The new VCE Centre at Traralgon Secondary College reinvigorates an outdated campus and instills a sense of pride within the regional school community. It represents stage 1 of a broader master plan developed for the dual campus and sets the pace and design language as the school evolves into a future-focused hub.
Situated in the eastern Latrobe Valley, the school draws students from across the Gippsland region. Originally established in the 1960s it had been years since the local government college had received funding for capital works. Uninspiring learning environments were impacting enrolment numbers and school spirit, with instances of student vandalism in existing buildings.
Centered on student autonomy and empowerment, the dynamic new building accommodates a range of uses: large group presentations, hands-on creative activities, collaborative learning, places for small meetings to converge as well as communal space for casual interaction and social learning. An engaging communal space, presentation area and upgraded learning areas support diverse abilities and offer greater chose in learning pathways.
Underpinned by biophilic design, the building is orientated so each learning space has open access to surrounding gardens creating a strong connection between students and their surrounding environment. The building itself uses energy, passive thermal management, generous glazing and cross ventilation, as well as a porous spatial flow between health-driven interiors and inviting landscaped areas.
