The Latrobe Special Developmental School and Traralgon Secondary College will not be merged, with the Andrews Labor Government to get on with the job of upgrading both schools.

The decision follows formal consultation with both school communities and the community over recent months. The confirmation that there would be no merger was made today by the Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing.

The Victorian School Building Authority undertook community consultation for the Regeneration Project at the schools through workshops and online surveys  to identify local priorities and the best way to deliver better and more connected school infrastructure for Traralgon families.

The appointment of Ms Nicole Ball to Latrobe Special Developmental School as Executive Principal, working with David Mowbray, Executive Principal, Traralgon College and the community, combined with the $6 million to plan and develop enhanced provision in Traralgon, provides both schools with an exciting opportunity to thrive both now and into the future.

The Department of Education and Training has engaged architects, and through the next phase of planning with the schools and their communities, they will develop more detailed outlines of what will be possible for both Traralgon College and Latrobe SDS.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“Despite the efforts of a small minority to spread damaging, distracting and misleading information about this project for political gain, we have gotten on with the job of community consultation about this important investment.” 

“We are absolutely determined to support students with disabilities and special needs from across the Valley so that they can access a great education – and to provide their staff, teachers and the community with the right facilities to grow into the future.”