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The development of the state-of-the-art STEAM Precinct, along with increased demand for enrolments in Year 5, has prompted the growth of the Middle School.

In 2023, the Year 5 cohort will expand from four to six classes. By 2024, the Middle School expansion will be complete with six classes in both Years 5 and 6 and 10 classes in Years 7 and 8.  

Planning for the increased student numbers has involved careful consideration. We have mapped out social spaces and classrooms and recruited new staff. Importantly, we have reviewed the School’s Student Wellbeing structures to ensure we maintain high levels of care and support for the boys.

At Brisbane Grammar School, we understand the importance of establishing positive and supportive relationships with boys and their families. The School’s horizontal (or year level) pastoral structure sees a Head of Year and Assistant Head of Year working closely with form tutors in each year level to provide high quality care for students.   

From 2023, we will introduce a second Head of Year to the Years 5 and 6 rotation. Mr Ian Grice, who is profiled below, will take on the role of Head of Year 5. Mr Kenny, our current Head of Year 5 and 6, will assume responsibility as Head of Year 6.

Both will remain on a two-year rotation, specialising in this important stage of child development and providing a solid foundation for the youngest BGS boys. From Year 7, the Head of Year travels with their cohort through to Year 12, providing a longitudinal care approach.   

Heads of Year are supported by Assistant Heads of Year in each year group. A notable change to our current model is the introduction of a second Assistant Head of Year in Years 7 and 9 from 2023. Over the next few years, we aim to expand this model across Years 7–12.  

Middle School form tutors will continue to work closely with the boys, providing both pastoral and academic support. Generally, form tutors in Years 5–8 teach their class at least two academic subjects as well as a Student Wellbeing lesson each week.

The first 15 minutes of each day is dedicated to Tutor Group where the boys receive daily messages, socialise with their form class, and organise themselves for the day ahead. Form tutors understand that sporting and cultural pursuits help boys build a sense of belonging, and often immerse themselves in Cocurricular as coaches or managers.

In addition to Heads of Year, Assistant Heads of Year and Form Tutors, BGS boys are further supported by School Marshalls and Student Counsellors. As members of the Student Wellbeing Team, School Marshalls and counsellors are instrumental in supporting our boys. We are fortunate to have three experienced school counsellors on staff who specialise in adolescent development and tertiary pathways. 

As the Middle School continues to grow, we remain committed to ensuring that our pastoral structure continues to provide the highest quality care for BGS boys.