Autumn Edition- Bright Futures- Moreton Daily Magazine

SCHOOLS SPECIAL FEATURE

YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL EDUCATION PATHWAYS

Bright Futures Begin at Sesame Lane

Moreton Bay’s most trusted early learning community

For almost 40 years, Sesame Lane has been part of the Moreton Bay community, growing alongside local families and supporting generations of children from babies and toddlers through to kindergarten, during their earliest and most important years. What began as a vision to create nurturing, high-quality early learning environments for children at every stage of early childhood has expanded into a network of 13 centres across the region, each connected by a shared purpose: helping every child feel confident, capable, and ready for a bright future.

Safe, Supported and Valued

At the heart of Sesame Lane is an unwavering commitment to children’s safety, genuine care, and high-quality education. Their centres provide safe, nurturing environments where families can feel confident their children are protected, supported, and valued every day.

More Than Childcare

Sesame Lane’s approach goes beyond traditional childcare. While they provide nappies for convenience, they offer so much more.

Enriching learning experiences, thoughtfully designed environments, nutritious meals, and a holistic approach that supports every child’s development from babyhood through to Kindergarten.

They proudly deliver a government-approved Kindergarten program led by universityqualified Teachers, alongside passionate Educators who understand that strong, secure relationships form the foundation for lifelong learning.

Children participate in engaging experiences designed to expand their world, from Owlbert’s Gardening Program, which introduces plant to plate learning, sustainability and environmental

awareness through hands-on gardening, to their Japanese Program that fosters cultural understanding and curiosity from an early age.

Learning is guided by play, imagination, and meaningful interactions that help children build resilience, independence, and a sense of belonging.

Growing Through Connection

A strong focus on community connection sets Sesame Lane apart. The organisation believes early learning thrives when families feel supported not only within the centre, but within the wider

Playgroups, local partnerships, and inclusive initiatives create opportunities for families to connect with one another and feel part of something bigger. These relationships help build confidence for both children and parents, particularly during transitions such as starting care or preparing for school.

More Support When It Matters

children receive consistent, informed care as they grow.

Learning Through Wonder

nurture confidence while encouraging curiosity and wonder. These environments reflect Sesame Lane’s belief that meaningful learning happens when children feel safe to be themselves and free to explore new ideas.

Building Bright Futures

As Moreton Bay continues to evolve, Sesame Lane remains deeply committed to the families who call this region home. With decades of experience, strong community partnerships, and a forwardthinking approach to early education, Sesame Lane continues to shape the next generation of learners, building bright futures through connection, care, and the simple magic of childhood.

Supporting families holistically is a key part of the Sesame Lane difference. A resident Child Health Nurse works closely with services, offering guidance on development, wellbeing, and early childhood milestones. This additional layer of support provides reassurance for parents and ensures

Their Educators are supported by dedicated Inclusion and Community Connections Specialists who work alongside their teams to create welcoming environments where every child is valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Across all centres, learning environments are intentionally designed to inspire creativity, exploration, and connection to the natural world.

Children engage in art, literature, movement, storytelling, outdoor discovery, and collaborative play experiences that

Ready to discover the Sesame Lane difference?

Families are warmly invited to explore their local Sesame Lane Care & Kindergarten and experience firsthand what makes their early learning community so special. To learn more, book a tour, or find your nearest centre, visit their website www.sesamelane.com.au and take the first step toward a bright future for your child.

Growing together at Grace Lutheran Primary School

For many parents, thinking about primary school can feel like something for the distant future. But according to Trudy Moala, Principal of Grace Lutheran Primary School, those conversations are beginning earlier than ever before.

“Just last month, we welcomed a mum on a Principal’s Tour whose baby won’t start school until 2030,” Mrs Moala said with a smile. “It might sound early, but it’s becoming increasingly common.”

Families are recognising that planning ahead offers reassurance, clarity and choice. With strong demand for places and established enrolment timelines,

leaving decisions until the year before Prep can limit options.

“If families wait until the year before Prep, it’s very unlikely they’ll secure a place. That’s simply the reality.”

Whilst current families with siblings already attending Grace Primary, and families with children attending their Grace Early Learning Centre take precedence of places for Prep, new families and their children are also welcomed from a wide range of childcare centres and

kindergartens across the region.

