Oakhill College is dedicated to a continuous and substantial Master Plan to cater to the requirements of modern-day education, rising enrollments and to further enhance our educational accomplishments. Even though tradition and the simplicity of a countryside family school are important pillars of Oakhill College, we must also offer modern learning and green areas that are designed to sustain our remarkable educational outcomes.
Our Master Plan comprises six stages:
The first phase of Oakhill College's Master Plan is the Innovation Hub, which aims to incorporate technology as a valuable tool for research, learning, and communication. To achieve this, we needed to upgrade and enhance our current science and technology facilities, including science labs that have not been significantly updated since their construction in the late 1960s.
Our Innovation Hub, opened on Saturday 22nd April, is the new home of the Science and TAS faculties, providing students with a cutting-edge learning environment. The facility features hybrid (timber, fabrication, and robotics), computer, graphics, science, and laboratory spaces, offering students an innovative and immersive educational experience. To prepare students for the rapidly changing world, this facility will empower them to explore new ideas, reflect on their learning, and become knowledge creators alongside their peers.
Notably, the Innovation Hub is situated on the same footprint as the original science building from 1938, with state-of-the-art labs facing into the center of the school site.
This groundbreaking building sets a new standard in education, revolutionizing the way our students learn and engage with technology and science.
Built amidst the challenges posed by COVID and inclement weather, our Innovation Hub stands as a testament to our commitment to sustainability. Designed as a passive build, the structure seamlessly integrates with the natural environment, emitting zero fossil fuels and significantly reducing our carbon footprint. With timber features that provide natural heating and cooling, the building harmoniously blends with the surrounding landscape while prioritizing environmental responsibility.
From the outset, our design objectives focused on creating innovative learning spaces that inspire connectivity and fluidity. Every detail has been meticulously crafted to foster an optimal, collaborative learning environment, ensuring our students thrive now and in the future.
The opening ceremony of the Innovation Hub was a star-studded event, graced by the presence of Her Excellency, Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of NSW, and other distinguished guests. Her Excellency highlighted the significant contributions of the De La Salle Brothers to education worldwide and their profound influence on Oakhill's approach to teaching and learning.
The momentous day commenced with a smoking ceremony and a blessing of the building, followed by an immersive tour of the Innovation Hub. We extend our gratitude to valued partners FDC, MostynCopper, BVN, Viridi, Urbis, and DCWC, whose professionalism, support, and collaboration have been instrumental in bringing this magnificent space to life. Together, we have created an enduring legacy.
The Hilltop Precinct has been expanded to include more green spaces and seating, connecting buildings with walkways that will greatly enhance pedestrian flow and disability access throughout the College. This community precinct is set to become a focal point as it connects our campus, featuring the Innovation Hub, Canteen (due for completion in 2023), and The Commons, which will house Pastoral and Curriculum services, and serve as the administrative hub (due for completion in 2025). Staff and students can look forward to modern spaces and enhanced amenities that cater to their needs.
Extensive landscaping has been undertaken to enhance the overall student experience, including extending the current driveway that leads to the Innovation Hub, opening out onto the courtyard. The Oakhill walk will also connect with the Innovation Hub, and the Ceremonial walkway will link to the cemetery.
The new lift in the Solomon building improves the accessibility of all levels in the Solomon and Brother Quentin buildings. This essential piece of infrastructure is another milestone toward achieving full disability access throughout the College.
Here are our Master Plan Newsletters to keep you updated on the progress:
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