Thursday, 2 April 2020

The Andrews Labor Government is helping make Victoria Road Primary School in Mount Evelyn and Officer Specialist School, inclusive schools for local students and families.

Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing today announced that architectural firm Searle and Waldon Architecture Pty Ltd has been appointed to design the both school’s Inclusive Schools Fund projects.

Victoria Road Primary School in Mount Evelyn has received $139,796.80 to build an indoor inclusive learning space.  Officer Specialist School in Officer has received $200,000 to build an accessible playground.

An additional $10 million was announced in the 2019-2020 State Budget, as part of the Labor Government’s $40 million Inclusive Schools Fund.

The Inclusive Schools Fund is part of the Labor Government’s commitment to inclusive education, which is ensuring that students with disabilities and additional needs get the same opportunities as other students.

Since the Fund was established by the Labor Government in 2015 more than 232 creative projects to build inclusive learning spaces, outdoor sensory areas and accessible playgrounds have been announced.

The Fund is ensuring that students with disabilities get the same opportunities as other students.

Inclusive education is about ensuring that all students, regardless of disabilities or other differences, can fully participate, learn, develop and succeed in Victorian government schools.

The Labor Government is building the Education State to ensure every student can access a great local school and get a great education.

Strengthening inclusive education for all students, including those with disabilities and additional learning needs, is fundamental to an equitable and excellent school system.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing

“This is great news for Victoria Road Primary School and Officer Specialist School students, who will get the benefits of new inclusive spaces to cater for a wider range of options for teaching and learning.”

 “Disability doesn’t need to be a barrier to learning and achieving – these innovative projects are all about giving our primary schools the infrastructure they need to inspire a passion for learning in all students.”