Astronomy, multimedia arts and digital photography could soon be part of a new expanded curriculum at a Karratha secondary college, with a major upgrade to the existing arts centre set to begin.
St Luke's College has received $4.69 million from the State Government's Royalties for Regions Pilbara Cities Education Fund to upgrade its performing arts centre.
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the investment would benefit the students, teachers and wider Karratha community.
"While the centre is currently only used for sporting and cultural activities, the expanded facility will soon attract dance schools, community associations and hobby interest groups from across the Pilbara," Mr Redman said.
"Providing a state-of-the-art facility will encourage students, and therefore families, to remain in the region and I am pleased to see Royalties for Regions play a role in this."
The extension will include new dressing rooms and a green room, making the venue a fully functioning theatre. It will also include a dedicated digital photography laboratory and an astronomy observatory.
Education Minister Peter Collier said students would now have access to a greater choice of subjects.
"Students will be able to study acting, stage design, visual and multimedia arts, and photography, which will increase their future career options," Mr Collier said.
St Luke's College has contributed $150,000 to this project.
The Pilbara Cities Education Fund is a $50 million investment through Royalties for Regions to improve the delivery of education in the region. Other projects include the Pilbara Teacher Attraction and Retention Program, Electrical Centre of Specialisation and the recently completed Karratha Trade Training Centre.
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6700
Education Minister's office - 6552 6300
