Principal announced for new South-West school

The foundation principal to lead Bunbury’s new $27million Manea College was announced today.

Former inaugural principal at Kalgoorlie Boulder Community High School Paul Matthews will take the reins this month, in preparation for Manea College’s opening in February next year.

Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan said he was pleased to announce Mr Matthew’s appointment.

“With its location alongside Edith Cowan University and the South West Regional College of TAFE Bunbury Campus, Manea College will provide a unique experience for its students,” Mr McGowan said.

“Work has already begun on developing a suite of courses between the South West Regional College of TAFE and Manea College, which will allow students to work toward formal TAFEWA qualifications.

“With the need to develop strong links with the community, manage enrolments at the school and oversee the final construction of the facilities, being a foundation principal can be a busy task.

“His experience as inaugural principal in a country school means Mr Matthews is well placed to take on the challenges associated with this new position.”

The Minister also announced that Rod Rykers would join the leadership team as deputy principal.

Manea College will cater for Year 11 and Year 12 students.  The first intake of Year 11 students will start at the beginning of the 2009 school year, and Year 12 students will be welcomed at the school in 2010.

The school’s facilities will include:

·        12 general learning areas;

·        three computer zones and two IT laboratories;

·        two seminar rooms;

·        four science laboratories and preparation areas;

·        graphics laboratories;

·        a media room, media studio and auxiliary facilities;

·        library resource centre;

·        cafeteria;

·        administration facilities; 

·        student services;

·        education support facilities; and

·        staff facilities.

The construction project also includes additions to the TAFE hospitality area.

South-West MLC Adele Farina said construction was currently under way with completion due in January 2009.

Ms Farina said the school was part of a massive $100million State Government investment in education in the South-West.

Mr McGowan said the Carpenter Government was spending $1.41billion on school infrastructure projects across Western Australia.