Heritage Stonework Program
The NSW Department of Education’s Heritage Stonework Program conserves historic public school buildings so they remain safe, functional and beautiful learning places. Managed by School Infrastructure, the program is delivered in collaboration with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure and the highly skilled artisans of Heritage Stonework. Together, we are working to preserve the historical, cultural and educational value of our heritage schools while ensuring they meet modern safety and accessibility needs.
How we care for heritage schools
The Heritage Stonework Program
Is delivered through 2 main streams that support heritage conservation across NSW public schools
Heritage condition assessment
We use detailed inspections and reports to identify and prioritise restoration needs.
Heritage stonework restoration
We deliver high-quality restoration work that protects and enhances the integrity of school buildings.
Every heritage school is unique
Every project is tailored to the specific needs of the site.
What’s involved
Depending on the scope of the restoration works required, the process can take several years from site establishment to completion. Restoration work often includes:
- detailed condition assessments by heritage architects and engineers
- repair and replacement of sandstone using traditional stonemasonry methods
- roof and rainwater system upgrades to prevent water damage
- restoration of heritage timber windows, doors and decorative details
- repointing and surface cleaning using gentle conservation techniques
- structural strengthening to protect significant fabric where required.
Our commitment to heritage
Under section 170 of the NSW Heritage Act 1977, the Department of Education must conserve and manage significant heritage assets to ensure their longevity and historical value.
Through the Heritage Stonework Program, School Infrastructure is fulfilling this obligation, investing in the careful restoration of school buildings, many of which have stood as community landmarks for over a century.
The work not only preserves architectural beauty but also keeps the stories of NSW public education alive, providing students with a tangible connection to the state’s shared history.
Schools undergoing restoration
Across NSW, more than 200 schools are included in the Heritage Stonework Program, with condition assessments used to prioritise and sequence restoration works. Inspection and assessment activities are undertaken on a rolling cycle, targeting about 20 schools annually. Each year, typically 4-5 schools advance to the construction stage, depending on their complexity and level of need.
Project planning often begins years in advance to secure stone, materials and coordinate logistics for working within an operational school site.
Leichhardt Public School
Restoration work includes substantial sandstone replacement and repair, where large sections of the façade will be rebuilt using bespoke new stone crafted to match the original 19th-century fabric. Additional works include improving roof plumbing and drainage, restoring the heritage timber windows, repairing arches, and reinstating slate tile roofing on Block B.
Gladesville Public School
Restoration work includes cleaning the sandstone façade and removing old paint, repointing and repairing sandstone walls, restoring and repainting heritage timber windows, doors and veranda elements, upgrading the roof and drainage (including new flashing, downpipes, leaf guards and subfloor ventilation), and stabilising chimneys, installing bird-proofing and replacing wall vents.
Rozelle Public School
Restoration work includes replacing deteriorated sandstone on gables and chimneys, replacing brickwork, roof elements and minor electrical and plumbing systems, and undertaking general restoration and painting of building elements.
Tighes Hill Public School
Restoration work includes replacing deteriorated sandstone and stone sills and repairing and repointing masonry (including desalination). The project also involves stabilising the buildings chimneys and strengthening the gable ends, delivering a full roof replacement with upgraded roof plumbing, improving subfloor ventilation, and repairing damaged timber floors and windows.
Frequently asked questions
Why does sandstone restoration take time?
Restoring heritage buildings is a highly specialised process. Every sandstone block, timber detail and roof element is carefully inspected, measured and, where necessary, handcrafted by skilled stonemasons using traditional techniques. The precise nature of the work takes time but ensures the buildings are restored correctly and protected for future generations.
Are the buildings safe?
Yes. All buildings included in the Heritage Stonework Program are assessed by qualified engineers, architects and stonemasons. Where needed, risk mitigation measures are put in place, and safety remains the highest priority throughout the restoration process.
How will noise, access and safety be managed?
Noise will be managed in accordance with the noise-restriction regulations under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. Safety fencing, signage and clear access routes will be maintained at all times. Work areas are separated from students, staff and the public, and construction is scheduled to minimise disruption to learning, with particularly noisy or disruptive works scheduled for out of hours and vacation periods.
Will the works impact teaching and learning?
The program is designed to allow schools to continue operating normally. Projects are carefully planned in consultation with school leadership to minimise any impact on classrooms, playgrounds and activities.
Will the works impact neighbouring properties?
Most restoration work takes place within school grounds. Scaffolding may be visible during the project, but other impacts to the neighbourhood will be minimal. Traffic and pedestrian management plans will be implemented where necessary, and the school community will be notified of any changes to access or parking.
