I feel very privileged to be writing my first article for Cornerstone as part of the St Peters Springfield community. Over these past few weeks, I have been warmly welcomed by our students, families and staff, and I am grateful for the kindness, generosity and genuine sense of belonging that has been extended to me.

As I have settled into the routines of school life and experienced a range of events, I have quickly come to appreciate what makes Springfield such a special place. The energy in our classrooms, the interactions in the playground, the dedication of our staff and the incredible pride our students have in their school all make this a wonderful place to learn, work and grow each day.

As we begin Term 3, I would like to extend a warm welcome back to all our students, families and staff. A new term brings renewed energy, fresh opportunities and exciting challenges as we continue growing together.

There is much to look forward to in the weeks ahead. Our Year 10 students will participate in Futures Week, an important opportunity to reflect on their strengths, explore future pathways and imagine the possibilities ahead. These experiences are central to preparing our young people not only for what they will do, but for who they will become.

We also eagerly anticipate the magic of our school musical, The Wizard of Oz. This production is the result of countless hours of dedication from our students, staff and families, and I know our community will delight in celebrating the remarkable talents of everyone involved.

We also warmly welcome home our students and staff from the Malaysia Service Trip. What a unique opportunity this has been for our young people to step beyond familiar surroundings, serve others and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. Experiences such as these reflect the heart of our mission: developing compassionate, capable young people who use their gifts to make a positive difference.

One of the things that has resonated most deeply with me since joining Springfield is our Plus Ultra mindset—Ever Higher. To me, it is an invitation to keep growing: to remain curious, to embrace a love of learning and to look beyond what we think is possible. It reminds us that learning is not simply about achievement, but about continually becoming the very best version of ourselves.

In a rapidly changing world, our greatest responsibility is to nurture young people who are compassionate, courageous and ready to make a positive impact. Here at St Peters we have the privilege of helping every young person discover their strengths, flourish with confidence and live a life of purpose.

Thank you once again for the warm welcome you have given me. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the St Peters community and am excited to lead the next chapter. I look forward to working alongside our students, families and staff as we continue to learn, grow and reach Ever Higher together.


Helen Jamieson
Head of Springfield

Last week, while on a staff retreat at Ironbark, we crossed the little bridge leading towards the outdoor Chapel and labyrinth. It was a crisp winter morning, the kind that invites you to notice the landscape a little more closely. And there, beside the path, one tree had burst into delicate pink blossom. Tiny green leaf buds were beginning to emerge from its branches.

It was unexpected. In the middle of winter, this tree seemed to know something the rest of the landscape did not.

As I stood there for a moment, I found myself wondering if God often works like that.

We tend to judge life by what we can see. If there is no obvious progress, no visible change, we assume nothing is happening. We can feel this in our work, our parenting, our friendships, and even in our faith. We long for growth, yet sometimes life seems to remain in the same season.

But the little tree offered a different perspective.

Its blossom wasn't making spring happen. It was simply revealing that a new season had already begun. Long before the landscape fully changed, signs of new life were already appearing.

Scripture reminds us that God works in much the same way. Often, his work is quiet before it becomes obvious. Hope begins to grow before circumstances change. Faith deepens before confidence returns. Healing starts long before we recognise it. God's work often begins beneath the surface, unseen but no less real.

The prophet Jeremiah writes:

"Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord... They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green."
(Jeremiah 17:7–8)

As Term 3 begins, life will quickly become busy again with assignments, sporting fixtures, performances, rehearsals and the everyday rhythm of school life. In the midst of it all, perhaps we can remember the little tree by the bridge.

We often think our task is to produce growth — to become wiser, kinder or more faithful by trying harder. Yet the gospel tells a different story. God is the one who gives life. Like that unexpected blossom, our lives do not create God's work; they bear witness to it.

Even when we cannot yet see the whole picture, God is already bringing new life. He is faithful in every season, and in his perfect time, what he has begun will bloom.

