NEW MODERN SPACES FOR HISTORIC LOCAL SCHOOL

St Columba’s Parish School in Soldiers Hill has served the Ballarat community for generations, and with a $2.9 million upgrade now complete, the school is more accessible and inclusive than ever.

The refurbishment of two of the school’s main buildings ensures that all students can now move freely among the grounds and can fully participate in their learning.

Member for Ballarat Catherine King today joined with the school community to celebrate the completion of works, which were made possible with $2 million in funding from the Albanese Labor Government’s Capital Grants Program.

In the 5/6 area, what was previously a narrow hallway with small classrooms has been transformed into a fit for purpose learning area with four fully accessible classrooms for the 100 students. Each classroom has new exits and all link to a central gathering area where the children can collaborate and learn together.

Due to the school’s growth over many decades, the floor was at different levels meaning a patchwork of stairs and ramps were required. The upgrades have levelled the ground and mean that everyone using the space, including students with disabilities, can access where they need to go with ease and dignity. External ramps and stairs have also been reconfigured in line with modern accessibility standards.

The original 1911 Columba Wing has also been transformed, with the former brick external side wall now filled with windows, allowing natural light into the classrooms. 

Along with the additional windows, the 3/4 area has more accessible ramps and upgraded sound proofing measures to support calmer learning for all students, including those with additional needs.

The works were delivered by builder Plan Group over a 12-month period, during which time the children showed their resilience and flexibility by learning in different spaces and even staggering play times due to the decrease in available yard and playground space.

To learn more about the history of St Columba’s Parish School visit: scballarat.catholic.edu.au/our-history

Quotes attributable to Member for Ballarat Catherine King:

“Like many of our older schools in Ballarat, St Columba’s has undergone many renovations and changes over the years.

“This $2.9 million upgrade brings that work together and means that the design of the school now supports the excellent teaching happening here as well as the accessibility needs of every individual student.”

Quotes attributable to Co-Principal Shaun Mohr:

“This building project is about so much more than just a physical change – it is about creating learning environments that truly reflect and support our pedagogical approach. By bringing our facilities into line with the way we know our students learn best, we are creating the very best opportunities for every student to thrive, grow and achieve.

“I am incredibly proud of the resilience and adaptability our students have shown throughout this building project. With reduced yard space, changing classrooms and the inevitable disruption that comes with such significant works, they have continued to embrace every challenge with positivity. Their ability to adapt, support one another and keep moving forward so quickly is a wonderful reflection of the true nature of St Columba’s students.”

Quotes attributable to Co-Principal Bambi Afford:

“Our new build is designed with inclusion and accessibility at its heart. We are making important changes to ramps, entrances and access points so that students with additional needs can move around the school safely, confidently and independently. These improvements will create a more welcoming environment for everyone and ensure that all students can fully participate in school life.”