A NEW primary school, expected to cost $15.3 million and set to enrol more than 230 students next year, is taking shape in Wellard.
The school, near the Emerald Park Private Estate, is set to be completed by November, with all buildings erected and the school oval being developed.
Foundation principal Geoff Miller said the school community had put forward three names to the Education Minister to consider but was not sure when a final decision would be made.
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READ NOWMr Miller said the school community had applied to become an independent public school and a steering committee representing the Wellard community had been formed.
“This committee will oversee a raft of decisions associated with opening a new school and will consult with the school community in seeking feedback,” he said.
“The Wellard school community is very excited about our new school and is looking forward to it opening at the beginning of 2018.
“Our predicted enrolment is 234 students.”
Mr Miller has more than 30 years’ experience in education and was principal of the East Hamilton Hill Primary School for 11 years before being appointed Wellard’s foundation principal.
“My time at East Hamilton Hill Primary School was extremely rewarding and certainly improved my knowledge about how students learn best,” Mr Miller said.
He has also taught in several country towns, starting at Kalgoorlie, followed by Port Hedland, Dalwallinu and Walpole.
East Hamilton Hill Primary School was a finalist in the 2015 Primary School of the Year as part of the WA Education Awards and earlier this year was acknowledged as an exemplary school by the Department of Education.
Mr Miller said he was honoured to be the foundation principal.
“With the support of the community I am relishing the opportunity to help establish a dynamic school,” he said.
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