Official opening of Warnbro Community High School

3/4/96

One of Australia's most high-tech and innovative schools, Warnbro Community High School, was officially opened today by Education Minister Colin Barnett.

The school has a prime focus on technology, from access to Internet and E-mail to 'mechotronics', a system of combined computer, mechanical, electrical, and robotics systems.

Mr Barnett also said the school was one of six around the world to be linked to a special global education program via the Internet which would eventually lead to an International Environmental Summit in the USA next year.

"Warnbro is a showcase of the school of the future," the Minister said.

He said Warnbro Community High School was an excellent example of a school which was adopting technology for the present and future needs of its students.

The latest computer technology had also made a reality the concept of global education.

The Minister said existing schools were being encouraged to monitor the development and operation of Warnbro, and as new secondary schools were required, it was likely that the planning and development of the Warnbro school would be used as a model.

"The school and the community as a whole should be commended for initiating much of the innovation which is evident in the facilities and programs offered at the school," Mr Barnett said.

"Warnbro is an example of a new breed of school and is a sign of the times in the future of education."

Media contact: Carolyn Vicars 222 9699