He toured the site earlier in the week accompanied by the school principal, Adam Forrester.  For some months, the school has been a maze of paths through areas of construction work.

But Mr Marshall said after his visit: “2018 will bring not only new textbooks and a bright-eyed year 7 cohort, but a vastly improved Glen Innes High School campus.”

“These exciting works will make the school’s front entrance and administrative block more functional and attractive for teachers and parents, while promoting safe outdoors play areas for students.

“Visitors will first notice a more attractive entrance way, with landscaping, greenery and trees to present a more inviting approach to the learning institution.

“The new covered outdoor learning area will allow students to play and learn outside with minimal sun exposure – an important health consideration which can get overlooked in Glen Innes’ cooler climate.”