Hobart City High a source of pride

THE proposed name of a new Hobart school following the merger of Ogilvie and New Town high schools has been revealed.

Education Minister Sarah Courtney said it would be known as Hobart City High School, with the merger to apply from next year.

Ms Courtney said the choosing of the preferred name followed consultation with school communities and other stakeholders.

“The clear consultation feedback was that the community wanted a name based on the location of the school, with Hobart City High School identified,’’ she said.

“To honour the history and tradition of each of the current schools, and in response to feedback, the two school sites will be known as Ogilvie and New Town campuses.

“I am confident that the name Hobart City High School will bring with it a sense of pride, along with an identity that helps define the school for generations to come.”

Ogilvie High School Association chair Miranda Shepheard welcomed the news, which she said came out of a strong community consultation process.

“Here we go, it’s the high school for Hobart,’’ she said.

She said it was important for the history of both schools that their identities remained into the future.

The state government is providing $1.6m for capital improvements in preparation for the new school in 2022.

This includes upgrading toilet facilities and refurbishing general learning areas at both campuses.

Ms Courtney said a further $20m would be invested for more substantial infrastructure upgrades, with the education department starting work on a masterplan.

To date, it has identified a need for contemporary learning spaces across all grades, sports facilities, a performing arts sector and upgraded technology.

Suggestions have been put forward for a performing arts centre at the Ogilvie campus, VET facilities at the New Town campus and food training facilities at Elizabeth College.