WHITTLESEA Secondary College had a historic day on Wednesday, with the first sod turn of the school’s major upgrade attended by State Member for Yan Yean Lauren Kathage, staff, students and community members.
The $11.7 million commitment will allow Whittlesea to modernise the secondary college, which will also deliver a range of new services as part of stage one of the project.
A new technology and arts building will be created, as well as a full refurbishment of the science building, the creation of a fitness centre and a new STEM courtyard and landscaping.
The design of the upgrades was completed by Tandem Design Studio, while Intrec will complete the build with project management from Sheer Consulting.
Ms Kathage says the project delivers ‘something for everyone’ for kids who go to Whittlesea Secondary College.
“This project is funded with $11.7 million from the Allan Labor Government. This project is going to deliver a little bit more than we thought at one stage, so we’re quite happy. It will involve a new technology and arts building, refurbishment of the science building, the creation of a fitness centre, a new STEM courtyard and landscaping,” she said.
“I’m really pleased that there’s something for everyone in this upgrade, and I know that this will have a great impact for school pride, which extends from beyond the school to the whole town, so I think it’s good for the town of Whittlesea to see the investment and the care given to Whittlesea Secondary College, and to have those great facilities there for our students.”
Ms Kathage also said she is looking forward to cutting the ribbon to mark the completion of stage one next year.
Whittlesea Secondary College principal Kathy Mourkakos said she was ‘thrilled’ to reach a significant milestone for the school.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be at this point, the beginning of a transformation that will enhance the learning environment and facilities for our students, our staff and the wider school community,” she said.
“This project marks not only a physical change to our grounds, but a major step forward in the future of our school.
“While we celebrate the beginning of stage one, we are already looking ahead with excitement for future stages to come. We know these works will not only benefit our current students but will leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”
