L-R.Principal Ross Sutherland, Kevin Conolly, Adrian Piccoli, Barry O' Farrell and students.
STUDENTS at Parklea High School were thrilled to find some improvements to their school when they returned.
The work was part of the state government’s $450 million program.
Premier Barry O’Farrell said the government was tackling the $1 billion maintenance backlog and ensuring school facilities were updated.
“The summer holidays are a particularly busy time for building and maintenance work in our schools and students may notice some of those improvements now completed,’’ he said.
The government’s capital works program in 2012/13 includes eight new schools, extensive work at 19 schools for specific purposes including major expansions and the replacement of demountable buildings, as well as projects for students with disabilities at 115 schools.
Mr O’Farrell said a total of 138 schools would benefit from joint funding with local school communities for projects including new covered outdoor learning areas, upgrades to canteens, sports courts and administration areas, and new covered walkways.
Others include minor capital works worth $197 million for projects like new science labs and toilets.
Education Minister Adrian Piccoli said public schools begin the school year with record funding and principals with more authority than ever before.
“We are backing our reforms with a record $53.5 billion in funding over the next four years, compared to $46 billion in the last four years,” he said.