Students return to refurbished schools in Western Australia

Friday, 14 August 2009

Students at two Perth public primary schools returned to rejuvenated classrooms last month after their schools were the first in Western Australia to have Building the Education Revolution projects completed.

Halidon Primary School and East Wanneroo Primary School in Perth’s northern suburbs had National School Pride refurbishment works completed during the July school holidays.

Halidon Primary School received $125,000 for painting, replacement guttering, new carpets and vinyl flooring, white boards and electrical work.

Principal Bill Hunt was thrilled with the work at his school.

“In terms of incorporating technology in the classroom, this work has lifted a last-century school into the 21st century,” Mr Hunt said.

“When the school was built in 1986 one double plug was all a teacher needed in a classroom.

“These days we run several computers, interactive whiteboards, gas heaters and audiovisual equipment in classrooms so we need many more power and data points.”

East Wanneroo Primary School Deputy Principal Brian Williams said students and teachers were pleased with their new-look classrooms.

The school received $75,000 for painting and new carpets in 18 classrooms. A further $75,000 will be spent replacing accordion walls.

“It certainly makes our classrooms more welcoming, which leaves everyone feeling more positive and ready to learn,” Mr Williams said.

“It has rejuvenated all the classrooms and the students have already noticed the difference.”

Both East Wanneroo Primary School and Halidon Primary School were also successful securing funding in the Primary Schools for the 21st Century element of Building the Education Revolution.

Building contractors for both schools have been secured and the work will begin in the coming weeks.

East Wanneroo Primary School received $1.7million for a covered assembly area with multipurpose room, and $900,000 for two early childhood education classrooms.

Halidon Primary School received $1.3million for three early childhood education classrooms.

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