








to the Education Fair Sunshine Coast 2025, and thank you for visiting today!
Now in its third year, it’s incredible to see how this spark of an idea has grown into such a trusted event.
Why go to all this effort to bring an expo like this to life? Because we know that choosing an education pathway is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a parent. It can shape your child’s friendships (and yours!), their interests, achievements, and — most importantly — their happiness. It might even influence where you choose to live!
From school selection to sports, tutoring to uncovering passions, every decision contributes to your child’s future.
Eeek — no pressure, right?
That’s why we created an annual event to save busy parents a bit of sanity — bringing together a wide range of education options
under one roof, in one fun-filled day. A place where kids can try out sports and workshops, enjoy demos and shows, and parents can chat with leading education providers, compare options, and explore what’s on offer.
Best of all? Entry is free, the activities are free, the coffee is good, and the whole family is catered for.
We hope today helps you discover the perfect learning journey for your child, and sparks an excitement for learning in every kid who walks through our doors.
Have a fantastic day, and remember to give us a follow on socials (@educationfairQLD).
We’re a small, mum-owned-and-operated business, so your visit and support truly means the world to us.
Tanya Nissen // Event Manager 0469 380 439
tanya@shoremedia.com.au
Helen Rush // Publisher 0424 577 706
helen@shoremedia.com.au educationfair.com.au @educationfairqld @educationfairqld
Shore Media: PO Box 852, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573 shoremedia.com.au
Brisbane Catholic Education
What makes a Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) School special?
It’s everything from the school charism - the spiritual guiding principle that shapes the school’s identity, along with our expert teachers backed by a system of professional learning and cutting-edge research.
When you walk through the gates of a BCE school, you instantly feel a sense of belonging. Our 146 schools across South East Queensland — including 11 right here on the Sunshine Coast — are vibrant communities where everyone is welcome.
While each of our schools reflects the character of its local community, they all share a common commitment to academic excellence and a welcoming environment for every student and their family.
At a BCE school, relationships are based on mutual respect and understanding.
Our teachers take the time to learn about each student in their classroom, not just academically, but the whole student.
The safety of students is at the centre of how we plan, think, and act, and we strive to create a school environment where our students feel included and valued.
At BCE, we believe our students know their world best. By providing opportunities for them to share their diverse voices, we empower them to shape our schools and reach their full potential.
We know our students learn more effectively when they feel heard, valued, and have a sense of belonging. Our schools embed student voice across all aspects of school life.
“We talk like a family. It’s not just a place where we come to learn and then go home. Teachers value your opinion and your voice matters”—
WE TALK LIKE A FAMILY. IT’S NOT JUST A PLACE WHERE WE COME TO LEARN AND THEN GO HOME. TEACHERS VALUE YOUR OPINION AND YOUR VOICE MATTERS.
Connor, BCE Year 7 student.
We support our students in achieving their full potential. With a range of opportunities across the arts, sports, and STEM, BCE encourages students to nurture their gifts and talents and make a difference in the world.
Each BCE school embraces a distinct charism that helps shape and reflect the values lived out in its community each day.
Our shared Catholic values allow students to see themselves as part of a community and contribute to the greater good of society.
Your child’s education will not be measured by tests and scores alone, but by how they are creating a life of purpose, kindness, honesty, and compassion.
“It’s very much a holistic approach, they don’t just care about the academics—as much
as academics are fundamental—but it really is around that character formation, helping [our daughter] on her journey as she grows in confidence”—Matt Whittaker—BCE parent.
CHOOSING A BCE SCHOOL
When you enrol at a BCE school, you become part of something bigger—the Brisbane Catholic Education community. This community is a network of outstanding educators who focus on the social, emotional, physical, spiritual, and academic outcomes for every one of our students. At Brisbane Catholic Education, we provide an education to believe in. Visit BCESchools.com to enrol at a BCE school near you.
SEE BCE AT DISCOVERY ZONE 1 AND STAND 2 - 3.
Established in 2006, Grammar Early Learning Centre has become a trusted name in early childhood education on the Sunshine Coast. Located onsite at Sunshine Coast Grammar School, the centre offers quality care and education for children from six weeks to school age. Surrounded by a breathtaking 100-acre natural rainforest playground, Grammar Early Learning provides a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment where children can learn, grow and thrive.
Grammar Early Learning Centre is an approved long day care service, with a strong focus on providing exceptional early learning experiences and supporting families every step of the way. The centre operates a dedicated Nursery Wing and Kindy Wing, catering to the individual needs of babies, toddlers and preschool-aged children. A Queensland Government-approved Kindergarten Program is delivered by Bachelor-qualified early childhood teachers.
