Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) schools will invest $300 million in its schools over the next two years to expand and upgrade infrastructure in response to strong population growth and demand for faith-based learning.
The significant infrastructure spend across South-East Queensland will fund major upgrades to existing schools and the opening of new schools to ensure families have access to contemporary learning environments close to home.
One of the projects is a $5 million early learning precinct at Holy Cross Primary School, Wooloowin, where Prep students will begin learning in a purpose-built cutting-edge facility that meets the needs of their growing community.
Holy Cross Primary School Principal Simon Mahaffy said the redevelopment was an important step in preparing students for long-term success.
“A good beginning is of great importance, and we want our early years precinct to be a welcoming, inviting space that facilitates contemporary learning and meets the needs of our students for generations to come,” Mr Mahaffy said.
“Holy Cross is well positioned to offer a seamless educational pathway for Brisbane families, with an early learning centre next door and a proposed BCE secondary collage nearby.”
The new precinct includes renovated Prep classrooms, a dedicated playground, and a refurbished library, with spaces designed to encourage curiosity and engagement.
BCE’s infrastructure program reflects significant population growth across the Brisbane Archdiocese, which has experienced an 11 percent population increase between 2019 and 2024. A further 10 percent growth is forecast by 2031.
To meet this demand, BCE opened Notre Dame College at Bells Creek in 2025 and will welcome students to St Bonaventure’s College at Flagstone in 2026. Planning is also underway for a proposed co-educational secondary college in Windsor, Brisbane’s inner north.
In addition, a record 25 BCE schools will expand their Prep intake in 2026, including St Thomas’ Camp Hill.
St Thomas’ Camp Hill Principal Liam Beatty said more families were seeking a holistic, nurturing education that supports their child’s development in all aspects of life.
“Enrolment interest is a direct indicator of community confidence in a school, and we are proud to be able to support more families in 2026,” Mr Beatty said.
“We are small enough that every child is known, loved, and encouraged to reach their full potential, but also big enough to have a range of outstanding experiences and facilities available to our students.”
BCE Executive Director Sally Towns said the investment reinforced BCE’s commitment to delivering high-quality Catholic education across its network of 146 schools.
“With a range of opportunities in arts, sports, and STEM, students are encouraged to nurture their gifts and talents to make a difference in the world,” Dr Towns said.
For more information, tours or enrolment visit Brisbane Catholic Education.
