Our Bayview Campus building is officially open!
On Wednesday 24 April 2024, our community of staff, students, parents, School Board and alumni, together with representatives from the extended team of people involved in this build, came together to celebrate the official opening of the Bayview Campus building and precinct by Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, the Governor of Victoria and dedicated by The Most Reverend Dr Philip Freier, the Archbishop of Melbourne.
This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a new era for Mentone Grammar, and the building itself is the most significant project undertaken by the School, to date.
Principal Andy Müller said, “There is no doubt that a project of this magnitude can only happen through the vision, hard work and collaboration of many people, and for that spirit of cooperation and determination, we thank you.”
The students in Years 7 & 8 at Bayview, who began their learning journey in the new building earlier this week, have found great inspiration in the learning environment. They have quickly adapted to the new space and already feel a strong sense of belonging.
Mika A (Year 8) said “When I first saw the building, I was in awe. I couldn’t help but feel like I was in a luxurious hotel with its modern, clean, and grand design. The high ceilings and all the indoor plants are my favourite part.”
Lucas S (Year 8) has already had the opportunity to use the science lab, “It’s my favourite feature of the building. It’s spacious, modern and well-equipped.”
Bayview Captain Ruslana T (Year 8), who spoke on behalf of the students at the opening said, “We’ve all been really excited to get into the building. The way the classrooms have been designed is great for teamwork and all the breakout lounges, nooks and quiet rooms are really good for group projects or individual study. Fellow leader, Mitchell C (Year 8) thanked guests for creating an incredible building and outdoor precinct. “We feel so lucky to have the opportunity to experience this space… it already feels like a ‘home away from home’ and there is so much for us to explore as part of our learning.”
Mr Müller emphasised the importance of spaces in creating a strong sense of belonging which can have a powerful effect on students in terms of fostering their sense of self and wellbeing.
“This new precinct will have a significant impact on student learning. The varied spaces that support respectful interactions, flexible learning and teaching opportunities, creative thinking and student autonomy, all promote positive learning outcomes that help our students grow and thrive,” he said.
“In addition, the extensive landscaping has been thoughtfully designed to create an immersive sensory experience, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. The many carefully chosen plants and decor across the precinct provide students with a serene environment to relax and unwind. These areas also serve as extensions to the classrooms, offering open learning spaces that foster imaginative and creative thinking, while enhancing cognitive abilities.
“The new synthetic oval and basketball courts offer students dedicated open spaces for active play which is also an important part of our holistic education and critical at this age in developing life-long healthy habits. The next stage is the development of an extensive new play space including a full-size basketball court along Naples Road that will provide additional resources and open spaces for our students.”
In her address, the Governor emphasised the significance of the progress made in education and the opportunities it brings to students. She acknowledged the remarkable transformation in educational facilities and the learning environments over the past century and expressed appreciation for the exceptional work done at Mentone Grammar, particularly in the creation of the Bayview Campus precinct.
“When Mentone Grammar was first established 100 years ago, the large dormitory received high praise in the local paper for meeting modern standards, including the provision of hot showers, something that was ‘state-of-the art’ in its day. It is nice to see that the commitment to meeting modern standards and maintaining excellence has been an enduring aspect of this School!”
The Governor of Victoria further expressed her admiration for the new Bayview building and its engagement of students in Years 7 & 8, recognising the importance of this stage in their educational journey. “This period marks a crucial stage in students’ engagement with education and the development of their independence. It is during this time that the foundations for their future are laid. The innovative approach taken in designing the classrooms is truly impressive.”
Chair of the School Board, Ross Joblin added his thanks to those present and everyone involved in the build and emphasised the commitment of the Board to developing the best possible learning and teaching environment for students and staff. “We are committed to strong financial governance and the ongoing reinvestment into quality educational and wellbeing resources,” he said.
“Designed with contemporary learning practices in mind, this building encourages teachers and students to interact in ways that put the student at the centre of the learning process. It is also about future proofing our School. It is no accident that there is a strong interest from families to join our School. The hard-working staff, both in and out of the classrooms, have fostered a culture of success that perpetuates the strong educational reputation the School enjoys, and this new building and extended precinct will help meet that demand and help achieve long-term success for our School.”