School makes way for the future

By Melissa Grant
PAKENHAM Secondary College is moving fast into the 21st century.
Demolition of the school’s art, science and technology began last week to make way for the $7 million fourth stage of building works which will see the school boast a suite of science labs and a digital art studio.
The 39-year-old college has changed dramatically in recent years with the addition of a new gymnasium, library and VCE centre but principal Emanuel Merambeliotis said the latest works were the school’s biggest yet.
“This is what schooling and education is going to look like in 2020,” he said.
“The buildings are going to be rich in ICT (information and communication technology) and open and flexible learning spaces which allow team teaching.”
Mr Merambeliotis said it was important to set up the school in a way which allowed it to move closer to its students.
“A lot of parents are concerned the school is getting too big and their kids will be lost,” he said.
“Eventually each sub-school will have its own area including its own reception.”
Students enjoyed curriculum days last Thursday and Friday while experts moved in to tear down asbestos ridden buildings.
Mr Merambeliotis said students were kept home only as a precaution and that there was no cause for alarm.
“The asbestos material is inside the lining of the building sheets,” he said.
“The asbestos is not loose, not fibrous and not in a dangerous format.”
Mr Merambeliotis said it was an exciting time for the college which is awaiting approval to begin planning on the next stage of the school’s building program.
He said stage five would include a new administration area, general purpose and specialist classrooms.