One of Macarthur’s newer high schools has officially opened a range of ‘state-of-the-art learning centers to cater to the growing community’.
St Benedict Catholic College, Oran Park, is a Catholic high school serving over 950 students in the heart of the rapidly developing Catherine Field South.
Principal Kerrie Piatek said the new facilities were the last step in the school’s journey to provide Macarthur students with the best educational experience possible.
“Since our first day in 2011, we’ve gone from collapsible in an enclosure to an established, modern high school,†she said.
“With these latest facilities now officially open, St Benedict’s has everything students and parents expect from a successful school.”
The multi-million dollar upgrade includes a two-story library, a state-of-the-art performing arts center, and a number of contemporary general learning areas.
“The new library and new classrooms provide all of St Benedict’s students with access to cutting-edge learning spaces and resources,†said Piatek.
“The dance and theater studio offers aspiring actors, dancers and musicians the opportunity to hone their skills in a modern and supportive environment.”
Earlier this month, the buildings were blessed by the Bishop of Wollongong, Bishop Brian Mascord and officially opened by Mrs. Piatek, Camden MP Peter Sidgreaves and the Director of Schools for Catholic Education of the Diocese of Wollongong Peter Hill.
Mr Hill said the facilities demonstrate what is possible when governments and Catholic schools work together for the benefit of students.
“We value and never take for granted the funding we receive from state and federal governments,†he said.
“The continued support of the government and families of our Catholic school communities makes such facilities possible and ensures that children and youth in NSW and Australia can benefit from the high quality education offered by Catholic schools. ”
Mr. Hill challenged the students of St Benedict to make the most of the new learning spaces.
“These facilities are fantastic, but unless they are filled with your sound and your light, they will never be just buildings,†he said.
“It is up to all of you to make the most of your opportunities to learn and grow, so that wherever you go, whatever you do, you bring the light of Saint-Benedict with you and make our communities , our nation and our world a brighter place. “
To learn more, visit: dow.catholic.edu.au.
