Brisbane Catholic Education Archives

Upper Mount Gravatt School Puts Brisbane on the National STEM Map with Double Win at 2026 Australian Education Awards

A local school has put Upper Mount Gravatt on the national education map, with Clairvaux MacKillop College taking home two of the four major prizes won by Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) at the 2026 Australian Education Awards.

Read: Clairvaux MacKillop College in Mt Gravatt Celebrated for STEM and Co-Curricular Success

STEM and Academic Excellence Coordinator Dr Maynard Victor Erece was named Secondary School Teacher of the Year (Non-Government), while the College also claimed the Street Science Best STEM Program award.

Dr Erece credited the entire STEM team for the result. “This recognition reflects the strength of the collaborative culture fostered within the Clairvaux MacKillop College STEM Team,” he said.

“The program has been shaped through the collective expertise, creativity, and commitment of staff who continually work together to provide meaningful and future-focused learning experiences for students. Their contribution is central to the success and ongoing growth of the STEM program, and this achievement belongs to the entire team.”

Clairvaux MacKillop College Curriculum Leader Science, Katrina Dalglish (Photo credit:Brisbane Catholic Education)

Curriculum Leader Science Katrina Dalglish was also awarded Department Head of the Year, recognised for her work building pathways for young women into STEM fields. That includes partnerships with the Queensland University of Technology STEM Ambassadors program and Griffith University’s SuperGEMS Girls in Motorsports initiative, both aimed at helping young women build confidence in traditionally underrepresented industries.

The College also runs a Space Program that connects students with industry partners on real-world aerospace projects.

Principal Wayne Chapman said the results reflect a shared commitment across the College community.

“Our achievements are a testament to the passion, dedication and purpose that every teacher, student and staff member brings to our community daily,” he said.

A big week for Brisbane Catholic Education

Clairvaux MacKillop College’s wins were part of a broader sweep for BCE, which claimed four awards in total at this year’s ceremony. Trinity College Beenleigh’s Head of Design Technologies Belinda Vlasenko also took out the Department Head of the Year award alongside Dalglish, both recognised in the highly competitive Department Head of the Year category.

BCE Acting Executive Director Ross Tarlinton said the recognition reflects what is happening across the system’s 146 schools in South East Queensland.

“This national recognition is a significant affirmation of the innovation, teamwork and commitment to student learning that is clearly alive within our 146 schools across South East Queensland,” he said.

“While awards never capture the full story of a school, they do shine a light on the spirit behind the work, such as educators who serve with purpose, create opportunities for young people to thrive, and build a culture where curiosity and excellence are nurtured.”

Read: 2026 College Captains Named At Upper Mount Gravatt School

About the Australian Education Awards 2026

The Australian Education Awards are presented by The Educator and are described as Australia’s leading independent education awards. The awards recognise educators and leaders who make an outstanding impact on their students, schools and communities, celebrating excellence across schools, principals, department heads and teachers throughout Australia.

Published 28-May-2026

How 51 Languages are Shaping the Future of Upper Mt Gravatt Students

The Upper Mt Gravatt community is home to one of Queensland’s most diverse education hubs at Clairvaux MacKillop College, where students from 41 different countries speak 51 different languages at home.

Local Schools Leading the Way

While the local area is a focal point for this cultural mix, the broader Brisbane Catholic Education system supports nearly 80,000 students across 146 schools. St Augustine’s College in Augustine Heights currently holds the title for the most linguistically diverse school in the system, with 56 languages spoken. During Harmony Week, held from 16 to 22 March 2026, these schools are focusing on how different backgrounds help students learn.

At St Thomas More College in Sunnybank, which is the third most diverse school in the group, leaders noted that having many different perspectives in a classroom actually helps children improve their grades and learning growth.

New Career Paths for Refugees

A major part of the local effort involves the Work and Welcome programme, which helps people who have moved to Australia find steady jobs. At the college in Upper Mt Gravatt, a refugee from the Republic of Burundi named Douce began working in the school canteen this year. This programme allows migrants to practice their skills in a supportive environment.

Douce is using this experience to learn how to run a hospitality business, with the goal of eventually owning a café in Australia. During the recent celebrations, students also participated in a project where they marked their birthplaces on a massive world map to show how many parts of the globe are represented in one suburb.