Chaplain Kirstin Munchenberg

This term, we are delighted to officially welcome Mrs Helen Jamieson to St Peters Springfield as our new Head of Springfield.

Helen joins our community with more than 30 years of experience in education and a passion for creating schools where students are known, supported and encouraged to achieve their personal best. Throughout her career, she has held a range of teaching and leadership positions, most recently serving as Chief Executive Officer and Director of International House at The University of Queensland, following her time as Executive Principal of Corinda State High School.

Later this term, we will formally welcome Helen during her Installation Service. Further details will be shared with families in the coming weeks.

Please join us in extending a warm St Peters welcome to Mrs Jamieson.

Do you have an idea that could make a difference in your community?

Students from St Peters Springfield are invited to take part in the Maha Sinnathamby Ideas & Imagination Award 2026, an exciting innovation challenge that encourages young people to think creatively, solve real-world problems and help shape the future of Greater Springfield.

Open to both primary and secondary students, the award challenges participants to develop an idea that responds to one of four key themes:

- Sustainability
- Health & Wellbeing
- Innovation & Smart Economy
- Creativity

Whether it's designing a greener future, improving community wellbeing, exploring emerging technologies or creating something that inspires positive change, students are encouraged to think big and bring their ideas to life.

Throughout the program, participants will receive guidance and support through a series of workshops and events, including:

Kick-off Information Session & Bus Tour – Wednesday 5 August
High School Hackathon Workshop – Saturday 15 August
Primary School Hackathon Workshop – Saturday 15 August
Q&A Webinar – Wednesday 19 August

Final submissions are due on Monday 31 August, before shortlisted students present their ideas to a panel of judges at the Pitch & Showcase Day on Thursday 10 September, where the winners will be announced.

The award is an initiative of Springfield City Group in partnership with the University of Southern Queensland, QUT Entrepreneurship and Mater Education, providing students with a unique opportunity to develop their creativity, collaborate with like-minded peers and gain valuable experience in innovation, problem-solving and presentation skills.

Students and families interested in learning more or registering can visit the official website.

We look forward to seeing the innovative ideas our St Peters students create to help shape the future of our community.

Dominic Piacun
Head of Secondary Years

Recently, staff from across Primary, Secondary and Student Services completed Mental Health First Aid training, further strengthening our commitment to creating a safe, supportive and caring learning environment for every student.

Just like it’s important to be there in a first aid physical crisis, it is equally important to recognise the signs of poor mental health and know how to respond.

Mental health is a continuum and on the ground here at a school it’s vital to look after ourselves and better equip our young people.

1 in 2 students at high school age will struggle managing their mental health, and our job is to ensure safe places and people for these students to seek out to start the help process.

We all know that mentally well students perform better, are happier and have positive relationships, so this is something we care deeply about and equip our staff with.

Staff also participated in their annual CPR and First Aid refresher training, ensuring they remain equipped with the latest knowledge and practical skills to respond confidently in emergency situations and helping us maintain a safe environment for students, staff and visitors.

These professional learning opportunities reflect St Peters Springfield's ongoing commitment to student wellbeing, ensuring our staff are prepared to support the physical, emotional and mental health needs of our community.

Sarah Johnson
Pathways and Counselling Leader

We are proud to offer our Primary students the opportunity to participate in our engaging Chess Program. Tailored to each age group, younger students learn through stories, games and interactive activities, while older students develop advanced strategies and gameplay skills. Each session includes a short interactive lesson followed by guided games and puzzles.

Delivered by Chess Mates, the program focuses on fun, cooperation and skill development, helping students build maths, problem-solving, planning, social skills and emotional intelligence in a supportive environment.

Details:

Fridays | 2:30pm – 3:30pm (The HUB)

10-week program: 13 July - 18 September

$20 per student

Register Here

Our Year 11 students recently embarked on an unforgettable three-day Leadership Camp at Emu Gully, accompanied by six dedicated staff members. The camp provided students with the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, develop their leadership skills, and strengthen the bonds that will support them throughout the remainder of their schooling journey.

