Buzzing with brilliance - how St Ambrose’s School makes learning ‘oh so sweet’

27/03/2025

​©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Ambrose's Primary School, Newmarket (2023).

As Brisbane Catholic Education’s Open Week (28 April to 4 May 2025) rolls around, St Ambrose’s Primary School is buzzing with excitement!    

This Newmarket school is creating a hive of activity, offering students a sweet blend of academic excellence, extra-curricular adventures, and a deep connection to Catholic values.   

St. Ambrose's Primary School Principal John Hinton said the school enhances learning through its High Potential Learner Framework, which includes a ‘Buzzing Brains Program.’  

"This program offers all students opportunities to develop critical and creative thinking skills," he said.  

“The High Potential Learning Framework program also provides personalised learning pathways for students.  

“We don’t just teach students the basics. We extend their learning by inspiring them to explore new ideas, challenge their thinking, and reach their full potential. 

"We also provide targeted intervention led by our specialist educators, giving students who need a little extra support all they need to thrive.”  

Fostering excellence  

John adds that their school is celebrated not only for their academic excellence but also for the exciting range of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities that make learning ‘come alive.’  

“At St Ambrose’s students thrive in an environment that blends academics with creative and fun opportunities like choir, chess, netball, Japanese, debating, and instrumental music," he said.   

"With everything from homework club to hands-on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) projects, we are all about making learning an adventure and helping students discover their passions along the way.”  

Catholic identity is also at the heart of this school, with a unique connection to its Patron Saint Ambrose, who represents both academics and beekeeping – a fitting symbol for the buzzing energy of the students.   

The school offers a range of distinctive programs that set it apart.  

Established in 2022, the ‘Grandfriends’ program pairs Year 1 students with local seniors from Mercy Community Aged Care. Through weekly online sessions, students develop meaningful connections and share valuable experiences with their senior partners. 

Hear what our parents have to say  

St Ambrose’s Primary School Parent Michelle Platts said St Ambrose’s is more than just a school.  

“It’s a place where our children have flourished,” she said.  

“The dedicated teachers and strong academic program have challenged and supported our children.   

“The incredible range of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities has helped the children grow in confidence and explore new interests.  

“It’s an inner-city jewel with a well-proportioned campus and outdoor space.   

“The school is committed to nature and sustainability, and the community is a welcoming and supportive village.   

“St Ambrose (a beekeeper) is kept alive in the school in its links with bees.   

“We look forward to thriving in 2025 at St Ambrose’s.”  

The future is bright!  

St Ambrose's Primary School also ensures its future scholars are included from the start through its Bumble Bees Playgroup. Ensuring the school helps its littlest learners develop a strong connection to the school community. 

In 2025, St Ambrose’s Primary School is also excited to launch a new garden project.  

Guided by the staff, Year 5 students, and Parent Advisory Board, the space will feature vegetable growing, worm farms, mud kitchens, and nature play areas, providing students with a fun, hands-on learning environment.    

John said, "The new play area is all about emphasising the joy of play, connecting with nature, enhancing wellbeing, and fostering an understanding of sustainability."  

Open Week 2025   

Parents and prospective families are invited to St Ambrose’s Primary School Open Day from 8.15 am on Wednesday, 30 April, to join a Principal Tour and experience an open classroom morning, where parents can meet and greet educators.   

St Ambrose’s Primary School encourages parents to come along, grab a coffee onsite, and find out about the strength of their school community!  

Oh, and did we mention that St Ambrose’s has received the highest number of Prep applications for 2026 in its history? It's clear to see that this school's hive is thriving! 

Don’t miss your chance to take a sneak peek beyond the school gates and find out more about St Ambrose’s Primary School, Newmarket today!


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