“There’s no requirement to attend our Grace Early Learning Centre,” Mrs Moala said. “We welcome children from many different pathways.”

For those who have already spent time on campus, the move into Prep often feels familiar and comfortable. Children recognise the environment, know many of the staff, and feel confident in their surroundings.

“Our Grace ELC children are very excited to start Prep at ‘big school’ when the time comes to commence at Grace Primary”.

For families joining Grace Primary from other centres, connection begins early through School Tours, conversations, and thoughtfully planned transition experiences. The school places strong emphasis on helping both children and parents feel at ease well before the first day of school.

“Everything we do centres around young children,” Mrs Moala said. “Families understand that we share a common commitment to each child’s safety, happiness and wellbeing.”

That sense of care and connection is intentionally nurtured. Parents are often seen chatting after drop-off, sharing a coffee, or building friendships on campus. According to Mrs Moala, those relationships make a meaningful difference.

“We place great importance on creating a strong sense of community, because when families feel connected, children feel safe and secure.”

Grace Primary’s approach to early learning is guided by a simple mission: Engage. Educate. Excite.

Learning experiences are active, handson, and thoughtfully designed to meet children where they are, while building confidence, independence and a genuine love of learning. Alongside strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, students engage in performing arts, sport and language learning, giving them opportunities to discover their interests from an early age.

While strong academic foundations are important, Mrs Moala believes the most positive primary experiences are shaped by how supported families feel in the early years. Starting school is a significant emotional milestone - particularly for first-time parents - and Grace Primary is intentional about creating a calm, reassuring transition for every family.

Each year begins by welcoming families with a Parent Welcome Night, followed by a Transition Morning where children spend time in classrooms and begin forming friendships. Just before Term 1, a ‘Meet and Greet’ morning allows students to connect with teachers and visit their classroom, helping everyone feel prepared, confident and excited for the year ahead.

Grace Primary’s Enrolments Registrar, Melissa Johnson, encourages families to begin conversations early.

“We recommend submitting applications at least 18 months before a child’s eligible Prep year commences” Mrs Johnson said. “Booking a School Tour or attending one of our monthly Principal’s Tours gives families the opportunity to see learning in action, meet staff and ask questions in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Getting to know the school and the ‘Grace way’ early really helps families feel confident in their decision.”

She says new families often comment on how quickly their children settle.

“Parents regularly tell us how supported they feel and how smoothly their child transitions into school. That first year is such an important step in the foundation of their child’s educational journey.”

As an independent Lutheran school, Grace Primary welcomes families from across the region, subject to availability and enrolment criteria. Families of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, with enrolment open to those who support the school’s Christian values.

For parents beginning to explore their child’s school journey, Mrs Moala’s advice is simple and heartfelt:

“We welcome you to come and visit our wonderful school and see the school in action, so you can truly picture what your child’s journey might look like at Grace Lutheran Primary School.”

Visit www.glps.qld.edu.au to learn more or begin your enrolment journey.

Captains ready to lead

Redcliffe State High School’s 2026 School Captains plan to use their roles to strengthen student voice, promote inclusion and continue building a strong sense of community across the school.

Moreton Daily sat down with Nazalia Afoa, Daniel Harlow, Killian-James Toon and Stevie-Ray Schuster to talk about what leadership means to them and how they hope to make a difference this year.

A total of 24 student leaders were formally recognised at the school’s recent Investiture Ceremony, marking the beginning of their leadership journey for 2026.

Redcliffe State High School’s Student Leadership Body, comprising Tristan Ellul, Rachel Kelly, Mark Grosert and Rachel Lowe, said each of the captains demonstrated strong connections to community and active involvement in school life throughout the selection process.

“Our

leaders at Redcliffe State High School strive for a sense of community and active involvement,” the Student Leadership Body said.

Captains are selected through a multistage process that includes written applications addressing selection criteria, interviews with a panel of teachers and executive staff, and a final speech delivered at a leadership assembly where students vote for their representatives.

“We live in an inter-connected world where now more than ever a sense of

community is vital to our wellbeing and sense of purpose,” they said.