Throughout the three days, students participated in a range of physically and mentally challenging activities designed to promote teamwork, communication, perseverance and trust. Highlights included conquering The Wall, navigating Crossing the River Kwai, experiencing the Tunnel Rats of Vietnam, testing their strategic thinking in Paintball, and tackling the iconic Kokoda Mud challenge.

Each activity required students to work collaboratively, support one another, and demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity. While many of the challenges pushed students beyond what they initially thought possible, the cohort embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm, determination and a positive energy.

Beyond the activities themselves, one of the most significant outcomes of the camp was the strengthening of relationships across the Year 11 cohort. Students formed meaningful connections with peers and staff, building a sense of belonging and camaraderie that will be invaluable as they navigate the final 18 months of their schooling journey together.

The camp was a wonderful reminder that leadership is not simply about leading others, but about service, courage, character and supporting those around you. We are incredibly proud of the way our Year 11 students represented themselves and the College throughout the experience and look forward to seeing the positive impact of these strengthened relationships into the next chapter of their St Peters Journey.

Chris Cant
Year 11 and 12 Coordinator

During the final week of Term 2, our Year 10 students took part in the Future Anything IGNITE Program, an entrepreneurship initiative designed to equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Future Anything has delivered more than 900 curriculum-aligned programs across Australia, helping students develop critical 21st-century skills including creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, communication and resilience. Through the IGNITE Program, students were challenged to identify a problem they were passionate about solving and transform their ideas into innovative products, services or businesses.

Working in teams, students spent the week brainstorming ideas, refining concepts, testing assumptions, learning from setbacks and developing professional business pitches. The experience encouraged students to think like entrepreneurs while building confidence in their ability to create positive change within their communities.

Their final pitches were evaluated by a judging panel comprising Mrs Helen Jamieson, Head of Springfield; Mr Dom Piacun, Head of Secondary Years; and local business owner Nathan White.

Nathan is the founder of Cobra9, a business that has developed world-leading cycling orthotics. With more than 20 years of experience in podiatry and orthotic manufacturing, Nathan has worked with thousands of cyclists, from amateur riders through to professional and world champion athletes. He also owns and operates the Cobra9 Leigh Surveying Elite Cycling Men's and Women's Teams, bringing valuable entrepreneurial and industry expertise to the judging process.

The winning team, HINOSO, impressed judges with their portable, wireless muscle recovery system designed to support people experiencing chronic pain, cramps and muscle discomfort through the use of EMS, TENS and heating technology.

Second place was awarded to SafetySis, a solution designed to support women who experience feelings of being unsafe in public spaces, while third place went to MorphFit, an innovative product that helps athletes protect their footwear and maintain grip across different playing conditions. The People's Choice Award was presented to RelievaBear, a thoughtful solution focused on supporting teenage girls and women experiencing period discomfort through a safe, practical and customisable product that combines heat and vibration technology.

Other standout concepts included Unity Stores Co., which sought to address homelessness by providing affordable essential products for people experiencing financial hardship; RENT-A-BALL, a sports equipment rental system designed to make physical activity more accessible; and Soberwatch, a smartwatch concept aimed at supporting individuals recovering from substance abuse. Special recognition was also awarded to several students for their outstanding contributions throughout the program:

• Public Speaking Award: Stella S and Josh C

• GEM Award (Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness): Alia A and Lian J

• GRIT Award (Resilience): Miley V

Beyond the awards, the program highlighted the creativity, compassion and entrepreneurial mindset of our students. Many of the ideas stemmed from a genuine desire to solve problems and improve the lives of others, demonstrating that entrepreneurship is not simply about creating a business, but about identifying opportunities to make a meaningful difference.

The IGNITE Program is another example of how St Peters Springfield empowers students to develop the confidence, adaptability and innovative thinking required for a Life of Purpose. Through experiences like these, students learn that they have the ability to turn ideas into action and create solutions that positively impact the world around them.

