A Centre for Learning – 2019
Published: 6 February 2019
Villanova College commenced in 1948 and is conducted by the Order of St Augustine at Coorparoo, Brisbane, Australia. It has taken steps towards a new building in time for Term One in 2020.
Main entrance of Villanova College, Coorparoo
In Queensland, natural growth is occurring in all schools in Queensland because of various changes initiated by the State Government in recent years, i.e., in 2007 the inclusion of a Prep at the beginning of student life, in 2008 a change in the school starting age, and in 2015 Year 7 moving from the primary school department to the secondary school department. These factors will next year see Villanova’s student population grow to approximately 1,326 male day students, and will require an extra five full-time teachers.
As part of Villanova’s ongoing approach to moving towards a student-oriented 21st Century learning model, it is proposed to add a four-storey Learning Centre on the western side of the Villanova campus.
Pending ministerial designation under the Queensland Planning Act of 2016, this new building will generally comprise the following: a covered area, a Junior School learning suite, amenities, staff rooms and offices on levels 1 and 2, and a Senior School learning suite, amenities, auditorium and offices on level 3.
In writing to the Villanova parent body, Mr Mark Stower (Principal) explained, “The new Learning Centre will feature flexible spaces for students to engage with leaning in a variety of modes ranging from multiple classes to small groups. The connections with the outside spaces have been enhanced in the design.”
The required public consultation period, which invited comments from local neighbours, took place, and has now concluded. If all required approvals are granted, construction work will begin in March 2019 and end by January 2020. This Learning Centre is Stage One of the College’s present Master Plan.
