Public schools in Carnarvon to merge for best educational opportunities
School will link with industry, commerce and the Carnarvon community
Premier Colin Barnett and Education Minister Liz Constable today announced a major revamp of public education in Carnarvon.
Carnarvon Senior High School and East Carnarvon and Carnarvon primary schools will amalgamate in 2013 to form Carnarvon Community College.
Mr Barnett said the State Government was committed to investing in regional schools so that all Western Australian children had access to 21st century learning environments, inspiring teachers and first-rate programs.
"We are making a major investment in education for Carnarvon, with $7million allocated from State Government's Royalties for Regions funding to begin the development of the college," he said.
"This is the biggest development in education that Carnarvon has ever seen. The college will give students access to the best aspects of each of the town's schools. Students will be at the one school from kindergarten to year 12 where they will have access to a wider range of programs and courses to meet their needs.
"As Carnarvon continues to develop, it is important we ensure its young people are well placed for the future."
At the turning of the first sod of soil this morning, Dr Constable said it was a historic occasion marking the beginning of a new era in public education for the town and surrounding areas.
"The principal, Michael Henderson, was appointed last December and the transition to a single school is already under way with all four-year-old children now on the East Carnarvon Primary School site," she said.
"The community has been an integral part of the decision-making process with consultation on combining the three schools commencing in 2009. The community supported the decision to amalgamate the schools and there has been extensive consultation over the name. Further discussions will occur later this year to create the new school uniform, logo and motto."
Fact File
College will be located on the East Carnarvon Primary School site
The site will also house a trade training centre
Carnarvon Community College will begin operating as one school in 2013
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Education Minister's office - 6552 5700
