A.B. Paterson College is a leading independent, co-educational school on the northern Gold Coast, offering a seamless education from Prep to Year 12. Founded in 1989 by a visionary group of local business and community leaders, the College was established to provide a truly independent learning environment grounded in strong values, academic excellence and a deep appreciation for Australian heritage.

Named after one of Australia’s most iconic poets, Andrew Barton (Banjo) Paterson, the College draws inspiration from his enduring celebration of the Australian bush and the character, resilience and spirit of its people. These qualities remain central to our identity and are reflected in our motto: Excellence, Care and Commitment. Our students are encouraged to embrace these values in all aspects of their education and personal development.

The College maintains a strong connection to Banjo Paterson’s legacy and the town of Winton, where he famously penned Waltzing Matilda. Each year, our Year 6 students embark on a transformative journey through outback Queensland, visiting towns such as Charleville, Barcaldine, Emerald, Longreach and Winton. This experience fosters resilience, independence and a deeper understanding of life in rural Australia. In 2022, the College proudly opened Barty’s Place—a purpose-built student accommodation and dining facility in Winton—further strengthening our ties to the region and providing a unique opportunity for students and other groups to experience the outback.