Ali Gadsby
Mitchell House Patron

This semester has marked an exciting milestone for our school community with the launch of the Wayfinding Project—a dynamic and purposeful program designed to equip students with the life and future skills they need to navigate an ever-changing world. Rooted in personal growth, reflection, and real-world readiness, Wayfinding has already begun to make a meaningful impact, within our Year 8, 9 and 10 cohorts.

At the heart of the program is the belief that education extends far beyond academic achievement. Wayfinding encourages students to explore who they are, what they value, and where they want to go. It provides a structured yet flexible framework for developing essential capabilities such as resilience, goal-setting, communication, and decision-making—skills that are critical not just for school, but for life.

The Influence of Legacy

A key component of the program this semester has been our work with the book Legacy. Through this text, students have engaged deeply with ideas around leadership, character, teamwork, and the power of mindset. The themes in Legacy have resonated strongly with our Year 9 students, sparking rich discussions and thoughtful self-reflection.

Students have been particularly struck by lessons around:

• The importance of values and personal standards—understanding that who you are matters just as much as what you achieve
• Accountability and ownership—recognising the role they play in shaping their own futures
• The power of culture and connection—how positive relationships and shared purpose can elevate individuals and teams
• Resilience and growth mindset—embracing challenges as opportunities for learning rather than barriers
  
  

These ideas have not remained abstract. Instead, students have begun applying them to their own lives—setting personal goals, reflecting on their behaviours, and considering how their actions contribute to the broader community

Sharing Student Insights

Yesterday, we had the opportunity to come together and share the lessons that have had the greatest impact. It was inspiring to hear students articulate their learning with clarity and honesty. Many spoke about shifting their perspectives—moving from a focus on short-term outcomes to thinking more deeply about long-term growth and purpose.

What stood out most was the authenticity of their reflections. Students acknowledged challenges, identified areas for improvement, and celebrated moments of progress. This willingness to engage openly is a powerful indicator of the program’s success and the safe, supportive environment being cultivated.

Looking Ahead

While Semester 1 has laid a strong foundation, this is only the beginning. The Wayfinding Project will continue to evolve, building on the momentum established so far. Future learning experiences will expand on these core ideas, helping students connect their developing self-awareness with real-world pathways and opportunities.

Ultimately, Wayfinding is about empowering students to take ownership of their journey—to navigate uncertainty with confidence, act with integrity, and approach their futures with a sense of purpose.
We are incredibly proud of our students and the way they have embraced this program. Their engagement, insight, and growth are a testament to what is possible when young people are given the time, space, and guidance to truly reflect on who they are and who they want to become.

Sarah Johnson
Pathways and Counselling Leader

As dawn broke over Brisbane ahead of the start of Term 3, our Year 12 students gathered at the Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout to mark the beginning of their final semester.

Organised by the Year 12 cohort, Senior Sunrise provided a chance for students to come together, enjoy a quiet moment of reflection and celebrate the friendships they have built throughout their time at St Peters Springfield before turning their focus to the significant milestones that lie ahead, including external examinations and graduation.

Inspired by a tradition embraced by graduating cohorts across many schools, our Year 12 students hope the Senior Sunrise will become a lasting legacy at St Peters Springfield, with future student leaders continuing the tradition for years to come.

Tamika R
College Captain

Congratulations to Year 12 student Ali D, who was selected to participate in the 2026 QUT Future You Summit, a prestigious four-day program that brings together high-achieving Year 11 and 12 students from across Queensland and northern New South Wales to explore future study and career pathways.

Ali was selected for the Diagnostic Thinkers stream, designed for students interested in careers such as Biomedical Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing and Social Work. Throughout the summit, she participated in hands-on learning experiences, problem-solving workshops and interactive sessions with QUT academics and industry professionals, gaining valuable insight into future opportunities within the health and medical sciences.

