Our History

The YMCA’s legacy began in 1844 in London, England, driven by a commitment to youth development and fostering a balanced growth of body, mind, and spirit. This mission expanded to Brisbane in 1864 (pictured), bringing with it a foundation of Christian values and a focus on holistic personal growth.

Over the years, the YMCA has marked significant milestones. In 1891, basketball was invented at the YMCA in Springfield, Massachusetts. By 1910, the first Father’s Day celebration took place at the YMCA in Spokane, Washington. The organization continued to grow and evolve, establishing impactful programs and expanding its facilities to meet community needs.

In 2004, the U-Turn Program, a precursor to the YMCA Vocational Schools, was introduced, emphasizing education and skill development. The establishment of Y-Care (YMCA Social Impact) in 2005 and the School Breakfast Program in 2006 further showcased our commitment to supporting young people in our communities.

Y-Care’s youth services initiatives and community focus laid the groundwork for the opening of the first YMCA Vocational School, Logan Senior Campus , in 2010, with support from the Clem Jones Group (formerly the Clem Jones campus).

The growth of YMCA Vocational Schools has been rapid and impactful. Today, we operate eleven campuses across six schools, including junior and senior high campuses. Our campuses are designed to provide students with tailored educational experiences, supporting their academic, vocational, and personal growth.

Recent years have seen significant growth and developments, including the opening of a new campus in Bundaberg and most recently our Junior campus in Redlands. Additionally, a recent shift in branding from YMCA Vocational School to Y Schools Queensland has reinforced our commitment to offering a hollistic and individualised education approach, offering diverse and inclusive pathways for all students.

Our commitment to education and community support has remained unwavering. Our history is a testament to our enduring mission: to engage young people in lifelong learning and empower them to become well-rounded, confident, and healthy individuals. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to providing opportunities for all students to thrive.