Mr Piccoli, accompanied by Maitland MP Robyn Parker and Liberal candidate for Maitland Steve Thomson toured the site and spoke with school principal Michael Whiting.

Mr Whiting said the upgrade would allow the school to accommodate most of the future students anticipated with the expansion of areas in Maitland’s west. 

“We’re expecting a massive boom as the currently large primary school populations come through to us,” he said.

“This upgrade will get us most of the way toward catering to the figures we’ve researched, so we’re happy.”

The school’s population stands at 1050 and endures an overcrowded playground. 

The upgrade includes a two-storey building that will house a senior learning unit, a special education unit, staff and student amenities and 19 new classrooms.

“Some of the old demountables are in appalling condition,” Ms Parker said.

“I’ve been given great feedback by the school community; they really value this project.”

Mr Whiting assured Ms Parker that the school could handle the increasing numbers.

“The downside to a big school is you get to know each student a little less personally, but the upside is more choice when it comes to subjects, classes and resources,” Mr Whiting said.

No new school for west Maitland

$5m upgrade for Bolwarra school