TOWNSVILLE GRAMMAR SCHOOL
STRATEGIC INTENT
2025 - 2029
TO MAKE THEIR WORLD A BETTER PLACE
Townsville Grammar School exists upon Thul Garrie Waja and Gurrumbilbarra, the land of the Wulgurukaba and Bindal people. Wulkgurukuba land stretches from the Hervey Range to Palm Island and Magnetic Island. Bindal land runs from the Burdekin River outlets to the beginning of Cape Cleveland.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of this land. We acknowledge the waterways, the land, the sky, all who inhabit this place. We acknowledge their ancestors and elders, and recognise those who continue to protect and promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We recognise their connection to the Country and their role in caring for and maintaining the Country over thousands of years. We acknowledge the past and stand together for our future. May their strength and wisdom be with us.
INTRODUCTION
In setting the direction for our School for the next four years, our collaborative process arrived at a simple statement to encapsulate the vision - to make their world a better place.
In unpacking this statement and, indeed, living out this intent, the School seeks to focus on the ways and means with which every facet of the School works for the betterment of our world, and in turn, the world we shape for the generations to come. The practical implementation of this approach is outlined through our six strategic domains covering learning, teaching, people, culture, community and stewardship.
From the delivery of an exceptional education to the stewardship of our resources, the preservation of our history, the evolution of our culture and master planning for the future, we strive, with intention, to make strategic choices that make our students’ world a better place through learning, outreach, experiences, social and emotional development, and the exposure to a world beyond their own.
In setting our strategic intention, we take on board the deeper responsibility and philosophy of a Grammar education, recognising that it is one thing to provide an exceptional education, but quite another to adequately develop our young people to be equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
In doing so, we must first seek to truly understand our current generation (Gen Alpha 2010-2024), their motivations and lived experiences, and look to the world they will inherit and inhabit.
Gen Alpha is growing up in a truly global community. As native AI users and consumers, this generation will enter a world where the operations of many industries will have been shaped by the adoption of AI, and other technologies, beyond our imagination, will emerge. As with previous generations, their trajectory and choices will be similar post-school, but the skills, mindset and perspective they will need to thrive will differ.
This screen-age generation, whose formative years were impacted by COVID, have access to a much broader range of global resources and technologies than any generation before them. The profile of this generation shows that they are expected to have a longer lifespan and are likely to be entrepreneurial, philanthropic and innovative, whilst placing a strong importance on wellbeing, family, community and the environment.
As providers of a broad and liberal education, we know that this extends well beyond academic instruction. It is our responsibility to ensure that we develop in our students a worldview that:
• values and respects our history;
• is aware of, and open to, global perspectives;
• has a service mindset;
• is values-based; and
• is relevant to their generational profile.
We, as educational leaders, must set the example and ensure that the foundations of our School provides for what our young people will need for their future. We must work, alongside our families, on the development of their character - strength of spirit, resilience, courage, curiosity, connection, respect and humility –the qualities, that we, as Townsville Grammar School value.
For 137 years, the culture of Townsville Grammar School has been one of resilience, community, the upholding of values and traditions and, yet, forward looking. We have the responsibility of evolving this culture and transferring these values to the next generation, equipping them to use the privilege of a Grammar education to do good in, and for, their world. In doing so, we keep faithful to the School’s motto, since 1888, Bonus Intra Melior Exi – enter good, exit better.
With a strong focus on ensuring that our pedagogy, programs, facilities and environments are optimal, that our pastoral care support is robust, and that our culture is one of inclusiveness, kindness, respect and decency, we will make their world now, and in the future, a better place.
Mr Carl Valentine Chair | Board of Trustees
Mr Timothy Kelly Principal
OUR STORY
For more than 137 years, the story of Townsville Grammar School has encapsulated the spirit of the North, connecting generations of families, building a community of past, present and future Grammarians, and upholding a commitment to delivering a Grammar education.
Ours is a story of endurance, resilience and community.
Ours is a story of determination and endeavour.
Ours is a story of hope, compassion and contribution.
Ours is a story of an enduring commitment to a Grammar education.
OUR CHARACTER
We are rich in diversity.
