This two-part podcast series, spanning nine engaging episodes, unpacks the critical elements that shape a happy and healthy education journey.
Each episode delves into key aspects of student life, highlighting voices from across the School. From finding purpose through Brisbane Grammar’s transformative Public Purpose program to discovering the joy and motivation that comes from pursuing personal passions, students are encouraged to see their education as more than academic success. Listeners will hear from staff such as Noel Chan, who champions passion in learning; Tanya Neilsen, who shares how connection through cocurricular involvement supports wellbeing; and Derek Jervis, who shows how outdoor adventure builds resilience.
The series also covers crucial topics like sleep and its link to academic performance, nutrition as fuel for the brain, digital wellbeing with expert Mark Yeowell, and the daily life of boarders through the caring lens of Houseparent Debbie Cross.
New episodes will drop weekly on Wednesdays. Listen and subscribe now.
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Light Dark Blue: The BGS Podcast
Ep 1: Purpose with Headmaster Anthony Micallef
In this episode, Headmaster Anthony Micallef discusses the importance of having purpose to enhance a student's overall educational experience and how it transforms them into socially responsible citizens both now and into the future.
Ep 2: Passion with Noel Chan
In this episode we meet Noel Chan, Head of Science, to explore the benefits of building passion for subjects. We discuss how doing what you love can see students staying self motivated and more engaged in their studies making a happier, more productive student.
Ep 3: It Takes a Village with Tanya Nielsen
In this episode, we meet Tanya Neilsen, Director of STEAM Education, and discuss the importance of connection and its significance to a student's wellbeing. We also explore why the Cocurricular program is a key part of the school's overall approach to wellbeing.
Ep 4: Building Resilience with Derek Jervis
In this episode we meet Derek Jervis, Director of Outdoor Education to discuss how adventure in the great outdoors at Peperina Hill provides students with the resilience to work through challenging situations and obstacles they come up against.
Ep 5: Home Away from Home with Debbie Cross
Meet our Boarding Houseparent, Debbie Cross. In this conversation, we take a closer look at the daily lives of boarders through the perspective of a houseparent, exploring how they support each student’s individual needs throughout their time in the Boarding House. We discuss key events ie. birthdays, culture and/or spiritual needs as well weekend activities for a happy holistic home environment.
Ep 6: Healthy Body and Mind with Nathan Parnham
This week, we speak with Nathan Parnham, Head of Performance Development at Brisbane Grammar School. In this episode, we explore how fueling the body and mind supports students to optimise their energy, learning and focus. Nathan unpacks the role of nutrition in brain development, including how key nutrients support brain structure and contribute to long-term cognitive development.
Ep 7: Healthy Habits with David Caroll
In this episode, Senior Deputy Headmaster David Carroll explores the psychology of healthy sleep and its impact on academic performance and focused learning. He also shares practical tactics that students and parents can use to support better rest.
Ep 8: Online Health with Mark Yeowell
In this episode we meet Mark Yeowell, who has 30 years of experience as an educator and researcher, he has worked extensively with children, schools, and families. Mark and Peta discuss online usage and the mechanisms which support students to make informed decisions online. They also offer our parents with the necessary tools and resources to help navigate their sons online engagement in a healthy manner.
Ep 9: Let Kids be Kids with Hamish Kelly and Marlin Ngo
In the final episode of the season, we speak with two Middle School students about their studies, participation in cocurricular programs and commitment to public purpose. They reflect on their curiosity for learning, the importance of giving back to the community and how these experiences are shaping their outlook.