THE Mary MacKillop Memorial School’s Father Paul Shelter has officially opened, providing students with access to an outdoor undercover learning area.
Archbishop Philip Wilson, Member for Barker Tony Pasin, chair of the school board Nick Zema, Catholic Education SA representative Steve Genesin, Father Dean Marin and Wattle Range mayor Peter Gandolfi attended last Thursday’s celebration.
Principal Maureen Hanrahan said the multipurpose shelter improved the physical environment and learning culture of the school.
Ms Hanrahan reflected on the naming of the centre and said it depicted the spirit of Father Paul Gardiner who touched the lives of many.
Mr Pasin officially opened the new facility in Penola on behalf of Education and Training Minister Simon Birmingham.
“It was great to visit Mary MacKillop Memorial School to see the new facility firsthand and the impact it will have on students’ learning potential,” Mr Pasin said.
The Federal Government provided $185,000 from the Capital Grants Program, which helps non-government schools to improve capital infrastructure.
Mr Pasin said students and the whole school community would benefit from the new facility.
“Sport is about teamwork, strategy and fun, the lessons learnt on the football field, netball court, running track or swimming pool provide lessons for life,” he said.
Ms Hanrahan said the school was grateful for the grant and thanked all those involved in assisting with the process.
She thanked the Catholic education team and Wattle Range Council for their support.
Mr Genesin said the community’s time and patience had paid off and acknowledged the school board and the tradespeople who constructed the area.
“The shelter’s use will only be limited by the users themselves and it will be used as a wonderful learning space without walls,” Mr Genesin said.
A plaque to mark the official opening was uncovered by Mr Pasin and Archbishop Wilson and will be placed at the front of the school’s contemporary structure.
In celebration, students performed a vibrant dance for guests under the new shelter after their official ceremony.
