South Australian based architects have won the tender to design the new $100 million secondary school in Whyalla, that will accommodate 1500 students in Years 7 to 12.
Cox Architecture, in collaboration with Thomson Rossi, will design a world-class school with dynamic and adaptable learning environments for students and staff.
The new state of the art school will be designed with an entrepreneurial hub and contemporary STEM facilities, giving local students the opportunity to learn skills in innovation, advanced technology and to study in areas that have strong links to the local industry.
The new school will combine the three existing government school campuses in the region – Edward John Eyre, Stuart and Whyalla high schools.
The successful architects have been involved in various key South Australian projects, including Adelaide Botanic High School and the Brighton Secondary School redevelopment.
Both firms have also worked on several STEM facilities across the state.
Education Minister John Gardner said that the announcement marks a significant milestone in delivering the new school that the region needs.
"This is a major project that will deliver world-class, contemporary school infrastructure to Whyalla students, create jobs in the community and contribute to South Australia's economic growth," said Minister Gardner.
"We have confidence in the future of Whyalla and we are supporting the region's young people with the best possible education facility.
"We expect the new Whyalla Secondary School to reflect modern architecture at its best, with learning being strengthened through collaborative and flexible learning spaces.
"Located in the Whyalla Norrie district between UniSA and TAFE SA facilities, the school will create an education hub that will provide students with access to more resources.
"Whyalla's next generation will be able to experience the same environments found in modern workplaces and leading tertiary institutions, preparing them for life beyond school.
"The Marshall Liberal Government is delivering the biggest investment into education by any state government in South Australia's history, which includes more than $1 billion worth of capital works across the state."
Cox Architecture and Thomson Rossi were delighted to be announced as the successful team and are looking forward to working with the Education Department to deliver the project.
"The Whyalla Secondary School will be a dynamic and diverse contemporary learning community that creates a special place and identity that is inspiring and energising for students, educators, the broader community and beyond," said Adam Hannon, Director Cox Architecture.
"Commencing with a passionate understanding of the Whyalla community and the distinctive regional landscape, we look forward to creating a landmark transformational school incorporating a new range of inter-disciplinary learning environments of global significance," said Marino Rossi, Director Thomson Rossi.
