Carinity Education Shalom, an independent school situated in Townsville, specialising in education for children from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, is undergoing expansion.
Since its establishment in 2019, student numbers have more than tripled. In response to the rising enrolments, new buildings at the school will be inaugurated on Friday.
The refurbished science center and general learning areas serve to accommodate the school's swift growth, with the student population having increased by 23 per cent over the past year.
This $2.15 million building initiative has been collaboratively funded by Carinity and the Queensland Independent Schools Block Grant Authority, an Australian Government capital assistance scheme.
Christine Hill, Executive Manager of Carinity Educational Services, noted that apart from new classroom spaces, the upgraded facilities encompass three withdrawal rooms, a teachers' workroom, and a storeroom.
Additionally, three covered outdoor learning areas have been erected, and classroom furniture and equipment have been supplied.
"Building these beautiful new facilities provides solid evidence that Carinity Education is here to meet the needs of young Townsville people," Ms Hill said.
Previously known as Shalom Christian College, the school in Condon was on the verge of closure before its acquisition by Carinity.
Since its inception, the school has introduced one new student grade annually and is set to welcome its Year 12 cohort in 2024.
"With around 90% of its students identifying as First Nations Australians, Carinity Education Shalom provides a culturally sensitive and supportive learning environment for young people," Ms Hill said.
"The school also offers free extra support services focused on assisting families and maintaining student health and well-being."
Sharyn Ive, the School Principal, emphasised that Carinity Education Shalom holds great significance in Townsville, particularly for the city's First Nations community.
"Our school's vision is to create a community where students are loved, accepted and supported to reach their full potential," she said.
"All the staff know each child by name, and our priority is to maintain a culturally safe, secure environment where all children experience belonging."
"Our approach to teaching ensures our students are learning in a supportive environment, meeting the cultural, emotional and spiritual needs each of individual child."
Carinity also operates the Fairfield Grange aged care community in Idalia and home care services spanning the Townsville district, along with retirement villages, chaplaincy services, youth and family counseling services, disability support programs, youth crisis accommodation, and special assistance schools across Queensland.
