Long term need for demountables in growing NSW state schools

Documents obtained under FOI legislation have revealed that one in 10 public school classrooms in NSW are demountable and more than a third have been in place for over a decade.

"NSW schools will need to accommodate an extra 269,000 students by 2031, 164,000 of whom will be in the public system. More than 80 per cent of this growth will be in Sydney," said Education Minister Rob Stokes.

"Enrolments are soaring due to a baby boom, strong NSW economy attracting young families and world-class academic standards.

"Last month, the NSW Government announced the establishment of a new agency, Education Infrastructure NSW, to oversee the planning, supply and maintenance of NSW schools.

"Education Infrastructure NSW will ensure there is sufficient supply of learning space and play space in our schools, and incorporate sustainable design principles. It will also look at the appropriate use of demountables.

Demountable buildings are currently used to manage changing student enrolment patterns, provide accommodation to meet emergency needs arising from fires or natural disasters, and temporary accommodation needs resulting from capital works and maintenance projects. All demountable classrooms are air-conditioned and maintained regularly.”