Innovation at its core is future-focused and collaborative

A two-storey Science and Art Centre and innovation hub featuring three flexible science laboratories, three art and design studios, two breakout spaces and two landscaped gardens.

The building project, when complete, will sit proudly at the entrance of the College. The two multi-sport courts closest to the Front Office will become the site of the Tenison Centre.

The building project also involves the relocation of the waste area and the addition of a water tank where the existing Art transportables are located.

There will be very little impact on classroom learning during construction, with only the existing Art transportables being removed.

Art and design lessons will temporarily be relocated to the main building. Existing classrooms will be reconfigured to function as Art and Design learning spaces. Science learning will not be disrupted.

We are committed to regular discussions with building contractors to ensure minimal impact on our students and the community. The construction zone is conveniently and safely segregated from classroom learning spaces, minimising disruptions to students.  

Where required for sport, recreation and co-curricular activities, external facilities will be sourced.

The total cost of the building project will be $10 million. We consider the redevelopment essential to maintaining the standard of excellence in education known at Mary MacKillop College. 

This significant investment to expand facilities will be largely supported by existing College reserves. Additional financing through a loan will also be required, which will be actively managed by the College.

As per our current arrangement, parents have the choice of contributing to building projects through donations to the optional Building Fund. We thank our parents for their ongoing support as we invest in an environment for MacKillop girls to thrive in their learning.

During construction, some disruption to traffic flow and parking is expected. The College will work closely with building contractors to minimise the impact on our community. The existing four multi-sport courts will become a dedicated construction zone, safely segregated from the main College campus and roadside. Two of the courts will house the building site, while the remaining two courts will be utilised by building contractors.

The existing multi-sport courts are degrading due to tree roots and currently under-utilised. It is anticipated that the new facility is a better use of space and will improve the overall learning experience of our students. The College will work with community organisations to source alternative locations for sporting requirements. We are dedicated to ensuring the educational and physical needs of our students are not only met but exceeded.

During construction, the four multi-sport courts will become a dedicated construction zone. At completion, the two eastern multi-sport courts will be refreshed. In addition, the College will have two landscaped gardens and the gymnasium for sports and outdoor activity, which we anticipate is sufficient for the number of girls enrolled at the College.

On the contrary – this is an exciting opportunity to capture the College’s proud history in a landmark design that will carry our outstanding traditions of excellence well into the future. The new building will become an environment to foster opportunities for girls in STEAM as well as honour inspiring female scientists and artists. This new space brings the College’s history of excellence into a new era of innovation and empowerment.

Mary MacKillop College remains committed to providing a strong academic education, with a focus on personal excellence. Ultimately this development will ensure we are able to continue to deliver the standard of education known at MacKillop.

The project will include some exciting additions which will reinforce our position as a school of outstanding opportunities. Plans include flexible learning spaces, dedicated science laboratories and innovative art studios designed to enhance creative pursuits. Students will further benefit from modern technology and a contemporary learning space that promotes collaboration, innovation and creativity. The facility meets the growing demands of STEAM education and has been designed to inspire a future generation of women in STEAM. 

Our building contractors have been meticulously selected to limit the impact on neighbouring properties. Construction and heavy machinery noise will strictly adhere to City of Norwood, Payneham and St Peters regulations.

We anticipate the build will take 12 to 18 months from start to competition. This takes into account minor delays experienced in the current climate. Works will commence in Term 4 2022  and are expected to be completed by the commencement of the 2024 school year. We thank our neighbours for their patience and understanding as we build an environment that will inspire future generations of young women.

We are pleased to announce that Sarah Construction has been appointed as the capital development builders. This highly regarded SA-owned and operated company has successfully completed many projects in the education sector.

All building project question and queries can be directed to tenisoncentre@marymackillop.sa.edu.au. Alternatively you are welcome to call the College on 08 8333 6300 and speak to a member of our Leadership Team

Families can opt to donate money to the Building Fund through EFT transfer using the details below.

Bank SA

Mary MacKillop College Building Fund

BSB 105-010

Acc 128 543 440

Any donations are fully tax deductible.

Other donations from families, Old Scholars or community members are always welcome. To express your interest, please email finance@marymackillop.sa.edu.au or call 08 8333 6300. A member of our Finance Team will be in touch.