New student hub at Barker College marks a milestone

Barker College’s Maths and Student Hub tops out this week, signalling the start of its next exciting phase.

Representing our Education Sector, Project Leader Sam Morris of Architectus joined Barker College leaders, contractor Buildcorp and other collaborators to celebrate the completion of the structural phase of the contemporary new building – a natural extension of the school’s existing architecture.

Led by Principal Luke Johnson, the three-storey Maths and Student Hub features an indoor-outdoor ground level set to become the centre of campus life for senior students, plus a variety of teaching and learning spaces over its upper two levels. The building offers drawcards such as a Dining Commons and shaded boardwalk for meals and gatherings, a Maths Courtyard suitable for outdoor learning, and breakout spaces for student-led small group activities.

Set on a leafy campus in the Sydney suburb of Hornsby, the building is designed to capture views, natural light and fresh air. The timber structure is exposed from within the building, deepening the connection to nature.

“This is an exciting milestone for the project, celebrating the successful completion of the engineered timber structural frame,” said Sam. “The new building aims to elevate the teaching and learning experience, with much of the timber exposed in the interior to harness the benefits of biophilia.”

“Today’s ceremony highlights the importance of connecting our built environment with the natural world to provide happier, healthier and ultimately more sustainable places for students, staff, and the broader school community to enjoy.”