Second high school opens in Baldivis

THE second high school for Baldivis officially opened its doors on Friday, February 15 in a bid to meet growing demand.

The new $40.6 million Ridge View Secondary College welcomed 170 year 7 foundation students, with total enrolments expected to reach 1600 when the current Year 7 cohort reaches Year 12 in 2024.

The state-of-the-art facilities include a dedicated science block with 10 laboratories; woodwork, metalwork and engineering workshops; a mechatronics laboratory; food and textiles technology rooms; ICT and digital design laboratories; and eight general classrooms.

Students will also have access to a sports hall, fitness centre and multi-purpose playing courts.

Brand MP Madeleine King, Baldivis MLA Reece Whitby, Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels and others joined Education Minister Sue Ellery in welcoming the new students, community members, teachers and Principal Laurie Longworth to the school.

Ms King said it would ease pressure on Baldivis Secondary College.

“Another high school means more educational resources and more opportunities for young people in Baldivis,” she said.

“Ridge View, in addition to every public school in Baldivis, is set to benefit by a $14 billion cash injection if Labor wins government at the May federal election.

Minister Ellery said the school is working with other local schools.

“The college is working closely with its partner primary schools, Tuart Rise, Settlers and Makybe Rise to create a seamless kindergarten to Year 12 pathway for students in the future,” she said.

Mr Whitby said the facilities were world class.

“Having toured the school with new parents recently, I can tell you Baldivis is getting a school that is world-class and will serve our community for decades to come,” he said.

“I want to acknowledge the school staff and parents whose input was vital to ensuring the local community’s desires and expectations for the children’s education were recognised.”