St Bede’s Catholic College | SHAC

St Bede's Catholic College | SHAC | Photographer: Alex McIntyre

2026 National Architecture Awards Program

St Bede’s Catholic College | SHAC

Traditional Land Owners

Wonnarua

Year
2026
Chapter

NSW Regional

Category
Educational Architecture
Builder
Richard Crookes Constructions
Photographer
Alex McIntyre
Media summary

SHAC have built upon the existing relationship with the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle to complete 5 stages of works for a Catholic Secondary College in Chisholm. The overall masterplan includes four large ‘pillars’ which house the specialist learning spaces, large open learning cluster zones and support areas, with the organic form of the circulation spine known as the ‘Peregrine Trail’, linking the four pillars together.

A strong material selection, coupled with symmetrical design approach allows for high-quality detailing and execution throughout the building, subtly referencing proportion, geometry and patterns. 

This project commenced at a time when the Diocese were exploring an alternate method of teaching within the new schools, as ‘future-focused’, with large open spaces for team teaching uses. SHAC’s design met this need with an underlying framework where a more traditional model to teaching could be applied in areas, without compromising the overall use, function or compliance of the buildings. 

SHAC’s flexible and future-focused design of St Bede's Catholic College empowers educators by creating innovative, adaptable learning spaces that support hands-on learning, cross-curricular teaching, and individual student needs. Features like specialized STEM and arts facilities, adaptable furniture, and integrated learning areas facilitate tailored educational experiences, allowing teachers to implement data-informed strategies and foster a student-centered environment for future-ready learning.  This campus is an outstanding asset for our students, staff and community.

James Zehnder, General Ops Manager – Property, Catholic Diocese Maitland-Newcastle

Project Practice Team

ELIZABETH BROWN, Design Architect

Project Consultant and Construction Team

North Construction & Building (for Stage 1 ), Builder
Richard Crookes Construction (for Stage 2-4), Builder
MPC Engineering (for Stage 1), Structural Engineer
Northrop Engineers (for Stage 2-4), Structural Engineer
ACOR (for Stage 1), Civil Consultant
Northrop Engineers (for Stage 2-4), Civil Consultant
Electrical Projects Australia (for Stages 1-4), Electrical Consultant
McCallum PFCA (for Stages 1-2), Hydraulic Consultant
ACOR (for Stages 3-4), Hydraulic Consultant
Optimal Consulting Engineers (for Stage 1), Mechanical Engineer
EVC Consulting Engineers (for Stages 2-4), Mechanical Engineer
Mim Woodland & SHAC (for Stage 1), Landscape Consultant
Terras (for Stages 2-4), Landscape Consultant
NewCert Pty Ltd, Private Certifier
Muller Partnership, Quantity Surveyor

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