SWAN Hill Specialist School has been a hive of activity with the completion of building works and the commencement of more to come.
Stage one of the works completed undercover games courts that will be suited for outdoor basketball and a variety of other sports.
An investment of $1.6 million was used to create an overall master plan for development and refurbishment of the school and to complete stage one.
Colour has been incorporated to the design to create a bright and fun environment.
A further $7 million is being used to completely upgrade the school’s main building, as well as five classrooms, a library and community area, and a purpose-built kitchen and cafe that students will use to enhance their hospitality learnings.
Principal Jodi Walters said the addition to the school would be particularly helpful to VET students studying hospitality.
“The new building will allow us to have a permanent kitchen and cafe on site as opposed to what we have to do now,” Mrs Walters said.
“Currently we are using another room that cannot be set up permanently so a lot of setting up and packing up takes place.
“This new building will provide a permanent facility and we expect it to be finished by December.
“The location of the new cafe is beside the main building and opens up onto the new undercover courts, so it will be great for catering.
The cafe makes a range of items including cakes, coffee, milkshakes, slices and a variety of savoury items.
Beyond that, stage three of the master plan will account for the replacement of nine portable buildings and the space will be converted into a large learning area for senior and middle classes.
Stage four will provide a small auditorium and a Victorian Pathways Certificate working space.
“It’s testament that governments are focussed on specialty schools and view them as an important educational choice,” Mrs Walters said.
“They are a sustainable choice for families and can provide the best outcomes for children with disabilities.
“And it also recognises that we are not segregated from the rest of the community, we have the facilities to host and share our resources with other schools in the region.
“Connection is important to our school and we are often engaging with other schools and the wider community.”
The school has 92 students enrolled and Mrs Walters suggested parents call in and discuss the criteria and how to take the first steps towards enrolment.
