Secondary schooling is under way in Banksia Grove, with the new $48.7 million Joseph Banks Secondary College opened by Premier Colin Barnett and Education Minister Peter Collier.
Named after the famous botanist, the secondary college will cater for the growing population in the northern suburbs of Banksia Grove, Tapping and Carramar.
"The State Government is committed to providing excellent school environments for public school students now and for generations to come," Mr Barnett said.
"The opening of this state-of-the-art school fulfills an election commitment to build a secondary school in this rapidly expanding area."
Facilities include 16 general learning areas, seven science laboratories, a student services centre, a performing arts and music block, and a cafeteria.
The college opened its doors this week to 226 Year 7 and 191 Year 8 students. Once complete in 2018, the school will provide for 1,450 students.
Education Minister Peter Collier said the college would have a strong focus on science, mathematics and technology.
"The college has partnered with The University of Western Australia on a program to extend students' learning, and students will also have access to an after-school mathematics challenge program," he said.
"Soccer and triathlon academies, a creative and performing arts academy, and a course in the Mandarin language are some of the other wonderful opportunities available for students."
Sir Joseph Banks took part in Captain James Cook's first great voyage (1768-71) to Brazil, Tahiti, New Zealand and Australia and discovered and catalogued hundreds of plants. He introduced the eucalyptus, acacia, and the genus named after him, Banksia, to the rest of the world and about 80 species of plants bear his name.
Fact File
59 major education capital works projects are expected to be finished during 2015, worth $456.9 million
New public schools open this year include Joseph Banks Secondary College ($48.7 million), Broome North Primary School ($21 million), Golden Bay Primary School ($14.2 million) and Tuart Rise Primary School ($18.8 million)
For more information, visit http://biggerpicture.education.wa.edu.au/
Video link
Premier's office - 6552 5200
Education Minister's office - 6552 6300
