Creative thinking, a clear vision and a builder willing to go that extra yard has resulted in an outstanding outcome for a Brisbane state school's projects being funded under the National School Pride element of the Building the Education Revolution program.
Bald Hills State School Principal Keith Warwick said the school is "more than happy" with what has been delivered under their $200,000 NSP funding, part of the Australian Government's Building the Education Revolution program.
One of Queensland's oldest state schools, Bald Hills state school has made the most of the opportunities offered by the NSP funding.
"It has allowed us to convert a pair of old 1950's style traditional classrooms with large verandas into light, airy flexible teaching spaces, complete with new smartboards and whiteboards, which will help our teachers deliver a 21st century education curriculum to students," he said.
By removing walls, adding concertina dividing walls and replacing old sash windows with new sliding windows, the school has been able to create a modern, flexible learning area suitable for classes to work individually or together.
The school was also able to refurbish two demountable classrooms with new carpet, painting and additional fans, while the school's computer room was made dust proof, windows tinted, new carpet laid and walls painted.
"We've put big challenges to Hutchinson, our builders. They've scratched their heads a bit, but to their credit, they've walked away and brought back some really great solutions," he said.
"What we wanted to create is a flexible teaching and learning environment for our teachers and students for the present and for the future.
"The success of this room highlights the importance of teachers being involved in the designing of spaces that they use to make sure it works for them".
And the response from the class teachers utilising the new space has been very positive.
Year 3 teacher, Allison Durand said the NSP funded renovations have made a huge difference.
"It has opened up the whole space as another teaching area, it allows for our trained parent volunteers to work in the adjoining space, and the new technology of the smart boards is working really well to engage our students.
"The space is no longer just a little box with four walls," she said.
The Queensland Government's Department of Education and Training is delivering the Building the Education Revolution program on behalf of the Australian Government.
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