The member for Oxley, Melinda Pavey MP, turned the first sod on the project, which will see 13 new classrooms and a covered multi-use outdoor area.  The works will allow the school to cater for 750 students.

“I’m delighted this project has reached this important milestone,” said Ms Pavey.

“This will ensure that students and families in our local community have the very best when it comes to school facilities.”

Principal Cameron Osborne said the work will get underway very soon.

“We expect fencing to start going up on Tuesday and during the school holidays, preparations for removal of the old building will start.”

Ms Pavey said the contractors would do what they could to protect the timbers of the 100-year-old school building that is being dismantled, after the local history society was unable to find the money to preserve it.

“Wauchope has such a tradition around the timber industry, but the school has had too many demountables, and the kids need a modern learning space,” she said.

“The builders will preserve some of the old windows, some timbers and fireplaces,” said Mr Osborne.

“When people see this new school, it will blow their minds,” he added.