first experience of a boarding school was when I stepped into the boarding house at Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School in Tamworth NSW, in January 1992.

I wanted to be there.

I was excited about the connections and friends to be made, the activities and sports offered, and the opportunity to attend a bigger and better school. It was a time when Year 7 and 8 dorms were comprised of 16 single beds in one big room, and a cupboard for each boy at either end of the room was the standard.

Boarding, society and expectations have changed; students, families, and teachers have all changed over these 30 years. However, the core of what we do has not changed. We strive to build connections and relationships with students, and at Toowoomba Grammar School, it is with the boys who, for whatever reason, are unable to stay at home and are now at boarding school for a quality education and experience. While fostering these relationships and supporting the boys, we take our responsibilities seriously as we must ensure that in the well-being and safety of the boys, your son is our priority.

Boys need to be comfortable and confident at school, and this comes as a result of a combination of factors; their own developed competence, the shared experience of a supportive boarding environment and knowing they are safe. Boys need to be supported in the early years to build this competence, learn how to get help, be organised, and handle challenging situations. It is personally and professionally satisfying to see boys and boarders grow their competence and develop the willingness to engage and embrace all opportunities available to them. We do battle the barriers that hold our boarders’ attention, predominantly technology and the smart phone. It is therefore essential to stay true to our values and experience to guide our boarders so that they can enjoy what they may otherwise miss.

Working in a boarding school has been a privilege for me and the life we love for our family. Having been part of school communities across Australia and overseas, we have engaged with families, teachers, and international staff. However, the best part of the role is seeing boys and boarders achieve more than they thought they could, be challenged and raise their standard, grow their character and leave school with fond and meaningful memories.