The official naming of Leichhardt Special School is welcome news for Ipswich families, with the new school bringing much-needed specialist education capacity to one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions.
Set to open in 2027 alongside Leichhardt State School, the new facility will help meet increasing demand for specialist education services and provide more local families with access to support closer to home.
The school has been developed in response to sustained enrolment growth at Ipswich West Special School, where student numbers increased by 28 per cent over five years and existing facilities faced capacity constraints.
Planning for additional specialist education capacity has been underway for several years, reflecting the need to ensure local infrastructure keeps pace with the growth of the Ipswich community.
Throughout the planning process, Leichhardt State School, its P&C Association and the broader school community have played an important role in helping shape the project, advocating for local families while working constructively to support the delivery of additional specialist education infrastructure in Ipswich.
The Queensland Government recently confirmed the school’s official name following community consultation, with enrolments now open ahead of the school’s planned opening.
Construction is continuing on site, with the project moving a step closer to welcoming its first students in 2027.
The development will also include a new dedicated drop-off zone, providing improved access for families and supporting safer pick-up and drop-off arrangements around the school precinct.
Quotes attributable to Wendy Bourne MP, State Member for Ipswich West:
“The official naming of Leichhardt Special School is exciting news for local families and another important step towards opening the school’s doors in 2027.”
“This school will make a real difference for local students and families by increasing specialist education capacity in Ipswich and helping ensure more children can access the support they need closer to home.”
“This project has been years in the making, with the initial work to deliver additional specialist education capacity beginning under the previous Labor Government in response to growing enrolment pressures and the needs of our growing community, and it’s fantastic to see that work now coming together.”
“I’d also like to acknowledge the leadership team, staff, P&C Association and wider Leichhardt State School community, who have been strong advocates throughout this process. They’ve championed the interests of their school while helping ensure this important project delivers lasting benefits for local families.”
“The inclusion of a dedicated drop-off zone is a positive addition for families using both Leichhardt Special School and Leichhardt State School, helping improve access and traffic flow within the precinct. I also understand concerns remain about parking in the area, particularly given the loss of existing parking spaces, and I’ll continue advocating for practical solutions that improve access and safety for students, parents and staff.”
Media Enquiries: (07) 3447 3100