Strengthening First Nations Connections

The focus on identity extends to First Nations students through a series of dance workshops and cultural days held between 24 and 26 March. These events are led by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Team and take place across the Sunshine Coast and Fraser Coast. A new session is also planned for the South Burnett region on 1 June.

These workshops are designed to be safe spaces where over 200 students can connect through traditional storytelling and music. The initiative is part of a larger plan for 2026 and 2027 that focuses on wellbeing and helping young Indigenous people become leaders in their communities.

Training for Staff and Future Growth

To ensure teachers and staff understand these diverse backgrounds, many participate in learning days at the Ngutana-Lui Cultural Studies Centre. These sessions cover topics like spiritual traditions, weaving, and the history of different cultures. This training helps staff follow the system’s Reconciliation Action Plan and brings more cultural awareness into daily lessons. As these school communities continue to grow, new buildings like the Giramee Hall are being finished to make sure there is enough space for everyone to gather and share their stories.

Published Date 26-March-2026

2026 College Captains Named At Upper Mount Gravatt School

Clairvaux MacKillop College in Upper Mount Gravatt has announced its 2026 College Captains as part of Brisbane Catholic Education’s broader rollout of student leadership appointments across South East Queensland.

Student Leadership In Mt Gravatt

At Clairvaux MacKillop College, Julieta and Leo have been appointed as College Captains for the 2026 school year.

Their appointment forms part of Brisbane Catholic Education’s confirmation of 86 newly selected College Captains across its 146 schools. The appointments span secondary campuses and Prep to Year 12 colleges throughout the region.

For the Upper Mount Gravatt campus, the focus for 2026 centres on strengthening school connections and reinforcing a supportive environment for students. Julieta and Leo have outlined plans to encourage stronger engagement between students and staff, promote a sense of belonging, and support classmates in their everyday efforts and achievements.

Part Of A Wider Network Announcement

The 2026 appointments were published on 11 February 2026 under Brisbane Catholic Education’s secondary school update. Schools across South East Queensland introduced their newly appointed student leaders at the beginning of the academic year.

College Captains across the network take on responsibilities that include representing the student body, mentoring younger students and upholding the values associated with Catholic education.

School Context In Upper Mount Gravatt

Clairvaux MacKillop College describes its learning community as one focused on student growth and development. The college offers co-curricular opportunities in sport, arts, STEM and service learning alongside classroom programs.

An Academic Excellence Program commenced at the college in 2025, designed to provide an extended learning pathway for students.

The announcement of the 2026 College Captains marks the start of the new student leadership term at the Upper Mount Gravatt campus, placing Mt Gravatt at the centre of this year’s local education leadership update.

Published 16-Feb-2026

St Bernard’s School in Upper Mount Gravatt Opens New Early Learning Classrooms for 2026

St Bernard's School

St Bernard’s Primary School in Upper Mt Gravatt has opened brand new facilities for its youngest students, with five redesigned classrooms ready to welcome Prep through Year 2 learners as the 2026 school year begins.

The renovated Penola building features two dedicated Prep classrooms and three Year 1 and 2 classrooms, marking a significant upgrade to early learning spaces at the Upper Mt Gravatt Catholic primary school. Current students donned high-vis vests and hard hats to inspect the construction site before their future classmates arrive.

Flexible Spaces for Different Learning Styles

St Bernard’s worked with architects to create classrooms that support how young children learn. The new spaces incorporate natural light, smart storage and dedicated sensory corners where students can regulate their energy levels.

Principal Daniel Hodge says the design prioritises flexibility. Teachers can adapt environments to suit different teaching approaches, from small group instruction to play-based learning. The layout supports both structured curriculum work and imaginative activities.

Inside Penola — Photo Credit: St Bernard’s Primary School

The building’s central corridor functions as more than a hallway. St Bernard’s designed this space with tiered seating for group activities, informal gathering zones and quiet reading nooks, encouraging students to engage beyond formal classroom time.

What This Means for Upper Mt Gravatt Families

The St Bernard’s renovation gives Upper Mt Gravatt families another option for early childhood education in purpose-built facilities. The focus on Prep through Year 2 recognises these years establish patterns that influence later academic success.

