New Primary School and Early Learning Centre Progressing in Whitlam, Canberra
Umesh Dhakal
KNA- Canberra
A $101.7 million investment is being delivered to support families in the growing Molonglo Valley, with a new public primary school and early childhood education and care (ECEC) centre being developed in Whitlam.
The new primary school is scheduled to open in stages from 2027, with the first cohort of students to be welcomed that year. The year levels available in the school’s first year of operation will be announced in April 2026.
When complete, the school will cater for up to 780 students from preschool to Year 6. Modern learning environments are being designed to support contemporary teaching practices, with both indoor and outdoor learning areas to be included. Sustainable design features are being incorporated to enhance comfort for students and staff.
A range of facilities will be delivered for both school and community use. These will include a double gymnasium, covered and uncovered hard courts for basketball and netball, a playing field, outdoor play equipment, and flexible learning spaces. Community access to selected facilities will be available outside school hours, providing additional recreational opportunities for local residents.
As part of the broader development, a co-located Early Childhood Education and Care centre will also be delivered. The centre will provide 130 high-quality early learning places and will be operated by a not-for-profit provider. Additional wellbeing and inclusion supports will be offered to children and families accessing the service.
Co-location of the ECEC centre with the primary school site is intended to support continuity of learning and provide greater convenience for families. Planning for this stage is underway, with investment to be provided by both the ACT and Australian Governments. Construction of the ECEC facility is expected to begin in 2027.
As construction progresses, the project continues to support the delivery of additional public education places close to home, ensuring that families in Whitlam and the wider Molonglo region have access to high-quality learning opportunities for years to come.
Source: ACT Government
