St Leonards College Redevelopment 

Project summary

Anne Thompson Eaton, as Senior Project Manager, initiated the $50 million St Leonards College Redevelopment project, named “Inspiring Innovations.” The project blended contemporary design with the school’s heritage feel, dating back to the 1870s. 

Key elements included the New Leonardian Performing Arts Centre, seating 600, and a three-story building with learning areas and a canteen. The development harmonized with existing structures and the residential neighborhood. Although Anne couldn’t oversee the entire 18-month period, her expertise in contract management and collaboration with architects contributed to a strong foundation for the successful project, recognized with prestigious awards. 

…what Anne did on this project

As the Senior Project Manager, Anne Thompson Eaton played a crucial role in setting up the novated D&C contracts for the St Leonards College Redevelopment project, valued at $50 million. The project, known as Inspiring Innovations, aimed to provide a supportive atmosphere for student development while blending contemporary design with the existing heritage feel of the school campus, which dates back to the 1870s. 

Key elements of the redevelopment included the construction of the New Leonardian Performing Arts Centre with a floor area of approximately 2,800m², capable of seating 600 patrons. Additionally, a brand new three-storey building was built, featuring teaching spaces, a canteen, eleven dedicated learning areas, a lecturette, and a dedicated exam area, covering a total floor area of roughly 4,200m². The development also incorporated an external outdoor agora, linking the two new buildings. 

The project’s architecture harmoniously blended with the existing buildings on the site and the surrounding residential neighborhood, creating a cohesive and visually appealing environment. The goal was to maintain the heritage charm of the campus while incorporating modern design elements to meet the evolving needs of the college. 

St Leonard’s College Inspiring Innovations was recognized with prestigious awards, including the 2022 Master Builders Victoria Excellence Award in the $30-$80 million category and the 2022 Master Builders National Commercial Construction Award in the $50-$100 million category. 

Throughout the 18-month period, Anne played a pivotal role in overseeing the design and construct phase of the project. Her expertise in managing contracts, collaborating with architects, and coordinating various stakeholders contributed to the successful initiation of the redevelopment. While she was unable to see the project through to completion, her efforts laid a strong foundation for the seamless execution and delivery of the Inspiring Innovations project at St Leonard’s College.