Leadership roles extend beyond the classroom, with students representing the school at community events including ANZAC Day, Moreton Bay’s March Against Violence and a range of sporting events, while also engaging the student body through assemblies, carnivals and student-led initiatives.

MEET THE LEADERS

Nazalia Afoa

Why did you want to become a School Captain at Redcliffe State High School?

Being School Captain isn’t just about the title for me, it’s about representing student voices and making sure everyone feels included and valued.

What does being a good leader at school mean to you?

Leading by example - it’s about being respectful, responsible, and approachable at all times. I believe leadership isn’t about being the loudest person in the room, it’s about being someone others can trust and rely on. It also means staying positive and motivating others to get involved in school life.

What is one thing you want to help improve for students this year?

Engagement and connection - school can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for younger students, so I’d love to create more opportunities for students to feel included, whether that’s through events,

better communication, or more ways for students to share their ideas.

What are your future goals after finishing school?

I plan to pursue further education and continue developing skills that allow me to make a positive impact in my community.

Daniel Harlow

Why did you want to become a School Captain at Redcliffe State High School?

To be a voice and guide for those who may not necessarily believe they have a platform to be heard and make he change I know everyone can contribute to.

What does being a good leader at school mean to you?

Means positively influencing, motivating, and guiding peers towards common goals while acting as a responsible role model for others.

What is one thing you want to help improve for students this year?

Improve students’ quality of school life, through inclusion within the school gates and events where people can come together.

What are your future goals after finishing school?

I want to attend a US College for my track and field endeavours, whilst studying International Business and Property Economics, hoping to own and develop businesses in the long term.

R e d c l i f f e STATE HIGH SCHOOL

PO Box 2470 Redcliffe North 4020 P 07 3897 1111 E admin@redcliffeshs.com.au W www.redcliffeshs.eq.edu

Connect, Learn, Succeed: The Redcliffe Way

/RedcliffeStateHighSchool @redcliffeshs

Killian-James Toon

Why did you want to become a School Captain at Redcliffe State High School?

I’m passionate about representing students and making a positive difference in our school community.

I want to give back to the school that has supported me. I also want to be a strong role model who leads with integrity, respect, and pride.

What does being a good leader at school mean to you?

Leading by example and treating everyone with fairness and respect. It’s about being approachable, listening to others, and supporting people when they need help.

What is one thing you want to help improve for students this year?

I want students to feel comfortable sharing their ideas and opinions and

know that they are being listened to. By creating more supportive spaces and encouraging open communication, I believe we can strengthen connections between students and staff.

What are your future goals after finishing school?

I’m currently aiming to study Legal Studies after school at QUT. I also want to continue staying connected to my culture and supporting First Nations communities.

Stevie-Ray Schuster

Why did you want to become a School Captain at Redcliffe State High School?

Stepping into this role is my way of honouring them (my family and community) and making them proud. I also wanted to represent Pacific Islander students in our school.Our culture is a strength, not a limitation, and I want to

help break stereotypes by leading with integrity, dedication, and pride.

What does being a good leader at school mean to you?

Someone who leads with heart. It’s not about the badge or the title, but about being present every single day and truly caring about the people around you. It means talking to students from all year levels, checking in on people, listening to their concerns, and celebrating their achievements.

What is one thing you want to help improve for students this year?

I’ve been the “new kid” three times, so I understand what it’s like to feel uncertain or out of place. That’s why I want every new student to feel welcomed, supported, and valued from day one.

What are your future goals after finishing school?

I plan to study law and pursue a career in youth justice. I want to advocate for young people, especially those who feel unheard or misunderstood within the justice system.

to find out more or visit the website redcliffeshs.eq.edu.au

SCHOOL

Connect, Learn, Succeed: The Redcliffe Way

Discovery Centre powers future careers

Bray Park State High School has officially opened its new Discovery Centre, representing a significant investment in skills-based education for the growing City of Moreton Bay.

Executive Principal Peter Turner said the purpose-built precinct has been designed to align directly with workforce demand across trades, design, technology and the creative industries.

“The future of industry—and the growing demand we’re seeing in the skilled trades—is calling out for more workers,” Mr Turner said. “We’re positioning ourselves to give our students meaningful opportunities to step into these indemand careers, while also making school more engaging and relevant along the way.”

