A new purpose-built facility at Southern Hills will house the drama and music performance facilities for the SCEA school in Bedfordale, with teachers and students buzzing in anticipation of the action ahead of them in the years to come!
The facility, which will be built out of fire-resistant materials and act as a ‘refuge centre’ in the event of an emergency, will have a construction cost of more than $4 million and will require a Capital Grant Application (Federal grant funding) along with other forms of government contributions.
College Principal Mr Paul Beacham was happy to see the project moving forward this week after seeking wide consultation from staff and local experts on how the centre could be designed for optimal usage.
“We are very blessed to have Mrs Renate Sykes [Music Subject Coordinator] and Mrs Chelsea Horner [Drama Coordinator] on our staff here at Southern Hills. They have invigorated students, equipped them to a point where a creative space is needed, and then taken time to design this centre so that our students can flourish in this new space,” said Mr Beacham.
Recently, the College has had success with their Year 11 Drama students coming second in the ‘Act Belong Commit YOH Fest Grand Finals 2024’ in Mandurah, demonstrating the potential of the students under the expert tutelage of Mrs Horner.
As well as this new project, the College is now planning for more than $400,000 worth of minor capital works around the College – including upgrades to the Home Economics room (the home of high-school cooking!) and the student change rooms and toilet facilities.
As the announcement of Mr Brett Costin as incoming Principal for Southern Hills hit the email inboxes of staff and parents this week, Mr Beacham reflected on the legacy of upgraded facilities and a new theatre building for the College in the coming years.
“Our goal has always been to offer students as many opportunities as possible at Southern Hills. I think these new initiatives will serve the College well for years to come, and I am very happy to see any expansion that can be offered to enhance the excellent educational experience for our families here in Bedfordale,” said Mr Beacham.
with Southern Hills students this week.
