The design for the new $100 million secondary school in Whyalla, which will combine the three existing government schools in the region, has been revealed today.
The new school build is part of the Marshall Liberal Government’s massive statewide investment in schools – the biggest by any State Government in South Australia’s history – which includes $1.3 billion in capital works funding.
Key features of the design of the new Whyalla secondary school include:
- A 3 storey build with a STEM focused design
- Contemporary learning spaces, multi-level outdoor learning and social spaces
- A landscaped plaza at ground level
- Double court gymnasium, expansive sporting fields and courts that can be utilised by the community
- Performing arts theatre and outdoor amphitheatre
Located on Nicolson Avenue between the local University of South Australia and TAFE SA campuses, the new school will offer a world class learning environment for 1500 students in Year 7 to 12 with strong links to further study options.
Construction is anticipated to commence in early to mid-2020, with the school opening in Term 1, 2022. The school will replace Edward John Eyre, Stuart and Whyalla High Schools.
Local students and educators were consulted on their vision of what the new school would include. Reflecting that engagement, Cox Architecture, in collaboration with Thomson Rossi, designed the school to reflect the history and traditions of the existing high schools while creating its own sense of identity that embraces the whole community.
The sustainable design will mirror Whyalla’s unique environment and complement the city’s natural landscape. It will create greater connectivity between formal and informal learning spaces, as well as indoor and outdoor linkages.
Education Minister John Gardner said the concept design showcases what will be a world class, modern learning environment that Whyalla students deserve.
“A school’s setting is integral to the learning process and the new Whyalla secondary school has been designed to enrich the learning experience for local students,” said Minister Gardner.
“The school’s positioning amongst the University of South Australia and TAFE campuses will create an expansive learning hub that will create collaborative opportunities and connect students with greater options for future pathways.
“By delivering world class, 21st century school infrastructure to Whyalla, we’re supporting the region’s young people to prosper and pursue high quality education.
“We have confidence in the future of Whyalla, and we are supporting the region’s young people with the best possible education facility.”
Director for Cox Architecture Adam Hannan said the new school will inspire and empower Whyalla students to be globally connected.
“We are delighted to reach the culmination of many months of work on the extraordinary new Whyalla secondary school,” said Mr Hannan.
“This new school will bring to life the latest thinking in future-focussed learning spaces that will inspire and empower Whyalla students to be globally connected with skills for life.
“In creating the concept for the new Whyalla secondary school, our desire was to create a series of contemporary and innovative learning settings that are conceived as a continuation of the external landscape.
“Compactly planned around a central community courtyard, the multi-level learning precincts and state-of-the-art specialist spaces all contribute to a highly connected and visually stimulating learning environment.”
Director for Thomson Rossi Marino Rossi said the design reflects an exciting, contemporary learning environment.
“Conceived as a vibrant architectural landmark for the City of Whyalla, the new Whyalla secondary school creates an integrated and authentic learning landscape essential for deep learning,” said Mr Rossi.
“Responding to the rich array of natural landscape settings, the dynamic architectural form of the new Whyalla secondary school reflects an exciting, contemporary learning environment where local students will have access to global opportunities.
“Visually connected interiors will have immediate access to outdoor learning spaces and elevated outdoor courtyards.
“A rich array of specialist facilities will allow engagement with all facets of the Whyalla community, creating an important community hub and an outstanding asset for learning for the City of Whyalla for many generations to come.”
