Nod to former principal in delivery of new Dapto High School COLA
Dapto High School’s transformed multi-purpose sports courts have officially opened following a $2 million upgrade including the addition of a new covered outdoor learning area (COLA), delivering on an election commitment by the Minns Labor Government.
A special detail unique to the Dapto school community was also unveiled, with the name of the new structure announced for the first time in honour of much-loved former principal Andrew FitzSimons, who led the school for 19 years before his retirement in 2023.
Students are now able to use the Andrew FitzSimons COLA to learn and play in any weather, with the new COLA providing shade protection on sunny days and a handy space for wet weather play, sport, and outdoor assemblies.
Upgrade works at Dapto High School are part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education in NSW to ensure growing communities get access to a world class public education. As part of the NSW Government's plan to rebuild public education, the 2025-26 Budget is delivering $2.1 billion for new and upgraded schools in regional NSW.
In addition to these improvements at Dapto High School, the Minns Labor Government is delivering a new public school in Calderwood set to open on Day 1, Term 1, 2028, and a new public school in West Dapto opening Day 1, Term 1, 2029. Both public schools will also have a public preschool on site.
Acting Education Minister Courtney Houssos said:
“The new COLA at Dapto High School is part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to providing all students with access to a world-class education in high-quality local public schools.
“I am pleased that with the naming of this new structure after former long-time principal Andrew FitzSimons the school is able to honour a true champion of public education.
"The new space will provide an environment where students can engage in hands-on learning, play sport, and enjoy the benefits of time outdoors.”
Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson said:
“I am thrilled that Labor has delivered the new COLA at Dapto High School, which was an election commitment and part of our work to rebuild public education in NSW.
“Andrew FitzSimons led the school with distinction for 19 years before his retirement in 2023, and it was heart-warming to see his legacy recognised in such a meaningful way with the naming of this COLA.
“We believe that learning and development isn’t confined to the classroom, and I can’t wait to see the school community take full advantage of this fantastic new space.
“The Minns Labor Government is investing in regional schools like Dapto High School to ensure students have everything they need to thrive and achieve strong educational outcomes.”
Principal of Dapto High School Joel Burnett said:
"The new Covered Outdoor Learning Area is a fantastic addition to Dapto High School, providing our students with a versatile space that enhances their learning experience while promoting collaboration and creativity.
"With the COLA, we are not only expanding our physical learning environment but also enriching our students' educational journey by encouraging outdoor learning and engagement with nature.
"This investment in our school infrastructure signifies our commitment to fostering a holistic educational environment where students can thrive, both academically and socially."