Amid ongoing controversy in the public education system about alleged mismanagement of grants from the Federal Government's Building Education Revolution, schools under the umbrella of the Sydney Anglican Schools Corporation (SASC) tell a different story.
Paul Cockrem, principal of Richard Johnson Anglican School is very happy with the multipurpose hall and gymnasium, built thanks to a $2.5 million BER grant. "We didn't have to dip into other funds at all," he says.
Mr Cockrem believes that unlike government schools, a lack of red tape allowed the project to go ahead smoothly. "We just deal directly with the builders. It's been a really positive experience for us," he says.
According to SASC CEO, Dr Laurie Scandrett, corporation schools received grants totalling $35 million.
On May 7, the result will be on display when a multipurpose auditorium is opened at Rouse Hill Anglican College. It will also provide Rouse Hill Anglican Church with a venue for youth events.
Rouse Hill principal, Peter Fowler, says the building was possible due to a $3 million BER grant, a Federal BGA grant plus $120,000 raised by the school community.
"It'll be tremendous to be able to have whole school gatherings," Mr Fowler says.
Penrith Anglican College received a $3 million BER grant for a new state-of-the-art performing arts centre, due for completion in fourth term, which will also benefit a church based at PAC: Christ Church @ The College.
"If it hadn't been for the grant, we would not be building this facility at this time. It is just fantastic," says PAC headmaster Barry Roots.
Photo: Peter Fowler in the new multipurpose building at Rouse Hill Anglican College.
Additional reporting and photo:Andrew Buerger
