Principal Team Editorial

Building Project Update

During last term, our architects worked extensively with staff, students and parents to prepare the new Masterplan for the future needs of our school site. Whilst we have received $11.2 million to replace our current ECA with a project that will include a new double competition grade basketball court facility and performing arts spaces, the process that needs to occur first is for our architects to consider all future building needs. In many respects, their first brief is to design a “new school” for our needs into the future. You can see a diagram of the final product of that Masterplan on this page.

It is important to note that this is a concept that we would work towards over many years, and only stage 1 (ECA replacement) is funded. Hopefully in the coming years we can convince the key decision makers that our school community needs and deserves further investment, so that the other components and changes in the Masterplan can be realised. Some of the stages could see radical and exciting changes such as new Art and Technology buildings, the relocation of the administration buildings, portable replacement, and a new “green corridor” open space precinct in the middle of the school. The masterplan has been designed off the back of extensive feedback about the current facilities, what works well and what doesn’t, and the future needs of a school our size.

This term the architects begin the schematic design of Stage 1 (new stadium/performing arts). As you will see, conceptually, at this stage this building will possibly be located down on the current bottom oval, next to Amesbury Avenue. This is not a definitive plan and there are a number of factors that need to be considered before this decision has been finalised. I look forward to keeping all members of our school community updated, as we work through the design process this term.

Farewell

In coming days, we say farewell to a long term member of our education support team, Gayle Williams. Gayle has been a valuable member of our team who many would have interacted with in the General Office. A passionate Hawthorn supporter, Gayle has developed great relationships with many members of our school community and we wish her well for the future.

New Assistant Principal for 2023

This week, the selection panel completed the process for the appointment of a new AP to replace Shane Kruger, who has been promoted to Principal of Lilydale Heights SC. It is my pleasure to announce that James Doble, a current experienced AP from Berwick College, has been appointed to the role. James will oversee the Middle Years (7 & 8) and Well-being portfolios.

Kevin Murphy

Principal