Children at Grammar Early Learning are immersed in a rich tapestry of programs that support their social, emotional, cognitive and physical development. From literacy and numeracy to music and sport, the centre offers a broad range of enrichment activities. Regular excursions and library visits to Sunshine Coast Grammar School, as well as access to the school’s chapel and specialist teachers, further enhance the learning experience.
For the youngest learners, the Nursery team creates a gentle, nurturing space that feels like
an extension of home. Feeding, play and rest times are tailored to each child, with a focus on sensory exploration, physical development and early language skills. As children grow, they’re encouraged to explore independently, develop friendships and build self-confidence through interactive play and flexible routines.
Every classroom is thoughtfully designed with interest areas that support imaginative play, construction, art and craft, and music and movement. These carefully curated environments encourage children to be curious, creative and confident learners. Highly trained educators work closely with each child to ensure their individual needs and interests are supported. The centre also provides fresh, nutritious gourmet lunches daily, as well as nappies for younger children, making life easier for busy families.
One of the highlights of the program is
Rainforest Kindy, an outdoor initiative that blends nature play with hands-on learning. Children explore the surrounding rainforest environment, fostering a deep connection with nature, a sense of adventure, and a growing understanding of sustainability.
At Grammar Early Learning Centre, the goal is simple—create a positive and enriching start to each child’s educational journey. With its warm, welcoming environment and dedication to quality care, it’s no surprise Grammar Early Learning is a leading choice for families across the region.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GRAMMAR EARLY LEARNING AT DISCOVERY ZONE 3 AND STAND 30.
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The Education Fair offers families a heap of free kids’ activities, workshops and learning-based fun to enjoy together! Here’s the program for the day.
DISCOVERY ZONE 1
BRISBANE CATHOLIC EDUCATION
Discover hands-on learning at the Brisbane Catholic Education Discovery Zone! Join students and teachers from various BCE schools as they showcase exciting activities, including coding demonstrations and handson coding co-creation, online education, podcasting, badge making, and STEM activities. It’s a dynamic, interactive space designed to inspire curious young minds.
DISCOVERY ZONE 2
BRICKS4KIDZ
The Bricks 4 Kidz® activation is a fun, handson LEGO® experience where kids can walk in, sit down, and get building — no bookings or experience needed!
DISCOVERY ZONE 3
GRAMMAR EARLY LEARNING CENTRE
Experience nature up close at Grammar Early Learning’s insect discovery station, featuring insects in resin and magnifying glasses. Kids can also enjoy a hands-on “plant a seed” activity or take a breather in the reading and puzzles corner, while parents chat with Grammar’s education experts.
DISCOVERY ZONE 4
MOTIV8SPORTS
REPTILE SHOW WITH WILDLIFE HQ
10:00 AM - 10.30 AM
Get up close and personal with Wildlife HQ’s scaly friends! Join WildlifeHQ for a 30-minute reptile presentation where you will learn about the fascinating world of native Australian reptiles. Meet the zoo’s resident reptiles, and learn about their habitats, behaviours, and unique characteristics. After the show, drop by the Wildlife HQ stand to snap a photo with the friendly reptiles!
INTRODUCTION TO YOGA WITH IGNITE YOGA
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Help your child discover their inner calm with a free Ignite Yoga class! This session provides a fun and soothing introduction to yoga, mindfulness, and movement, specially designed for children. Using age-appropriate techniques, the class features playful poses, breathing exercises, and creative movement to encourage emotional regulation, focus, and overall wellbeing.
LIVE SCIENCE SHOWS FROM STREET SCIENCE
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM & 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Get ready for a seriously fun science experience like no other! The Street Science interactive show is fully customised and tailored on the spot by an expert presenter, showcasing the very best of Street Science. From mind-blowing experiments to dazzling demonstrations, every performance is uniquely crafted to captivate and inspire, making science not just educational, but SERIOUSLY fun! Perfect for all ages, this is one completely unique science show you won’t want to miss!
WELLBEING WITH MOUNTAIN CREEK STATE SCHOOL
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Unwind at the end of the day with a kidfriendly yoga session and discover the wellbeing program offered at Mountain Creek State School.
Fun sports activities for active kids of all ages.
DISCOVERY ZONE 5
CALMING COCOON / INTERSCHOOL PUZZLE CLUB
Calming Cocoon will be providing a calming space for children to craft and create fun interactive projects. Interschool Puzzle Club will be providing Communal social jigsaw puzzling, Puzzle Chess and Puzzle Sprints.
