First public high-rise school nears competition for 2020 term one open date

The first high-rise school in NSW is taking shape ahead of its opening in early 2020.

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The new $225 million skyscraper Arthur Phillip High School is a step closer to completion after the first level was officially opened yesterday.

Parramatta State Liberal MP Geoff Lee said the first public high-rise school in NSW — slated to open for term one next year — would help address the west’s growing pains.

“Once this project is complete, it will accommodate 2000 secondary students, which is significant,” Mr Lee said.

“Arthur Phillip is cleverly designed to provide flexible teaching spaces and adaptable rooms, as well as indoor and outdoor landscaped spaces.

The views from the new Arthur Phillip High.

How the new 17-storey Arthur Phillip High School will look when it opens in early 2020.

“The school harnesses the latest in education to offer students the very best learning environment, and connects with nearby educational facilities such as Parramatta Public School and the University of Western Sydney.”

Students and teachers are expected to visit the 17-storey school in the next few months to gain a better understanding of how it will function.

Mr Lee said it would offer “innovative, connected outdoor spaces that enable play and collaborative learning”.

Students will have the option of using large lifts, but will be encouraged to use the stairs.

Another 1000 students will attend the new primary school across the road on Macquarie St.

It is due for completion later this year.

The whole project is expected to cost $325 million.