The Dr. Pamela Wall Centre reached it’s halfway milestone in its construction journey, so we celebrated.

Builders Club
Some of you may not be aware that during the early development of the Dr. Pamela Wall Centre a Builders Club formed –  a team of six enthusiastic Year 4,5 and 6 students — Solly, Max, Jakobo, Oscar, Adalyn, and Billie. These students have been given a unique opportunity to experience a major construction project up close.

Formed at the start of the construction phase of the build, the Builders Club was created to give students a behind-the-scenes look at the step-by-step process of delivering a large-scale project. From building plans to building tours, the students have been actively involved in exploring what it takes to bring such a vision to life.

Early on, they met with Business Director David Brock, who walked them through the initial building plans. Since then, they’ve had a wide range of hands-on learning experiences, including:

• Reviewing 2D building plans and rendered images, then comparing these with the real-world site once the first stage of footings was laid
• Viewing drone footage of the early siteworks to understand the project from a bird’s-eye view
• Exploring the 3D steel frame model and discussing its importance in the structure of the building
• Learning how critical infrastructure such as power and fire safety systems are integrated into the design
• Meeting with the Business Director to discuss the overall project timeline and construction strategy
• Examining early material samples, including concrete wall finishes and the proposed theatre seating
• Engaging in a Q&A session with the Construction Site Manager about day-to-day operations and site safety
• Meeting the Architect to discuss the design journey — from early concepts through to final plans
• Touring the site during the early stages of steel frame installation for a firsthand look at progress

In addition, two students have taken on the role of documenting the build by capturing daily progress photos since the start of construction — a valuable visual record of the transformation taking place.

Celebrating the halfway mark
To mark this significant milestone, we were honoured to welcome the namesake of the building, and dear friend of the school, Dr. Pamela Wall AO — affectionately known as Pammie. Pammie joined us for a tour of the construction site, as the various stages of the build begin to take shape. Afterward, she had the opportunity to chat with the Builders Club, where they shared their insights on the project, highlighting some of the most surprising and exciting aspects of the work.

“I was surprised by how many decisions needed to be made throughout the whole process.” – Isla

“I was amazed by how much steel was needed.” – Max

The celebration continued with a special school-wide assembly in Pammie’s honour. During the assembly, students were introduced to Pammie and learned about the lasting impact her generosity will have on the school, leaving a legacy that will benefit generations to come.

Students were then treated to a timelapse video of the construction process, followed by stunning new renders of the building’s interiors. The excitement in the room was palpable, as students caught their first glimpse of the incredible opportunities the Dr. Pamela Wall Centre will offer. The event concluded with a sneak preview of the upcoming senior musical, The Sound of Music, performed by the students.

Interior Renders
Enjoy viewing some of the latest renders which really gives you a feel of the space beyond just the bricks and mortar. 

• Capacity: Seating for up to 428 people, also easily accommodating the entire school for assemblies and large gatherings in temperature-controlled comfort.
• Acoustic Excellence: Expertly designed and engineered to ensure outstanding acoustic performance and state of the art audio and lighting system.  
• Versatile Seating: Retractable seating allows the space to be transformed from event seating to an open layout for a wide range of uses, including sports and movement-based activities such as volleyball, badminton and gymnastics.
• Backstage Learning Areas: Two new general learning areas located behind the stage, featuring a retractable wall to provide flexibility for multi-purpose teaching and learning.
• Foyer: A large foyer area offers a spill-out option onto Nutter Thomas Lawns. This space is ideal for ticket sales, refreshments, food and drink service, or simply as a welcoming place to meet.
• Gallery Link: A versatile gallery space connects the new Centre with the Law Smith building, providing an additional gathering area and flow between facilities.

The Dr Pamela Wall Centre brings together the SPW community, supporting events, assemblies, teaching, performances, sport, and celebrations for many years to come. We look forward to seeing the next phase of the build and seeing the vision come to life.