Local school students joined their peers across the state on Monday in returning to school, ready for a new year of learning.
Local prep students were eager to start their ‘big school’ adventure, with new school backpacks and squeaky clean shoes.
New students at St Clare’s Primary School, in Yarrabilba, were especially excited to see their new schooling precinct.
The Catholic primary school opened its doors for the first time on Tuesday, and teachers were eager to welcome prep to Year 4 students into their classrooms.
Foundation principal Chris Thomas said he was thrilled to see and welcome 110 new faces to the school, and was looking forward to the school year.
“This is well beyond what Brisbane Catholic Education first expected for the first year of operation,” he said.
“We have 17 staff on board and students from prep to year four.
“The students and staff are equally excited to be part of this founding year.”
Prep parent Melissa Mein said her son Lewis was excited to put on his school uniform.
“He’s more than ready for his first day,” she said.
Mr Thomas, who has spent 20 years in education, was previously the principal of St Joachim’s Catholic, at Holland Park.
He has since spent the past 12 months writing the educational programs and visions for St Clare’s, while finding appropriate staff to make the year a success.
“This first day of school is a career highlight for me,” Mr Thomas said.
“There have been challenges, but it has been a very rewarding 12 months; and now, we are ready to start something new.
“The families here are such good people and I am very blessed to be given this opportunity (to be founding principal).”
Parish administrator Father Hyacinth Udah said St Clare’s had a lot of promise for the area.
“I hope to bring a Catholic presence to the students here,” he said.
St Clare’s Primary School will be officially opened and blessed later this year.
