QLD Chapter: Yeronga State School First Site Tour 2024

The Queensland Chapter kicked off its 2024 site tours with a visit to Yeronga State School, spotlighting an innovative approach to repurposing a former dentist's building. On February 14th, over 40 members of the Queensland Chapter gathered at Yeronga State School to explore the remarkable $10.8 million, two-story structure. This unique building boasts a range of features tailored to enhance the primary school experience, including new administration offices, open-plan classrooms, and a flexible learning centre. The revitalisation of the abandoned Department of Health Dental Building spanned the 2021 and 2022 school years, transforming it into a vibrant focal point within the school grounds. Situated at the heart of the campus, the facility has successfully united previously disparate areas, fostering greater connectivity among students, staff and the wider community. The addition of new amenities, reception areas, seminar rooms and thoughtfully landscaped surroundings has significantly enriched the overall school environment, encouraging interaction and collaboration. Central to the transformation are the flexible learning spaces, comprising nine classrooms and a multipurpose Curiosity Centre. These innovative spaces have revolutionised the delivery of the school's curriculum, promoting active engagement and exploration among students. Though not without its challenges, the project has provided valuable insights into the potential of repurposing existing structures to meet evolving needs. Eunice Webb, Principal of Yeronga State School, shared her unwavering commitment to fostering student creativity within this purpose-built centre, emphasising the school's dedication to empowering learners and nurturing curiosity. Architect Rachel Towill, of Towill Design, offered insights into the complexities of the project, highlighting the transformation of the once clinical and disused dentist building into an inclusive, two-story creative hub. The strategic placement of the stairwell, facilitating improved interaction with the school's main thoroughfare, further underscores the thoughtful design approach. A comparison of before-and-after images vividly illustrates the remarkable transformation of the building, now serving as a valuable asset for the entire school community. Through collaborative effort and forward-thinking design, Yeronga State School has successfully reimagined a neglected structure into a dynamic centre for education and community engagement. Article Written by: Timothy Barraud, QLD Chapter Chair Photographer: Timothy Barraud, QLD Chapter Chair