St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Primary School Lurnea is celebrating an exciting new chapter with the completion of significant upgrades to its learning facilities and the introduction of a refreshed school identity.

The project includes a brand new nine-classroom building, dedicated art and music rooms, and the refurbishment of all existing classrooms. The upgrades also include a new kiss and drop-off area and an extension to the school hall, allowing the entire school community to gather together in one space.

Principal Louise Boerebach said the new facilities have created welcoming spaces designed to support creativity and student wellbeing.

“The response from families has been overwhelmingly positive,” Mrs Boerebach said. “There’s a real sense of pride in how the school has evolved.”

“We now have modern, light-filled classrooms that are designed to support collaboration and contemporary learning,” Mrs Boerebach said.

“We now have modern, light-filled classrooms that are designed to support collaboration and contemporary learning,” Mrs Boerebach said.

Alongside the new facilities, the school also took the opportunity following its 50th anniversary last year to reflect on its crest and motto.

Staff revisited the story and mission of the school’s patron, St Francis Xavier, to ensure the school’s visual identity truly captured his legacy.

“We wanted our crest and motto to more closely align with the story and mission of St Francis Xavier,” Mrs Boerebach said.

“We were fortunate to have a Sister from Mary MacKillop House come and speak with us, which gave us a deeper understanding of his purpose and legacy – particularly the call from St Ignatius to ‘go and set hearts on fire’. That message became central to our new identity.”

The updated crest reflects this story through carefully chosen symbols, including waves representing St Francis Xavier’s global journeys, and the heart and flame symbolising the call to inspire and spread faith.

Looking ahead, the school is excited about the opportunities these changes will bring for students and the wider community.

“We’re excited about the opportunities these changes will bring,” Mrs Boerebach said. “Our goal is to continue fostering a welcoming, engaging environment where students feel happy, supported and inspired to learn.”

With its renewed identity and enhanced facilities, St Francis Xavier’s Lurnea is well positioned to continue its mission of nurturing young minds and hearts for years to come.