An artist’s impression of what the new Murrumbateman Public School will look like on completion early next year. Photo: Supplied.
Work has begun on the long-awaited $20 million primary school at Murrumbateman with the Member for Goulburn, Wendy Tuckerman, turning the first sod to mark the start of construction on 2 March.
The school will accommodate 370 students and will also include a library, school hall, canteen, flexible learning spaces, a special education learning unit and an outside covered learning area.
It is located on Fairley Street in the Murrumbateman village, on the outskirts of Canberra, taking up a 1.5-hectare site.
“I am delighted to announce that the new primary school will be called Murrumbateman Public School and will deliver brand new facilities to meet the growing student and community needs,” Ms Tuckerman said.
“Murrumbateman Public School will be an exciting addition for the community and will deliver modern resources to local students both now and for generations to come.”
She said the school’s construction was being fast-tracked by the NSW Government to cater for the growing Murrumbateman community. It is scheduled for completion early next year.
Ms Tuckerman also announced that Liz Beasley, from Orange, would be the new Murrumbateman school principal.
“Liz has been a public school principal in the Orange area for the past 10 years, with an educational philosophy that is underpinned by inclusive and collaborative practice,” Ms Tuckerman said.
“She understands the importance of providing a learning environment where all members of the school community are valued and have a voice in shaping the culture of the school.”
Ms Beasley said she was excited to take on the role at the new Murrumbateman school, establishing the learning centre for the local community.
“I believe we have the opportunity to create a learning space that not only prepares our students for high school, but will provide them with strong connection to the community,” she said.
New Murrumbateman Public School principal Liz Beasley, left, with Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman, centre, and the NSW Department of Education’s Megan Couvee at the sod-turning ceremony yesterday. Photo: Supplied.
Community consultation about the new school began back in early 2020 with input invited for the school’s master plan and other issues of importance to the community. Particular concern was given to how the school would fit within the growing population so community hub sessions were held where locals were invited to have their say. Local feedback, where possible, was incorporated into the school’s overall design.
Early on in the project, an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment was completed, including consultation with local community members as well as the local Aboriginal Land Council.
Consideration was also given early on to transport issues facing children, parents and staff to and from the school. Following public consultation, new traffic measures will be put in place, including drop-off and pick-up areas outside the school.
More information about the Murrumbateman Public School is available on the NSW Department of Education website.
Original Article published by Sally Hopman on About Regional.
Loading ...