DISCOVERY ZONE 6
SUNCOAST SPINNERS
Throughout the day, Suncoast Spinners will offer wheelchair activities, including Wheelchair Dance, Wheelchair Basketball, and Wheelchair Rugby.
ORBIT SHUTTLE RISE & SHINE
All aboard the Orbit Shuttle, where curiosity meets creativity and innovation fuels every corner of the play based learning at Rise
& Shine. The Orbit Shuttle is bursting with hands-on experiences inspired by the exclusive Orbit STEM program, an industryfirst in early childhood education.
ACTIVITY SPACE 1
Step into the Action Zone with Matt Fiddes Martial Arts for a high-energy, hands-on experience! Break boards, master ninja moves in the Kicking Zone, and test your reflexes with Noodle Blocking drills. Get creative at the Ninja Headband station, where kids design their own ninja look.
ACTIVITY SPACE 3
SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL
Children can enjoy giant snakes and ladders and other giant board games, or relax in the cosy reading nook for book readings and visits from beloved Council mascots. Throughout the day, there will be hands-on activities, including crafts and painting, while parents and educators can learn more about the Sunshine Coast Council’s range of school programs.
ACTIVITY SPACE 4
Visit Resus Refresh Rescue and refresh your everyday First Aid skills. Resus Refresh Rescue will have interactive workshops and hands-on learning, including essential first aid demos for parents and CPR workshops to get certified on the day.
INDOOR SPORTS LITTLE KICKERS
Join Little Kickers for some goal-scoring fun!
They have soccer drills to participate in and goals to score. There will also be free trial vouchers for the kids, so swing by and shoot a goal or two!
QUEENSLAND CRICKET
Get ready for action in the Woolworths Cricket Blast Activation Zone. Bursting with energy and excitement, this action-packed zone lets kids dive into cricket through fun games that get them batting and bowling. Come and give it a go!
YOUR CAPABILITY STORE
This magical sensory room provides a safe and calming space designed to support relaxation, emotional regulation and sensory exploration for all ages. This is a welcoming and inclusive environment where visitors can recharge, and find moments of peace and comfort.
Screen-free activities for children, such as colouring, reading, and board games. SunnyKids representatives will also be available for parents, caregivers, and families to chat with and ask questions about SunnyKids and their vital services.
A 30-minute demonstration on how to throw on a pottery wheel with the ability for children to book into the time slot for the opportunity to learn techniques of coning, centring to create a small pot.
Kids (and grown ups!) head along to Court 3 for free face painting from Fairy Face Painting between 10 am and 2 pm.
Giant Jenga, Connect 4, a cosy reading corner and colouring in... perfect for when you need a space to chill.
Explore the stars in the Rise & Shine Planetarium. This amazing mobile planetarium is screening every 20 minutes all day for visitors to learn more about our universe and spark the curiosity of any little astronauts in your tribe.
Inside the world of Rise & Shine Kindergarten™ – where imagination leads, safety is central, and big dreams begin.
Rise & Shine Kindergarten™ is redefining early childhood education by fusing innovation with the magic of play. Every child deserves a space where they feel safe, inspired, and free to explore. The vision is simple: to create futureready learners through purposeful play, handson discovery, and inspiring role models.
The holistic play-based Shine Advantage™ Curriculum blends the Early Years Learning Framework with forward-thinking approaches in creative and playful ways. Whether it’s peering through a telescope in the Smart Start Room or creating art in the outdoor spaces, children are immersed in learning environments that encourage curiosity and build confidence.
Innovation at Rise & Shine goes beyond classrooms. The Orbit, Centre of Imagination STEM program and STEM Shuttle deliver hands-on experiences directly to children, transforming everyday learning into
extraordinary exploration. This commitment is supported by STEM Ambassador, astrophysicist Dr Laura Driessen, who inspires young learners to ask bold questions and see themselves as future scientists and explorers.
Environments are purposefully designed to reflect the belief that nature is the third teacher. Children enjoy huge outdoor play spaces, vegetable gardens, mud kitchens, and water play zones with sprinklers. Separate age-specific spaces ensure safety, comfort, and developmentally appropriate experiences for every stage. At the Maroochydore centre, children even help care for animals at the onsite farm.
Safety underpins everything Rise & Shine does. The Care+ Approach ensures infants and toddlers build secure bonds with educators who understand and nurture their individual needs. Families are partners in every step, welcomed into a caring, inclusive community that is built on trust, connection, and respect.
Brand Ambassador and football star Mary Fowler helps enhance the FIT, UNITE, and CREW curriculum elements, encouraging children to move their bodies, embrace inclusion, and build strong, supportive connections. Her inspiring journey shows
FROM THE MOMENT MY SON AND I ENTERED RISE & SHINE, I FELT A POSITIVELY OVERWHELMING SENSE OF JOY, BELONGING AND SAFETY. THAT FEELING HAS NEVER LEFT.