For local families, it means students can access industry-level training and career-aligned learning without leaving their community.

Inside the Discovery Centre, students are learning in spaces designed to reflect real workplaces, including an automotive precinct with professional hoists and specialist facilities for construction, design and technologies.

One of the most significant additions is the school’s new full-sheet CNC router, giving students access to advanced machinery used in commercial construction and manufacturing workshops.

“It’s $70,000 worth of industry-grade equipment,” Mr

Turner said.

The investment marks a shift toward industry-aligned, hands-on training, with students building practical skills on professional-grade equipment.

That same approach is evident in the automotive precinct. “They’re building go-karts and racing them at Willowbank,” he said.

The program allows students to apply engineering concepts, mechanical skills and teamwork in a real-world setting, reinforcing the connection between classroom learning and future careers.

The facility was delivered as part of a Queensland Government Growth Project and comes as the school continues to expand alongside rapid residential development across the region.

Discovery Centre at a glance:

• 4 Design and Robotics Labs with Breakout Project Spaces between them.

• 2 Construction Rooms

• A Full Sheet CNC Router Room

• An Automotive Studies Precinct

Over the past seven years, enrolments have grown from around 800 students to more than 1,900. During that time, the school has built 45 classrooms and broadened subject offerings to meet the needs of a changing community.

Mr Turner pointed to major housing activity in the catchment, including Ausbuild developments and subdivisions in surrounding areas such as Dayboro, as contributing to the increase in schoolaged children.

He said the number of students living within the catchment who are choosing to attend Bray Park State High School has grown significantly over the past seven years, as more families choose the local state high school over other schooling options, including private education.

With expanded facilities, industry-grade equipment and programs aligned to workforce demand, Bray Park State High School is helping shape the future skills pipeline of Moreton Bay.

“This is about giving our students every opportunity to succeed.”

• A Media Studies Room with an Editing Suite

• A Dance/Drama Room

• 12 General Learning Classrooms

• A First Nations Programs Room

• 8 Wellbeing Professionals Offices

A clear direction for Southern Cross Catholic College

Southern Cross Catholic College’s secondary campus has entered the year under new leadership with a steady message for families: strong culture, clear expectations and a deliberate focus on student wellbeing.

Moreton Daily recently sat down with Head of Secondary Campus Dr Conor Finn and Assistant Principal – Students Conor Nesbitt to discuss their vision for the year ahead.

Dr Finn brings 25 years of experience across Catholic education in Australia and overseas, working in co-educational and single-sex settings. He said Southern Cross stood out for its sense of community.

“The opportunity here really spoke to me in terms of values and building connection, not only within the school but with the wider community,” he said.

While his first weeks were spent listening and learning, Dr Finn arrived with a defined improvement plan built on three priorities: strengthening the college’s Catholic identity in the Lasallian tradition, embedding a structured and proactive approach to student wellbeing, and ensuring high-quality teaching and learning across the campus.

“My initial intention is to look, listen and learn, but I’ve gone in with a very clear

school improvement agenda,” he said.

At the centre of that plan is clarity around standards and behaviour.

“We’re very clear about what is and isn’t acceptable. We teach that explicitly and we hold students accountable,” Dr Finn said.

“The reality is adolescents make mistakes, and we’ll work with them positively and proactively. But if patterns continue, we’re serious. There will be consequences.”

He frames the approach as culturebuilding rather than simply discipline. Celebration sits alongside expectation and aspiration. Staff are supported to model consistent standards, while students are challenged to aim higher academically and personally.

Dr Finn describes the current stage of the secondary campus as one of renewal and transition.

“It’s about building an authentic community based on clear values and strong relationships,” he said.

A significant change this year is the creation of a new Assistant Principal – Students role, signalling a deliberate investment in student development and support. The position is held by Conor Nesbitt, who brings nearly 15 years of

secondary education experience, including leadership roles in Brisbane and London.

Mr Nesbitt describes his philosophy simply: students should be safe, secure and successful.

“A strong pastoral care program means every student is known by their gifts and talents, but also by who they are,” he said.

