CONSTRUCTION will begin soon on two new schools for Gungahlin.

The $64.4 million Bonner Primary School and $44.1 million Franklin Early Childhood School are expected to be complete in time for the 2013 school year.

“Bonner Primary School is scheduled to open at the start of term 1 in 2013, providing pre-school and primary school facilities for families in the north Gungahlin region, especially in the growing suburbs of Bonner and Forde,” Minister for Education, Dr Chris Bourke said.

“When completed, it will accommodate up to 560 students.”

Dr Bourke said the new school has been designed to achieve a 5 Green Star design rating from the Green Building Council of Australia.

“It will also integrate horticulture, science and environment teaching areas,” he said. “There will be a significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander influence in the school landscapes and artwork, as befits a suburb named after the pioneering Senator Neville Bonner.

“Franklin Early Childhood School will provide facilities for children from birth to eight years of age. The learning spaces and facilities have been designed to support national childcare standards and the latest educational practices in purpose-designed early childhood facilities.

“The school will accommodate a 120-space childcare centre, and will be able to enrol up to 300 students from pre-school to Year 2.”