ADELAIDE BOTANIC High School is South Australia’s first vertical secondary school. The building’s purpose-built design has shifted learning from something contained, to something dynamic and connected.
The school has dedicated wellbeing spaces that many students use. In these spaces, students are supported by either a youth worker or wellbeing leader.
“Our spaces are designed to support the diverse needs of all students, including those who are neurodivergent,” Principal Sarah Chambers says.
“The design includes smaller retreat areas where students and staff can step away from the main learning environment when it becomes overwhelming, while still feeling connected to others. These spaces provide much-needed regulation spaces for all students, particularly in a vertical single-building school.”
The school’s specialist labs, creative studios, open collaboration zones and quiet nooks all support different ways of thinking, while integrated technology ensures innovation is part of everyday learning.
“For students, this means that learning feels more like real life, fluid, interactive and relevant, preparing them for the world beyond school,” says Chambers.
The Investments We Need:
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Create a permanent Commonwealth capital fund for public schools indexed annually in line with rising costs and enrolments.
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Prioritise inclusive learning spaces and school facilities, including modified bathrooms and playgrounds, that are accessible for all students with disability.
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Prioritise high- quality, state-of- the-art teaching and learning facilities for all public schools, including science, technology, engineering, arts and maths (STEAM) centres.
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Establish 150 full-service public schools.
