The design for the new $100 million secondary school in Whyalla was recently revealed.
The school’s design was completed by COX Architecture in collaboration with Thomson Rossi.
The new school will combine three existing government schools in the region.
COX Architecture and Thomson Rossi have been involved in multiple key South Australian education projects, including Adelaide Botanic High School and the Brighton Secondary School redevelopment.
Both firms have successfully worked on STEM facilities across the state.
Key features of the design include:
- A 3-storey build with a STEM focused design
- Contemporary learning spaces, multi-level outdoor learning and social spaces
- A landscaped plaza at ground level
- Double court gymnasium, expansive sporting fields and courts that can be utilised by the community
- Performing arts theatre and outdoor amphitheatre
Local students and educators were involved in the design process, providing ideas and suggestions for what the new school required.
In response, the design embraces the history and traditions of the existing high schools, simultaneously creating a contemporary and exciting sense of identity.
Key to the project is sustainable design that responds to Whyalla’s unique environment and complex natural landscape.
Connectivity is increased through formal and informal learning hubs, as well as linkages between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Director of COX Architecture Adam Hannon said the new school will inspire and empower Whyalla students.
“We are delighted to reach the culmination of many months of work on the extraordinary new Whyalla Secondary School,” said Mr Hannon.
“This new school will bring to life the latest thinking in future-focused learning spaces that will inspire and empower Whyalla students to be globally connected with skills for life.
“In creating the concept for the new Whyalla Secondary School, our desire was to create a series of contemporary and innovative learning settings that are conceived as a continuation of the external landscape.
“Compactly planned around a central community courtyard, the multi-level learning precincts and state-of-the-art specialist spaces all contribute to a highly connected and visually stimulating learning environment.”
Director for Thomson Rossi, Marino Rossi said the design reflects an exciting, contemporary learning environment.
“Conceived as a vibrant architectural landmark for the City of Whyalla, the new Whyalla secondary school creates an integrated and authentic learning landscape essential for deep learning,” said Mr Rossi.
“Responding to the rich array of natural landscape settings, the dynamic architectural form of the new Whyalla secondary school reflects an exciting, contemporary learning environment where local students will have access to global opportunities.
“Visually connected interiors will have immediate access to outdoor learning spaces and elevated outdoor courtyards.
“A rich array of specialist facilities will allow engagement with all facets of the Whyalla community, creating an important community hub and an outstanding asset for learning for the City of Whyalla for many generations to come.”
The new school will be located on Nicolson Avenue between the local University of South Australia and TAFE SA campuses and will accommodate 1500 students in years 7 to 12.
Construction is anticipated to commence in early to mid-2020, with the school opening in Term 1, 2022.
The school will replace Edward John Eyre, Stuart and Whyalla High Schools.
Project Details
Scheduled Completion Date – 2022
Project Team
Architecture
Cox Architecture
Cox is a design-focused contemporary architectural practice with studios located in every major Australian city and a history spanning 60 years.
Key to their ethos is supporting the public life of our cities. Cox does this by ensuring each project makes positive contributions to its public realm – giving more than it takes.
Thomson Rossi
For over two decades, Thomson Rossi has delivered high quality environments and solutions for a diverse range of commissions and client bodies across Australia.
Whilst the majority of their commissions produce a built outcome, the practice also undertake master plans, strategic facility plans, asset condition audits and economic life cycle studies to provide their clients with comprehensive professional advice.
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Design © 2020 Cox Architecture and Thomson Rossi. All Rights Reserved.
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