‘World-class’ facilities are changing perceptions of Murray Bridge High School

The school’s new Sturt Building, officially opened on Tuesday, is opening eyes in the yard and the community, principal Ruth Mussger says.

Peri Strathearn

Mar 1, 2022 — 2 min read

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Kellie Hicks, right, helps Ella Valderemao work out a maths problem on the glass wall of a study space at Murray Bridge High School. Photo: Peri Strathearn.

Murray Bridge High School’s new Sturt Building is teaching students to dream big, principal Ruth Mussger says.

The building - which had an official opening on Tuesday - was more than just a modern learning space, Ms Mussger said.

It was a demonstration that Murray Bridge kids deserved the best, and that their futures were as bright as any other South Australian’s.

“We dreamed of this moment … (because) we recognised that some of the buildings we had had a bit of a 1980s vibe,” she said.

“They could no longer cope.

“Now there’s excitement and renewed vigour for the educational possibilities at Murray Bridge High School, which transcends the school yard and has spread out into the whole community.”

The school’s senior concert band played the theme from The Avengers soon before state Education Minister John Gardiner and his opposition counterpart, Susan Close, unveiled a plaque which will be affixed to the new building.

John Gardiner, Ruth Mussger, Adrian Pederick and students applaud after the unveiling of a plaque outside Murray Bridge High School’s new building. Photo: Peri Strathearn.

Dr Close recalled the school’s pitch for the $20 million project back when Labor was still in office.

Murray Bridge High had needed more learning spaces, and more modern ones, she said; but most important was the signal it would send to students.

“They’re worthy of a high-quality education,” she said.

“There’s no better way of spending public money than on public education.

“It’s an investment for all of us.”

Jameson Heaven programs a dancing robot at the inclusive education centre. Photo: Peri Strathearn.

Mr Gardiner agreed.

“Teaching and learning is mostly about teachers and learners … but having buildings designed for teaching and learning makes that job that much easier,” he said.

The building is being used mainly by the school’s year 7 and 8 students, and by those enrolled at its inclusive education centre.

The double cohort started school together, a result of the transition of all South Australian year 7 students to high schools around the state this year.