By Peter Douglas
LA TROBE MP Jason Wood last Tuesday officially opened the new Middle School Centre at Belgrave Heights Christian School.
Students and staff at the school now have full use of six newly constructed classrooms, a meeting area, a small group area, a staff room, a music room and student amenities.
The Australian Government provided $250,000 in funding from the Capital Grants Programme for the $1 million facility.
Mr Wood said the development at the school would be fantastic for the students.
“It was great to visit the school and see first-hand the new centre,” Mr Wood said.
“Students and the whole school community in Belgrave Heights will benefit from using the new facilities.
“These new learning spaces take into account the latest in education research and will see students learn more effectively.”
The centre comprises general learning areas, meeting areas, small group areas and student amenities.
It combines flexible learning spaces and furniture with innovation to provide a creative and practical educational centre.
Meanwhile, the amphitheatre outside allows for an extra teaching and learning space and has been frequently used, including as a performance space.
Sarah Kelly, from the school, said the space was designed to encourage creativity and physical activity.
For example, the glass walls can be written on, which is great for group work or brainstorming.
The outside space also includes a giant chess board, table tennis table, and a parkour area.
Ms Kelly said the school was grateful over the strong turn-out at the launch.
“Both Jason Wood and (Member for Monbulk) James Merlino attended the opening, and we were so honoured to have them both here,” she said.
“Jason officially opened the facility and spoke very encouragingly about the school’s recent growth, leadership and the calibre of the students.”
