Construction is underway for a $24.8 million STEM precinct and automotive training facility at Mabel Park State High School in Slacks Creek, south of Brisbane.
Central to the project is a new learning centre designed by Thomson Adsett, which will house science and robotics labs, graphics studios, a staff hub and seven classrooms. It will also include dance studios and a “United Cultural Centre” with prayer and wash facilities for the school’s Muslim students, as well as an all-faith prayer room.
The three-storey building is positioned centrally on the campus and will “establish itself as the heart of the school,” according to the architects. All levels will feature outdoor learning areas.
A $3.96 million automotive facility in the same building will allow students to explore the latest automotive technologies such as electronic scooters and solar powered vehicles.
Mabel Park State High School learning centre by Thomson Adsett.
Local MP Shannon Fentiman, visiting the construction site, said the project was much needed, since the school had seen student numbers “almost triple” since 2016.
“Mabel Park has already been recognised for its achievements in training with its nationally recognized health hub,” she said.
“And it’s fantastic to see these state-of-the-art facilities will continue to provide valuable hands on, industry relevant skills and training for Mabel Park’s students to get a job and have a successful career.”
Mabel Park principal Michael Hornby said the project would support the school’s ongoing collaboration with the Queensland University of Technology.
“We currently have eight female students being mentored in Engineering at QUT, and this is about to expand to 40 students, so this workshop will be a huge asset to our STEM and automotive technology curriculum.
“We are developing a partnership with QUT Engineering so we can continue to collaborate with the experts in this field locally, nationally and internationally, to take our students on the right path for future study and employment.”
Source: Architecture - architectureau
