Victorian School Building Authority’s objective

To deliver 13 new schools and seven early learning centres in Victoria.  

Background

In response to growing demand within Victoria, the Department of Education and Training identified the need for 13 new schools and seven early learning centres. These are to be delivered by the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) in time for teaching in the 2020, 2021 and 2022 school years. 

The design services and consultancy agreements were split into three separate geographically-based ‘bundles’.

The program of works will cater for 7,000 students, with master planned capacity identified for 13,000.

Johnstaff’s role

Johnstaff was engaged to provide both Project Management and Superintendent services for the VSBA New Schools 2020 Program from site analysis and master planning to project completion and defects liability period. 

Johnstaff is responsible for managing all of the geographic bundles and consultants in a fast tracked design process. The program of works included schools to be delivered in 2020, 2021 and 2022. These include eight new schools and three early learning centres (ELC) ready for the 2020 school year, four new schools and one ELC ready for the 2021 school year, and the Endeavour Hills Specialist School scheduled for 2022 (pending construction funding). 


New Schools 2020 Program, Victoria

Addressing the issues

With unmovable deadlines for the schools to be operationally ready, we progressed the design and site acquisition processes in parallel with the design. This was progressively updated as further site information became available.

We also used a fast-tracked Design and Construct procurement methodology to achieve procurement objectives and desired risk allocation. 

The schools, other than the specialist school, were located in growth areas to meet projected demands. This included Botanic Ridge, the first full campus modular school in Victoria that is a potential prototype for future delivery.


map of the project location

Outcomes

  • Market conditions and capacity limitations addressed with three design contracts and five construction contracts

  • First full campus modular school established in Victoria

  • All 2020 schools delivered on time

  • The program of works will cater for 7,000 students with master planned capacity identified for 13,000