South Australia Minister for Education Susan Close

Designs Revealed For Adelaide’s Second City High School

Victor P Taffa

Adelaide’s new city high school will boast cutting-edge learning spaces focused on science and health studies, as well as environmentally friendly buildings and outdoor areas.

“The concept design is modern and exciting, and sits beautifully within the Park Lands.” Minister for Education Susan Close said.

“The school’s strong focus on STEM subjects is reflected in the cutting edge science, design and technology laboratories which will help prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.”

The Government is investing a further $15 Million in the school in order to increase the capacity by 250 students. The $100 Million school is on track to open at the beginning of
Term 1, 2019, and will cater for 1,250 students.

Concept designs released today reveal a completely refurbished Reid building linked by a glass atrium to a brand new six-storey building with rooftop terrace.

“This new city school on Frome Road will enhance a remarkable education precinct consisting of major Universities, the Adelaide Zoo and Botanic Gardens.” Studio Director for Cox Architecture Adam Hannon said.

“Our design will transform the current Reid building and its surrounding site to create a technology rich, multi-disciplinary and contemporary learning environment.”

The new city high school will have seven storeys, including a basement and open-planned plaza space at ground level.

Key features of the design include:

• State-of-the art science, design and technology laboratories and equipment, underpinning the school’s strong focus on STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics);
• Food technology kitchens, to help uncover and support the next generation of young innovators who will promote South Australia’s outstanding food to the world;
• ‘Maker spaces’ for students to get creative through design technology, media studies, art;
• Smart, environmentally friendly buildings which minimise energy and water use;
• Modern library and research centre;
• A gallery space on the plaza level visible to Frome Road, which can be used for community events and to display student works;
• Extensive external learning and recreation spaces for students in and around the parklands and on the building’s upper level;
• Music and drama practice and learning spaces;
• Secure basement bicycle parking for 170 bicycles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The design of the new school emphasises environmental sustainability, including climate control measures and the planting of drought tolerant species.

The school’s central location and connectivity to a large walking and cycling network, along with accessible public transport options, promotes take-up of green travel options such as walking, cycling, carpooling and the use of public transport.

Background

Local firm Cox Architecture has partnered with DesignInc, TCL, AECOM and KBR to design the new CBD high school.

Construction is anticipated to commence in December 2016.

A key stakeholder group has been established to represent school community interests and provide feedback on operational decisions such as zoning, the school name, dress code and enrolment requirements.

Representatives include high school and feeder primary school governing council members, and Australian Education Union and relevant principals associations.