John Forrest Secondary College

Mar 5

Modernised facilities while preserving a legacy

Project info

Client: Department of Education
Location: Morley, WA
Traditional owners: Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation
Value: $50 Million
Date: 2024
Images credit: Robert Frith – Acorn Photo

TRCB was commissioned as lead consultant by the Department of Finance for the $50 million major redevelopment of John Forrest Secondary College (JFSC), part of a state-wide initiative to modernize secondary schools. The project aimed to enhance and expand the college’s facilities while preserving its iconic character. A key focus was the adaptive re-use of existing buildings, including the refurbishment of the former Library building to become the new Administration building.

The redevelopment included a new Performing Arts Centre, Cafeteria, Gymnasium, and specialist teaching buildings, while also revitalizing existing structures such as general teaching rooms, the Library, Administration, and Student Services spaces. TRCB’s design seamlessly integrated new structures with the campus’s layout, preserving mature trees and courtyard spaces to maintain a harmonious connection between the modernized facilities and the surrounding landscape.

A notable aspect of the redevelopment was the incorporation of three major artworks, celebrating local Indigenous culture and enriching the educational experience. TRCB partnered with artists Mark Datodi and Kambarni (Kamsani Bin Salleh) to deliver a series of four interconnected artworks. These include:

The Six Seasons entry sculpture, a 5-meter artwork symbolizing the cyclical nature of seasons through organic forms, located at the Performing Arts Centre.
Wungening (Healing), a 4.7-meter sculpture at the main entrance, inspired by the medicinal uses of native Australian plants.
Lift Shaft Cast Panel Relief Artwork, featuring a repeat pattern that references the six Noongar seasons.
A collaborative Artist Workshop, where students contributed ideas and artworks linked to the entry sculptures.

Completed in stages throughout 2022 and 2023, the redevelopment ensures JFSC’s legacy while meeting modern educational needs, fostering a rich cultural and ecological connection for the college community.