Isleworth School redevelopment

Construction of the first stage of redevelopment at Isleworth School in Christchurch is well underway as curious kids eagerly watch their new multi-purpose hall space take shape.

Citycare Property’s construction team is managing the project for the school, which caters for children in years 1-6.

The 15-month project in the suburb of Bishopdale began with a site blessing on January 25 and has progressed through a foundation pour and preparation work for the hall slab, which was poured on 12 March, Project Manager Shane Wildermoth says.

The next milestone is the installation of the structural steel later in March, he says.

Once the multi-purpose space is completed, the team will undertake internal refurbishment of three classroom blocks and demolish the old hall, Shane says.

At the celebration of the beginning of the construction process, a karakia blessing was led by Corban and Lynne Harata Te Aika, representatives of the local rūnanga Ngāi Tūāhuriri.

“What a wonderful day: the sun was shining, there was a slight breeze in the air and birdsong surrounding us as we finally began our build and refurbishment process,” School Principal Suzanne Newton says.

A sod was turned using a special Ministry of Education shovel and the soil removed will be stored safely until the end of the build when it will be returned as part of the opening.

“The developments are moving at a steady pace and are interesting to watch,” Suzanne says.

“A group of Year 1/2 students have been fascinated by the digger, prompting connections to ‘The Little Yellow Digger’ books by Betty and Alan Gilderdale.

“I’m sure we will have much more natural learning occur throughout the year as the site progresses,” she says.

“The Citycare Property team are doing a great job. It’s easy when we are working with good people,” Suzanne says.

Shout-outs to Zeal Construction for the great work on the concrete foundations and slab, to Civil and Land for the excavation, drainage and siteworks, and VIP for the upcoming structured steel roof and walls.