The St Peter’s Catholic College community celebrated the blessing and official opening of its new Hospitality and Performing Arts precinct named the St Martha Building at its Clyde North campus on Thursday 31 August.
Parish Priest of St Agatha’s Parish, Cranbourne Father Joseph Abutu officially blessed the building and was joined by a number of guests including Holt MP Cassandra Fernando, Diocese of Sale director of Catholic education Paul Velten and St Peter’s College principal Chris Black.
The official party unveiled a plaque marking the occasion.
Funded by the Federal Government under the Capital Grants Program and a Catholic Development Fund (CDF) loan, the St Martha Building complemented the school’s state-of-the-art Geode Performing Arts Centre and provides a commercial kitchen, café, outdoor alfresco area and a dedicated music, drama, and dance space. The commercial kitchen would operate as a business integrated into VCE Vocation programs providing students with an opportunity to gain industry skills and qualifications.
St Peter’s College principal Chris Black said the projects had been transformative for the school.
“These building works have created modern, spacious, and light-filled areas that enhance teaching and learning as well as increased the school’s capacity to cater for growing enrolments,” he said.
“The café/cafeteria is providing students with the opportunity to operate a commercial catering facility as part of their studies.
“By connecting students to real-life experiences and engaging with the local community, St Peter’s fosters a sense of belonging and enhances student well-being while providing valuable VET certification and industry experience.”
Mr Black said the technological capabilities found within the suite of music facilities were also impressive.
“The creative performing arts spaces provide an optimal learning environment culminating in performance opportunities for students within the adjacent Performing Arts Centre,” he said.
Mr Velten said the new facilities represented Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality learning and teaching environments and investing in Catholic schools.
“May the new facilities continue to inspire faith, inspire learning and empower students to reach their full potential,” he said.