Selection for the summit is highly competitive. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic achievement, submit a written application outlining their aspirations, provide evidence of extracurricular or community involvement, and receive a teacher recommendation before being assessed by a QUT selection panel.

Reflecting on the experience, Ali said she thoroughly enjoyed the program and returned feeling inspired by everything she had learned.

Congratulations, Ali, on this outstanding achievement. We look forward to seeing where your passion for the health sciences takes you in the future.

Students interested in applying for the 2027 QUT Future You Summit can find further information about eligibility, key dates and the application process via the QUT Future You Summit webpage. Applications typically open in March and are available to eligible Year 11 and 12 students studying an ATAR or IB pathway.

The Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz is here! Have you purchased your tickets yet for The Wizard of Oz? Great seats still available for tonight and tomorrow night. Musical is from 6:15pm -7:30pm in the Dron Theatre on the Indooroopilly Campus with no interval, refreshments available beforehand from the canteen. Tickets costs are $15 Adult and $10 Student and family of four – 2 Adults, 2 Children $40. Thanks to all the cast, crew and staff who are making the Yellowbrick magic come to life.

Tickets can be purchased HERE.

Staffing

We are excited to welcome to the Performing Arts Team from Week 2, Mrs Carleen Steele on Monday’s as Vocal Tutor and Con Brio conductor and Ms Marina Jay on Mondays as Piano Tutor, together with Mrs Emily Tong who will be the Speech and Drama Tutor and Primary Drama Troupe Director working here on a Thursday.

State Honours Ensemble Program

Congratulations to Mila K and Sherry S who attended SHEP South-East Qld last weekend held at the Griffith University Conservatorium of Music.

Co-curricular Ensembles

All Co-curricular Performing Arts Ensembles will be in full swing next week. The Term 3 Ensemble Rehearsal Schedule is now available and can be accessed here. 

Secondary and Primary Drama Troupes will be held on Thursday afternoons and will be working towards a Drama Night on Friday 3 September. If you wish to be part of the Drama Troupes, please complete the form.

A reminder that students are to be collected 15 minutes after their cocurricular ensemble rehearsal concludes.

Geraldine Campbell 
Performing Arts Co-ordinator

Secondary Inter-House Track & Field Carnival

This Friday, all Year 7-12 students will travel to the UQ Athletics Centre for the 2026 Inter-House Track and Field Carnival.

Transportation 

Students will be transported to and from the venue by bus during school hours. All buses are scheduled to leave by 8:30am and return by 2:40pm.

Schedule 

Please refer to the schedule for the full list of events. No registrations are required. We encourage all students to participate and support their House throughout the day.

Uniform 

Students are required to wear either their House Shirt or an approved St Peters Track & Field uniform.

Food 

Canteen facilities will be available on the day; however, students are encouraged to bring their own lunch, snacks, and a water bottle.

Term 3 Secondary Athletic Development

Please review the Term 3 Athletic Development Schedule.

Please note the following significant change:

Strength Session has now been moved to Tuesday mornings. Motion Health Sessions will remain on Wednesday mornings.  All students must complete a waiver form and return it to The Hub before participating in the program.

Primary and Secondary GBC

Bye Round | Saturday 18 July

Please refer to the Term 3 fixtures below for all upcoming games:

Primary GBC Schedule

Secondary GBC Schedule

Game times and venues will continue to be communicated weekly via the College app.

College app

All families are encouraged to set their College app subscriptions and notifications for the term ahead. This is the only communication tool for all sport information.

Primary Afterschool Sport Program

Primary Students are invited to participate in a range of after-school sporting opportunities during Term 3.

Programs will run from Weeks 2–7 of Term 3 and are open to students of varying abilities, whether they are trying a sport for the first time or looking to further develop their skills.

