A performing arts centre at Centenary Heights State High School is closer to becoming a reality with Education Minister Grace Grace announcing construction has begun.
Ms Grace said Hutchinson Builders has started work on the $11.55 million centre, anticipated to be completed around July 2019.
"This facility is being funded under the Palaszczuk Government’s 2020 Ready program and will be a valuable asset for the school and broader community," Ms Grace said.
"This project will help drive the local economy by supporting up to 30 full-time jobs during construction.
"The centre will include a stage, dance studios, drama learning areas, rehearsal space, staff room, change rooms and amenities, as well as a foyer area for guests to mingle before performances.
"It’ll also boast state-of-the-art multi-media features including a data room, recording room, editing annexe, spot lighting gallery, and two multi-media learning areas for students to practice their technical skills."
Ms Grace said the project would also involve refurbishing existing art spaces in Block N and industrial kitchens in Block H to facilitate the delivery of Certificate III courses.
"A new staff area and art studio in Block G will complete the refurbishment works," she said.
"I am sure these spaces will help students to reach their full potential during and after their time at Centenary Heights State High."
Centenary Heights State High School Principal Maryanne Walsh said students and staff were eager to use the centre.
"Our school has an exceptional reputation in the performing arts throughout the region and state, as well as strong involvement in our visual arts and hospitality programs," Ms Walsh said.
"We are really looking forward to using these new facilities as they will offer wonderful opportunities for our students to excel."
Ms Grace said the Palaszczuk Government had a proven track record of delivering world class infrastructure in Queensland schools.
"These projects will help us to manage the increased student population in our high schools that resulted from the introduction of Prep in 2007," she said.
"With the original half-cohort of Prep students set to graduate from high school at the end of 2019, we will have — for the very first time in 2020 — six full year levels of students in Queensland secondary schools.
"In 2018-19 we are delivering an overall infrastructure investment program across the state valued at more than $923 million."