The college is introducing a clearer, more structured approach to wellbeing education, covering respectful relationships, digital citizenship, antibullying and student safety. Through initiatives such as Safer Internet Day and small group mentoring, students are given practical tools to navigate an increasingly complex social environment.

“We’ll continue to teach students how to be safe online, how to report concerns and how to support one another,” Mr Nesbitt said.

Southern Cross Catholic College

Both leaders stress that families are central to that work.

“A really important partner in this is our parents and caregivers,” Dr Finn said.

“We want to work with them and build their capacity to support their young person to navigate what can be a really tricky space.”

As part of that proactive approach, the college will host a parent evening focused on raising good young men, led by facilitator David Jorna. The session is designed to support families in having constructive conversations around behaviour, relationships and positive models of masculinity.

Alongside that initiative, programs such as Girls Night In provide opportunities for young women to engage with positive role models, reflect on respectful relationships and contribute to service initiatives within the wider community. Together, these programs reflect a broader commitment to shaping

28 April – 1 May

confident, respectful young adults grounded in the college’s values.

Student voice is also being strengthened, with mentoring and leadership opportunities encouraging connection across Years 7 to 12. The aim, Mr Nesbitt said, is to ensure every student feels known, supported and challenged to grow.

“We know it’s a complex time to be a young person,” he said.

As the year unfolds, the direction from the new leadership team is measured and deliberate. Clear expectations. Consistent standards. Strong partnership with parents. A commitment to renewal and transition grounded in respect, community and shared responsibility.

Click here

to find out more or visit the website sccc.qld.edu.au

Week Open

Southern Cross Catholic College Secondary Campus will welcome prospective families on Wednesday 29 April as part of its Open Week. Families considering enrolment for Year 7 or other year levels are invited to attend, hear from leadership and tour the campus with student leaders.

For bookings and further information, visit the college website or contact the enrolments office.

Empowering Learners, Centred on Wellbeing

At Clontarf Beach State High School, student wellbeing, connection and opportunity are central to school life. In 2026, the school introduced a new program called RAISE (Raising Achievement, Inspiring Student Excellence), a wholeschool approach that strengthens teaching and learning through purposeful collaboration.

RAISE provides dedicated time for teachers to review student learning, align assessment practices and plan targeted next steps based on clear evidence. Because teaching decisions are intentional

and consistent, students benefit from clearer expectations, meaningful feedback and learning experiences closely matched to their needs. Through RAISE, the school ensures every student is supported, challenged and inspired to achieve their best.

Led by Principal Cath Pfingst, Clontarf Beach State High School is proud of its caring and dedicated staff who use modern teaching practices to create inclusive and engaging learning environments. Student leadership is also highly valued, with 2026 School Captains Fynn and Jake

representing responsibility, integrity and community.

Principal Cath Pfingst with School Captains Jake and Fynn

Recent upgrades to the school, including a new double basketball court and modern outdoor learning spaces, provide students with places to connect, be active and recharge throughout the day. A strong sense of belonging is further supported through the school’s unique House and Care system, where students are part of one of four Houses — Argo, Leo, Orion or Pegasus — and remain connected to consistent teachers and leaders from Years 7 to 12.

Modern learning spaces

Clontarf Beach State High School

Outstanding Graduate Outcomes

Clontarf Beach SHS continues to celebrate strong student outcomes. Members of the Class of 2025 achieved excellent results across a range of subjects and pathways. 94% of students who applied for Tertiary studies were offered places.

Georgia scored 99/100 in Literature, with high achievements in English and Mathematics.

Georgia has commenced a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in English Literature.

Eleanor achieved an ATAR of 96.4!

Eleanor is now studying a Biomedical Science/Science dual degree.

Will achieved an ATAR of 92.55!

Will is gone on to study a Bachelor of Medical Imaging.

Focused on pathways

The school offers a diverse range of Signature Programs, including the Dance Excellence Program, Sports Extension Squad, Summit Academic Extension Program and Music Extension, alongside senior science opportunities such as Aquatic Practices and Marine Science.

Students can also access strong vocational pathways, studying certificates in Construction, Engineering, Fitness, Business and Health Services, helping them graduate job-ready or prepared for further study.

Clontarf Beach State High School is a connected, inclusive community where students are supported to grow, thrive and succeed.

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