From the Head of Boarding

As I reflect on my time at Great Southern Grammar Boarding, I do so with immense gratitude and pride. Over the past two years, we have worked hard together to improve our boarding model built on mutual respect, adaptability, and a commitment to nurturing our boarders in our community. Like all relationships, whether personal, family, or friendships, this journey has required constant effort and care. What has worked in one instance may not always apply to the next. Yet, our ability to engage wholeheartedly from every angle has led to many remarkable outcomes and a foundation for a successful model.

Looking back on my 20 years in residential care across three schools, I am deeply appreciative of the many students, parents, and colleagues who have been part of this journey. Each school has brought unique challenges and rewards. Still, the constant for me has always been the sense of genuine connections with country people and the privilege of supporting and mentoring young people as they grow, learn, and navigate life away from regional, rural, and remote homes. The lessons I have learned, the lifelong friendships I have formed, and the experiences I have gained will stay with me always.

To the new parents who joined us this year, you are the future of Grammar boarding. Your enthusiasm, support, and involvement will continue to shape this community meaningfully. I encourage you to champion what you see and hear, ensuring that the strength of our boarding experience endures for years to come.

To the seasoned and steadfast parents who have partnered with GSG over the years, thank you for your resilience and commitment. Some of you are seeing yet another leadership change for boarding, so your continued support is crucial as the school moves forward with a new model. Your experience and insights are invaluable, and I urge you to keep investing in the culture and growth of Grammar boarding.

To our wonderful staff, you do an amazing job for boarding at GSG, and some of you are extraordinary in your commitment to supporting the needs of this community. Look after each other, support each other, and most importantly, care for each other. This unique group plays such an important role for your child and needs everyone’s support.

Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the many parents and boarders I have had the privilege of speaking with over the last few weeks. Your kindness, words of encouragement, and unwavering support have meant a lot to Lisa and me. I am grateful to have had a chance to be invited to work with your community. I leave with the immense satisfaction of leaving boarding after 20 years at the heart of where I have looked after so many boarding families over the years with a profound appreciation for the people who make this Great Southern regional community so special.

Thank you and take care.

Mr Ashley Keatch | Head of Boarding