Tarawera High School honoured at Australasian learning environment awards
19 July 2017
Kawerau’s Tarawera High School has been honoured for its educational facilities at a recent awards ceremony in Singapore.
The school’s project design, by architects RTA Studio, earned a commendation in Category 1: New Educational Facility Construction/Entire Educational Facility in Learning Environments Australasia’s 10th Annual Awards.
Learning Environments Australasia is the peak body advocating for quality and innovation in learning environments.
The awards showcased the design and use of engaging and innovative learning spaces and programs to improve learning outcomes for students.
Kawerau’s Tarawera High School has earned a commendation for its learning environment. Photo/Patrick Reynolds
The awards were judged by key members of Learning Environments Australasia whose membership included more than 700 educators, architects, designers, planners and policy makers.
There was a highly competitive field with 72 entries from across Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.
The judges were impressed by Tarawera High School’s planning process that included “exploration of the cultural, geographic and educational considerations to optimise the ability of the campus to achieve learning objectives, which of course includes the discipline of attendance, improved course and self- esteem outcomes…achieving that special sense of place which provides true inspiration for its community”.
Chairwoman of Learning Environments Australasia Deb O’Riley said with new research showing quality learning environment design could improve student learning, these awards were crucial in challenging current practices.
“They ensure we continue to strive for improvement and excellence in educational facilities – and ultimately, better student outcomes” she said.
Source: Rotorua Daily Post