Queensland Primary School enjoys upgraded facilities

Wednesday, 5 August 2009

Over the past two months, tradespeople ranging from painters, fencers, and shade awning professionals to audio and security technicians have been kept busy at Mary Mackillop Catholic Parish Primary School in Birkdale, in Brisbane’s south.

Teachers, students and parents returning from school holidays have been delighted that most of the work has been finished on time without significant disruption to school activities.

The school community of 660 students and 60 teachers received $200,000 under the National School Pride program. Works include building a covered outdoor learning area (COLA); several new shade structures throughout the school; extensive fencing of the oval area; new alarm and upgraded PA system, and painting of several classrooms.

With most of the upgrades finished, the school community is now enjoying the improvements. The higher fence around the oval means increased safety for students from the busy main road and the new COLA and shade structures replaced previously deteriorating structures.

Local small business owner, William Kaschula from the Barrier Shade Company said the design and installation of several custom made shade structures at the school have kept his business of 12 employees busy over the six week period.

Principal Michael Kearney said the BER funding has meant the school has been able to fast track its much needed upgrades and small projects that enhance learning for students and provide inviting, contemporary learning spaces.

“I’m delighted that all of the upgrades are so focussed on improving students learning needs and the teachers have been prolific in their appreciation of the new outdoor learning spaces”, said Mr Kearney.

With most of the work now finished under their NSP projects, the school is getting ready for another wave of building activity when their new multipurpose hall and extensions to the administration building commence as a result of funding under Primary Schools for the 21st Century element of the BER.

For more information visit the www.buildingtheeducationrevolution.gov.au  

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