THREE Ipswich schools have been upgraded with new classrooms, playgrounds and specialist technology areas under $35 million investment from the State Government.
A new $18.7 million building at Claremont Special School is designed to inspire and stimulate learning with 10 classrooms, break-out spaces, two engaging and accessible playgrounds and kitchen facilities.
A $12.8 million project at Bremer State High School has delivered specialist rooms for art, science, home economics and vocational education and training (VET) courses in visual arts, fashion, hospitality, engineering, technology design and building and construction.
A $3.86 million project at Haigslea State School delivered two new pre-fabricated buildings, providing four classrooms, meeting rooms and teacher preparation areas.
Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the upgrades followed a recent $100 million investment for new classrooms in Cairns, Brisbane and the Gold Coast as part of the Government’s record $21.9 billion Education Budget.
“All Queensland students deserve a world-class education and the Crisafulli Government is proud to deliver this critical infrastructure for future generations,” Mr Langbroek said.
“We want to ensure all students are supported to reach their potential, and that’s why we’re providing these classrooms, technology areas and break-out spaces for communities across Ipswich.”
Mr Langbroek said the Government was delivering safer classrooms and cracking-down on poor behaviour, with the $44 million Behavioural Boost and a nation-leading $33 million plan to stamp out bullying.
“We’re delivering 15 new schools, including new primary schools in Caloundra South and Ripley Valley, and six special schools to provide choice to parents and help all students reach their potential.”
Claremont Special School Principal Alastair Hanna said the new areas were designed with input from an acoustic engineer to suit young people with sensory sensitivities.
“Students are now calmer and more engaged in their learning and actively exploring their new playgrounds while improving their social skills,” he said.
Bremer State High School Principal Christine Owen said the upgrade allowed the school to offer its popular VET courses and junior science lessons in modern, tailor-made facilities helping to accommodate future enrolment growth.
“These wonderful new industry-standard facilities will help students develop career pathways and skills for the future,” Ms Owen said.
“The new kitchen area and rebuilt cafe and deck is a great way for students to learn practical hospitality skills which include catering for school events.”
Haigslea State School Principal Anna Thygesen said the new buildings provided much-needed modern learning spaces for students.
“The spaces include classrooms and flexible breakout rooms,” Ms Thygesen said.
“These flexible spaces cater for all learning needs and provide an engaging, light filled environment for small groups and individuals.”
