ORANGE high school students can look forward to state-of -the-art science facilities in both of the city’s public high schools with the announcement of a $1.3 million refurbishment of four science labs at Canobolas Rural Technology High School.

The funding, announced last week, is part of the Rudd Government’s Science and Language Centres for the 21st Century Schools program.

The refurbishment will involve a major upgrade of four of the school’s five science labs and will bring them into line with the recently renovated laboratories at Orange High School.

The buildings, which are at least 25 years old, will be upgraded to include both wet and dry study areas and an improved preparation area.

They will also be equipped to allow for classroom technology such as interactive whiteboards and wireless internet.

According to Canobolas Rural Technology High School principal Chris Condliffe, the project could be underway by the end of this year and it is hoped the refurbishments will be complete by June 2010.

Mr Condliffe said the renovated labs would be a welcome addition to the school’s facilities.

“It’s very significant for the school and expenditure that we’re very, very grateful for,” he said.

“It brings both schools in Orange to the same standard which is wonderful.”