NEW SPRINGFIELD LAKES SCHOOL OFFICIALLY OPENED

A new $25.1 million state primary school that will meet the needs of rapidly growing Springfield Lakes was officially opened today.

Education and Training Minister, Rod Welford, said the Beattie Government had invested in the future of Springfield Lakes State School students and in the future of the local community.

“This first state primary school for the suburb is being expanded in stages to meet the needs of increasing student numbers,” Mr Welford said.

“So far, the total cost of the school has been $15.7 million, including Federal Government funding of $7 million.

“With Springfield Lakes predicted to continue its rapid growth, work has started on the second stage of more classrooms, a music block, science and discovery centre and an interlinked outdoor learning area. This $9.4 million stage is expected to be finished for the start of school next year.”

Mr Welford said Springfield Lakes State School’s high-quality education facilities would support the region’s growing population.

“The school was built after extensive consultation with the local community and the environmentally friendly results provide enjoyable green areas for children to play,” he said.

“Its innovative design, created around the concept of a ‘circle of life-long learning’, aims to provide the best learning environment.

“Until the second stage, the middle school, is finished, the school is working from the junior campus. The final layout of prep, junior and middle years facilities will be in a large circle, outlining a student’s learning progression through the school.

“Teaching spaces are built as cottages and house two to four classrooms. Each cottage is equipped with the latest technology and is also fitted with a wireless network.”

Member for Bundamba, Jo-Ann Miller, said the school had become the heart of the rapidly growing suburb and had been enthusiastically supported by the community.

“Before it was even built, the local community worked with the principal to decide on the school’s name, choose uniforms, fundraise and organise tuckshop operations and road safety management,” Mrs Miller said.

“The school has a very active Parents and Citizens Association and is also supported by a large number of community organisations.”

Springfield Lakes State School opened its doors to 399 Prep to Year 7 students for the first time at the start of school this year.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000