Our Lady of the Assumption Primary School

Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School

Description Primary school upgrade
Location North Strathfield

Sector Learning
Sub-Sector Early Learning, Education, Specialist Learning
Specialties Adaptive Reuse, Fitout, Live Environment, Refurbishment

Contract Type Cost Plus
Delivery Method Construction Management

Client Sydney Catholic Schools
Architect BVN Architecture

Photographer Paramount Studios

Stage 1 of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School in North Strathfield involved transforming the ground floor of a former 1970’s Telstra training centre into modern teaching and learning spaces for Kindergarten to Year 2 students. The works support the school’s vision for flexible, child‑centred learning environments within a building undergoing a major long‑term redevelopment.

Construction required a full strip‑out back to the concrete slab, walls and ceilings, followed by installation of new fire, electrical, hydraulic and mechanical services. A key challenge was maintaining essential services to the occupied second floor, which continued to house McDonald College boarders throughout construction. Careful staging and service isolation ensured the upper levels remained operational without disruption.

Working within a live school environment added further complexity. Grindley shared the main driveway used by students, requiring strict management of deliveries, vehicle movements and pedestrian safety during drop‑off and pick‑up times.

The new fitout includes staff offices, meeting rooms, 3 classrooms and 2 withdrawal spaces for 1‑on‑1 learning. A raised timber corridor separates staff and student areas and runs through the centre of the building, demanding precise coordination of services, steelwork and joinery. Sliding pinboard and glass doors allow classrooms to open or close depending on teaching needs. The exposed ceiling required extensive testing to achieve the architect’s desired “raw” finish.

A consistent use of timber creates warmth throughout the interiors, complemented by a German‑manufactured glazed façade system installed onsite, complete with louvres and bi‑fold doors. Our team also delivered a temporary playground to support the school during future stages of construction.

The completed works provide a high‑quality learning environment and establish a strong foundation for the school’s broader redevelopment.