Ballina Coast High School features the latest technology and innovation in classroom design, providing flexible learning spaces for students to work on group and individual projects that encourage research, problem solving and critical thinking. The ground floor contains specialist spaces and the support unit, with the top two floors containing teaching spaces and the learning hub. The learning spaces are open and flexible, with sliding glass walls allowing a variety of classroom configurations. A central learning street across two levels provides additional learning and collaboration opportunities for staff and students. Occupying a 6 hectare site close to Ballina’s CBD, the new school promotes opportunities to share its facilities with the wider community, with an adjoining Council Sport Facility constructed on the site.
Together the School and Council facilities provide four sports courts, allowing Ballina to attract and host regional sporting events. The building and landscape design reflect the character of the local area, highlighting the journey of the Richmond River from the green hinterland to the sea. This is reflected in the selection of plants and landscape features, the design of the central gathering space, and the striking sunshade blades on Swift Street.
