Trinity College, Beenleigh reveals future-focused science centre during National Science Week

As Australia celebrates National Science Week (15 to 23 August), Trinity College, Beenleigh is showcasing a major investment in science education with the transformation of one of its oldest teaching buildings into a cutting-edge learning environment. 

The College's new St Mary MacKillop Science Centre, redeveloped within the shell of the College's original 40-year-old science block, marks a significant shift from the fixed laboratory designs of the past. The project has been designed by Architectural Collaborative. 

The upper level of the new facility will feature a large dry laboratory equipped with movable acoustic furniture and flexible science benches, alongside a new outdoor learning space. The design will allow multiple senior science classes to undertake theoretical and practical learning simultaneously within a highly adaptable setting. 

On the lower level, two wet laboratories can transition seamlessly between practical and theory-based learning. Reconfigurable workstations and a movable glass dividing wall will allow the spaces to be adapted for different experiments, collaborative projects, and assessment requirements, mirroring the dynamic environments students may encounter in tertiary study or industry laboratories. 

A key feature of the redevelopment is its integration of science, engineering, and design into the building itself. Exposed services, including visible piping, air-conditioning infrastructure and flooring systems, create opportunities for students to explore the engineering principles that underpin modern buildings. 

Trinity College Principal Allison Elcoate said the redevelopment reflects the College's commitment to fostering curiosity and helping students connect classroom learning with real-world scientific exploration. 

"National Science Week is a celebration of discovery, innovation, and curiosity, which are values we aim to nurture in our students every day," she said. 

"At Trinity, we want students to understand that learning is not confined to what happens on a whiteboard or inside a textbook. We want our students to be inquisitive about how the world around them works and to see themselves as future problem-solvers, researchers, and innovators." 

Allison adds the new modern design is part of the learning experience. 

"Students will be able to see and investigate systems that are usually hidden behind walls and ceilings, encouraging questions about design, technology, sustainability, and engineering,” she said. 

“The project also represents a broader commitment to ensuring students engage with learning environments that connect education with tertiary study, research, industry, and emerging scientific fields.” 

Sustainability and adaptability have also been central to the project. Portable fume cupboards, movable furniture, and flexible storage systems have been selected to ensure the facility can evolve alongside future advances in science, technology, and education. 

The College's Acting Curriculum Leader for Science, Madeleine Bromwich, and Laboratory Officer Sophie Rumble played a key role in selecting furnishings and finishes that reflect contemporary laboratory and research environments. A palette of forest green, slate, and amber tones complements the building's industrial aesthetic, while also creating a welcoming and professional learning space.  

Once complete, the redevelopment will increase the building's learning capacity from four classes to as many as 10 classes across a variety of interconnected learning zones. 

The former Block 2 will officially become the St Mary MacKillop Science Centre when students begin using the facility in Term 4, with an official opening and community celebration planned for September. 

Brisbane Catholic Education would like to thank the Archdiocesan Development Fund for their support of this project. 

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Image caption: Artist’s impression of Trinity College Beenleigh’s new St Mary MacKillop Science Centre, designed by Architectural Collaborative. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, 2026.