Highly regarded Queensland principal Kirsten Ferdinands has been selected to lead the new Inner City South State Secondary College.
Education Minister Grace Grace and Member for South Brisbane Jackie Trad congratulated Ms Ferdinands on her appointment, a significant milestone in the lead up to the opening of the Dutton Park school in 2021.
“I have every faith that Kirsten will do a wonderful job in steering this $130 million high school – the first one to be built in the inner south in almost 60 years,” Ms Grace said.
“She brings plenty of experience to the table, working for the Department of Education for 30 years as a teacher, head of curriculum, deputy principal and principal across the state.
“Most recently, Kirsten has been working out of the Department’s North Coast office in North Lakes, supporting the development of the new secondary school at Mango Hill.
“Before this, she was principal of Bray Park State High where she proudly accepted the ‘State School of the Year’ award in 2017.”
Ms Trad said she was confident Ms Ferdinands would build a vibrant learning environment for students.
“I have spoken with Kirsten and believe she is the right person to build the school’s culture and ethos from scratch,” she said.
“She’ll work with architects and builders to develop the school’s vision, consult with the community to create a school name and uniform and develop the curriculum.
“The school will open to year 7 students in 2021, eventually catering for up to 1,650 students in years 7-12.
“There has already been strong interest from my local community in South Brisbane, with more than 700 enrolment enquiries lodged so far.”
Ms Ferdinands said the opportunity was a huge honour.
“Our vision is to create a high-profile, signature state school where high quality education is delivered in a positive and inclusive 21st century learning environment,” she said.
Ms Trad said a contract to build the school would be awarded soon.
“Demolition works on Gladstone Rd have started, with Denbigh Street set to close during August to make way for construction.”