We are contributing and compassionate.
We are loyal and genuine.
We are brave and dedicated.
We are spirited, yet focused.
OUR VALUES
WE VALUE:
Connection - Through talking, working and aspiring together, we grow as individuals and as a community.
Curiosity - By actively seeking creative and innovative answers, we find solutions and achieve outcomes for ourselves and others.
Respect – By encouraging kindness, compassion and inclusiveness, we foster a sense of belonging which enables our people to thrive.
Humility – Through honest endeavour, we will accomplish personal achievements with accountability, grace, respect and integrity.
Courage – Through developing the resilience required to continuously strive for personal best, we will develop strength of character.
OUR COMMITMENT
WE WILL:
Instill a growth mindset of seeking personal best.
Seek the highest possible academic standards and deliver an exceptional educational experience.
Offer a disciplined, well-ordered and guided school life through which shared community activities foster initiative, independence, humility and integrity.
Equip students holistically to take their place in the community of the world.
Cultivate a mindset of discernment, where students are open to, and able to, identify opportunities and have the courage and initiative to accept opportunity.
Promote the awareness of our history and heritage.
OUR INTENT
To continue to be the educational leader in Northern Australia, in line with the traditions of a broad and liberal Grammar education.
OUR VISION
To make their world a better place.
THE DOMAINS
OUR LEARNING
Our learners are at the heart of everything we do in delivering an exceptional education.
OUR TEACHING
Our teachers support, encourage and inspire our learners to strive for personal best.
OUR PEOPLE
Our people create the overall experience of being a part of our School community.
OUR COMMUNITY
Our community surrounds our School providing reciprocal connection, opportunities and support.
OUR CULTURE
Our culture is the background of the School, a combination of our traditions, values and behaviours.
OUR STEWARDSHIP
Our stewardship provides a strong foundation for our School, both now and into the future.
DOMAIN One
OUR LEARNING
ASPIRATION:
To provide an educational environment that centres on the learner, and a culture of learning that makes a difference to their world.
AIM:
To nurture the whole student academically, socially, emotionally and physically, ensuring they are equipped to thrive with confidence and integrity.
STRATEGIES:
• Inspire a lifelong love of learning, encouraging students to be adaptable, globally-minded and future-ready.
• Embed innovation, creativity, entrepreneurship and a global mindset at the forefront of the Grammar learning experience.
• Foster a growth mindset, where perseverance, empathy and resilience are integral to personal and academic success.
• Promote student wellbeing through meaningful programs that develop character, self-awareness and a sense of purpose.
• Encourage and support participation in diverse, real-world experiences that strengthen identity, leadership and a commitment to the Grammar and broader community.
DOMAIN Two
OUR TEACHING ASPIRATION:
To deliver an exemplary education that gives students the very best foundation and preparation for a life of purpose, compassion and contribution to the world in which they will live and shape.
AIM:
To inspire a culture of excellence in teaching and innovation, where tradition merges with innovative practice to meet the evolving needs of an ever-changing world.
STRATEGIES:
• Champion the Townsville Grammar School Teaching & Learning Framework to align with best practices in maintaining the highest possible standards.
• Deliver a dynamic, future-focused curriculum that develops intellectual curiosity, creative problem solving and ethical leadership.
• Cultivate a learning environment that challenges,supports and empowers our community to embrace academic, artistic, sporting, leadership and service opportunities.
• Provide diverse and robust co-curricular, service and leadership programs to provide students with opportunities to discover and develop talents and interests.
DOMAIN Three
OUR PEOPLE
ASPIRATION:
To be the employer of choice in schools in North Queensland.
AIM:
To be recognised as:
• A leader in the development of highly accomplished and inspirational staff committed to their practice.
• An employer who appropriately rewards staff.
• A collegial, welcoming community that provides professional satisfaction and stimulation.
STRATEGIES:
• Attract, engage and retain talented and expert staff while building a strong, shared commitment to the success of the School.
• Deliver tailored and relevant programs of professional development for all staff that enriches their experience and enhances their skills.
• Implement programs to evaluate and enhance performance of staff in a supportive and respectful way.