For families already enrolled at St Bernard’s, the new classrooms mean younger siblings will experience significantly upgraded facilities compared to what older children knew. The building transformation demonstrates ongoing investment in campus infrastructure rather than one-time improvements.

The sensory corners and flexible learning zones particularly benefit students who struggle in traditional classroom settings. Having dedicated spaces for different energy levels and learning styles can make the difference between students who thrive and those who merely cope.

Visit St Bernard’s Primary School for enrolment information.

Published 27-January-2026.

Clairvaux MacKillop College Turns Up the Volume for 8th Annual Rock Bands Festival

Upper Mount Gravatt’s Clairvaux MacKillop College is once again hosting its Battle of the ROCK Bands Festival, a three-night celebration of young Queensland talent that has grown from a small school event into a major student rock showcase.

Read: Clairvaux MacKillop College in Mt Gravatt Celebrated for STEM and Co-Curricular Success

Now in its eighth year, the festival will take place from 9 to 11 October, with an exclusive media preview on Thursday morning, 9 October. The event will see over 1,000 student performers take the stage, representing 30 schools across Queensland. From classic covers to original songs, these young musicians will perform with professional lighting, pyrotechnics, and full live staging.

Rock Bands Festival — Photo credit: Brisbane Catholic Education/bne.catholic.edu

Event co-founder and teacher John Daly said it’s a milestone year for the college.
“This is a special year as we have our 1000th student performer ready to hit the stage,” he said. “We’re also celebrating our 100th student crew member working backstage in 2025. It’s such an achievement from what started as a small, simple event in 2016 to now a three-day festival.”

Daly, along with school officer Tim Hondroudakis, started Battle of the ROCK Bands after realising there were few opportunities for young musicians to perform live. What began as a one-night show in 2017 has expanded each year, giving more students the chance to perform and collaborate.

“We created the event in 2016 because there was no avenue for school-aged musicians to perform their craft,” the organisers said in a joint statement. “After careful planning, we staged the first Battle in 2017, and it’s been growing ever since.”

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A post shared by Clairvaux MacKillop College (@clairvauxmackillopcollege)

The festival also showcases the work of student crew members who assist with lighting, sound, and stage production. It gives participants practical experience in running live events, complementing what they learn in the classroom.

The event has become a highlight for the Clairvaux MacKillop College community, bringing together students, staff, and families to celebrate their shared love of music. It also highlights the school’s commitment to creative learning and performance.

Read: Clairvaux MacKillop College Graduates Shine in Mt Gravatt

This year’s edition promises to be the biggest yet. Audiences can expect “epic performances” from student bands channelling raw energy and musical passion. With fireworks, smoke machines, and strobes, the festival continues to give students a taste of what performing on a professional stage feels like.

As the amps warm up and the instruments tune, Battle of the ROCK Bands Festival stands as a testament to how local schools can nurture young talent, one song, one band, and one unforgettable night at a time.

Published 8-October-2025

Clairvaux MacKillop College Graduates Shine in Mt Gravatt

Graduates from Clairvaux MacKillop College in Upper Mount Gravatt have achieved outstanding academic success with 15 individual subject scores surpassing 98. Their achievements have been recognised as part of Brisbane Catholic Education’s (BCE) inaugural Student Excellence Awards.

High ATAR Scores and Vocational Achievements

The 2024 cohort demonstrated strong academic performance. 30 per cent of ATAR students attained a score of 90 or above. Alongside these academic successes, 109 students completed vocational education and training (VET) qualifications. Meanwhile, nine students earned Diplomas of Business. Many students also participated in school-based apprenticeships and traineeships. This reinforces the College’s commitment to a diverse range of educational pathways.

Clairvaux MacKillop College Principal Wayne Chapman highlighted the significance of these results. He noted that they provide students with greater academic and professional opportunities.

Recognising Dedication and Hard Work

Among the high-achieving graduates, David Mackenroth expressed pride in being recognised by BCE. He stated that the efforts of his cohort had been acknowledged. He emphasised teachers’ vital role in his success. Mr Mackenroth commends the exceptional support provided by educators throughout his studies. He plans to pursue a double degree in Education (Secondary) and Arts at Queensland University of Technology.

