Cardiff High School Principal Josh Gane said the transformation of an old netball court into an amphitheatre and sports court with new synthetic surfacing has been nothing short of startling.

“When we look at the ‘before’ and ‘after’ photos we’re thrilled at how well it’s turned out,” he said.

“It gives us an outstanding space marked out for basketball, netball and volleyball, with plenty of capacity for spectators on two tiers of sandstone blocks around the court.

“Encouraging exercise has always been one of our priorities, and this will give students so many more options, both during sports lessons and afternoons, and during breaks between classes.

“We’re also expecting the seating to serve as space for people to sit for outdoor gatherings and meetings, as well as giving us more options for having community groups use our facilities.”

The $230,000 sports court was largely paid for from school funds, with $25,000 from the federal Schools Upgrade Fund.