School building opens with a bang!

ST Alipius Parish School’s students and teachers have celebrated the opening of an extension to their multipurpose space.

Upgrades include the addition of an acoustically designed area for music and Japanese language classes, large glass doors and windows in the hall, and undercover areas for shelter and all-weather learning.

As part of an event last week, some senior music students gave a performance on Japanese drums to officially open the facility with a bang.

“It’s vital we are able to offer a contemporary learning environment for our students and teachers, and we are thrilled with the new and refurbished facilities,” said St Alipius principal, Emily Clarke.

“In particular, to now have an acoustically designed, specialist learning area for our music and Japanese language programs is invaluable.

“This facility is also being utilised by the wider community and for private music tuition. “The greater connectivity between our buildings and the new outdoor learning spaces also provide additional options for learning activities to help keep the students fully engaged.”

The Member for Ballarat, Catherine King unveiled the building’s plaque alongside students, and Father Justin Driscoll, who also blessed the space.

“St Alipius Parish School has come a long way since it began in a tent on the Ballarat goldfields over 170 years ago,” Ms King said.

“The teachers, staff and students at today’s St Alipius Parish School have built an inclusive and positive school community and these new purpose-built facilities will be utilised and enjoyed by students and staff well into the future.

“Our government strongly believes in providing the best possible resources so that local students everywhere have the opportunity to thrive.”

The project was funded with $656,934 from the school community and $1.05 million from the Federal Government Capital Grants Program.

A refurbished administration building has also been completed as part of the works.