Brunswick School 'transformed' by Accelerated Modernisation Scheme

Chairwoman Kate Osborne cutting the ribbon to officially open the building. Photo / Logan Tutty

A revamp at Brunswick School which includes an outdoor learning area will "transform" the way pupils use the school.

The building has had substantial structural work done along with refurbishment of the classrooms and the library with French doors opening up onto a new outdoor deck that will be used for learning as well as school events.

Kaumātua from Ngā Rauru blessed the building with Brunswick students singing of waiata at a ceremony on Friday.

Principal Jane Corcoran said it had been a long time coming and was absolutely stoked with the final result.

"Today is very significant for both the history and the future of Brunswick School," she said.

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"This project has transformed our school and how the students engage with
their learning environment."

Having indoor and outdoor learning spaces was key, Corcoran said.

Instead of a traditional red ribbon, the school decided to reuse bailing twine to make their ribbon as a nod to their enviro school status.

Chairwoman Kate Osborne had the honour of cutting the ribbon and officially opening the new build.

Brunswick principal Jane Corcoran said it is great to have a space that links indoors and outdoors. Photo / Logan Tutty

Corcoran said the Accelerated Modernisation Scheme from the Ministry of Education was key to the project, doubling the amount of money in their five-year annual property project budget.

"AMS money must be used to fit certain Ministry of Education property criteria.

"Part of the priority was providing suitable outdoor learning spaces and breakout spaces for classrooms. I think that we have done a superb job of meeting these requirements.

"We feel so privileged. It was a lot of hard work to get here, but couldn't be happier."