• Foster an environment of mutual respect and collegiality with a focus on the care and wellbeing of staff.
• Create an inclusive work environment and support diversity.
• Enhance employee sustainability via environmental, social and corporate approaches.
DOMAIN Four
OUR CULTURE ASPIRATION:
To be a unified and driven community where tradition and progress intersect, developing a deep sense of belonging, pride and shared purpose.
AIM:
To build a culture:
• Whereby the people within our School community feel a genuine sense of belonging and pride.
• Where potential students and staff have a strong aspiration to be a part of the School.
• Where our wider community sentiment towards the School is one of positive acknowledgement.
STRATEGIES:
• Strengthen a “One Grammar” ethos, ensuring all campuses are connected through shared values,vision, and identity.
• Nurture an environment where every student and staff member feels seen, valued and empowered to contribute and thrive.
• Celebrate the pursuit of excellence, recognising diligence, effort and achievement across all areas of School life.
• Champion the spirit of the Black and Gold, instilling a lifelong connection to Grammar through service, leadership, and community engagement.
DOMAIN Five
OUR COMMUNITY
ASPIRATION:
To perpetuate a lasting sense of connection to, and passion for, the School and its community.
AIM:
To foster and facilitate a positive and supportive School community with purposeful engagement with key external stakeholders, and a reputation as a community-minded, contributing and service-oriented School.
STRATEGIES:
• Continue to implement the TGS Stakeholder & Community Engagement Plan across the identified stakeholder areas – students, staff, parents, alumni, wider community.
• Cultivate relationships and partnerships that are meaningful, built on open communication, trust and mutual benefit, and which enrich the learning experiences of our students.
• Ensure our relationships with students, parents and staff are based on effective communication,collaboration, a culture of inclusion and connection, and practices that invite contribution and consultation, where feasible.
• Promote a deeper understanding and appreciation for the history of the School, and recognition of the contribution of the School as one of the longest serving businesses in Townsville, and as an employer of more than 300 people.
• Ensure the service program continues to expand and strengthen, offering students and staff ongoing opportunities to give back to their community, and for the School to be widely known as a community contributor.
DOMAIN Six
OUR STEWARDSHIP ASPIRATION:
To provide a foundation from which the School can flourish for generations to come.
AIM:
To act as responsible and ethical stewards, building a School for the future, that values the richness of our past, and to deliver an accessible and exceptional education.
STRATEGIES:
• Continuously review the School’s Masterplan to ensure the facilities address the future needs of the School community.
• Maximise efficiency and effectiveness of our processes, systems and resources to ensure we can deliver on our Strategic Intent in a manner that is accessible to our families.
• Enhance enrolments through marketing strategies that seek to build the reputation of the School and understanding of our market within and beyond Townsville.
• Deliver appropriate, sustainable and empowering fiscal management that balances the surplus requirement for future investment with immediate educational program priorities.
• Provide high quality, innovative facilities to support effective operations of the School, including teaching and learning.
BUILDING
TO MAKE THEIR WORLD A BETTER PLACE BONUS INTRA MELIOR EXI
DOMAINS
ASPIRATIONS
One: Our Learning
To provide an educational environment that centres on the learner, and a culture of learning that makes a difference to their world.
AIMS
STRATEGIES
To nurture the whole student academically, socially, emotionally and physically, ensuring they are equipped to thrive with confidence and integrity.
Two: Our Teaching Three: Our People
To deliver an exemplary education that gives students the very best foundation and preparation for a life of purpose, compassion and contribution to the world in which they will live and shape.
To inspire a culture of excellence in teaching and innovation, where tradition merges with innovative practice to meet the evolving needs of an ever-changing world.
To be the employer of choice in schools in North Queensland.
• Inspire a lifelong love of learning, encouraging students to be adaptable, globally-minded and future-ready.
• Embed innovation, creativity, entrepreneurship and a global mindset at the forefront of the Grammar learning experience.
• Foster a growth mindset, where perseverance, empathy and resilience are integral to personal and academic success.
• Promote student wellbeing through meaningful programs that develop character, self-awareness and a sense of purpose.
