By Brendan Rees
A new $2.8 million two-storey building was officially opened at Lighthouse Christian College Cranbourne (LCCC) during a ceremony held on Wednesday, 14 February.
The celebration included a performance by a group of Year Seven violinists in front of the school and the wider community.
Guests included City of Casey Mayor Geoff Ablett, Deputy Mayor Amanda Stapledon and Leader of the Opposition Matthew Guy who participated in the cutting of the ribbon to mark the occasion.
LCCC Principal Jacob Mathews said with about 100 new students starting every year, the school needed more space.
“The school is growing rapidly with large classes and this new building has given the school room to expand and reduce the student numbers in each class,” he said.
The building, which took just over 10 months to build includes 15 classrooms, a staffroom, an administration wing and student amenities.
Mr Matthews said the project was completely funded by the school and without debt.
He added more than 25,000 man hours were worked onsite and the building featured the school’s first lift.
More 30 tonnes of steel was also used to create all beams and columns with three cranes being required during the building’s construction, he said.
Speaking at the opening, Mr Matthews thanked everyone who had contributed to the building project and its successful completion.
“To the parents of LCCC students, thank you for believing in the vision of this school and for supporting us with your prayers over the duration of the project and as we continue to expand.”
“Our appreciation goes to the City of Casey Councillors, Victorian MPs, the media, pastors, LCCC Council members and all official guests for taking the time to be present for this occasion,” Mr Matthews said.
Opposition Leader Matthew Guy said: “It was an honour to be at such a wonderful school. Government needs to help our independent schools, not hinder them.”
“I want to do all I can to allow great, positive schools like LCCC to grow and expand,” he said.
Cr Geoff Ablett said he was honoured to be invited to the ceremony, adding the building was “extraordinary.”
“It’s very well designed and built. I was very pleased to be there.”
“They raised their own money and built it; I think that’s a credit to them.”
He said he was impressed by the warm-friendly environment at the school. “The behaviour of the students is just phenomenally good.”
