Sophia Italiano, Jenna van Kappel, Jess Langdon and PLC Perth principal Dr Kate Hadwen in the PLC Lighthouse.
Camera IconSophia Italiano, Jenna van Kappel, Jess Langdon and PLC Perth principal Dr Kate Hadwen in the PLC Lighthouse. Credit: Supplied/Bruce Hunt www.communitypix.com.au d481398

Presbyterian Ladies’ College Lighthouse a beacon in modern learning environments

Jessica WarrinerWestern Suburbs Weekly

NO desks, no chairs, and no whiteboards; the Presbyterian Ladies’ College (PLC) Lighthouse is not your average school building.

The world-first facility is a wellbeing centre to be used by students from pre-kindergarten to Year 12; there are floor cushions, armchairs, a recharge room, movement room, nutrition centre and more.

PLC Perth principal Kate Hadwen said there was research behind every room, with every part purpose-built; the meditation room glows a peaceful blue and can be changed with an app.

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“It’s interesting the way the students are engaging with the space,” she said.

“The longest queues are to the meditation room.”

Dr Hadwen said the aim of the Lighthouse was to equip students with tools to support their academic development and promote mental health.

“We looked at the issues young people have and the onset times, and embedded programs into the curriculum,” she said.

“It’s the programs that make this building come to life.”

Students can also book appointments to see a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist and psychologist at the Lighthouse, along with taking before or after school classes in yoga and fitness training.

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