Several schools across Western Victoria will receive a funding boost to build inclusive play areas, sensory gardens and outdoor learning areas to support students with disabilities and additional needs, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Labor Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney announced three schools – Anglesea Primary School, Inverleigh Primary School and Nullawarre and District Primary School – will share in $7.89 million to build facilities suitable for all students, as part of the Round 8 of the Inclusive Schools Fund.
- Anglesea Primary School will receive $200,000
- Nullawarre and District Primary School will receive $200,000
- Inverleigh Primary School will receive $190,808
All three schools will create an inclusive playground with their funding allocation.
The Fund will see improvements made to play areas – with stimulating and accessible equipment – as well as outdoor learning spaces that provide opportunities for sensory experiences and peer socialization. Indoor spaces will also be upgraded to promote more inclusive classroom organisation and teaching practices.
The Inclusive Schools Fund was launched in 2015 to help Victorian schools support students whose special needs require additional facilities to ensure all children and young people can fully participate, learn, develop and succeed.
Since the fund was established, more than 340 creative projects to build inclusive learning spaces and inclusive playgrounds have been announced, including Lorne P12 College, Portland Bay School, Beeac Primary School and Bundarra Primary School.
The Victorian Budget 2021/22 includes a further $10 million to the Inclusive Schools Fund, bringing the total investment to $70 million.
Inclusive education is about ensuring that all students, regardless of disabilities or other differences, are able to fully participate, learn, develop and succeed in Victorian government schools.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“This is a fantastic outcome for all students at Anglesea, Inverleigh and Nullawarre and District Primary Schools who will soon have some amazing new spaces in which to learn, play and be inspired.”
“These new playgrounds when complete will make a real difference to students at these schools who will get the benefits of new inclusive spaces to cater for a wider range of options for teaching and learning.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins
“We’re ensuring every child and young person in Victoria can meet their potential and access great education – regardless of their background, abilities or differences.”
“That’s why we’re continuing to invest in the Inclusive Schools Fund – giving schools the infrastructure they need to enable more students to fully participate and succeed in their years of schooling and beyond.”