Saint James

Did the name St James College ever have a different ring to it? St James College in Brisbane has worn several names throughout its history. It’s been called St James’s, St James Practical College, and even Edmund Rice College. But the name “Jimmies” has always stuck with the students. Founded way back in 1868, St James College started with a mere 12 students. It holds the title of Queensland’s oldest Catholic boys’ school. In 1893, during a tough economic period, the Christian Brothers took over the reins. This was after the government refused to pay staff wages and enrolment became unstable. Today, St James College is co-educational, welcoming both boys and girls. The school boasts an impressive history. Jerome William Long, the first lay principal, served from 1871 to 1877 and again from 1880 to 1890. He holds a special place in Queensland’s educational history. He was the first teacher to achieve a Class 2, Division 1 certificate. The college honored him by naming one of their houses, Long House, after him. In 1994, St James College opened its doors to girls, starting with Years 8 and 11. Fast forward to 2002, and the college appointed its first female principal. More recently, a new library and science complex, the Joseph Canali Centre, was completed in 2015. That same year, they began accepting Year 7 enrolments. The college’s rich history continues to shape its present, providing a strong foundation for future generations of “Jimmies”.