Y SCHOOLS Queensland has celebrated another major milestone with the official opening of its new Redlands Junior Campus at Victoria Point, marking the organisation’s 11th school across the state.
The Redlands site was already home to Y Schools’ Senior Campus for students in Years 10 to 12.
The addition of the new Junior Campus means local young people in Years 7 to 9 can now access a complete Year 7-12 learning pathway in one location.
The opening event began with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country led by the Nunukul Yuggera Aboriginal Dance Company.
The ribbon was officially cut by Federal Member for Moreton Julie-Ann Campbell MP, alongside President and Board Chair of Y Queensland Heather Allan.
Board members, staff, students and community partners gathered to celebrate the occasion, with campus tours hosted by Head of Campus Cam Hales, Head of School Greg Wacker and Deputy Principal Rob Bita.
The Redlands Junior Campus has been purpose-built to provide an alternative education pathway that nurtures wellbeing, confidence and connection.
Y Schools Queensland’s unique Thrive Wellbeing Pathway underpins the program, combining trauma-
aware, evidence-based practices with individualised learning support.
Developed in partnership with QUT and funded by Hand Heart Pocket, the Thrive model helps young people develop emotional regulation, resilience and lifelong learning skills.
“This new campus represents hope and opportunity for young people who may not have found success in mainstream education,” Ms Allan said.
“At Y Schools, every student is seen, heard and supported to grow academically, socially and emotionally.”
Y Queensland Chief Executive Officer Damian Foley said the organisation’s schools were built on a foundation of care and connection, providing an environment where students who may have struggled in traditional settings could thrive and rediscover a love of learning.
“When young people feel safe, connected and understood, their potential is unlimited,” Mr Foley said.
“Our schools exist to re-engage students, nurture confidence and equip them with the skills to succeed, not just in school, but in life.”
Recent research highlights the success of Y Schools Queensland’s approach.
The 2025 Parent and Carer Report found that 87 per cent of families are satisfied or very satisfied with Y Schools Queensland, with 99 per cent agreeing the school supports their young person’s wellbeing.
Nearly all families reported improvements in their child’s mental health, confidence and engagement in learning.
The 2024 Pathways to Success Report also found Y Schools graduates report higher employment rates, stronger community connection and greater wellbeing outcomes than peers from similar backgrounds.
Many go on to apprenticeships, TAFE study or meaningful employment, demonstrating the long-term impact of the program.
Head of Campus Cam Hales described the new site as a place where learning and belonging go hand in hand.
“Our students are capable, creative and resilient,” Mr Hales said.
“This campus has been built to continue to support their future and give young people more possibilities.”
The Redlands Junior Campus expands access for local families seeking a smaller, more supportive school environment where each student’s strengths are celebrated.
