The Hutchins School reveals $7.5m Signature Building project

The chairman of The Hutchins School board has announced a vision for the school’s Sandy Bay campus at a 175th anniversary gala event.

AN auditorium large enough to fit more than 1000 students is the key feature of a new multipurpose complex to be built at The Hutchins School.

The project, which also includes facilities for indoor sports and performance arts, will be backed by a special campaign – Make Your Mark – which aims to raise $7.5m.

It is the first time the school has undertaken a dedicated campaign in 30 years and $4.6m has already been committed by donors to assist in funding the new facility.

The chairman of The Hutchins School Board, Gene Phair, announced the vision for the campus at a 175th anniversary gala event in Hobart on Saturday night.

A 600-strong crowd including alumni, current and past staff members, parents, carers and friends of the school gathered at Princes Wharf I for a black-tie community event as part of the school’s celebrations.

Artist’s impression of the proposed Signature Building at The Hutchins School, viewed from Nelson Rd.

Mr Phair unveiled plans for the new Signature Building and said the staged project was the first priority of a master plan to position the school for continued growth.

“While final design work is still being completed, the central feature of the multipurpose facility will be an auditorium capable of congregating the entire school, complemented by facilities for indoor sports and performance,” Mr Phair said.

“This hub will become the heart of our campus and the front door to the school.”

Mr Phair said consultation, design and the development application process would start over the coming months.

Established in 1846, The Hutchins School is an Anglican day and boarding school for boys in Hobart and is recognised as one of the oldest continuously operating schools in Australia.

Student enrolment in 2021 was a record 1082 boys.