Construction has commenced on the new Richmond Agricultural Centre in Western Sydney, a milestone welcomed by Principal Kristine Beazley as the school prepares to move into a permanent, purpose-built home from 2027.
The centre, currently operating from temporary facilities at Western Sydney University’s Hawkesbury campus, will relocate to a new site co-located with the university when the project opens on Day 1, Term 1, 2027. The new facility will cater for approximately 360 students from Kindergarten to Year 12 and deliver specialised agricultural and STEM education.
Facilities will include modern classrooms, five science laboratories, farming facilities, a greenhouse, multipurpose hall, canteen, administration spaces and a covered outdoor learning area.
Principal Kristine Beazley said the start of construction marked a key step forward for the school and its students.
“Today marks a key step towards delivering a much-needed, purpose-built facility that supports our students’ futures and strengthens our links with industry, TAFE, and university partners,” she said.
Richmond Agricultural Centre offers agricultural and STEM learning opportunities through partnered experiences with academia and industry, preparing students for future pathways in agriculture, agribusiness, science and emerging technologies. The school operates in partnership with Richmond High School, with Agricultural STEM selective and specialty students attending the centre three days per week and Richmond High School two days per week.
The co-location with Western Sydney University’s Hawkesbury campus provides students with access to established resources, facilities and programs, and supports collaboration with experts, educational institutions and agricultural industries.
The new permanent site follows the acquisition of a suitable location after a previously announced site was found to be contaminated and unsuitable for agricultural education.
The project forms part of the NSW Government’s broader investment in new and upgraded schools across the state, including significant funding allocated to Western Sydney.
Ms Beazley said the new centre would strengthen the school’s capacity to support future-focused learning.
“Richmond Agricultural Centre offers agricultural and STEM learning opportunities to students, with partnered learning experiences with academia and industry, preparing the next generation of scientists, agribusiness and data experts, agriculturalists and innovators to meet the challenges of a changing landscape,” she said.
“It’s fantastic that we will soon have a new permanent home for our school and we can’t wait to see construction progress.”
