St Brendan’s College has been officially recognised as a Construction Pathways School Partner by Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), further strengthening its commitment to providing students with hands-on, real-world experiences in the construction and trades sectors.
This partnership comes at a significant time for the College, as construction commenced this month on its state-of-the-art Industrial Technology and Innovation Centre (IT & IC), the first stage of a major Master Plan to expand SBC’s practical learning facilities and respond to growing enrolments.
As a Construction Pathways Partner School, St Brendan’s will receive exclusive access to a range of construction-focused initiatives, including industry events, teacher and student resources, virtual reality experiences, and direct engagement with local employers through on-site visits and ‘Try-a-Trade’ days.
Director of Skills and Training, Mr Andrew Lawrence and Head of Industrial Technology and Design, Mr Brian Barry were formally presented with a commemorative construction hard hat and partnership plaque today, marking St Brendan’s College’s official entry into the Construction Pathways School Partner program. CSQ CEO Geoff Clare commended the College for its leadership in preparing students for real-world opportunities.
Brian Barry (Head of ITD), Andrew Lawrence (Director Skills and Training) and Marsha Schwenke (Construction Skills Queensland) - at the site of the new ITIC build.
“St Brendan’s College has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to offering students well-rounded career guidance,” Mr Clare said. “The Construction Pathways School Partners program is an invitation-only initiative that allows us to collaborate closely with select schools, providing additional resources and engagement opportunities to help students see a future in construction.”
The Construction Pathways initiative aims to inspire young people to explore rewarding careers in the booming construction industry. Through immersive experiences and classroom engagement, students will gain critical insights into job options, salaries, and training pathways in the sector.
Principal Robert Corboy said the partnership aligns perfectly with the College’s educational vision and the current expansion of its facilities:
“At St Brendan’s College, we believe in the power of hands-on, purpose-driven education that prepares students for life beyond the classroom,” Mr Lawrence said. “Our partnership with CSQ, combined with the development of our new Industrial Technology and Innovation Centre, ensures our students are not only inspired but equipped to take confident steps into their futures. It is about connecting classroom learning with real-world possibilities.”
The new IT & IC, currently under construction beside the future main entrance of the campus on Adelaide Park Road, will feature cutting-edge learning spaces including electrotechnology labs, junior woodwork and metalwork areas, construction training zones, and sustainability features like solar panels and rainwater harvesting.
Set to be completed in 62 weeks, the IT & IC will serve as a cornerstone of the College’s future-focused learning model and will support stronger community and industry connections across the region.