— Hannah, Maroochydore Parent
children that with confidence, teamwork, and resilience, anything is possible.
Behind the scenes, the incredible educators, the CREW, are the heart of it all. Highly qualified, passionate, and trained in cutting-edge approaches, they create safe, engaging spaces where every child is seen, heard, and celebrated. With ongoing professional development, training, and leadership support, educators grow alongside the children they teach.
Rise & Shine Kindergarten™ believes children are capable of incredible things when given the right start. Through innovation, play, safety, and the inspiration of those who’ve walked before them, every child is supported to discover their potential and shine.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RISE & SHINE KINDERGARTEN AT THE PLANETARIUM AND STAND 88.
In a world filled with digital distractions, there’s something delightfully refreshing about the simple joy of a jigsaw puzzle. But beyond just being fun, puzzles offer an incredible range of benefits for young minds—and thanks to the Interschool Puzzle Club, more kids than ever are discovering the power of puzzling together.
Launching officially in schools across Australia from the 2025 school year, the Interschool Puzzle Club is the country’s most inclusive school club, offering students a chance to puzzle for fun or compete nationally. Whether it’s run in a classroom, at lunch, or after school, Puzzle Club is designed to fit any school’s needs — and it’s already making big connections between students and schools nationwide.
“We’ve seen students come alive through puzzling,” says D'Arne Healy from Interschool Puzzle Club. “They build confidence, collaborate better, and find a space to truly belong.”
Each participating school receives a comprehensive puzzle pack to help launch and run the club for an entire year. These thoughtfully curated packs include speed and mixed puzzles, crafts, games, and practice activities. Each club works in teams of four, encouraging collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
A particularly clever addition is the inclusion of identical “race” puzzles across all schools. This allows for consistent timing and fair comparisons between teams, whether they’re across town or across the country. And for those with a competitive streak, there’s even a pathway to State and National puzzle competitions.
But puzzling isn’t just for traditional classrooms. The club has expanded to include a dedicated Homeschool Puzzle Club, with its own resources, digital timers, and community connection options, so no puzzler misses out.
Importantly, the club isn’t only about racing or competition. Schools are
Boosts brain power: Improves memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. Encourages teamwork: Kids collaborate, communicate and solve problems together.
Builds resilience: Sticking with a puzzle teaches perseverance and patience.
Supports mental health: Calming and mindful, puzzling is great for stress relief. Inclusive for all: Suitable for all ages and abilities—everyone can join in and succeed.
encouraged to run their Puzzle Club their way — whether that means focusing on relaxation and mindfulness, cognitive skill-building, or simply giving students a reason to laugh and connect.
“There’s a real magic when kids sit down together and start puzzling. You can see their confidence build. They start talking, problem-solving together, and celebrating every piece that clicks into place.”
With Ravensburger as their official puzzle partner, schools can be assured of quality materials that will last and challenge students in the best ways. And with inclusivity at the heart of the program, every child, regardless of age or ability, is welcomed into the world of puzzling.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE INTERSCHOOL PUZZLE CLUB AT DISCOVERY ZONE 5.
How often do kids say, “When am I ever going to need this in the real world?” The truth is, maths is everywhere — and it’s maths experts working behind the scenes to make systems function, from powering your kettle to preventing disease. The world needs more people who understand maths to help solve the biggest challenges of our time. Here are 12 surprisingly cool mathematical careers that might just change the way your kids see numbers!
1. VIDEO GAME DESIGNER
Designing a game means coding, physics, and 3D geometry. Maths brings virtual worlds to life and makes them feel real — and fun to play!
2. FORENSIC INVESTIGATOR
Cracking a case involves more than clues — it’s maths too. Investigators analyse blood patterns, DNA stats, and timelines using formulas and geometry.
3. PILOT
Flying isn’t just take-off and landing. Pilots constantly calculate speed, altitude, wind velocity, and fuel use to ensure safe flights — maths is critical at every step.
4. PHOTOGRAPHER
Photography isn’t just creative — it’s mathematical. Photographers use geometry, symmetry, and ratios to frame images, manage light exposure, and work with lens dimensions. If your child loves taking photos, they’re already thinking mathematically.
5. CHEF
From measuring ingredients to scaling recipes, cooking is all about precision. Baking especially is pure maths — weights, temperatures, and chemical reactions combine to create delicious results.
6. ARCHITECT
LEGO and Minecraft fans might be future architects! Designing buildings involves measurement, scale, and spatial thinking. Architects also work with engineers, using maths to turn ideas into structures.
