Papatoetoe school next in line for big govt upgrade

Papatoetoe Central School in Auckland is next in line for a significant makeover, with work set to begin this week on the $4.2 million upgrade.

"The start of work on a new, two-storey classroom block makes this an exciting time for the school," says Education Minister Hekia Parata.

The new block will have eight learning spaces, which will replace six older classrooms at the school. The two additional learning spaces are to accommodate expected roll growth.

"This project is just one of many underway across Auckland to modernise facilities and add capacity to the school network," says Parata.

"Since June 26, work has started on five other school redevelopments worth around $130 million, at Takapuna Primary School, Bayswater School, Western Springs College, Freemans Bay School and The Gardens School," she continues.

"Another $32 million has been announced for redevelopments at Te Atatu Intermediate, Northcote Primary School, Newmarket School and Clayton Park School," Parata adds.

Parata and Associate Minister Nikki Kaye earlier this year announced $153 million would be invested in Auckland, as part of the $882.5 million set aside for school infrastructure under Budget 2016.

"This is a huge investment which shows the Government is committed to meeting the needs of students in our fastest growing city, now and into the future," she says.

Construction at Papatoetoe Central School is expected to be complete by July 2017.