Monash University > News and Events > Monash Memo

$20 million science school on schedule

18 March 2009

JMSS Principal Peter Corkill, State Government Minister of Education Bronwyn Pike, Monash Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Larkins, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Adam Shoemaker.

The $20 million John Monash Science School at the Clayton campus is on track to be operating by the beginning of next year.

The confirmation was made during an official site inspection by State Minister for Education Bronwyn Pike, Monash Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Larkins, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Adam Shoemaker and the school's newly appointed principal Peter Corkill.

The John Monash Science School (JMSS) is a joint initiative between Monash and the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.

The school will be fully funded and run by the State Government with a focus on mathematics, science and technology. It will cater for more than 600 students from Years 10 to 12 who show ability in maths and science.

Newly appointed principal, Peter Corkill said he was looking forward to an environment where teachers and students could explore learning together.

"Students will be encouraged to excel," Mr Corkill said.

"They will be challenged by contemporary thinking and engaged in helping find solutions to current pressing problems.

"With Monash keen to work with us on creating new curriculum opportunities, we stand ready to shape the future."

Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Larkins said the development was a wonderful opportunity for Monash and the school's students.

"The school is located just metres from the University's science and medicine faculties where the best minds in Australia are creating solutions for the future," Professor Larkins said.

"It will provide the school's students and staff with unique opportunities to engage with university teaching and research staff."

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Adam Shoemaker said the school aimed to develop world-class, innovative teaching and curriculum that would engage students and teachers alike.

"The establishment of the John Monash Science Centre at Monash is supported by international and interstate experience that shows students studying in specialist schools achieve improved learning outcomes within the specialty and across the broad curriculum," Professor Shoemaker said.

The John Monash Science School will have its first intake of students in January 2010.