Goonawarra Primary School

How were the upgrade facilities determined?

We worked with school leaders to develop a masterplan, which separates the needs of the school into individual stages.

The masterplan ensures the school continues to receive fair consideration through the school capital works program.

Why are some elements of the plan not included in this round of works?

Due to increased building costs, elements of the school’s masterplan were removed from the works at this time. This includes the proposed refurbishment of classrooms in the south-wing of the main block.

Will they be included in the future?

We will work closely with the school to ensure that the south-wing works are considered in future plans for the school.

What do the new classrooms look like?

The new classrooms offer spaces for flexible learning activities and group sizes.

Glass windows and doors allow views between formal and informal classroom spaces, including outdoor learning areas.

These glass windows and the original high classroom ceilings provide natural light and air flow.

Why are you building open-plan learning and glass ‘learning communities’?

We design new spaces with our experts to cater for the learning needs and abilities of all students.

Learning communities are large buildings made up of flexible spaces that teachers can use in different ways. They may use doors, movable walls or furniture to create spaces that suit different learning needs.

Glass doors and walls allow teachers to provide constant supervision and to communicate with one another to maximise learning.

How is distraction managed by teachers?

Teachers play an integral part in managing any distraction that might affect their students’ learning in the classroom.

Students will be taught to use the new spaces through respectful classroom behaviour.

What was considered in the project’s design?

Williams Boag Architects selected materials and colours to blend the design of the refurbished main block with the existing building.

Landscape work created entry paths surrounded by indigenous and native trees. It provides a welcoming gathering space for community members to meet.

Will the Goonawarra swan be retained?

The new administration entry foyer is a fully accessible and secure space that connects to the general office and library. The historic mosaic mural of the Goonawarra swan has been kept and is located above the door to the library.