PLANS have been revealed for a $6m overhaul of Mount Gambier High School, which includes the construction of two new buildings to house 10 learning and ancillary spaces.
The new buildings will be supported by new landscaped areas, while six science labs will be refurbished and a student hub will be created adjacent the canteen.
Mount Gambier High School principal Chris Edmonds said the State Government funded upgrade would provide students with a significant learning boost.
“Staff and students will see enormous benefit with purposebuilt spaces that allow for a stronger sense of belonging and community,” he said.
“The chance to build spaces to meet the needs of every student in any year level has been a priority in this design brief.”
Mr Edmonds said the project – which is expected to start later this year – had been a long time coming.
He hoped the project would be ready for the Year 7 Class of 2022.
“Replacing the old transportable buildings that look old and are an increasing safety hazard with modern buildings allows for improved movement, central areas for large group work and respectful spaces for staff planning,” he said.
“ They are huge improvements across the school.”
Refurbishment of the science building will start after the exam period and is expected to be finished by the start of the 2021 school year, while the construction of the two standalone buildings are scheduled to be finished during the 2020/21 January school holidays.
With three completely new buildings on the agenda, Mr Edmonds believed the project was the largest of its kind in the school’s history.
“This work is the most significant development since the school was first built,” he said.
“It follows smaller, but equally important work over many years, which places Mount Gambier High School’s facilities and resources at the forefront of the contemporary education in regional South Australia.”
Naracoorte High School will also receive $5m from the State Government for upgrades to its art and design building, including three general learning areas, two outdoor learning area, amenities and various ancillary.
The funding will facilitate the construction of a new sport changerooms and agricultural leaning space and construction of a new change and amenities block next to the art and design refurbishment.
