Encounter Announces $5.7 Million Campus Expansion
By Julian Schubert | Marketing & Communications Manager
New Year 9 and Performing Arts Learning Centre to enhance learning opportunities for students
Encounter Lutheran College is continuing its commitment to delivering exceptional learning experiences, with construction set to commence on a new Year 9 and Performing Arts Learning Centre as part of a significant $5.7 million investment in the future of the College campus.
This exciting project has been partially funded by the Australian Government through a $1 million grant administered by the Association of Independent Schools' Block Grant Authority. The College is sincerely grateful for this contribution, which will support the development of innovative learning environments that enhance educational and creative opportunities for students.
The development, known as Stage 13, represents another significant milestone in the College's long-term vision to provide contemporary learning environments that inspire creativity, collaboration and student success.
Since 2012, Encounter Lutheran College has invested more than $33 million in capital works, supporting its transformation from a primary school into a thriving Early Learning to Year 12 College. This latest investment continues that legacy, ensuring the College remains well positioned to meet the needs of current and future generations of students.
The new two-storey Year 9 and Performing Arts Learning Centre has been thoughtfully designed to strengthen teaching and learning while creating spaces where students can explore their creativity, build confidence and connect with others.
The ground floor will feature dedicated Drama teaching and performance space along with facilities for OSHC (Out of School Hours Care) which includes a welcoming foyer, kitchen and servery, specialist storage areas, change rooms and amenities.
Upstairs, three contemporary Year 9 classrooms, meeting and office spaces will provide flexible learning environments that encourage collaboration and engagement. An elevated bridge will connect the new centre with the existing Year 7 Learning Centre, providing seamless access via the College's existing lift and further integrating the campus.
Principal, Mr Shane Jurecky, said the project reflected the College's commitment to investing in learning environments that inspire students to thrive.
"Every building tells a story about what a school values, and this development reflects our commitment to creating exceptional spaces where students can learn, grow and discover their passions."
"Our vision is to create learning environments that equip young people with the confidence, creativity and character to thrive in an ever-changing world. The Year 9 and Performing Arts Learning Centre is a significant investment in that vision, providing contemporary spaces where students can discover their gifts, collaborate with others and experience learning in meaningful ways."
"As Encounter continues to grow, we're investing not only in buildings, but in the experiences, opportunities and relationships that shape every student's journey. It's exciting to see the next chapter of Encounter taking shape, and we're grateful for the continued support of our College community as we continue to invest in the future of education on the South Coast."
The new Performing Arts facilities will provide students with enhanced opportunities to develop their creativity, confidence and collaboration through purpose-built spaces.
Construction is expected to continue throughout the remainder of 2026, with the Year 9 and Performing Arts Centre anticipated to be completed in Term 3 2027.
Mr Jurecky said the project was about far more than new buildings.
"Our facilities should inspire learning, foster connection and support every student to thrive. This investment is another important step in ensuring our learning environments reflect the quality of education we aspire to provide and our commitment to preparing young people for the future."
As Encounter Lutheran College continues to grow, the new Year 9 and Performing Arts Learning Centre reinforces the College's commitment to providing outstanding educational opportunities where every student is encouraged to thrive, connect and belong.
Encounter Lutheran College acknowledges the Ramindjeri people of the Ngarrindjeri Country as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and learn. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
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