Michaela Meade
Catholic Regional College Melton is getting a redevelopment worthy of its growing student numbers.
The $5.3 million building redevelopment at the college on Bulmans Road, Melton West will extend the building that is currently home to the school’s year 9 Gadal program.
The redevelopment will feature purpose-designed learning spaces, including break-out areas, smaller student presentation spaces, a Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) area, and a small cafe and kitchen garden.
College principal Marlene Jorgensen said more space was needed, as student numbers had grown significantly since the year 9 building was opened in 2016.
“From next year, we will have 224 students in Year 9 and 252 in 2023,” Mrs Jorgensen said.
“The Gadal Program emphasises connectedness, collaboration, teamwork, peer group interaction, development of self-awareness and place within the wider and global context.
“Student engagement in this challenging year is essential.
“It is the final year before pathway decisions begin for senior levels.”
Mrs Jorgensen said the redevelopment was important to allow year 9 students to make pathway decisions.
“The newly designed and extended space, combined with the College’s innovative curriculum, will enable students to develop the skills required for both pathway and future employability,” she said.
“The Gadal program, and the proposed dedicated spaces, will further empower students to become life-long learners.”
