Ben Carroll, State Minister for Education, and former Prime Minister Julia Gillard visited Preston High School last Friday (Oct. 11) where the students have named their newest building in honour of her legacy in Australian politics.
The building is to be used as a VCE Vocational Major Centre specifically designed for senior students.
The students voted to name the school’s newest building after Ms Gillard, who they credited with modernising Australia through investment in education and advancing the cause of women as the nation’s first female prime minister.
Featuring classrooms that promote independent study and collaboration, the building was delivered in 2023 as part of a major multi-stage upgrade and expansion of the school, supported by a State Government investment of more than $34 million.
The building features four levels with areas for general learning, creative arts and design technology, and includes a library and staff area. It was designed by Smith and Tracey Architecture and delivered by S.J. Higgins.
The students also chose to name the building’s first-floor library after local First Nations author, broadcaster and teacher Tony Birch, whose novels shine a light on contemporary challenges affecting First Nations people.
“I can’t praise Preston High students highly enough for naming their VCE Vocational Major Centre after The Hon. Julia Gillard, who recognised the importance of education in modernising Australia and left a great legacy as the first woman to become prime minister,” said Mr Carroll.
Ms Gillard said: “I am honoured that Preston High School students decided to name their VCE Vocational Major Centre after me – meeting them today gives me even greater confidence that Australia has a bright future.”