New school planned for popular Wandina

• New primary school being built south of Geraldton

• 100 public school students already live within one kilometre of school site 

Families in Geraldton's booming southern corridor are one step closer to getting a new school to serve their growing community.

Education Minister Liz Constable turned the first sod of soil today on the Brittania Parade site of a new primary school in Wandina, seven kilometres south of Geraldton's city centre.

"This school was an election commitment and I'm pleased local families are closer to having access to a new, modern learning facility," Dr Constable said.  

"The State Government is investing extensively in schools and is committed to meeting the educational and social needs of growing communities.

"The greater Geraldton area has expanded significantly in the past 10 years and is predicted to continue expanding with new major projects.

"Wandina is a growing area and 100 public school students already live within a kilometre of the Brittania Parade site so the new school is ideally located to meet the area's needs.

"Site works are expected to start at the end of the year and the first stage of buildings for kindergarten to year 3 students is expected to be ready for the 2014 school year."

The Minister said the Wandina community had been very active in securing a new school for the area and urged them to continue their support.

"I hope the community continues to show its support for the school as it progresses through the stages of development over the next 18 months," she said.

"I'm sure the school will be a central part of this community, supported by parents who understand the value of encouraging their children's learning."

      Fact File

• Eastman Poletti Sherwood Architects have started site plans

• New school to be located on Brittania Parade, Wandina

• Will open with kindergarten to year 3 students in 2014

• $8million has been allocated for the first stage

Minister's office - 6552 5700