Tears began to swell, and words were lost, as the normally outspoken and stoic Andrew FitzSimons saw his name for the first time across the roof of Dapto High School’s new covered outdoor learning area (COLA).

The NSW Department of Education has officially handed over the keys to the $2million COLA which took 12 months to build and was an election commitment by the NSW Government.

Set in amongst cow paddocks and the backdrop of the Illawarra escarpment, the state-of-the-art-facility is now the former Principal’s legacy, after leading the school for 19 years.

The passionate educator described the moment as magical as he officially cut the ribbon and declared the space open for students, in front of family, friends, staff and dignitaries at a special ceremony.

“It’s induced lots of reflection,” Mr FitzSimons said. “Public education has been such a big part of my life and a wonderful positive force.

“And to have something like this in perpetuity and at a good school, is quite special.

“Dapto High School (on Dharawal Country) has been at the centre of this community for decades and for PDHPE students to have good facilities like this, will transform their learning and their teaching.”

Dapto High School Principal Joel Burnett said students from Years 7 through to 12 would now be able to head outside to study, learn and play, with the COLA providing shade protection and a space for wet weather play, sport and outdoor assemblies.

“It’s taken a large team to pull this together, from planning to construction phases, we’ve had a wonderful team support by the NSW Department of Education,” he said.

“The flexibility of the space is amazing. Different sports can be played in the space, as well as outdoor learning, and we are so lucky to have view of the escarpment. So it is such a serene space to be in.

“We are so excited the kids can’t wait to get inside and start using it.”

In addition to the new COLA, Dapto High School also received funding in 2024 for a new school fence and to paint the hall.

These upgrade works at the school are part of the NSW Government’s work to rebuild public education across the state to ensure growing communities get access to a world class public education.

Acting NSW Education Minister Courtney Houssos can’t wait to see the local community take advantage of the new COLA, with the school educating teenagers from the booming Dapto area and wider Illawarra region.

“The new COLA at Dapto High School demonstrates this government’s commitment to providing access to a world-class education in high quality local public school for all kids across the state,” she said.

“The new outdoor space will serve as a dynamic environment where students can engage in hands-on learning, develop teamwork skills and enjoy the benefits of fresh air and natural light.”

As part of the NSW Government’s plan to rebuild public education, the 2025- 26 Budget is delivering $2.1 billion for new and upgraded schools in regional NSW.

In addition to the improvements at Dapto High School, a new public school for families in West Dapto will open for 600 students on Day 1, Term 1, 2029.