St John Fisher College welcomed its first students in 1981. Inspired by St John Fisher's academic passion and social justice work, the school's founders envisioned a place where young women could learn about the world and their special places in it through a flexible and evolving curriculum. This learning would be supported and reflected in spiritual growth through Christian values in the Catholic tradition.
The College had its foundations in the traditions of the Sisters of Mercy. In 1981, students in Years Eight to Twelve at Sacred Heart College at Sandgate were relocated to the Bracken Ridge site to establish St John Fisher College. There were 240 students enrolled in the College on the first day and this has grown to a current enrolment of approximately 760 students. The Principal at that time was Mr Patrick Condon who was the first lay Principal of Sacred Heart College. Several Sisters of Mercy continued to work at the College in its early days including Sr Trea Brewer, Sr Theresa Shannon and Sr Patricia Blundell. The College retains many aspects of its Mercy charism.
The Sisters of Mercy were founded by Catherine McAuley in 1831 to provide justice and compassions to those in need through education, health, aged care, social services or whatever was needed. In particular, they wanted to provide for the poor and those who were oppressed or powerless. They have maintained a strong commitment to social justice issues throughout their history and to the education of young women. We remain committed to these same principles today at St John Fisher College.
© Brisbane Catholic Education, St John Fisher College Bracken Ridge (2026)