The State Government has launched a major redevelopment of Western Australia's biggest public secondary school.
The $39million first stage of an extensive building and refurbishment program at Willetton Senior High School will deliver new buildings for art, media, textiles, science, technology and enterprise.
It also includes a $12million two-storey block for year 7 students who will attend secondary school for the first time in 2015.
Education Minister Peter Collier and Finance Minister Mike Nahan officially launched the start of construction work today.
The project includes a two-storey arts, media and textiles block; a two-storey science, technology and enterprise block; refurbishing the existing performing arts building; extending the gymnasium; landscaping and car parking.
The original buildings were constructed in the 1970s.
"Willetton Senior High School is one of our most outstanding performers and is constantly among the front-runners in both academic and vocational achievement," Mr Collier said.
"The school was deservedly named WA Secondary School of the Year in the 2011 WA Education Awards, and the visionary leadership of principal Chris Booth has seen him named a finalist in this year's Secondary Principal of the Year category.
"Not only will year 7 students have access to the outstanding facilities and technology available, but as we move into the next decade all students and staff will benefit from a modern environment befitting its status as one of WA's premier schools."
Dr Nahan said Willetton Senior High School was a clear illustration of the Government's commitment to the highest standard of educational facilities for the Western Australian community.
"The Government has approved a record investment in education infrastructure and is establishing a solid track record of delivering high quality facilities on time and on budget, while providing very good value for money," he said.
The redevelopment, stage one of a planned larger program, was designed by Hassell Architects. It will be built by Esslemont Cockram and project managed by the Department of Finance, Building Management and Works for the Department of Education.
A total of $229.6million is being spent at 29 schools to accommodate year 7 students in secondary schools for the first time from 2015. Secondary schools will give year 7 students access to specialist subject teaching and facilities needed for the Australian Curriculum.
Fact File
The $12m Year 7 block is expected to be completed for the start of the 2015 school year
The remainder of the first phase, worth a further $27m, is expected to be completed by mid-2015
The 2013-14 Budget provides $42.9m over the budget period for the redevelopment of Willetton Senior High School
The project is part of a record $581m program of education capital works the Government has approved for 2013-14
Education Minister's office - 6552 6300
Finance Minister's office - 6552 5700
