Spanning 9,200 square meters across five levels, the school is one of the first vertical schools delivered by the Victorian Government, with Project Management and Superindentent services provided by DCWC.
The design of Prahran High School, created by the architectural firm Gray Puksand, addresses the challenges of a compact urban site. It features outdoor spaces at the roof level and on balconies, enhancing opportunities for sports and learning. The central open atrium encourages collaboration, while contemporary classrooms, a main performance space, and outdoor terraces on every level foster an engaging educational environment.
Key facilities include:
Cascading bleachers that connect various levels, facilitating easy circulation and social interaction
A ground floor that houses the library, music, and drama facilities, maximizing the height of the ceilings
Dedicated spaces for Science, Art, and Food Technology across levels 1, 2, and 3, which have access to outdoor learning terraces
General learning areas, ICT facilities, and break-out spaces distributed throughout the building
A gym on level 3 with access to a large outdoor recreational area, which includes a rebound court and running track
A rooftop play area featuring trees and a garden, as well as a lane designed for play during school hours.
To ensure the safety of students and staff, the school incorporates security measures such as surveillance cameras, a 1.8-meter high fence, and entry controls using swipe cards or keypads. The main entrance is located on High Street, with an additional entrance on St John Street during peak times.
The school promotes sustainable transport options by offering bike storage and being situated near multiple bike paths. While there is no onsite parking, designated drop-off spaces are available on St John and Thomas Streets for school pick-ups and drop-offs at the beginning and end of the school day.
A significant consideration for Gray Puksand was minimising noise for the surrounding residents, ensuring that Prahran High School integrates smoothly into its community while providing a modern educational experience.
Image credits: John Gollings
Awards
2019 Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) Educational - Shortlist
2019 Victorian Architecture Awards, Educational Architecture Category, Commendation
2019 Victorian School Design Awards, Best Project above $10M, Winner
2020 Learning Environments Australasia Awards, New Construction / Entire New Educational Facility, Commendation