Stage One of St John’s Grammar School’s Master Plan introduces a cutting-edge Education Centre, Arts Precinct, and Technology and Enterprise Precinct, all interconnected by a central courtyard that serves as a vibrant gathering space for the school community. The design prioritizes a seamless integration of these three distinct learning precincts while addressing the challenges of a sloping site and incorporating the school’s valued heritage features.

The Education Centre will serve as the primary entry point to the campus, offering a state-of-the-art facility that fosters personalised, high-quality learning experiences. A new library will occupy half of the centre, providing a dynamic space for independent, student-led learning while also being adaptable for hosting school events. The remaining half of the centre will house student services, counselling, and staff facilities, creating a dedicated hub where students can access essential support and engage directly with school leadership.

The Arts Precinct and Technology and Enterprise Precinct are designed as interconnected learning environments, encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration. These spaces move beyond traditional subject-specific activities, instead fostering creativity, problem-solving, and innovation across multiple fields.

Sustainability is a key focus, with features such as stormwater capture, solar power, and Indigenous vegetation enhancing the campus’s environmental performance. The integrated landscape design respects the school’s heritage gardens while introducing new pedestrian pathways, outdoor learning areas, and improved access points from Gloucester Avenue, ensuring a balance between modern innovation and historical preservation.

Design: DesignInc
Photography: Sam Noonan