MINISTERS INSPECT FACILITIES AT NEW GOLD COAST SCHOOL

MINISTERS INSPECT FACILITIES AT NEW GOLD COAST SCHOOL

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford today inspected facilities at one of Queensland’s newest schools, Highland Reserve State School, in the fast-growing northern Gold Coast region.

Mr Welford was joined by Minister for Child Safety and Member for Albert Margaret Keech on his visit to the new primary school.

“The $25.7 million first stage of this new school on Reserve Road in Upper Coomera welcomed its foundation students at the start of this school year,” Mr Welford said.

“Around 180 students have enrolled in classes from Prep to Year 7 for 2009 and the school will ultimately cater for up to 880 students.

“There has been strong interest from local families in this new school, which will help support educational needs in this fast-growing part of Queensland.

“Highland Reserve State School is one of three new schools to open in this region in 2009, along with Ormeau Woods State High School at Ormeau and Norfolk Village State School at Cupania.”

Mr Welford said a total of four new state schools opened their doors in Queensland this year, representing a capital works investment of more than $91 million by the Bligh Government.

“Our Government continues to plan for the future of education in Queensland as part of our Toward Q2 commitment to provide all Queenslanders with world class education and training facilities and opportunities,” he said.

“On top of this capital expenditure we have allocated a record $532 million in the 2008-09 state budget to continue to modernise and build schools across Queensland.”

Mrs Keech said stage one of Highland Reserve State School includes 29 classrooms, a special education unit, an e-learning hub, science discovery centre, a multi-media room, three media presentation rooms, a dedicated music room, a sound-proof practice room, music equipment storerooms, a sports oval and multi-sports area.

“Twelve classrooms and six prep classrooms opened on day one of the school year, with the remaining classrooms and the special education unit due to be completed by May,” she said.

“Students are also benefiting from modern technology and resources including interactive whiteboards in all classrooms and ergonomic furniture.

“The sports oval features terraced seating, using the slope of land. The terracing forms a natural amphitheatre, so there won’t be any shortage of room for students and families to enjoy watching the students’ sporting activities.

“Environmental design elements include energy efficient lighting and rain water harvesting tanks for site irrigation and toilet flushing.

“This new school reflects our Government’s aim to ensure students have the best possible facilities to support their education.”

Mr Welford also acknowledged the Australian Government’s contribution of $9.5 million towards the cost of stage one of Highland Reserve State School.

Media contact: Jo Crompton or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000

26 February 2009