Purposeful and Flexible

The main focus of the new extension is to meet the needs of our Canopy department (formerly High School CLIC), which occupies most of the ground floor. The name, Canopy, refers to the department’s purpose; Cedar Anticipating New Opportunities for Potential in You, and also to the broader idea of the growth, protection, nourishment and beauty that a forest canopy provides.

It has been purpose-built with two classrooms, a kitchen classroom, as well as facilities for visiting therapists, meetings, and small group work. The new Arbour is open at lunchtimes for the use of our broader student community. Additional office areas are included for Canopy staff, Pastoral Care (Pastor Jeremy Wright), and there is also provision for a garden teaching space which will be developed this year. The rooms have been named after individuals who have overcome challenges and disability, such as the Spencer Room, which is named after Octavia Spencer, a well-known actress who also has Dyslexia. Flexible furniture options have been chosen, facilitating collaboration with peers and staff. We have already received an enthusiastic response from our students and a positive take-up of our lunch program. We are thankful for the provision of such a wonderful space, which will further enhance our programs involving life skills, academic support and pastoral care, beyond what was previously possible.

Upstairs, there are four new flexible teaching spaces and valuable storage space for the Drama department. These four spaces can be merged into two larger teaching spaces via moveable walls. Each of the four spaces are fitted with data projection including software to mirror staff and student devices, sound, and WiFi. Also upstairs, is a teacher office and much needed space for Senior School lockers.

We are very grateful for this new facility and know that it will enhance the learning experience of our students. 

Mr Andrew Lock, Head of High School