Maribyrnong Primary School - branching out through BER
Maribyrnong Primary School is located in Canberra’s north and has
the motto ‘quality education, learning for life and a shared
responsibility’. This motto is put into action through the school’s
philosophy of embracing literacy, numeracy and science. It is
supported through the engagement of a science teacher, health and
wellbeing, latest technologies and a focus on visual and performing
arts using the skills of both an artist in residence and a dance
teacher.
At Maribyrnong, this education philosophy of child development is
expressed through its ‘curriculum tree’. The theory behind the tree
is that it represents all students at the school and as a tree
matures and grows up, so does each child. The individual components
of the ‘curriculum tree’ come together to nurture and develop the
children to become valuable and enthusiastic contributors to
society.
Part of the framework of the tree is the Building the Education
Revolution (BER) development to the school infrastructure. The
school received Primary Schools for the 21st Century Program funding
of $2.1 million for the refurbishment of the existing school hall
and student facilities. It also received funding through the
National School Pride program of $125,000 to upgrade the front entry
and foyer.
School Principal Elizabeth Coggan said the BER process for
Maribyrnong Primary School and its community was fantastic. “We were
very impressed with the support and courtesy shown to us at all
times from the Manteena (contracted builders) staff,” she said.
The school celebrated the completion of the work with a barbecue
for all staff, students and workers.
“We enjoyed a cordial and harmonious relationship with all the
workers. Manteena worked closely with us to ensure the minimum
disruption to the running of the school. Planning was always done in
consultation with me and communication was outstanding. I always
knew what to expect and when,” Ms Coggan said.
The school has a very active and supportive community which is
absolutely delighted with the extent and high standard of the work
at Maribyrnong.
“Almost all the school has been renovated and will serve the
community of Kaleen for another 30 years. BER at Maribyrnong is a
real success story,” Ms Coggan said.
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