The Thornton Public School community has received its first glimpse of a transformative multimillion-dollar upgrade, with detailed plans unveiled this week that promise to double the school's capacity and replace ageing facilities with modern, permanent structures.
First Look at Major School Redevelopment
Families gathered at a community information session held at the school on Tuesday afternoon to view the concept designs and ask questions about the significant expansion. The session provided a crucial opportunity for parents to understand how the project will shape their children's learning environment for years to come.
The proposed redevelopment is a cornerstone of the Minns Labor government's substantial $2.1 billion investment in new and upgraded schools across regional New South Wales. While the exact value of the Thornton project remains confidential, its scale is indicative of the government's commitment to the fast-growing Hunter region.
Modern Facilities to Replace Demountables
The centrepiece of the upgrade will be a new state-of-the-art building designed to meet contemporary educational needs. The plans outline the construction of 16 modern classrooms, three specialist support classrooms, a brand-new library, updated amenities, and a covered outdoor learning area.
This comprehensive overhaul is scheduled for completion in 2028. Once finished, it will effectively double the school's student capacity and eliminate the need for temporary demountable classrooms, replacing them with high-quality, permanent facilities.
Thornton Public School principal Stuart Wylie expressed the school community's enthusiasm. "We're thrilled to see the concept designs for our upgrade," Mr Wylie said. "They reflect our vision for a modern, welcoming, and inclusive school environment, and we can't wait to see how this upgrade will enhance teaching and learning for all our students."
Addressing Growth in a Key Region
The expansion is a direct response to the area's rapid population growth and the school's existing size. In 2024, Thornton Public School enrolled 836 students, securing its position as the second-largest primary school in the Hunter region.
Only Rutherford Public School, with 976 students, is larger, also making it the third biggest primary school in regional NSW. The upgrade at Thornton is strategically planned to accommodate future enrolment increases and provide the Maitland community with the educational infrastructure it requires.
Acting Minister for Education Courtney Houssos emphasised the government's dedication to regional education. "We're delivering on our promise to provide families with modern facilities and create better learning opportunities for every student," Ms Houssos stated. "Under the direction set by Deputy Premier Prue Car, our government is committed to giving Maitland the educational infrastructure it deserves and planning for growth in this fast-growing region."
The next formal step in the process will see the development proposal placed on the NSW Planning Portal for public viewing early in the new year, allowing for further community feedback before construction begins.
