St Ita’s Drouin unveils new Learning Centre

St Ita’s Drouin unveils new Learning Centre

St Ita’s Catholic Primary School at Drouin celebrated the blessing and official opening of a new Learning Centre and specialist space as part of Stage 2 of a Masterplan re-development.

Bishop of Sale, Most Reverend Greg Bennet officially blessed the new spaces assisted by Father Brendan Hogan of St Ita’s Parish.

They were joined by education leaders from Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited, members of the project team, special guests, St Ita’s Primary school staff, students and the school and parish community.

The Stage 2 project involved demolition of existing de-mountable buildings to construct a new Learning Centre incorporating six general learning areas, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Hub, breakout areas, and student amenities.

The second phase involved transformation of the former library to create an art/music specialist space, as well as alterations to existing hardcourts to create outdoor learning areas.

Principal, Mr Andrew Osler, said the projects had been transformative for the school which has experienced steady enrolment growth over the past decade.

“We are very proud of our new light-filled, flexible learning spaces that offer students an opportunity to learn in a faith-filled environment.”

Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Mr Paul Velten said through this redevelopment, St Ita’s will be able to accommodate up to 480 students, positioning it to manage future growth and support the community ahead of the opening of a new Catholic primary school in Drouin.”

“Long-term enrolment growth across the Parish of Drouin underpins the preparing for Stage 1 and 2 construction of the new St Oscar Romero Catholic Primary School, located south of Drouin and scheduled to open in 2027. Both construction phases will receive partial funding from the Victorian Government's Capital Funding Program. The establishment of this new Catholic school is expected to alleviate future enrolment pressure at St Ita’s."

Mr Velten said it was wonderful to see staff and students enjoying the wonderful new learning spaces at St Ita’s.

“The project reflects the strong partnership between the school and parish community, working together to support the best outcomes for students.”

The Stage 2 St Ita’s Primary School project is supported by a Capital Grant under the Victorian Government Capital Funding Program, and a loan from the Catholic Development Fund (CDF).

A video message from the Hon. Ms Harriet Shing, Member for Eastern Victoria was played congratulating the school community on the milestone project.

Mr Velten thanked the Victorian Government for their support of the project.

“These projects have created faith-filled learning environments that aim to inspire faith, and inspire learning, and empower students to reach their full potential.”

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0417 534 232.