4 February 2015
Joseph Banks Secondary College blooms in Banksia Grove
Paul Miles MLA, Eleanor Hughes (Foundation Principal), Premier Colin Barnett, Education Minister Peter Collier, and Peter Katsambanis MLC
Peter Katsambanis MLC, Member for North Metropolitan Region, today joined Premier Colin Barnett and Education Minister Peter Collier at the official opening of Joseph Banks Secondary College in Banksia Grove.
"I am proud to be part of a government that has delivered on an important election commitment to families in Banksia Grove, Carramar, Tapping and surrounding suburbs." Mr Katsambanis said.
"Local students will be able to enjoy state-of-the-art facilities as they embark on their exciting secondary school journey and at today's opening they looked amazing in their very smart new uniforms.
"I commend the foundation Principal Eleanor Hughes, the staff of the school, and the entire school community for turning what was once a dream into the reality of the magnificent new school that has emerged and will continue to grow."
“The State Government has invested $48.7million in Stage One, with a further $25million committed for Stage Two which is set for completion by 2018.
Named after botanist Sir Joseph Banks, the school will have a particular focus on science. Facilities in Stage One include 16 general learning areas, seven science laboratories, a student services centre, a performing arts block, and a cafeteria.
The college opened its doors this week to 226 Year 7 and 191 Year 8 students. Once complete in 2018, the school will provide for 1,450 students.
“In addition, the college has partnered with The University of Western Australia on a program to extend students’ learning, and students will also have access to an after-school mathematics challenge program” Mr Katsambanis said.
“Soccer and triathlon academies, a creative and performing arts academy, and a course in the Mandarin language are some of the other wonderful opportunities available for students.
"Joseph Banks Secondary College is the latest facility that the WA Liberal Government has provided for families who are setting up their homes and their future here in Perth's booming northern suburbs.
"I look forward to working with the local community to continue to provide much-needed infrastructure and amenities so our area can remain the first choice for families looking to enjoy a wonderful lifestyle, including tremendous education opportunities for their children." Mr Katsambanis concluded.
Across Western Australia, 59 major education capital works projects are expected to be finished during 2015, worth $456.9 million.
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