New science and farm buildings at Kelmscott Senior High School

25/5/07
Doors to the new world-class agricultural and science facilities at Kelmscott Senior High School swung open today.
Premier Alan Carpenter and Planning and Infrastructure Minister and Armadale MLA Alannah MacTiernan officially opened the new Agricultural Education Resource Centre and upgrades to the science block with Kelmscott Senior High School staff and students.
"The State Government has committed $2.375million to these facilities at Kelmscott to set a new standard in how science and agricultural studies are taught in Western Australia," Mr Carpenter said.
"Both primary and secondary education programs will benefit from these modern learning programs that incorporate all aspects of Australia's agricultural sectors."
The new agricultural building includes a shearing and dairy demonstration area, milk processing facilities and associated sheep and cattle yards.
The centre features a 100-seat auditorium, plus a display area for large farm machinery. The auditorium also has a fully equipped science laboratory for students to learn the bio-technical aspect of farming.
Extensions to the school's science block include two new science laboratories, a computer area and a staff studies refurbishment, as well as upgrades in the science and maths building.
Ms MacTiernan said that she was particularly pleased with the agricultural facilities as Kelmscott Senior High School was one of only a few schools in the metropolitan area with a comprehensive agricultural program.
She said the new science laboratories have been specifically designed for students studying physics and chemistry at an upper school level.
"These new facilities will allow the school to build on its reputation as a quality education institution and will enhance the range of courses on offer," Ms MacTiernan said.
"The Kelmscott Senior High School Board and Kelmscott Agricultural Advisory Committee have been involved in developing the concept of an agriculture building that integrates science and agricultural education and this is a testament to their work."
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