7/2/00
Government schools have received a boost for 2000 with the completion of approximately $53 million in new buildings and improvements over the summer holidays.
The work has been funded through the Education Department’s capital works and maintenance program and includes a new $8 million senior high school at Denmark.
The school was built on the former agricultural college site in the town, and includes a state-of-the-art technology block, seminar rooms, a sports hall and other recreational facilities which can be shared with the local community.
It will cater for more than 275 Year 8 to 10 students.
The holiday construction work also marks the completion of several major building programs in secondary schools.
Education Minister Colin Barnett said works had been completed at Perth Modern Senior High School at a cost of $ 1.6 million.
“Perth Modern School now has new ballet and music facilities, as well as improvements to complement the recent upgrading of the school,” Mr Barnett said.
“Rebuilding and upgrading work at Churchlands Senior High School costing $10.4 million is expected to be finished in a few weeks.”
Mr Barnett said that during the summer holidays, Yule Brook College (formerly Maddington Senior High School) was refurbished at a cost of $1 million to become a middle school catering for Years 8 to 10.
“In addition, Belmont Senior High School is undergoing a $4.3 million refurbishment program, and with the amalgamation of Kewdale Senior High School, becomes Belmont City College catering for approximately 1,100 students.
“The work at Belmont should be finished by the end of February.”
Works Minister Rob Johnson said that Contract and Management Services (CAMS) had contributed extensive contract management services, working closely with the Education Department.
“Many of the works were undertaken during the summer holidays to minimise disruption to students and teachers at various school communities,” Mr Johnson said.
“Other improvements include covered assembly areas, asbestos roof replacements, new carpeting, internal and external painting, structural repairs, air cooling systems and resurfacing of bitumen carparks.”
Media contact: Mike Groves 9222 9699
