When it comes to transforming education in Australia, Brisbane South State Secondary College has continued to heighten standards, earning its place among the 2024 Educator 5-Star Innovative Schools Award winners. Under the leadership of Executive Principal Kirsten Ferdinands and Deputy Principal Kristin Lynch, the college has proven its ability in setting new benchmarks for public education.
In an exclusive interview with The Educator TV, Ferdinands reflected on the school’s founding vision: “We were intentional about creating a unique culture that prioritizes the whole child. It’s about redefining what education can be, from leadership attributes to collaborative practices.” This vision is exemplified by the college’s innovative culture rubric, a tool that aligns leadership behaviors across its staff to ensure cohesive, student-centered learning.
The college has also made significant strides in student well-being with its GP in Schools pilot program. “Having a GP on-site has reduced barriers for families and allowed students to take responsibility for their health,” Lynch explained. “It’s about building trust and making healthcare accessible in a way that supports both students and the broader community.”
Further solidifying its reputation as an innovator, Brisbane South recently became an accredited International Baccalaureate (IB) school. “The IB program gives our students access to a global curriculum,” said Ferdinands. “It’s about opening pathways that go beyond state and national borders, preparing students to become global citizens.”
The school’s holistic approach extends beyond academics. As a full-service community school, it integrates health, well-being, and community engagement into its model. “We’re bringing health professionals into the classroom to co-design lessons with teachers, which upskills our staff and provides proactive support for students,” Lynch shared.
Summing up the school’s mission, Ferdinands added, “Our motto, Novo de serie Mundo—Learning for a New World, captures everything we stand for: innovation, collaboration, and preparing students for a dynamic future.”
To hear more from Ferdinands and Lynch about their groundbreaking initiatives, click here to watch the full interview.