The recent redevelopment at St Columba College is more than just a construction project; it’s a vision brought to life, reshaping how students learn and connect. Completed in November 2023, the new Middle School campus, designed by Swanbury Penglase Architects and built by Mossop Construction + Interiors, is an architectural reflection of the school’s dedication to providing inclusive, modern learning spaces for students.
From new classrooms and breakout spaces to performing arts and music facilities, the two-storey building stands as a bridge between academic pursuits and community development. Its architectural form and function not only support student wellbeing but also foster collaboration and creativity, ensuring a supportive environment for all students.
A Masterplan Rooted in Student Wellbeing
St Columba’s new Middle School building serves as the face of the campus, showcasing a design that places student needs at the forefront. The architecture offers flexible and adaptable spaces, allowing students to move seamlessly between social and academic activities. By enhancing the school’s indoor-outdoor connections, the building creates a harmonious flow of spaces that cater to both the academic curriculum and personal wellbeing.
Whether students are gathering in breakout areas or engaging in creative pursuits in the new performing arts spaces, the design reinforces a sense of community, offering students the chance to thrive in an environment that is as functional as it is inspiring.
Fielders' Contribution: Architectural Innovation Meets Functionality
In collaboration with the design and construction teams, Fielders played a pivotal role in bringing the new St Columba Middle School to life, providing cutting-edge building products that supported the project’s vision.
One of the key materials used was KingKlip® 700, a concealed fixed roofing system, in Surfmist® Matt, which spans approximately 2000m² of the building’s roof. Known for its long, clean lines and impressive spanning capabilities, KingKlip® 700 added a sleek and contemporary touch to the school’s new facilities. Manufactured on-site through Fielders’ Mobile Mill, the roofing was seamlessly installed without the logistical challenges of transportation, providing efficiency while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
Additionally, Prominence® cladding in Basalt® Matt was selected for 800m² of the building's exterior. This product brought both durability and elegance, with its distinctive mid-height ribs and broad, flat pans. The Matt finish beautifully diffuses light, giving the building a textured, modern appearance that blends harmoniously with its surroundings. Together, KingKlip® and Prominence® helped achieve the project’s architectural goals, reinforcing the building’s design integrity while meeting the structural demands.
Supporting the College’s Transformational Journey
The redevelopment also involved transforming existing structures into versatile, high-functioning spaces, such as converting the school’s lecture theatre into a dynamic Performing Arts Centre. These spaces were designed to support St Columba’s academic and cultural growth, with Fielders’ Kingflor® adding structural support across 1200m², though unseen in the final design, providing the strong foundations required for a multi-purpose space.
The entire campus redevelopment has helped unify the Middle and Senior School campuses, encouraging flow and connection through upgraded facilities, car parks, and sporting areas. This connection not only impacts the physical layout of the campus but also enhances the sense of community within St Columba, ensuring that students and staff alike have access to modern, collaborative environments.
A Vision for the Future of Education
Fielders’ involvement in this significant project highlights the value of integrating innovative building products into educational environments. By contributing to the creation of spaces that prioritise student wellbeing, flexibility, and collaboration, we are proud to support St Columba College in its mission to provide the best possible learning experience for its students.
The new Middle School building stands as a testament to the importance of design and innovation in influencing the future of education, a space where students can learn, grow, and thrive.
