Strathnairn School Principal Nicole Nicholson
02 February 2026
In brief:
- The first students are now attending Canberra’s newest public school – Strathnairn School.
- Strathnairn School is the ACT’s 93rd public school.
- This week, over 50,000 students return to public schools across the ACT.
The brand-new Strathnairn School welcomes its first students this week.
Strathnairn School is the ACT’s 93rd public school.
It will open in phases, catering for students in preschool to year 2 to begin with.
These students are among over 50,000 returning to public schools across Canberra.
Contemporary facilities
In this first stage, Strathnairn School opens with:
- spaces for preschool students
- junior school learning areas
- outdoor play areas
- administration spaces.
Additional indoor and outdoor learning spaces are expected to be ready during the second half of 2026. These include:
- the library
- the canteen
- the hall.
The design includes sustainable materials and a solar power generation system. The school has a 5-Star Green Star rating.
Building culture and connection
Strathnairn School principal Nicole Nicholson said opening the new school was a moment of immense pride for staff.
'We are so excited to welcome our first students and to start building a vibrant, inclusive school culture,’ she said.
‘Our team has dedicated months of preparation to this day, and we look forward to growing alongside our families and the Strathnairn community.'
School logo and uniform design
Canberrans helped choose the new school logo in a community consultation process. It represents ‘community’ and will be displayed on the purple uniform.
The ‘community’ design reflects the importance of community, connection and support.
The shapes and elements come together to make a whole, symbolising the way a community comprises all of us.
Strathnairn School's future
In future years, Strathnairn School will have capacity for up to 780 students. This will span preschool to year 6.
There will also be a further 130 places in the co-located Early Childhood Education and Care setting.
The school is located on Asimus Avenue, Strathnairn.
Enrolments for all year levels in 2027 will open in May 2026.
Find out more on the Strathnairn School website.
Read more like this:
- Get ready for the 2026 school year
- Strong Foundations rollout continues
- Free school camps at Birrigai continue
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