Increased demand for Prep places across South-East Queensland has led Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) to increase the 2025 intake in a number of schools across the region.
BCE Executive Director Sally Towns said because of the rapid population growth in SEQ, Prep intakes would be expanded for 16 schools in inner-city Brisbane, Beaudesert, Gold Coast, and Springfield Lakes.
Dr Towns said the changes aligned with the demographic shifts and rising student numbers across the region.
She said BCE proactively responded and adapted to the needs and demands of communities at their 146 schools across South-East Queensland.
“While BCE has responded to growth in large greenfield areas like Yarrabilba, Aura, and Coomera, our focus will also remain on improving facilities at our existing schools, meeting the needs of our growing region,” she said.
St Mary’s School Beaudesert has experienced consistent growth, with the expansion of both their Prep and Year 3 classrooms this year.
Principal Renay Condon said to accommodate the expanding student population, the school had embarked on a masterplan to expand to three streams across the school.
“This exciting development is already underway, with both Prep and Year 3 set to move to three classes in 2025,” she said.
“As we continue to grow, our masterplan ensures we can provide the necessary facilities to support our students.”
Ms Condon said the school’s growth was also a result of its growing positive reputation and the sense of community fostered over the years.
“We are now seeing a wonderful trend where past pupils are choosing to send their own children here,” she said.
“Our school’s stellar reputation within the Beaudesert community is frequently mentioned, reflecting the positive experiences of our students and their families.”
