Woodmans Hill Secondary College students are thriving in the school's new performing arts centre that was opened earlier this term.
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The new centre that includes an auditorium, music room, home economics classroom and cafe is part of a $6.2 million upgrade to the school. Other construction work is also underway to complete a new science, technology and arts centre as part of the upgrades.
Woodmans Hill Secondary College principal Stephen Fields said the first performances, assemblies and parent and student information nights had already been held in the new performing arts centre, and the students were 'loving it'.
"We are incredibly fortunate to provide this space for our students," he said.
It has already increased participation in music and had students coming together to perform.
- Stephen Fields, Woodmans Hill Secondary College
"This can change their school experience by giving them a sense of belonging."
Listen to students Dylan Stait, Year 8, Jennifer Babic, Year 8, Sophie Lyons, Year 11, and Josh Morisa, Year 8 rehearse on the new stage below.
Mr Fields said there was a high uptake of ensembles at the school. At least one third of the school, which equates to more than 100 students, is involved in extra-curricula performing arts.
Woodmans Hill Secondary College performing arts co-ordinator Libby Fowkes said the students now feel they have a purpose-built space to follow their passions.
"It is engaging them like we haven't been able to before," she said.
"I have had eight new students approach me to be a part of extra-curricula ensembles since they saw the showcase in the centre last week."
Year 11 VET Music Industry student Sophie Lyons said the new facility would allow her and fellow students to experiment and get experience performing on stage.
"It is so good for music students like us who want to experiment and start practicing now towards what we might want to do after school," she said. "Even simple things like having these cool lights and a stage to perform on means a lot to a lot of kids."
Year 10 student Jayden Vermeend is also studying VET Music. He said it was a 'thrilling' experience performing on the stage for the music showcase and he was looking forward to using the facility for future performances.
The new performing arts centre replaced an old one room assembly hall. Mr Fields said the upgrade would cater for the school's growth. Around 375 students are currently enrolled, while 140 students are already enrolled to start at the school in year seven next year.
The second new building that is currently under construction will create an integrated learning area for STEM and the arts. It is expected to be completed in time for use next year.
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