New Early Learning development for St Joseph's Blackall

A sustained growth in enrolments at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Blackall has resulted in the announcement of major capital works by Catholic Education at the school to cater for current and future expansion.

 Most Reverend Michael McCarthy, Bishop of Rockhampton announced approval of the new Early Learning Precinct on his recent visit to Blackall, which is set to inject significant funds into the local community during construction.

 St Joseph’s, Blackall Principal Joanne Davison said works commenced this week and the school community was very excited about the new facilities due for completion in Term four.

 “The new building will consist of two new learning spaces for the Prep and Year 1 classes. These spaces have been designed to complement 21^st Century learning approaches and encourage collaborative teaching and learning opportunities between Kindergarten, Prep and Year 1,” Mrs Davison said.

 “The design includes an amazing playground which connects the learning spaces comprised largely of natural play equipment. It also features a bike track, swing and slide area.

 “This will be a wonderful addition to the Early Learning Precinct assisting our youngest students to learn to play, discover and develop together,” Mrs Davison said.

 The current Early Years Prep building which has served the school for over 70 years will be demolished to make way for the new project as it was deemed no longer able to adequately serve the growing educational needs of the school.

 Further building works around the school include a new toilet block adjoining the existing MacKillop Centre, refurbished library space that will serve as a library and Learning Support space and a new, updated playground for the main school grounds.

 Mrs Davison said the significant upgrade demonstrated Catholic Education’s ongoing support and commitment to providing excellent educational facilities and opportunities for families choosing a Catholic Education for their children in the Blackall region.

 “The students, staff and families are very appreciative and thankful for being granted such an amazing upgrade and are waiting with anticipation and excitement for the works to be completed,” Mrs Davison said.

Photo: Viewing plans for the new Early Learning precinct at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Blackall are Assistant Principal Religious Education Clare Barron and Principal Joanne Davison, which will replace the old building in the background.