CEFPI NZ site visit – Stonefield School, Auckland

On 23 November CEFPI Australasia launched the New Zealand chapter at Stonefield School, in Mount Wellington, a new and developing suburb in Auckland.

The opening slide on the screen described the philosophy of the school: Think big and be brave. This week the school reached the milestone of 100 students. It is located in an old bluestone quarry, and is the heart of a growing community. Designed by local Auckland architect Hamish Boyd and his team at Jasmax, Stonefields commenced with its first students this year. The vision and enthusiasm of the Principal Sarah Martin and her Associate Principal Chris Bradbeer was infectious. The design facilitates collaboration and provides a comfortable and engaging learning environment. Stonefields School aptly fits the CEFPI by-line Where great schools begin.

The NZ Chapter was launched by Australasian Chair, Andrew Pender and was attended by 30 people representing schools, architects and the New Zealand Ministry of Education.

Andrew's opening address highlighted how the growing interest from New Zealand in the work of CEFPI has seen increasing numbers attend the annual conference in Australia over the last few years. It was a natural progression that a New Zealand Chapter be established. 

In Australia, and now New Zealand and Singapore, CEFPI is increasingly engaged in dialogue with government concerning effective school design, it is supporting research projects and presenting regional awards recognising outstanding school design.

It you are interested in contributing to the establishment of a Chapter in NZ or finding out about the next event in NZ contact Hamish Boyd hb@jasmax.com