With students from 30 different countries and more than 13 languages spoken on campus, St Augustine’s College, Augustine Heights is one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse schools within Brisbane Catholic Education. Of BCE’s 146 schools across South East Queensland, the College is the most linguistically diverse BCE school and the second in cultural diversity after Clairvaux MacKillop College, Mount Gravatt, this Harmony Week (18 to 24 March).
A multicultural community
From Vietnamese and Tagalog to Spanish, Samoan, Punjabi, Portuguese, Nepali, and Malayalam, every conversation celebrates heritage, bringing the world into the classroom.
Students’ cultural backgrounds also span the globe, representing nations as diverse as Argentina, Brazil, Cambodia, Chile, Albania, and Afghanistan.
St Augustine’s College English teacher Jessica Jones said they often discussed personal identities and values in class.
"For example, a student might share their experiences with food, dancing, and celebrations that are influenced by their culture,” she said.
“These conversations are extremely enriching as they highlight how different backgrounds influence our everyday lives.
"Having such a diverse group in the classroom truly enriches the learning environment.
“Not only does it foster a deeper understanding of the world, but it also boosts cognitive and academic outcomes as we bring different perspectives into our discussions."
It's not just the students who bring a rich cultural diversity—St Augustine’s College is also home to a diverse team of staff who speak languages such as Japanese, Korean, and Filipino, as well as languages from India and across Africa.
English teacher and Year 8 Pastoral Leader Rebecca Percy said she loved teaching at St Augustine’s College because of the enriching diversity in the classroom.
"Students who speak another language at home have an innate structure for learning additional languages and bring interesting and varied viewpoints to the classroom,” she said.
Harmony Week (18-24 March)
St Augustine’s College Principal Graham Meertens said Harmony Week was especially important to his school community.
“It is a time for us to come together as a community and celebrate the incredible diversity within our school,” he said.
"Our students have been practicing all term for a special assembly featuring cultural performances that reflect their heritage, allowing them to share their pride and love for their culture with the entire school.
"We can’t wait for the vibrant splash of colour and creativity as students take over our school’s pathways with a fun chalk drawing event, filling them with words of welcome in different languages.
"Our primary school students will also join in on the fun, celebrating Harmony Week with a free dress day, where they are invited to wear traditional outfits that reflect their cultural heritage.
"This is a moment for our students to not only celebrate their heritage but to learn from one another and embrace the beautiful diversity that makes our school so special.”
Deadly Crew empowers First Nations students
Graham adds “We are proud to have a dedicated First Nations Officer who supports our College’s Deadly Crew”. The Deadly Crew is a student group at St Augustine’s College that focuses on supporting and empowering First Nations students.
"The Deadly Crew has worked on several impactful projects across our campus, including the naming of our House Groups and the design of First Nations story poles," he said.
“Our College offers a range of programs that foster cultural diversity, focusing on embracing and celebrating different cultures while emphasising the importance of kindness and mutual respect.
“We are proud of the effort we have put into building a harmonious and inclusive community at St Augustine’s."
For more information about St Augustine’s College, Augustine Heights or to enrol click here.
About Harmony Week:
Harmony Week is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds.
It’s about inclusiveness, respect, and a sense of belonging for everyone.