CURRUMBIN'S NEW COMMUNITY SPECIAL SCHOOL OFFICIALLY OPENED

A new chapter in the delivery of special education on the Gold Coast was celebrated today with the official opening of Currumbin Community Special School.

Education Minister, Rod Welford, said the $17.6 million single-storey school was specifically designed to meet the needs of students with disabilities.

“This school is at the cutting edge of special education in this country and has already attracted the interest of other states,” Mr Welford said.

“The tailored facilities ensure children with a disability receive individual training and quality education throughout their school years.

“The school has 14 classrooms, an information resource centre, administration areas, a playground and covered play areas.

“There are also specialist education areas including a teaching kitchen, living skills centre and a centre for manual arts, visual art, music and craft.

“The new school is also closer to the school’s farm campus and a range of small cottage industries that could provide work experience opportunities for students.”

Currumbin Community Special School has been operating since the start of the second semester in July, and has a current enrolment of 75 students.

The Beattie Government provided $9.6 million towards the construction of the new school while a further $8 million was contributed by the Commonwealth.

Mr Welford thanked the local community for their input into the new school.

“The high standards in accessibility and equipment in the new school are due in no small part to the local community who contributed to the design and planning process,” he said.

“I also want to thank the community for their support in helping to ensure the smooth transition for students and staff from their old school to the new.

“The strong community partnerships and links developed during the course of this project are a credit to all involved.

Media contact: Greg Milne or Marnie Stitz on 32371000