The Story behind our College
Building of Officer Secondary College will be completed over 2 stages and 2 levels
Planning for Stage 1 began well before the first sod was turned and foundations lay. A planning committee worked with architects Clarke Hopkins Clarke over 2 years, to ensure that this new school was built to serve its community to the highest standard. Building of Stage 1 commenced in 2013 and was finished in December 2014. Stage 2 is under construction and will be completed in December 2015.
49 Kilometres from Melbourne, and on a greenfield site, the architects drew on 3 core elements-historical and environmental influences, 21st century learning and rapid growth prediction. Planning and design also reflects its proximity to the Cardinia Council offices to the north, Gum Scrub Creek wetlands to the east and the Officer Specialist School to the south.
Historical and environmental influence
Architectural influence is drawn from the timber industry of the 1870s, the masonry industry of the 1880s and the agricultural industry today. These are reflected throughout the interior and exteriors of the buildings and the landscaping outside. Natural ventilation and cross ventilation, thermal mass chimneys and walls for passive heating and cooling, and the use of exposed joinery defines the spaces and zones. Natural light and products to contribute to the sustainable nature of the buildings and maximises the feeling of openness.
21st century learning
Students will have access to a variety of learning environments and spaces including in Stage 1, Sciences, Technologies (wood, metal, robotics and food), Physical Education, and the Arts. All spaces in the college are technology enabled; equipped for 21st century learning. Videoconferencing, interactive data projectors, Mac labs and personal learning devices are all used to support students. Stage 2 features outside terraced amphitheatre, Performing Arts, Hospitality, Research Centre, 3 court gymnasium and Administration. All buildings and outside spaces are technology enabled and have a fully integrated Hearing Augmentation system that enables the best system for hearing impaired students primarily, but will benefit all students. Students at Officer Secondary College benefit from a broad range of educational experiences and will be supported to develop as individuals within a supportive learning community.
Rapid Growth
Predicted to have to cater for in excess of 1200 students, Officer Secondary College is built on 2 levels and in Learning Communities, all with their own student reception areas. Pre-planned spaces for relocatable buildings that are fully integrated into the architectural design of the College, have been identified.