The campus is expected to make the move in time for the new school year, and while it’s a positive move to upgraded facilities, space and support, teachers and families alike will leave with many memories of their time spent at Newstead Heights.

Head of campus Leanne Macfarlane said they were putting a call out to any former families and staff to contribute memorabilia and their own memories for a formal farewell, to be held sometime in November.

She said the school was founded in the early 1980s as St Giles school before becoming the Northern Support School’s campus at an unknown date.

“The redevelopment over the way is scheduled to finish by the end of the year, so … we’ll be over there to start the school year next year,” she said.

There are many gaps in the history of the school, which it is hoped will be filled by former staff and families who attended contributing memorabilia such as school uniforms, photos, results and their own memories and stories.

Ms Macfarlane said it wasn’t clear when the school became known as Newstead Heights and she was hoping there would be historical experts and former staff who were familiar with the school and could provide more information.

She said the school used to be closely linked with St Giles, but over time that close tie has changed as needs have been met elsewhere.

The upgraded and refurbished Ravenswood St Georges campus, still under construction, combines both primary and high school students in a state-of-the-art facility that includes more outdoor space, a dedicated swimming pool, and all classrooms on one level.

In contrast, the Newstead Heights campus has classrooms, its swimming pool and outdoor play areas on two levels, along with classrooms that are open to the ceiling and can be noisy.

“There have been so many students that have come through, and there would be a lot of memories,” Ms Macfarlane said.

For further information on the farewell to the campus contact Leanne Macfarlane on 6344 3917 or leanne.macfarlane@education.tas.gov.au.