One of Ipswich’s newest schools, Fernbrooke State School, has passed the 1,000 student mark as it celebrates the official opening of a new $10 million building.

Member for Bundamba and Assistant Minister Lance McCallum MP represented Education Minister Grace Grace at today’s opening, saying Fernbrooke’s ongoing growth mirrored that of the wider Redbank Plains community.

“Fernbrooke opened in 2017 in response to significant growth in the Redbank Plains area, and student enrolments have more than reflected the expected demand,” Mr McCallum said.

“The Palaszczuk Government has budgeted $102.9 million to maintain, improve and upgrade Ipswich schools this year.

“We’re also planning for new schools in the surrounding suburbs of Redbank, Ripley, Springfield and Brookwater.”

The new two-storey block accommodates years 5 and 6 students in 12 classrooms and also provides six teacher prep spaces, an outdoor learning area and student and staff amenities. 

“Local projects like this are building on our record $1.9 billion education infrastructure investment in 2021, supporting 4,800 Queensland jobs,” Mr McCallum said.

“I am proud to be part of a government that continues to invest in the future of our schools and delivers the facilities our students need to make the most of their education.”

Fernbrooke State School Principal Darren Marsh said enrolments continued to grow by about 330 students a year.

“We take great pride in being a school that gives all students an opportunity to succeed, and this new building keeps us on track to continue doing just that,” Mr Marsh said.

“It really is a wonderful addition to an already fantastic school that surrounds students with high expectations, a supportive community and the right conditions for learning.”