New Science Building at St Charles College

Early 2023 saw the opening of our new science building at St Charles College, which boasts a state-of-the-art laboratory and two lecture theatres.
The laboratory is used for biology, physics and chemistry practical sessions and can accommodate multiple classes at any one time. The design of the laboratory is based on a university-style open plan model, preparing St Charles College students well for the next phase of their education.
The modern design can accommodate approximately 84 students at 14 benches. Each bench seats six students and is equipped with two sinks at either end and a gas tap for each student. The sleek solid wood bench tops complete the design and provide a practical work surface. There is a teacher demonstration bench in the front of the laboratory with a fume hood for more adventurous experiments. The laboratory is equipped with two safety showers and eye wash stations, which will hopefully never be needed, but would be crucial in an emergency. Also included in the building are a physics and chemistry storeroom and prep area for preparation of chemicals for laboratory sessions. The new building can be accessed from a walkway outside the old science laboratories or a staircase starting outside the art room.
The sciences have been rapidly growing at St Charles College over the past few years with over 70 students taking Physics and 40 taking Chemistry in each of the Grades 10 to 12. The need for a new laboratory and more space became increasingly critical when the College moved from offering Physical Science in Grade 10, to offering Physics and Chemistry as separate subjects, requiring more practicals. This change better aligns the College with international norms. These numbers are compounded when one considers that all students take Physical Science in Grades 8 and 9 and it is a goal of the College to offer these students more practical experience to ease the transition to Grade 10.
The two lecture theatres, built underneath the laboratory, can each accommodate 60 students and will provide a place for conferences, talks and combined classes. - Dr Kate Akerman (Head of Science Faculty at St Charles College)