The history of Pullenvale State School.

In the 1860s and 70s the early pioneers arrived.  They built their slab huts and cleared land for crops and livestock.  Many dairy and poultry farms producing milk, butter, cream and eggs were established.  Crops, including fruit, vegetables and maize were cultivated.

In early 1870s they sought a way to have their children educated.  Adam Walker wrote to the Queensland Board of General Education on behalf of the local residents

It was a requirement at the time that the residents had to guarantee a minimum of 30 students and pay one third of the building and equipment costs.  As the community had raised £42 building of the school and teacher’s residence commenced.  The Pullen Vale State School opened on 16 March 1874, and was one of the first schools in the area.

The school buildings and grounds had to be maintained by the parents and they also had to contribute one fifth of other costs.   In 1906 the school was relocated to a site on land subdivided from Charles O’Brien’s property. The teacher’s residence was relocated to the new site two years later.

The 3Rs were taught but being a rural community, studies also included aspects of agriculture and biology.  Students undertook drill, gymnastics and vocal music.  Cricket, swimming in the creek and wandering the neighbourhood paddocks were popular activities. 

Needlework was taught by the headmaster’s wife.  

To link education to rural home life, milk and cream testing became part of the curriculum and students were encouraged to tend a garden plot or raise a calf or pony

It is estimated that 871 children were registered as students at the school in the first 100 years to 1974. The old school site is now the Pullenvale Environmental Educational Centre on Grandview Rd.