Commitment to Excellence and Innovation

The College attributes its success to careful planning, innovative teaching methods, and the dedication of its educators. A strong focus on student growth has been central to the school’s approach. The efforts of middle leaders and teachers have been instrumental in motivating and supporting students. The recent results reflect student perseverance and the ongoing dedication of the entire school community.

Four graduates received special recognition from the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority. Their outstanding performance in general subjects further solidifies the College’s reputation for academic excellence.

Mt Gravatt education — *Photo Credit: Clairvaux Mackillop College*

A Thriving Learning Environment

Clairvaux MacKillop College is widely recognised for fostering a supportive and dynamic learning community. The school encourages students to embrace new opportunities. With high expectations and a commitment to diverse learning pathways, the College upholds its reputation as a leading educational institution in Mt Gravatt.

Published 28-Feb-2025

Seton College in Mt Gravatt East Set to Close, Sparking Concern Among Parents and Students

Seton College, a cornerstone school in Mount Gravatt East for students with disabilities, is scheduled to close at the end of 2024, raising concerns about future educational provisions for its current students.

Established in 1964, Seton College has long been a sanctuary for students needing specialised education due to disabilities. However, a 2020 review initiated by Brisbane Catholic Education led to a decision to close the school, citing better outcomes for students with disabilities in inclusive learning environments.

Despite starting the year with 224 students, the school’s enrolment dwindled to just 23 students in its final year, all of whom are in Year 12.

Many parents are grappling with mixed feelings as the school year concludes. While one mum is grateful her son could complete his education at Seton, she is saddened by the loss of such a unique educational institution.

Reflecting on her son’s experiences, the mother highlighted Seton’s transformative impact on him, contrasting it with his challenging times in mainstream schooling.

Seton College to close — *Photo Credit: Seton College/Renae Droop/RDW Photography*

Another parent echoed these sentiments, praising the school’s tailored approach, which significantly aided her son’s development into a successful artist and soon-to-be-published author.

The closure has not been without controversy or challenge. Parents and advocates formed the Save Our Seton group, leading efforts to contest the decision. Their initiatives included petitions and protests, aiming to reverse the closure.

Frustrations were fueled by perceived shortcomings in the school’s final-year offerings, which some parents felt did not meet the educational needs or expectations of Brisbane Catholic Education. As the school prepares to close, the final batch of students will not receive traditional high school certificates due to insufficient credit points resulting from the reduced curriculum in the transition period, adding to the disappointment of parents.

A spokesperson for Brisbane Catholic Education reiterated that the closure is part of a planned five-year transition strategy to integrate students with disabilities into mainstream educational settings.

They assured that the current Year 12 students would experience a customary graduation, and that staff from Seton College would be offered redeployment within the network, aiming to preserve the community and expertise developed over the school’s long history.

Published 2-June-2024

Community Attempts to Save Seton College from Closing

Special needs school Seton College will be shutting down for good by 2024, after 60 years of operation, but the community is attempting to save the school from closing.

Parents of Seton College’s over-200 student body have formed the Save Seton College committee to fight Brisbane Catholic Education’s (BCE) plans. Mom Kylie Jensen said that they want the school to remain open because Seton College provides a “real sense of community” compared to other schools, where kids with learning difficulty have a hard time coping because of the student to teacher ratio.

A student started an online petition as well, which has received more than 3,000 signatures as of press time.

“Seton College is the most welcoming, helping, accepting and the best school I’ve ever been to. Education is taught in many different fun ways to help students not only enjoy their classes but take in more from what they are learning about,” Tayhlia Shaw wrote.

“My time at Seton College has been the best I could have ever imagine,” she added. “It has taught me resilience, understanding my emotions, understanding people, how to keep happy friendships, what to do in certain situations and most importantly it has taught me to treat others kindly and with respect.”

Speech and Language Development Australia (SALDA) is reportedly interested in stepping up and taking over Seton College. Chairman Peter Seldon said that they are studying the expansion.

SALDA has a holistic approach to education and therapy. They operate The Glenleighden School in Fig Tree Pocket.

Meanwhile, BCE said that it will remain committed to provide the highest standard of learning to students who will be staying on.

“Families can expect a personalised approach which addresses the specific needs of their son or daughter. We are planning for Seton College to remain fully operational until the end of 2024,” a spokesperson for the BCE said.