Brisbane State High School (BSHS), located in South Brisbane, stands as one of Queensland’s most esteemed educational institutions. Established in 1921, the school has consistently been at the forefront of academic achievement, cultural development, and community engagement. With over 3,500 students enrolled, BSHS offers a comprehensive curriculum encompassing the arts, sciences, humanities, and vocational education, catering to a diverse student body.
Academic Excellence and Recognition
In 2024, BSHS students continued to demonstrate exceptional academic prowess. Ten graduates were honoured as Distinguished Academic Achievers in the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) Achievement Awards. These students showcased excellence across various disciplines, including STEM, humanities, and the arts. Notable among them were Alexander Chang, recognised for his achievements in advanced mathematics and physics, and Andrew Xiao-Tang, distinguished in liberal arts and humanities for his analytical writing and critical thinking skills southbanknews.com.au.
Leadership and Student Engagement
BSHS places a strong emphasis on student leadership and involvement. The 2025 cohort of student leaders, including School Captains Lily Dutkowski and Lachlan Anning, alongside Vice-Captains Anna Robbins and Zhexi Teng, exemplify the school’s commitment to fostering leadership qualities. These students play pivotal roles in representing their peers, organising school events, and contributing to the school’s vibrant culture.
Recent Challenges and Responses
Despite its reputation for excellence, BSHS faced a significant challenge in October 2025. A Year 12 Ancient History class was mistakenly taught the topic of Augustus Caesar instead of Julius Caesar, the correct subject for the external exam scheduled for October 29. This error, discovered just two days before the exam, prompted the Queensland Department of Education to issue an apology and work closely with the school to support affected students and families ABC.
In response, the school implemented a recovery plan, including intensive review sessions, resource packs, and additional support from the Student Services team. The Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) allowed the school to submit a “whole-cohort illness and misadventure” application to ensure students were not academically disadvantaged. Additional quality assurance measures were also introduced during the exam marking process to uphold fairness.
Infrastructure Developments
BSHS has also been proactive in enhancing its infrastructure to accommodate the growing student population. The school is undergoing a significant redevelopment, including the construction of a multi-storey complex as part of a $60.5 million project. This development aims to cater to future growth and provide state-of-the-art facilities for students and staff .
Community Engagement and Cultural Initiatives
The school maintains a strong connection with the local community through various initiatives. BSHS’s philosophy, “Scientia est potestas” (Knowledge is Power), underscores its commitment to academic excellence and community service. The school’s cultural programs, including music, drama, and visual arts, provide students with opportunities to explore their creative talents and contribute to the school’s rich cultural tapestry.
Looking Ahead
As Brisbane State High School continues to navigate the complexities of modern education, it remains steadfast in its mission to provide a holistic and inclusive learning environment. The recent challenges have highlighted the school’s resilience and commitment to continuous improvement. With ongoing infrastructure developments and a dedicated leadership team, BSHS is well-positioned to maintain its status as a leading educational institution in Queensland.