School infrastructure planners are routinely challenged by how to create a school (or a school system with buildings in different locations) that will best facilitate the educational process. This requires a very clear vision of the current situation and the expectations of all stakeholders.
Common parameters are required for facilities to deliver solutions that meet current and long-term needs. Some of the most important are school and class size.
The education sector includes:
• early childhood education and care
• primary, secondary and special schools (also known as schools for specific purpose)
• tertiary education (including VET, TAFE and higher education).
Each relies on contemporary, purpose-built facilities, located in the right places and supported by connecting infrastructure.
School buildings are deeply rooted in the communities they serve, and both students and teachers interact with the social and built environment around each school. Providing the community with shared use of these facilities can yield many benefits. This is covered further under Reform 8.2: Partnerships to build communities.