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Delivering the Mary Aquin Centre: a new era for Santa Maria College’s senior students
Building Engineering is proud to celebrate the completion of the Mary Aquin Centre at Santa Maria College, a contemporary learning village designed exclusively for Year 9 and 10 students. Delivered at the end of 2025, this landmark project completes the school’s vision for a connected three-village campus community.
From the outset, the goal was clear, create a purpose-built environment that supports senior students through their most formative years, while seamlessly integrating with the broader campus. Close collaboration between the College, design team, and our project team ensured a smooth, well-coordinated delivery.
A Strong Partnership from Start to Finish
As with any significant construction project within a live school environment, challenges arose along the way. Early authority upgrade requirements created cost and timing pressures, requiring coordinated problem-solving and open communication.
Santa Maria College Principal, Joanne Rock, reflects on the strength of the partnership:
“The successful collaboration with Building Engineering has resulted in this wonderful building. The reason it was so successful was that we were transparent in our communications and able to solve problems in a timely manner.”
This partnership-first approach ensured the College remained informed at every stage, supporting confident decision-making and minimising disruption to school operations.
Craftsmanship That Stands Out
A defining feature of the Mary Aquin Centre is the striking fluted precast façade, incorporating detailed brick snaps. Extensive prototyping and sampling ensured the design intent was realised with precision and quality.
Spaces That Inspire Students to Thrive
The new centre offers flexible learning spaces, engaging outdoor areas, and a secure, undercover staff car park. Terrace and yarning circle zones promote connection and outdoor learning, helping students feel grounded and at home.
Students Mya and Bianca share their excitement in the video, highlighting how the new village will bring their year levels together and provide a space for them to collaborate and feel at home.
A Proud Moment for the School Community
With the Mary Aquin Centre now complete, Santa Maria College begins a new chapter, one where students can learn, connect, and grow in a facility crafted specifically for their needs.
Building Engineering is honoured to have partnered with Santa Maria College and Williams Ross Architects on this transformative project, and we look forward to seeing the Mary Aquin Centre support future generations of students for years to come.
