Catholic Bishop of Sale, Most Reverend Greg Bennet lead a blessing and sod-turning ceremony to recognise the beginning of the stage two re-development at St Ita's Primary School. From left: Site Supervisor, Ben Heppell from Searle Bros Constructions, St Ita's Principal Mr Andrew Osler, Bishop of Sale Most Reverend Greg Bennet, St Ita's Deputy Principal Mr Stephen Pitt, Parish Priest Fr Confidence Masvosva, and Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale.
Work has begun on the second stage of a major redevelopment project at St Ita's Catholic Primary School in Drouin.
Sale diocese bishop, the Reverend Greg Bennet led a sod-turning ceremony to mark the beginning of the works.
St Ita's Primary School principal Andrew Osler said the stage two development would be delivered across two phases.
"The first phase will involve demolition of existing de-mountables to construct a new learning centre incorporating six general learning areas, technology hub, breakout areas, and student amenities," Mr Osler said.
"The second phase will involve refurbishment of the library to create an art and music specialist space, and alterations to existing hardcourts to create outdoor learning areas."
Mr Osler said the projects would be transformative for the school, creating contemporary, vibrant, learning spaces.
"These projects follow the completion of stage one projects in 2019 which created a brand-new building at the front of the school, as well as new foundation year learning spaces, administration area, library, teacher resource area, increased security, and refurbishment of other areas," Mr Osler said.
"The stage two projects will further expand facilities to meet the needs of the growing school community now and into the future."
Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale Paul Velten said the project represented the diocese's ongoing commitment to providing high quality learning and teaching environments, and investment in school communities.
"We look forward to the construction of these new facilities which aim to create contemporary faith-filled environments to inspire learning and empower students to reach their full potential," Mr Velten said.
The second stage of the St Ita's Primary School project is supported by a capital grant under the State Government Capital Funding Program, and a loan from the Catholic Development Fund (CDF).
Phase one construction of a new learning centre is expected to be completed in late 2024. Phase two which involves refurbishment of the library and hardcourts, is estimated for completion in February 2025.
