TRANSFORMED FACILITIES AT ST ALIPIUS PRIMARY SCHOOL

Member for Ballarat Catherine King today joined with students, staff and the school community at St Alipius parish school to officially open the new extension to the multi-purpose learning wing.

In addition to the multi-purpose learning wing, the project has delivered a newly refurbished administration building, both of which have created better, more modern spaces in which to work, teach and learn.

The redevelopment was made possible with $1.05 million from the Australian Government’s Capital Grants Program and $656,934 from the St Alipius school community.

The school upgrades include:

·         An extension to the multi-purpose hall, compromising a new acoustically designed specialist general learning area utilised for the music and Japanese language programs.

·         Alterations and additions to the multi-purpose hall including installation of large glass doors and glazing enabling more natural light into the hall and enhancing connection between the hall and the school yard from indoors to outdoors.

·         Covered areas to facilitate greater connection between buildings and to enhance outdoor learning opportunities.

·         Refurbishment and extension of the administration building to provide for dedicated staff amenities and administration spaces.

The Australian Government is committed to providing all schools with appropriate funding so that all students, including those at St Alipius Parish School get the best possible education.

More information about the Capital Grants Program can be found at: www.education.gov.au/payments-and-grants-schools/capital-grants-non-government-schools.

Quotes attributable to Member for Ballarat Catherine King:

“St Alipius parish school has come a long way since it began in a tent on the Ballarat goldfields over 170 years ago. The teachers, staff and students at today’s St Alipius Parish School have built an inclusive and positive school community and these new purpose-built facilities will be utilised and enjoyed by students and staff well into the future.

“Our Government strongly believes in providing the best possible resources so that local students everywhere have the opportunity to thrive.”

Quotes attributable to St Alipius Principal Emily Clarke:

‘It’s vital we are able to offer a contemporary learning environment for our students and teachers, and we are thrilled with the new and refurbished facilities. In particular, to now have an acoustically designed, specialist learning area for our music and Japanese language programs is invaluable.

“This facility is also being utilised by the wider community and for private music tuition. The greater connectivity between our buildings and the new outdoor learning spaces also provide additional options for learning activities to help keep the students fully engaged.”