St.Anthony's Parish Primary School

Intermain was engaged by the Catholic Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn Education to deliver the expansion and refurbishment of the Main Hall at St Anthony’s Parish Primary School in Wanniassa. Covering 1,008 square metres, the project included new amenities, landscaping, and safety upgrades, all delivered within a live school environment through careful staging and community collaboration.

To meet the client’s objectives around time, budget, quality, and safety, Intermain implemented a staged methodology that minimised disruption to school operations. Works were programmed around school holidays and weekends, with deliveries and crane access coordinated to avoid peak drop-off and pick-up times. A temporary access road was installed via the rear oval, and pedestrian safety was maintained through fencing and barricades

Site challenges and seamless delivery

Challenges included rerouting live electrical cables servicing adjacent buildings, managing uncontrolled fill, and relocating clashing services pits. These works were completed over 67 days, primarily on weekends, to avoid delays or disruptions to the wider school operations. Despite 35+ inclement weather days, the project remained on track.

Keeping communities safe, informed, and engaged

Educational efforts, practical site visits, and unexpected historical findings enriched the relationship between Intermain and St Anthony’s.

Maintaining communication and safety was central to the project’s success. The site team built positive relationships with staff and students through regular updates and a presentation to the Early Learning Centre, helping young learners understand the construction process and safety measures in place.

By involving the ACT school community directly, Intermain created an opportunity for students to engage with real-world construction practices, adding an education dimension to the project.

During excavation, newspapers and currency from the 1980s were discovered on site. These artefacts were donated back to the school, helping preserve its history while celebrating its next chapter of growth and renewal.

Conclusion

This successful delivery highlights Intermain’s capability in managing complex refurbishments within live school environments, setting a high standard for future education projects in the Australian Capital Territory.