 Schools for Our Future infrastructure inquiry has identified a series of priorities for the design, construction and renewal of public schools.){kind=link}
The Australian Education Union’s (AEU) Schools for Our Future infrastructure inquiry has identified a series of priorities for the design, construction and renewal of public schools, with co-design involving educators and local communities emerging as a key recommendation.
Speaking at the NSW Teachers Federation Annual Conference, inquiry chair Sharan Burrow said the panel’s final report would emphasise the importance of involving teachers, principals, specialist staff, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, parents and allied health professionals in school infrastructure planning.
“You can be assured, one of our priority recommendations will be the essential nature of co-design with teachers and community,” Ms Burrow said.
“There is no doubt that where principals, teachers, specialist staff, Indigenous communities, parents and allied health professionals are involved, new builds and retrofits are much more suitable for maximising the benefits and the enjoyment of schooling.”
The inquiry is examining the condition, safety and future needs of Australia’s public school infrastructure, as well as issues relating to equity, inclusion and funding. Its final report is expected to be released in October.
Consultation has included public school teachers, principals, education support staff and families, along with state and territory governments, education departments, researchers, community organisations, youth groups and organisations representing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, rural and remote communities, students with disability and young people experiencing disadvantage.
According to Ms Burrow, the inquiry has found that increasingly complex teaching and learning environments require infrastructure that is flexible, inclusive and fit for purpose.
Feedback received through the inquiry has identified several recurring priorities, including:
- flexible classrooms with breakout spaces and specialist learning areas
- greater access to natural light and sensory-friendly design
- improved acoustics and soundproofing
- dedicated wellbeing hubs providing access to specialist support services
- on-site early childhood education facilities
- before and after school care spaces that do not reduce teaching areas
- multipurpose halls and community gathering spaces
- school design that reflects local culture and community identity
- high-quality outdoor learning and play environments
- sustainable infrastructure, including renewable energy, improved insulation and reliable heating and cooling
- upgraded and accessible toilet facilities.
Inquiry deputy chair Maurie Mulheron has encouraged schools, educators and communities to make submissions before the 31 July deadline, outlining how existing facilities are meeting student and staff needs and what improvements are required to ensure schools remain safe, inclusive and fit for purpose.
“We’re not looking for essays, just a page, half a page, photos,” Mr Mulheron said.
The inquiry aims to build an evidence base to inform future advocacy for ongoing federal investment in public school infrastructure.
 Schools for Our Future infrastructure inquiry has identified a series of priorities for the design, construction and renewal of public schools.){kind=link}