Minister opens shared school campus at Mackenzie

Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek has officially opened a unique shared primary and special school campus at Mackenzie on Brisbane’s south side.

Minister Langbroek said the $18.5 million Mackenzie State Primary and Special School was the first of its kind in Queensland, with two separate schools operating from the same site and sharing facilities.

“Mackenzie State Primary and Special School is an inspiring place to learn and a major asset for the local community,” Mr Langbroek said.

“The former Mt Petrie State School and the former Mt Gravatt Special School have come together to jointly occupy the campus and offer students the very best environment in which to learn.

“The great thing about this arrangement is that students will share common facilities like the new school hall and canteen.

“The joint-campus will mean resource efficiencies for both schools and enhanced learning and development opportunities for all students.”

Mr Langbroek said the two schools would continue to operate separately, with two principals and different teachers.

“The primary school caters for students in Prep to Year 7, while the special school is open to children from six months old to Year 12,” he said.

“Students and staff moved into their new facilities last year, following extensive consultation throughout the planning and construction phase.

“I congratulate primary school principal Shirley Rimon, special school principal Terry Forster, and the whole school community for creating such a positive and supportive environment for local students.”

The campus includes two independent living centres for students with special needs, which will be used by community agencies for teaching and respite.

Project funding included $16 million from the Queensland Government’s State Schools of Tomorrow initiative and $750,000 from the annual Capital Works Program as well as $1.7 million from the Federal Government’s Building the Education Revolution program.

[ENDS] 14 March 2013

Media Contact: Carrie Barlow 0409 110 657