To register, please use the links below:

Athletics (Prep–Year 3) – Register HERE (Please select Activities Springfield – Prep to Year 3 Athletics)

Coordinator: Mrs Marty Stolberg – marty@adaptitgroup.com.au

Soccer (Prep–Year 3) – Register HERE (Please select Activities Springfield – Prep to Year 3 Soccer)

Track and Field (Years 3–6) – Register HERE

Coordinator: Mr Nick Brayne – n.brayne@stpeters.qld.edu.au

Please see the table below for program dates, times, locations and coordinator details.

Kale Reed
Head of Sport, Springfield

On the final day of Term 2, our St Peters Springfield community came together for another memorable World's Greatest Shave event, demonstrating the compassion, generosity and community spirit that make our College so special.

Led by our Secondary Years Student Leadership Team, students and staff embraced the opportunity to shave, cut, colour and spray their hair in support of the Leukaemia Foundation, raising more than $7,500 to help Australians and their families affected by blood cancer.

The atmosphere throughout the afternoon was one of celebration and purpose as students cheered on participants, supported their peers and witnessed the incredible commitment of those willing to transform their hair for a worthy cause.

A special thank you goes to our Year Level Captains, who championed fundraising efforts across the College and encouraged their peers to get involved. We are also grateful to the many students, families and staff who donated, fundraised and supported the event.

We extend our sincere thanks to the local hairdressers who generously volunteered their time and expertise to make the event possible:

• Tahlia and Lorenzo from Tommy Gun's Springfield

• Taryn from Stefan Springfield

Their support helped ensure the day ran smoothly while contributing to an important cause.

Events such as World's Greatest Shave provide our students with an opportunity to put their values into action. By supporting those facing significant health challenges, our students demonstrated empathy, service and a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this year's event. Together, we have helped bring hope and support to families impacted by blood cancer.

Dominic Piacun
Head of Secondary Years

For 10 days, 17 students and three teachers travelled to Malaysia on a Service Trip, partnering with local communities to support sustainability and conservation initiatives.

Malaysia's forests face significant environmental challenges, including plantation expansion and illegal logging, with more than 60% of the forests on the Malaysian Peninsula having been cleared. Throughout the trip, students took part in meaningful, hands-on conservation projects that contributed to the restoration of habitats for both people and wildlife.

Working alongside local conservation groups, students prepared and planted native seedlings in areas affected by illegal logging, waded through knee-deep mud to plant mangrove propagules that will help protect vulnerable coastlines, and participated in beach clean-ups to support the rehabilitation of turtle nesting sites along the beaches of Pangkor Island.

Beyond their service work, students immersed themselves in Malaysia's rich culture and natural beauty. They floated down jungle rivers on tubes, explored the spectacular Dragon Scale Cave by headtorch, learnt traditional blowpipe dart shooting with members of the Batek people, tried the deeply popular fruit Durian, and climbed the 272 colourful steps into the 400-million-year-old limestone temple known as the Batu Caves.

The experience challenged students to step outside their comfort zones, develop a deeper appreciation for environmental stewardship, and build meaningful connections with the communities and landscapes they encountered.

We are grateful to the students for their resilience, organisation and willingness to work together to achieve a common objective.

Lauren Head
Director of Studies and Pedagogy

On Wednesday 26 August from 4:45pm - 6:00pm, St Peters Springfield will be hosting a Twilight Tour for prospective families across Primary and Secondary Years.

Guests will enjoy a guided tour of the campus, connect with staff and students, and gain insight into the St Peters Springfield experience and our approach to learning. This is a wonderful opportunity for prospective families to experience our vibrant and welcoming community firsthand.

This tour is suitable for families considering enrolment across all year levels. We encourage our current families to share this opportunity with friends and extended family who may be exploring schooling options and interested in joining the St Peters Springfield community.

Registrations open from 4:45pm, with tours commencing at 5:00pm.

A reminder that the Second-Hand Uniform shop is open every Wednesday from 7:45am – 8:30am. Find everything from blazers to HPE uniforms at affordable prices. All items are quality-checked and ready for a new home. Visit us outside the Hearts Café to browse our range of second-hand uniforms.