A new multi-million dollar building will add to the facilities at Taree's St Clare High School, with construction starting mid 2017 and expected to be competed the following year.
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On Monday, December 5 Federal member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie announced Federal funding of $3,243,587 towards the $4.89-million project.
The building, which has been designed by Wingham’s Austin McFarland Architects, will be jointly funded by the Australian Government funding through the Catholic Block Grant Authority, together with funds from the school community and the parish.
“I understand this is the biggest capital upgrade St Clare’s High School will have seen for some considerable period of time, and I am sure that when complete, will be welcomed by students, teachers and the broader school community,” Dr Gillespie said.
Principal of St Clare’s Peter Nicholson said the most recent building development was the Trades Centre, which was built around six years ago.
Mr Nicholson said the school was built in the 1960s and prior to that held various different names and locations around Taree.
He said many of the original buildings still remain – with one being demolished to make way for the new building.
The new building is set to be a contemporary multi-learning space, with natural light and the ability to change from 11 classrooms to a large, single space for HSC exams, group learning and performances.
Surrounding buildings will also be modernised with vertical gardens for the student’s to look out to.
The new building will be built on the St Vincent Street side of the school, where a basketball court currently sits.
The basketball court will be moved closer to the physical education facilities at the school.
Dr Gillespie said the new facilities will ensure St Clare’s students continue to receive a great education.
“We are committed to helping equip all Australian students with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive world,” Dr Gillespie said.
Capital funding for State Government schools and Non-Government schools is delivered through separate funding mechanisms.
For non-government schools, funding is made available through the Commonwealth Capital Grants program.