Education
Students at Holy Spirit College, Bellambi, are set to enjoy upgraded classrooms and amenities thanks to an $878,000 investment. The project was officially blessed and opened by the Bishop of Wollongong, Most Rev Brian Mascord DD, on Friday 11 September 2026.
To meet the diverse needs of students, an existing building was refurbished to create four new classrooms designed specifically to support students with diverse learning needs. Equipped to help students learn essential life skills such as cooking, cleaning and personal care, the new facility features a space for individual or small-group activities, an accessible bathroom, staff offices, and storage for teaching aids and essential resources to ensure all students can learn and thrive.
College staff, particularly those from the learning support unit, were heavily involved throughout the design process. Holy Spirit College Principal, Mr Chris Agnew, welcomed the upgrades, noting how they will help staff to support and challenge students across all aspects of school life.
“Holy Spirit College is an incredible school, and our students are at the centre of everything we do... Centred on student success, these upgrades help students bring out their absolute best and embody our College values: Resilience, Integrity, Spirit, and Excellence.”
Mr Tim Gilmour, Acting Executive Director of Schools, Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW), said the project represents a commitment by CEDoW to ensure that Catholic schools continue to support and improve the faith, learning, and wellbeing outcomes of students.
“These refurbished facilities represent a commitment to ensuring every student in our system of schools feels safe, supported, and confident,” said Mr Gilmour. “When learning environments adapt to individual needs, students learn better, build resilience, and develop the vital skills they need to flourish both in school and beyond.”
The project was made possible through an $835,000 grant from the Federal Government, alongside $43,131 from CEDoW and parent contributions.
The Blessing and Opening was attended by the Most Rev Brian Mascord DD – Bishop of Wollongong; Tim Gilmour – Acting Executive Director of Schools (CEDoW); and Alison Byrnes MP - Member for Cunningham (representing the Hon Jason Clare - Minister for Education).
