Work on the new $21.7 million multi-storey learning and administration centre at Goodna Special School is officially underway.

Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum turned the first sod on the new centre today, signalling the start of an exciting new building project for the Queen Street school.

Mr McCallum said the centre would include 12 new learning spaces along with administration and office facilities.

“Ten of the learning spaces will be supported with associated collaborative spaces and two will be set aside for specialist learning including art, music and life skills,” Mr McCallum said.

“There will also be a dedicated therapy room, supporting speech pathology and health assessments, and an outdoor learning space.

“Students will also benefit from our GPs in schools program, and will be able to access medical support from a GP in a new facility right here at school.

“About 20 jobs will be supported during construction.”

Goodna Special School Principal Fleur Watson said works followed last year’s official opening of the $12.2 million three-storey Yakka Dargun learning centre.

“Staff and students are certainly looking forward to this great new centre, we can’t wait to welcome the first classes in mid-2023,” Ms Watson said.

Education Minister Grace Grace said the Palaszczuk Government was investing in world-class education across the Ipswich community, including new schools at Ripley and Augustine Heights.

“We’re supporting good jobs in our state as we continue to provide better services for students and teachers, enhancing the great Queensland lifestyle we all enjoy,” Ms Grace said.