Frequently Asked Questions

​​Choosing a primary school involves many big decisions. At St Bernard’s, we want to make that process as clear and welcoming as possible. We are a community where greatness and kindness connect, focused on supporting every student to shine. 

Below are the most common questions families ask when choosing a school in our local area. 


How do I know if St Bernard’s is the right fit for my child? 

Every child is unique, so we focus on a tailored teaching approach. At St Bernard’s, we pride ourselves on being a mid-sized school where every teacher knows every student’s name, ensuring no one is "just a number." 

When can my child start Prep? 

Children are eligible for Prep if they turn five by June 30 in the year they start. While we accept applications year-round, we recommend enrolling at least 12–18 months in advance. 

Exciting News for 2026: We are incredibly excited to open our brand new Prep building in 2026​. This purpose-built space is designed specifically for early years learning, featuring modern, light-filled classrooms and dedicated creative zones to give our youngest students the best possible start. 

Do you have to be Catholic to attend? 

While we are a Catholic school, we warmly welcome families from all backgrounds and faiths who share our values of kindness, respect, and community.  

Do you offer music, sport and other extracurriculars? 

Yes! We believe greatness is found both inside and outside the classroom. We offer: 
  • Interschool Sport: Participation in Southside district competitions. 
  • Performing Arts: Instrumental music lessons and choir. 
  • Special Interests: Coding, chess, and art clubs to spark curiosity.
​​Learn more about our extra-curricular offerings.  

What high schools do St Bernard’s students usually attend? 

We have a strong relationship with our neighbour, Clairvaux MacKillop College​. Many of our students transition there for Year 7, providing a seamless journey from Prep all the way through to Year 12 right here in Upper Mount Gravatt. 

Does the school offer Before and After School Care? 

Yes. We understand the needs of working parents, which is why we offer high-quality Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) through Catholic Early EdCare on-site​. It’s a safe, familiar environment where students can play and relax before and after the school day. 

How can I see the school for myself? 

The best way to get a feel for our school is to visit us. We invite all prospective families to book a Principal’s Tour​. You’ll be able to walk the grounds, see our learning spaces in action, and discuss your child’s specific needs with our leadership team. 


Ready to take the next step? 

We would love to meet you and show you what makes our school special. Click to book a Principal’s Tour or
start the enrolment process.