In 2001 the then Education Minister, John Aquilina, turned the sod that commenced the construction of a new senior campus for Chifley College. In the original configuration of the College Whalan HS was to be converted into a new senior campus. This decision was changed in late 2000 when it was decided that it would be more beneficial for students if a new campus were completed adjacent to Mt Druitt TAFE. There have been dramas with the site.
First there was the issue of remnant Cumberland Forest that had to be preserved. Secondly, a large group of Cumberland Woodland snails was discovered on the site. Both points required a sign-off for construction by the then Commonwealth Environment Minister, Senator Hill. After catering for the snails, 4.6 hectares remained to be available for construction. Construction is now complete and classes commenced on January 30th 2003.
As well as general classrooms the site contains a large multi-purpose gymnasium, a lecture theatre, administration areas, a sit down canteen, library, five computer rooms, specialist rooms and community space. The senior campus is co-located with the TAFE and students have ready access to TAFE facilities and courses.
Steve Freeborn
Principal