The Western Australian government has announced the appointment of lead architects on five education projects across the state as part of a multi-million school building blitz it promised in the 2021 election.
On 14 June 2022, education minister Sue Ellery announced the appointment of MCG Architects to design Eaton Community College’s new design and technology block. Scheduled for completion by early 2024, the $7 million block is set to include a commercial and domestic food studio, alongside a new cafe and a textiles studio.
Ellery announced the appointment of Fremantle-based architects Armstrong Collective on 15 June to design the upgraded assembly area for Kewdale Primary School. The $1 million project includes the fitout of the covered assembly area with specialist sports flooring for physical education, and technology for future audio-visual systems. Project completion is forecast for late 2024.
The education minister also announced the appointment of The Architecture Group on a $6.3 million upgrade for Balga Senior High School to design the new facilities. The upgrade will include a new performing arts faculty and refurbished STEM classrooms.
Architect Parry and Rosenthal has been selected to design $13.9 million worth of upgrades for Greenwood College in Kingsley. The project includes a new sports hall, a dance and drama area and a STEM laboratory, and is expected to be completed for mid-2024.
Hodge Collard Preston Architects was appointed to design a $1.5 million upgrade at Huntingdale Primary School, involving the refurbishment of two general learning blocks and two toilet blocks. Upgrades will be completed in late 2024.
In the 2022-23 State Budget, the WA government allocated a total of $595 million in funding for new and upgraded facilities to improve outcomes for Western Australian students. The total cost of investment in school education is a 4.7 percent on the previous year.
“The McGowan Government is committed to ensuring Western Australian public schools have the resources they need to provide students with the best possible learning experiences,” the education minister said.
“Our strong investment in new school facilities and upgrades continues, acknowledging the value of modern and fit-for-purpose learning areas in providing a quality education and setting students up for successful lives.”
Source: Architecture - architectureau
