BCE schools at the forefront of contemporary learning

From an award-winning library to vibrant new playgrounds and a purpose-built early year's precinct, Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) schools are setting a new benchmark for contemporary school environments across South East Queensland.

Labouré Library 

At St Catherine’s Catholic Primary School, Wishart innovation in learning design has been recognised at a national level, with the school’s new Labouré Library taking out the 2026 Australian Library Design Award in the School Library category. 

Designed by Macksey Rush Architects, the light-filled space features connected learning zones that support both independent study and collaboration. The new space includes a designated learning support area, junior and senior reading areas and flexible workspaces, a browsing zone, and an outdoor learning space.

St Catherine’s Catholic Primary School Principal Adam Bennie said the transformation was guided by a clear vision to create a flexible and welcoming environment where students can thrive.

“The library extension brings together a series of interconnected zones that cater to a wide range of learning styles and activities,” he said.

“Light-filled spaces maximise views of the surrounding greenery, while window seats and the alfresco learning space create a unique treehouse connection to the outdoors, fostering a sense of calm and engagement.

“The design also prioritises flexibility, with adaptable furniture and varied spaces that can be used for everything from whole-class instruction to small group work and quiet, focused reading. 

“Importantly, the project was shaped through close consultation with staff, students and families, ensuring the library reflects the school’s teaching approach and community needs. 

“The result is more than a library, it is a dynamic learning hub where students, staff and the wider school community come together to read, collaborate and discover.”

In 2026, St Joseph’s School, Childers also opened their own new state-of-the-art library. Learn more here.

Penola Building

Opening at the beginning of 2026, St Bernard’s Primary School, Upper Mount Gravatt is also redefining contemporary early years education through its Penola Building, designed by Punch Design.

Designed specifically for the school's youngest learners, the new early years precinct features dedicated Prep, Year 1 and Year 2 learning spaces that support a variety of learning styles and teaching approaches. 

The space encompasses flexible classroom layouts, natural light, smart storage solutions and sensory corners that create welcoming environments where students can move seamlessly between purposeful play, independent exploration, and focused curriculum learning.

St Bernard’s Primary School Principal Daniel Hodge said the classrooms have been thoughtfully planned with flexibility and wellbeing in mind.

"Incorporating natural light, smart storage solutions, and dedicated sensory corners to support everything from small group learning to imaginative play, the Penola Building has everything our early years learners need,” he said.

A standout feature of the project is the central collaborative space that runs through the heart of the building. Far more than a corridor, the vibrant shared zone has become a hub where students connect, create and learn together. Featuring tiered amphitheatre-style seating, informal gathering areas and quiet reading nooks, the space encourages collaboration, storytelling, group discussion and independent reflection beyond the traditional classroom setting.

“The amphitheatre provides a dynamic venue for presentations, shared learning experiences and community gatherings, creating opportunities for students to build confidence, develop communication skills and learn from one another,” Daniel adds.

“These flexible spaces foster a culture of connection and engagement while supporting contemporary teaching practices that recognise learning happens in many different ways and places.”

Transforming learning through play

Our Lady of the Rosary School, Caloundra unveiled not one, but two remarkable new playgrounds in Term 3.

Designed by Everything Outside, the new design goes well beyond traditional play equipment.

Our Lady of the Rosary School Principal Grant Haigh said the playgrounds were purpose-built to help inspire imagination, movement, exploration and social connection among students.

“The state-of-the-art play spaces represent what the future of outdoor learning and play can look like,” he said.

“Leaning into our coastal location, the new play spaces embrace our vibrant marine surroundings and celebrate our close connection to the ocean.”

At the heart of the playground is a spectacular custom-built timber ship, featuring a soaring bow crowned by a pelican lookout, portholes and a bright blue slide. Overhead climbing elements challenge students' strength, coordination and confidence, while a nearby lighthouse-inspired tower with rope nets and elevated platforms encourages adventure and imaginative play.

Reflecting the school's beachside location, the playground is brought to life with ocean-blue surfacing, sandy coastal tones and colourful marine creatures, including a giant clownfish. A second play area continues the coastal theme with a surfboard-style rock climbing frame, tunnels, rope challenges and multi-level spaces designed for students of all ages and abilities.

Grant adds every element has been thoughtfully selected to encourage physical development, risk assessment, problem-solving skills, and collaborative play.

“What makes these playgrounds truly stand out is their alignment with contemporary educational research,” he said.

“Modern playgrounds are no longer simply places for recreation alone, they are extensions of the classroom. 

“The design promotes physical literacy, creativity, resilience, communication and teamwork, all essential skills for today's learners. 

“The inclusive design also ensures students of varying ages and abilities can engage with the space, creating opportunities for cooperative play and fostering a strong sense of belonging across the school community.”

For more information about Our Lady of the Rosary School, Caloundra or to enrol click here.

For more information about St Bernard’s Primary School, Mount Gravatt or to enrol click here.

For more information about St Catherine’s Catholic Primary School, Wishart or to enrol click here.

With more than 146 Catholic schools across South East Queensland, Brisbane Catholic Education offers families a wide choice of primary and secondary schools for students from Prep to Year 12. Discover a BCE school near you today, click here.

Image caption 1: St Catherine’s Catholic Primary School, Wishart's new Labouré Library. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Catherine's Catholic Primary School, Wishart (2026).

Image caption 2: St Bernard’s Primary School, Upper Mount Gravatt's new Penola Building. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Bernard's Primary School, Upper Mount Gravatt (2026). 

Image caption 3: Our Lady of the Rosary School, Caloundra unveiled not one, but two remarkable new playgrounds in Term 3. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Our Lady of the Rosary School, Caloundra (2026).

Image caption 4: Our Lady of the Rosary School, Caloundra students play on a timber ship. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, Our Lady of the Rosary School, Caloundra (2026).