Learning support centre part of $80 million school upgrades

A new learning centre for students with high support needs will be built at Marlborough Boys’ College.

Initial renovation plans for Bohally Intermediate, Marlborough Boys’ and Marlborough Girls’ Colleges have been released.

About 2450 students from across the three schools are set to benefit from the upgrades with new learning support facilities.

The move comes after funding confirmation of $70 million in the recent budget announcement.

And with additional funding from previous budgets still available, total funding comes in at more than $80 million.

Plans will see some buildings demolished, a new technology block, refurbishments and landscaping works across the three schools.

In a letter to parents, Boys’ college principal John Kendal says construction will start across the three schools in early 2025, ending the wait for the Blenheim community.

“We are pleased to be able to get this work started for the Marlborough community.

“These works will deliver safe and healthy learning environments, and additional capacity to meet forecast demand.

“We believe these changes will greatly enhance the educational experience at Marlborough Boys' College and prepare our students for future success.”

The confirmation of improvements comes after approval in 2015 to co-locate project to co-locate Marlborough's Boys' and Girls' Colleges and relocate Bohally Intermediate School.

Over the following years projected costs escalated from an estimated $170 million in 2018 to around $400 million. The plug was pulled on the project last year.

Having detail and specifics at this stage is welcomed and provides clarity for the community, says John.

Marlborough Girls’ College Acting Principal Emily Stenhouse says the total project budget is $23.14 million.

She says the school is currently in the initial planning stages for the refurbishment of buildings.

“Our goal is to create the best possible facilities for our students to support their future success.”

Bohally Intermediate School principal Nicky Cameron Dunn says design work will begin next term.

“We look forward to working with the MOE on this project. We hope to start design work and implementation plans next term.”

Projects

Marlborough Boys’ College

·       Sitewide infrastructure upgrades

·       New learning centre

·       The refurbishment and repurposing of six blocks

·       Demolition of up to four buildings

·       A new technology block

·       Replacement of the changing and fitness suite areas of the college gymnasium

·       Significant renovation of the library and main central teaching blocks

·       Landscaping work

·       Upgrades to electrical, plumbing, heating, and lighting systems

Marlborough Girls’ College

· Boiler replacement

· Fire Alarm System Upgrade

· Security system upgrade

· 3 waters upgrade

· Major refurbishment of B & C Blocks

· Light refurbishment of our admin area, staff room and toilets

· Replacement of our horticulture area (lost to the hockey turf)

· Hoping to retain 'Old Library'

Bohally Intermediate School

·       Sitewide infrastructure upgrades

·       Demolition of one school building

·       Hall refurbishment

·       Two new teaching spaces

·       Landscaping works