Identity Statement

Together, the schools and colleges of The Uniting Church in Australia Queensland Synod offer a commitment that extends far beyond traditional education. We are cultivators of an experience infused with excellence in teaching, learning, character development, leadership; underpinned by Christian faith including the timeless principles of compassion, justice, and respect for all. 

At the core of our ministry of education lies a profound mission: the formation of student and residents in the Christian faith to assist them to navigate the complexities of the twenty-first century with grace and resilience. We empower them to embrace a life rich in the fullness of a relationship with Jesus Christ, while actively contributing to the flourishing of inclusive and morally grounded communities. 

We are called to action, championing reconciliation and renewal, and a just society; not only in our local communities, but across Australia and beyond. Inspired by scripture and the foundational precepts of our uniting denominations, the Basis of Union underpins a uniquely Australian philosophy: 

• Centred on Jesus Christ – dedicated to living life though Christ; 

• For all – multicultural, multi-generational and welcoming to all; 

• With purpose – seeking the flourishing of sustainable communities; 

• With informed faith – through scripture, wisdom, experience and faith; 

• On the way – not perfect, always learning, always growing; 

• A covenant relationship – with a special place for, and relationship with, 
  First Nations people. 

Since Union in 1977, our journey has been one of steadfast dedication to Christian values. Rooted in love, peace, justice, healing, reconciliation, welcome, and inclusion, our identity statement echoes our profound respect for the equality and dignity of every individual, alongside the coexistent sovereignty of First Peoples. We are stewards of creation, driven by a relentless pursuit of a just world, marked by generosity and compassion. 

We partner with individuals, parents and staff to provide safe havens for children and young adults to explore their God-given dignity and realise their full potential. Through nurturing environments and effective teaching, we guide their growth, development, and discernment of purpose, enabling them to become active participants in a just society. Guided by the Christian story and the Basis of Union, we pave the way for their journey towards creative and compassionate lives, rich with meaning and significance. 

 

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Sources 

The Church's call is to…be a fellowship of reconciliation, a body within which the diverse gifts of its members are used for the building up of the whole, an instrument through which Christ may work and bear witness to himself.  

(Basis of Union, paragraph 3) 

 

Our vision, grounded in the life and mission of Jesus, is for a nation which: 

• is characterised by love for one another, of peace with justice, of healing and reconciliation, of welcome and inclusion. 

• recognises the equality and dignity of each person. 

• recognises coexistent sovereignty of First Peoples. 

• takes seriously our responsibility to care for the whole of creation. 

• is outward looking, a generous and compassionate contributor to a just world. 

(Our Vision for a Just Australia, 2021)
 

Education is at the heart of the Church’s self-understanding. The Church’s mission…to learn and then to teach…reflects the Church’s historic and on-going commitments to education in all areas of life... demonstrated in its support for Government education institutions; the establishment of its own schools, colleges and supporting institutions; and its diverse educational programs for people of all ages. 

(National Education Charter, 2002)
 

The purposes of our participation in this ministry are: 

• To provide safe environments where children and young people can explore and discover their God-given dignity and progress their individual potential. 

• To support the growth and development of children and young people who are discerning the meaning, identity, belonging and purpose of their lives such that they can participate in a just society and lead creative and compassionate lives. 

• To achieve excellent outcomes for students by ensuring effective teaching and school leadership is ever-present, understood, valued and prioritised. 

• To share our faith in respectful and engaging ways by providing venues for the development of children and young people in the light of the Christian story guided by the Basis of Union. 

(Policy Statement, 2018)