A new learning hub modelled on the medieval concept of a village green is proving that hi-tech schooling does not need a hefty price tag.
Sydenham Catholic Regional College’s new $4 million Learning Commons opened in December and was built using modular formwork assembled onsite, the largest such school building in Australia.
It is set alongside a revamped St Josephs Centre, the school’s former library, and includes the latest technology for sound and visual recordings and electronic white-boards.
School principal Brendon Watson said the new hub was paving the way for equal and inclusive access to the best learning environment available.
“We live in an area where many people are doing it tough,” Mr Watson said.
“But every student deserves the very best facilities. A family’s ability to pay fees and fund projects shouldn’t determine the education their children get.”
He said both buildings in the new hub are open plan, giving students ready access to teachers, technology, tools and each other.
He said more than 1500 students are now accessing the state-of-the-art facilities every week, including students from off-site college campuses and other schools, both public and private.
“We are seeing more students with free periods coming in to study, while normally they’d head off to part-time jobs or sport practice,” Mr Watson said.
