The South Australian government has allocated $12.7 million for works at non-government schools across the state. The funding is split between Catholic and independent schools, and will go towards a variety of construction and refurbishment projects.
The government grants, amounting to $6.34 million for Catholic schools and $6.38 million for independent schools, target improvements that will accommodate growing enrolment numbers. The upgrades are set to extend school facilities, and modernise outdated infrastructure.
Since its outset in 2018, the aim of the funding scheme has been to ensure all students benefit from high-quality education facilities, regardless of the school they attend. This latest injection raises the total grant amount distributed since 2018 to an impressive $106 million.
Catholic schools will see significant developments in four major projects scheduled to take place in the coming calendar year. Our Lady of Grace in Glengowrie is set to construct a new building with six classrooms and additional breakout spaces, made possible by a $2.6 million grant. This project addresses the surge in enrolment the school is experiencing.
Dominican School in Semaphore has been awarded $2.34 million to restore its heritage-listed convent. This restoration project will repurpose the building to serve as the school’s administrative hub, with additional refurbishments planned to convert current admin spaces into classrooms.
St Joseph’s School in Barmera will use an $800,000 grant to replace outdated transportable classrooms with three modern learning areas, incorporating spaces designed for innovative educational practices.
St Thomas School in Goodwood will focus on enhancing its outdoor spaces. A grant of $600,000 will be used to landscape and develop safer and more enjoyable play areas, including upgraded sports facilities.
The funding for independent schools will support 103 smaller projects in the 2024-25 financial year. These include technological upgrades like smart boards at Indie School Elizabeth, kitchen renovations at Muirden Senior College to encourage social interaction, and the replacement of worn classroom furniture at Rivergum Christian College.
Blair Boyer, Minister for Education, Training and Skills, said, “schools across the education sector need to undertake strategic capital planning to address current issues and support future needs.”
John Neate, South Australian Commission for Catholic Schools Chair, expressed gratitude for the government’s continued investment in Catholic educational institutions. Similarly, Anne Dunstan, Chief Executive of the Association of Independent Schools of South Australia, acknowledged the vital role of government funding for schools, particularly those serving educationally disadvantaged communities.
This funding initiative is crucial in ensuring South Australian schools can adapt to changing educational demands and continue to offer inclusive, high-quality educational environments.
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