From classroom to course - Good Shepherd students to take on new Ninja Warrior Playground

Students at Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School, Springfield Lakes, are climbing to new heights as they explore their new Ninja Warrior Playground for the very first time (Thursday 23 April).

To mark the opening, students took part in a skills session led by Emma Teede, President of Obstacle Australia and a former contestant on Australian Ninja Warrior. 

With Emma leading the way, students gripped the rock-climbing walls, scaled the uneven bars, climbed frames, balanced on beams and even challenged their leg strength on the warped wall! 

But don’t be fooled, the playground is more than just fun!

The circuit was specially designed for students in Years 4 to 6, supporting their development of physical skills, confidence and problem-solving abilities through active play. 

Modern Pentathlon Program

Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School Physical Education teacher Eliza Moore said the school has recently launched a Modern Pentathlon Program, which now includes Ninja Obstacle Racing. 

“This initiative reflects a long-term commitment to developing clear school pathways for Modern Pentathlon as Australia looks towards the Brisbane Olympics 2032,” she said. 

“With Lions Stadium at Springfield currently being considered as the venue for the Modern Pentathlon at the 2032 Olympic Games, this new playground gives our students in the Ipswich region a meaningful connection to a potential home‑ground Olympic legacy.” 

The benefits

Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School Physical Education teacher Eliza Moore said while the course is intended to be fun, it is also so much more!

“As students move through the obstacles, they’re not only building strength, balance and coordination, but also learning confidence, courage as they challenge themselves physically,” she said. 

“What’s more, the playground is designed to balance safety with challenge, allowing students to take supported risks that help them learn, grow and believe in themselves.” 

Eliza adds that the playground breaks down barriers to traditional sport. 

"At a time when cost‑of‑living pressures can limit access to organised sport, this playground provides students with a free, inclusive and healthy outlet where they can be active every school day.” 

Principal Naomi Doyle said Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School is proud to be a school of choice in the Springfield Lakes community. 

“We offer a contemporary learning environment with ongoing investment in high-quality learning and wellbeing spaces, including new classrooms, a new learning support space and a new library designed as a vibrant hub for collaboration and creativity,” she said. 

“Our new inclusive playgrounds support physical development for all learners. 

“At Good Shepherd, every child is known, valued and ‘called by name.’ 

“This commitment is lived through strong relationships, inclusive practices and a shared focus on nurturing the whole child, creating a school where students thrive and families feel a strong sense of belonging.” 

For more information about Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School, Springfield Lakes or to enrol click here. 

Did you know? 

Catholic education has been part of the Ipswich community since 1863, when St Mary’s Primary School first opened its doors. 

 Find a school a Catholic school in Ipswich today, click here. 

Image caption: Students at Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School, Springfield Lakes, are climbing to new heights as they explore their new Ninja Warrior Playground. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).