School future secured after “staggering” lease failure
A private specialist school has secured its future after the Liberal National Party government resolved a lease issue left by Labor.
The Sycamore School will continue at the TAFE Queensland Alexandra Hills campus under a 25 year agreement with a five year option.
Established as Brisbane’s first dedicated school for autistic children, with Prep-10 classes, it has 100 students.
Some parents travel 50 kilometres one-way because of the strong educational outcomes, focus on student wellbeing – and lack of options.
Despite pressure from the school community, the former government refused to renew the lease at the TAFE – due to expire last October – ahead of the last election.
The college was founded by Cindy and Cameron Corrie.
School future secured
The Crisafulli government rolled Sycamore onto a temporary lease while a new rental agreement was negotiated.
“It’s staggering that Labor would leave such a vital part of the community facing such a dire future,” minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates, said.
“The former Labor government left the school on the chopping block by failing to renew its lease, which was due to expire in October 2025,” she added (continues below).
“Securing the school’s future will allow administrators to apply for capital grants which are vital to its ability to continue operating,” according to the minister.
Seven more schools planned
Ms Corrie, also Sycamore School Board chair, said the lease will allow the school “to shape an ambitious future to support the autistic community”.
“The 30-year lease is a defining moment,” she added.
“It provides the long-term security needed to plan responsibly, invest wisely, and ensure the school continues to serve autistic young people for generations to come,” according to the Ms Corrie.
“This lease gives us the confidence to plan, invest, and grow with purpose and it means our children have a place where they truly belong.”
Also last week, the government committed to building seven specialist schools in the state.
Subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of this page.
