Principal Lino Pagano, who has moved from Craigieburn Secondary College to take up the new role, said delays in getting landline connection and internet access had not curbed the enthusiastic vibe at the school.

He said the Stockland development company had provided office space for the government school to use in the interim.

The school opened with 115 enrolments from prep to grade 6 but will have capacity for up to 1700 P-12 students once it is completed.

The second stage of the four-stage building program has begun, and the school will have year 7 classes next year.

Most children have come from new estates in the growth area or from other schools that are further from their homes.

Nine teaching staff and two support staff have been appointed.

Teaching and learning director Natasha Davies said pupils were enthusiastic and the new teachers had set up a "really effective curriculum".

"Children are excited about coming to a brand-new school and they are all interacting really well with their new teachers, developing good relationships already.

"It's exciting to be able to set the direction of where the school is going."

Ms Davies said the only downside to moving into a new school was obtaining all the resources required.

Mr Pagano said the modern classrooms featured an open-plan design to encourage interaction between classes.

"We like to call them flexible learning spaces - you can close areas off or have them open.

"It allows teachers and students to interact in different ways."

Mr Pagano said he hoped to nurture working relationships with other schools, community groups and businesses in the area.

Mount Ridley is one of seven new government schools opening this year.

It is the second school to accommodate secondary students in Craigieburn.

Details: Lino Pagano, 83383600.