The transformation began last week with an overhaul of garden beds in front of the school and will continue in coming months with a newly-built toilet block and storage space, and a series of habitats, new spaces and imaginative play areas along the Armstrong Street side of the school.

Last week the team started on the front of the school, with new plants in the garden beds to add colour to the front of the school.

"We had old shrubby stuff that was not looking great and we just wanted to spruce it up, so we were talking to one of our maintenance guys who is passionate about the school looking great and doing well ... and he offered to go half in whatever the plants cost," said principal Kim Carey.

He also organised a donation of old carpet to put under the plants to help keep weeds down and Delacombe's Spot on Pots came in to advise on the best plants to add some colour to the area.

"Community is so important at Macarthur Street and we really want to make sure students have that learning opportunity but we also want pride in the grounds in the school community," she said.

"It makes your heart sing when you think about generosity especially in these times, people are still looking to go out of their way to help and support."

The school's 1970s-era toilet block is also set to be rebuilt in the coming months but the painted mural on the front, which represents the history of the school, will be maintained.

An outdoor classroom being established will gain extra space, a veranda and there will be extra storage areas for outdoor learning needs.

"We're also working out in the back corner of the school on a massive project that we are tackling in stages," Ms Carey said.

"We've got a grant for bird habitat to plant natives and redo that area, and we are going to create a series of play zones for creative play, to foster curiosity and get kids to use their imagination," she said. "Things like a fairy garden, marble run, car play and other activities to develop different gross and fine motor skills."

They are hope to install a range of cubby houses to create a 'Macarthur Village' and further opportunities for outdoor learning.

"Everything is on the burner but it's just amazing to get the front garden actually moving," she said. "It's very exciting and all these projects will tie together to create amazing grounds. We've got beautiful grounds but they're a bit tired and need some oomph so they represent the pride that's in the school and community here."

Our team of local journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the Ballarat community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: