South Rock State School in Yarrabilba officially opened last week, with around 125 students already enrolled.
The new school has an enrolment capacity of around 800 students from Prep to Year 6.
The campus features classrooms for Prep, middle and senior primary classes, a multi-purpose hall, an administration block, a resource centre, a canteen, sports oval and other amenities.
The $69 million dollar project is the first of a multi-stage plan to increase the school to a 1300-enrolment capacity.
The school’s foundation principal Aaron Jones said it was “very exciting” to watch the community grow and to see staff and students enjoy the school facilities.
“It’s an honour to be foundation principal of South Rock State School,” Mr Jones said.
“We are focusing on laying solid cultural foundations with our students, families and the wider Yarrabilba community as we work together to bring our collective vision to life.
“We’re well prepared for the expected rapid growth into the future.”
According to a government statement, the name ‘South Rock’ was chosen in consultation with the local community and traditional custodians in an effort to reflect a natural sandstone outcrop from the area that holds significant cultural importance.
The school has also worked with a Cultural Advisory Group to incorporate the local traditional Yugambeh language throughout the school.
“It’s important for us to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and continue working alongside members of our Cultural Advisory Group and our P&C, to keep strong connections with the local community and ensure our school fits the needs of our community now and into the future,” Mr Jones said.
Member for Logan Linus Power was present at the opening and said he looked forward to seeing the school thrive in the future.
“I congratulate the whole school community for working together to bring these impressive new educational facilities to life, in a meaningful way,” Mr Power said.
The state’s education minister, Grace Grace, said the opening was one to remember.
“It was great to join staff and students on day one, term 1 this year to welcome students through the gates for the first time and it is a privilege to be back to officially open the school,” Ms Grace said.
“Since coming into government in 2015 we have now built 25 new schools and are committed to providing students with a world-class Queensland education, no matter where they live.
“This school is one of four that opened its doors this year, and the Palaszczuk Government will open a further two new schools in 2024.”
