Brisbane South State Secondary College

NEW THINKING.
HIGHER LEARNING.
Brisbane South State Secondary College
A flagship vertical school redesigning the learning experience, Brisbane South State Secondary College sets the standard for future campuses.
  • Height
    33 m, 8 Storeys
  • Scale
    GFA: 21,200 sqm,
Site 18,700 sqm
  • Cost
    AUD$154M
  • COLLABORATION
    BVN
  • Photography
    TOM ROE
VISION
Brisbane's growing southern suburbs needed a new type of school designed for population needs as cities densify. As documentation and delivery architects on Brisbane South State Secondary College, realising this modern educational facility meant taking an insight-led approach.

The intent was to deliver Queensland's flagship vertical school and set a standard for future campuses. Working with design architects BVN, plans comprised four buildings with learning spaces across eight storeys for 1,000 students from Years 7 to 12.
“Delivering a project of this scale and significance called for deep collaboration and careful orchestration. From navigating the complexities of a vertical campus to ensuring every detail supported the broader vision, it was about creating an environment that enables future-focused learning, built to last.”

Michael McShanag, Director, Plus Studio
“With leading-edge learning and a team of passionate and dedicated leaders and educators, we will ready curious minds and open hearts for a new world where students can embrace and lead the change they want to see.”
Kirsten Ferdinands, Executive Principal, 
Brisbane South State Secondary College
SOLUTION
Realising a new approach to education infrastructure took careful planning and precision. We worked with BVN to ensure the project’s design was feasible and buildable, drawing on our team’s technical expertise to deliver the project on-time and on-budget.

The completed project represents a step-change for the education system. Featuring state-of-the-art learning spaces, a central courtyard, sports facilities, and ample outdoor spaces, this is a school that encourages physical activity and social interaction. It does so while maintaining a focus on student well-being and engagement.

Going beyond what’s typical for the suburban school, the college will play a crucial role in Brisbane’s Knowledge Corridor—the largest collection of knowledge-intensive industries in Queensland including universities, research institutes, and hospitals. What’s more, it’s a vital asset to the growing communities of Brisbane’s inner south.
This is the kind of thinking we bring to every project. Get in touch and let’s talk about what you’re planning.
2023 QLD Minister's Award
Urban Design
Winner
2022 AIA National
The Daryl Jackson Award for Educational Architecture
Winner
2022 AIA QLD Awards
Urban Design
Commendation
2022 AIA QLD 
Brisbane Awards Educational Architecture
Commendation
2020 Innovative Schools Awards
The Educator
Discover more articles news
about this project
Explore