A group of Flagstone students are getting a glimpse of what their future classrooms will look like – even though the school itself won’t open until 2026.
Students enrolled to attend Brisbane Catholic Education’s newest school have been taking part in an early transition program that allows them to visit the construction site, meet future classmates and begin adjusting to school life well ahead of day one.
Unlike traditional school starts, where students first step onto campus on their opening morning, children across multiple year levels have been involved in hands-on transition activities while the campus is still being built.
For Year 7 student Penny Frunks, that meant swapping the classroom for a hard hat and high-visibility vest.
“Having the opportunity to explore the College grounds and see the construction happening in real time was not just exciting, it helped us create a real connection,” she said.
Students have also been invited to share their ideas on what their first year of secondary school should look like, from uniforms to sport and arts interests, helping them feel invested in the process.
“It’s made starting high school feel less scary and more exciting,” Penny said.
Younger students have also been part of the early transition approach.
Future Prep students have attended orientation sessions that focus on play-based learning, storytelling and building confidence in new routines, while parents are included in sessions designed to help them prepare for the shift into school life.
Foundation Principal Anthony Elmore said the transition work wasn’t just about logistics, but about familiarity and emotional readiness.
“Our youngest students are learning how school routines work, while their parents are learning what to expect,” he said.
Year 1, 2 and 3 students — many of whom are also joining the campus for the first time — have taken part in interactive sessions to meet teachers and classmates, helping build relationships early.
“These sessions help students feel supported and connected before their first official day,” Mr Elmore said.
