The Students in Northmead can look forward to making the most of new world-class public school facilities, following a recently-completed upgrade at Northmead Creative and Performing Arts High School, while a major upgrade of Northmead Public School is now underway.
The projects are part of the Minns Labor Government's work to rebuild public education after a decade of Liberal and National neglect, with a record school infrastructure pipeline delivering new and upgraded schools to ensure every child has access to a world-class education at their local public school.
Acting Education Minister Courtney Houssos officially opened the new commercial-grade kitchen and other upgraded facilities at Northmead Creative and Performing Arts High School, before visiting Northmead Public School to mark the start of construction on a major upgrade that will replace demountables with permanent classrooms and return much needed playground space to students.
The new commercial kitchen at Northmead Creative and Performing Arts High School is equipped with industry-standard appliances meeting updated Vocational Education and Training (VET) requirements, providing students with a modern learning environment to support food technology studies.
The high school upgrade also delivered a new multipurpose room within the school library, along with a brand new toilet block and change room facilities.
The upgrade underway at Northmead Public School will replace demountable classrooms with four new permanent classrooms and two new special program rooms, and deliver refurbished administration facilities.
The construction contract for the Northmead Public School project has been awarded, with the project due for completion in 2026.
As part of the NSW Government's plan to rebuild public education, the 2024-25 Budget is delivering record education funding, including $3.6 billion for new and upgraded schools in Western Sydney.
This targeted investment in schools in Western Sydney will ensure growing communities get access to a world class public education.
Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said:
"These important upgrades are part of the Minns Labor Government's commitment to ensuring every child has access to the best educational facilities, no matter where they live.
"The new commercial kitchen at Northmead Creative and Performing Arts High School will give students hands-on experience in an industry-standard environment, ensuring they are well prepared for careers in hospitality and beyond.
"Replacing demountables with permanent classrooms is a key priority of the Minns Labor Government after the Liberals and Nationals made them a permanent fixture, crowding out playgrounds in too many schools across growing suburbs in Western Sydney."
Northmead Creative and Performing Arts High School Principal Narelle Vazquez said:
"This upgrade will significantly enhance hands-on learning opportunities for our students, broadening the curriculum options to include Commercial Cookery and help them to prepare for real-world experiences in the hospitality industry.
"These state-of-the-art facilities are designed to enhance learning and foster creativity in the kitchen.
"We look forward to seeing our students thrive in this new learning environment, which offers them the opportunity to develop their culinary skills and passion for cooking."
Northmead Public School Principal Elisa Baker said:
"We are thrilled to mark this milestone for our school community. This upgrade will give our students modern, permanent learning spaces that foster growth, curiosity, and success for years to come.
"Creating environments where students and teachers can thrive is an investment in our children's future, which is why the start of construction is such an exciting moment for us.
"We look forward to watching the project take shape and seeing the positive impact it will have on our students, staff, and the wider community."