Gold Award for Senior School Building

Caulfield Grammar School has reached a significant milestone in sustainable and wellbeing-focused education design. 

The Senior School Teaching & Learning Building at Caulfield Campus has been awarded WELL Gold Certification, complementing its existing 6-Star Green Star rating and recognising the School’s commitment to creating environments that support the health, comfort and performance of students and staff. 

According to the WELL Directory, this is the first secondary education building in Australia to achieve WELL Gold certification. 

Designed as a future-focused senior school facility, the building enables contemporary teaching and learning through flexible spaces, specialist facilities and environments that prioritise both physical and mental wellbeing. 

Spread across five levels, the building features 28 general classrooms, eight science laboratories, a Design Technology space, a function room, and a range of informal learning and breakout areas that support collaboration and independent study. 

Sustainability is embedded throughout the design. Initiatives include rainwater and solar harvesting for reuse within the building, a smart Building Management System that monitors and optimises services such as water and energy consumption, high-performance façade glazing, and energy-efficient building systems. 

Biophilic design principles further enhance the environment, with abundant natural light, strong visual connections to nature, increased fresh air ventilation, and the extensive use of natural materials such as timber, supporting both wellbeing and cognitive performance. 

“The building has immediately changed the learning culture for students,” said Meg Adem, Deputy Principal – Head of Caulfield Campus. “The variety of study spaces, breakout areas and collaborative zones has created a dynamic environment where students are inspired to work together, challenge one another and strive for excellence. The open-plan design and flexible settings have also fostered a strong sense of ownership and pride. Students have embraced the space and made it their own.” 

Year 12 student Archer reflected on the impact of the new environment: “Access to quiet, designated areas reduces distractions and supports sustained focus. At the same time, the spaces enable meaningful group work and peer learning. Bringing Years 10–12 together has created a more connected and supportive community, enhancing both learning and belonging.” 

This recognition reinforces Caulfield Grammar School’s ongoing commitment to designing environments that inspire learning, support wellbeing, and prepare students for the future.