• Encourage and support participation in diverse real-world experiences that strengthen identity, leadership and a commitment to the Grammar and broader community.
• Champion the Townsville Grammar School Teaching & Learning Framework to align with best practices in maintaining the highest possible standards.
• Deliver a dynamic, futurefocused curriculum that develops intellectual curiosity, creative problem solving and ethical leadership.
• Cultivate a learning environment that challenges, supports and empowers our community to embrace academic, artistic, sporting, leadership and service opportunities.
• Provide a diverse and robust cocurricular, service and leadership programs to provide students with opportunities to discover and develop talents and interests.
To be recognised as:
• A leader in the development of highly accomplished and inspirational staff committed to their practice.
• An employer who appropriately rewards staff.
• A collegial, welcoming community that provides professional satisfaction and stimulation.
• Attract, engage and retain talented and expert staff while building a strong, shared commitment to the success of the School.
• Deliver tailored and relevant programs of professional development for all staff that enriches their experience and enhances their skills.
• Implement programs to evaluate and enhance performance of staff in a supportive and respectful way.
• Foster an environment of mutual respect and collegiality with a focus on the care and wellbeing of staff.
• Create an inclusive work environment and support diversity.
• Enhance employee sustainability via environmental, social and corporate approaches.
INTENT
CONTEXT
To continue to be the educational leader in Northern Australia, in line with the traditions of a broad and liberal Grammar education.
The School seeks to focus on the ways and means with which every facet of the school works for the betterment of our world, and in turn, the world we shape for the generations to come. The practical implementation of this approach is outlined through six domains covering learning, teaching, people, culture, community and stewardship.
Four: Our Culture
To be a unified and driven community where tradition and progress intersect, developing a deep sense of belonging, pride and shared purpose.
To build a culture:
• Whereby the people within our School community feel a genuine sense of belonging and pride.
• Where potential students and staff have a strong aspiration to be a part of the School.
• Where our wider community sentiment towards the School is one of positive acknowledgement.
• Strengthen a “One Grammar” ethos, ensuring all campuses are connected through shared values, vision and identity.
• Nurture an environment where every student and staff member feels seen, valued and empowered to contribute and thrive.
• Celebrate the pursuit of excellence, recognising diligence, effort and achievement across all areas of School life.
• Champion the spirit of the Black and Gold, instilling a lifelong connection to Grammar through service, leadership and community engagement.
Five: Our Community Six: Our Stewardship
To perpetuate a lasting sense of connection to, and passion for, the School and its community.
To foster and facilitate a positive and supportive School community with purposeful engagement with key external stakeholders, and a reputation as a community-minded, contributing and service-oriented School.
To provide a foundation from which the School can flourish for generations to come.
To act as responsible and ethical stewards, building a school for the future, that values the richness of our past and to deliver an accessible and exceptional education.
• Continue to implement the TGS Stakeholders & Community Engagement Plan across the five identified stakeholder areas – students, staff, parents, alumni and the wider community.
• Cultivate relationships and partnerships that are meaningful, built on open communication, trust and mutual benefit, and which enrich the learning experiences of our students.
• Ensure our relationships with students, parents and staff are based on effective communication, collaboration, a culture of inclusion and connection and practices that invite contribution and consultation where feasible.
• Promote a deeper understanding and appreciation for the history of the School, and recognition of the contribution of the School as one of the longest serving businesses in Townsville and as an employer of more than 300 people.
• Ensure the service program continues to expand and strengthen offering students and staff ongoing opportunities to give back to their community, and for the School to be widely known as a community contributor.
• Continuously review the School’s Masterplan, to ensure the facilities address the future needs of the School community.
• Maximise efficiency and effectiveness of our processes, systems and resources to ensure we can deliver on our Strategic Intent in a manner that is accessible to our families.
• Enhance enrolments through marketing strategies that seek to build the reputation of the School and understanding of our market within and beyond Townsville.
• Deliver appropriate, sustainable and empowering fiscal management that balances the surplus requirement for future investment with immediate educational program priorities.
• Provide high quality, innovative facilities to support effective operations of the School including teaching and learning.
BONUS INTRA MELIOR EXI