Catholic schools ready for 2021 challenges

Queensland Catholic school communities will welcome more than 150,000 students, including around 11,000 excited Preps through the school gates at the start of Term 1, 2021.

Queensland Catholic Education Commission Executive Director Dr Lee-Anne Perry said the 2021 school year would bring another exciting new chapter for Catholic education.

“Enrolments will be boosted with the opening of Sophia College, Plainland, and San Damiano College, Yarrabilba, which are both operated by Brisbane Catholic Education, bringing the total number of Queensland Catholic schools to 309,” Dr Perry said.

“Both colleges will commence with classes for Year 7 students this year with plans to expand over coming years to eventually cater for Years 7-12.

“We also look forward to welcoming a cohort of around 11,000 Year 12 students who are beginning the final stage of their school journey.

“Whatever 2021 has in store for us, we are confident students in Catholic schools will be supported in their learning and nurtured in their school communities.”

Catholic School Parents Queensland (CSPQ) Executive Director Carmel Nash said CSPQ looked forward to working with schools and families to continue building the strong relationships that are an important feature of Catholic schools.

“Research shows that when families and schools work together, children do better,” Mrs Nash said.

“They stay in school longer, they’re more engaged with their learning, have better attendance, improved behaviour, and have better social skills.

Dr Perry said although 2020 brought on many challenges, she was confident school communities were well prepared to tackle 2021.

“Students, families and staff have put in a huge effort, as school communities have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic with resilience, creativity and optimism,” Dr Perry said.

“I’m confident we will see that same spirit shining through our school communities this year, whatever the challenges of 2021 might be.”