St Joseph’s School – Hectorville Preschool

We are pleased to announce the completion of St Joseph’s Preschool in Hectorville. The new building supports its pedagogy and enrolment growth, providing a nurturing and inclusive environment for young learners. Co-located with occasional care on the western boundary, together they form an early learning precinct that aims to enhance the strong community of children, educators, and parents of the north-eastern suburbs school.

The architectural form is intentionally domestic in scale, using familiar and comfortable materials to ease the transition from the home to a new environment for young children. Sunlight, fresh air, and a diverse furniture collection fill the spacious interior and deck, providing an inspiring environment to learn, play, explore, and relax. The classrooms are flexible and adaptable, allowing for different learning activities and social interaction between students.

Location: Kaurna Country
Hectorville, South Australia
Client: St Jospeh’s School Hectorville
Value: $4.9M
Scale: 900sqm
Year: 2024
Project Contact: Shalini Shah
Photography: Simon Bennett
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Balancing an engaging yet soothing atmosphere

Subtle earthly tones, timbers and a palette of pastel blues create a calming and soothing atmosphere while still being visually engaging for young learners. Withdrawal nooks offer a safe retreat where children can take a break from the stimulation of the classroom, calm down and regain their focus to continue learning and exploring. By offering a supportive environment that accommodates the needs of all students, children develop essential coping skills they can use throughout their lives.

By offering a supportive environment that accommodates the needs of all students, children develop essential coping skills they can use throughout their lives.
Shalini Shah
Principal Architect

The interior spaces spill out to a deep undercover deck that envelops a ‘green heart’ play space designed in collaboration with landscape architect Clover Greenspace. Research has shown that exposure to natural environments can help reduce stress levels and improve cognitive function, attention span, and creativity. In addition, outdoor play and connection to nature improves learning outcomes, developing gross motor skills and spatial awareness while cultivating a sense of environmental stewardship.