7. MUSICIAN
Rhythm, timing, and patterns are all mathematical, and studies show that learning an instrument can boost maths skills. Whether it’s counting beats or reading music, musicians are constantly using numbers.
8. ASTRONAUT
Launching into space requires calculating speeds, angles, and orbits. Maths is also key to understanding gravity, motion, and the mysteries of the universe.
9. DOCTOR
Doctors use maths to calculate doses, read scans, and interpret vital signs. If your child wants to save lives, maths will be part of their toolkit.
10. SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER
Yes, even influencers use maths! From follower counts to engagement rates, they analyse trends and performance to grow their reach and make an impact.
11. SOFTWARE ENGINEER
Apps, websites, AI — they all rely on mathematical thinking. Coding, logic, and algorithms are essential tools for software engineers shaping tomorrow.
12. FASHION DESIGNER
Creating the perfect outfit isn’t just about style – it’s about measurement, proportion, and patternmaking. Fashion designers use maths to craft precise designs, ensuring a flawless fit every time.
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Building a positive relationship with your child’s teacher is one of the most important steps you can take to support their educational journey. Children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally when parents and teachers work together with mutual respect and open communication. Creating this connection early in a child’s academic journey sets a strong foundation for future collaboration.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR BUILDING STRONG PARENT-TEACHER RELATIONSHIPS
Here are some actionable ways to foster a positive relationship with your child’s teacher:
• Make a positive first impression: Introduce yourself early and establish open lines of communication. A warm, respectful approach sets the tone for future interactions.
• Show interest in learning: Regularly ask your child about what they’re learning and
share that curiosity with their teacher. It demonstrates that education is valued at home.
• Express appreciation: Acknowledge when a teacher’s efforts positively impact your child. A simple thank-you note or kind comment can go a long way.
• Share relevant information: Keep teachers informed about your child’s interests or challenges outside of school. This context can help them better support your child in the classroom.
• Participate actively: Attend school events and accept invitations to engage in classroom activities. Teachers appreciate when parents share their unique skills and experiences—whether it’s discussing a profession, sharing cultural insights, or offering real-life examples for lessons.
• Be a problem-solving partner: If challenges arise, approach the teacher as a teammate rather than a critic. Ask for their perspective and work together on solutions. Collaboration shows your child that the
adults in their life are united.
• Maintain ongoing communication: Don’t wait for formal reports. A quick check-in via email or at school pick-up can help you stay informed and show the teacher that you’re involved and supportive.
Great schools understand the value of nurturing relationships with parents. Many host events to connect families and teachers in informal settings, like welcome days or parent-teacher evenings.
In today’s tech-driven world, genuine relationship-building can be challenging. Text messages and social media often replace face-to-face conversations. However, when it comes to your child’s education, nothing beats meeting teachers and school representatives in person.
Want to get the most out of your visit to the Education Fair?
Here are some key questions to ask when chatting with providers.
The Education Fair is a fantastic opportunity for families to explore a wide range of educational options. But, with so many providers in attendance, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin.
To help you on the day, here are some key questions to ask when meeting with school representatives at the expo. These will help you make informed decisions about your child’s future.
• What is the school’s academic philosophy and curriculum approach? (Traditional, progressive, etc.)
• How does the school support students with diverse learning styles?
• What are the average class sizes?
• Does the school offer arts programs like music, theatre, or visual arts?
• Does the school offer any unique programs or specialties?
• What extracurricular activities and clubs does
the school offer? (For example, sports, chess, gardening clubs, etc.)
• How does the school foster a sense of community and belonging?
• Does the school offer opportunities for leadership development and student involvement?
• What is the school’s culture like?
• What is the transition process like for new students?
• How does the school handle student discipline?
• What is the level of parental involvement encouraged by the school?
• What is the teacher-to-student ratio at the school?
• What qualifications and experience do teachers typically have?
• How does the school support professional development for teachers?
• What academic and social-emotional support services are available to students? (Counseling, tutoring, etc.)
• Does the school offer support for students with special needs?
• What technology resources are available to students?
• What are the admissions requirements for your child’s grade level?
• What is the application process like?
• Does the school offer scholarships?
• Does the school offer transportation options?
• What is the school’s tuition and fee structure?
• What are the deadlines for applications?
• Is there anything else you feel is important for me to know about your school?
• What learning environment would best suit your child?
• Does the school offer programs or activities that align with your child’s passions?
• What is the overall feel of the school? Does it seem like a good fit for your child’s personality?
Armed with these questions, you’ll get all the info you need to compare providers and find the perfect fit for your child!