Since its establishment in 2009, Grammar Helping Hands has been the flagship service program at Sunshine Coast Grammar. The program focuses on nurturing civic-minded young individuals who dedicate their time to supporting those in need within the community. As the program has grown, so has its breadth and depth of engagement. In 2024, Grammar’s service programs witnessed active participation from across the entire school community—from the youngest learners at the Grammar Early Learning Centre through to Year 12 students.
Grammar has built strong partnerships with 18 local and international charities, including Bloomhill Cancer Care, Team Adem, The Shack Community Centre Nambour, YouTurn Youth Services, and The Salvation Army. Beyond local initiatives, we actively support education and health projects in Timor Leste, Zambia and Vanuatu. From carwashes and garden makeovers for Bloomhill clients to fundraising events, environmental workshops, beach clean-ups and donation drives, the Grammar community continues to extend its reach far and wide.
The impact of our service programs in 2024 was truly extraordinary:
- 900kg of food donations were collected to support homelessness.
- 150 local students from disadvantaged backgrounds received essential resources to start the school year.
- Over 120kg of waste was removed from local beaches to support environmental conservation.
- A new English Learning Centre in Timor Leste was established, enrolling 30 young Timorese.
- 1,200 books donated to the Libraries for Vanuatu project, contributing to the creation of new community libraries.
These accomplishments are a result of the dedication of our staff and students. Over 55% of Grammar’s Primary and Secondary students played pivotal roles in organising and delivering these projects, fostering enduring relationships with local and international organisations. Through our service teams, students consistently demonstrate compassion, leadership and organisational skills that inspire and unite the community.
As a school, we proudly align our community efforts with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which provide a framework for meaningful local and global impact.
Looking Ahead
In 2025, Grammar Helping Hands continues its mission with new initiatives, including ambassadorship roles for Secondary students, the creation of the Junior Service Squad and developing connections with aged care facilities. A highlight of the year is the upcoming tour to Timor Leste, where 30 students will engage with ongoing projects and contribute to over a decade of service work in the region. This is the fifth tour we have embarked on.
This is the fifth tour our servant leaders have supported the local communities in Timor Leste and this year’s tour welcomes a special guest—Grammar Alumni and former School Captain Jessica Simpson (Class of 2016). Jessica, now a medical professional, requested to join the group, inspired by the positive impact of her own tour experience during her time at Grammar. Her commitment to community service has continued since graduating from Grammar and she will serve as a mentor for our participating students. Jessica’s expertise and passion will undoubtedly inspire the group as they deepen their understanding of global citizenship and community support.
We recognise the valuable role our school community plays in supporting those in need, locally and internationally, and remain committed to building servant leaders who are willing to make the world a better place.
Ben Princehorn
Director of Community and Service
