A new outdoor space will be established at Le Page Primary School in Cheltenham with a grant from the Andrews Government’s Inclusive Schools Fund.
The fund supports small building projects that make a big difference to the educational and social needs of all children and young people, including those with a disability and additional needs, by increasing participation opportunities and improving learning outcomes.
Sensory play equipment, outdoor learning spaces and kitchen gardens are among a number of innovative school building projects being supported, making sure every Victorian student has the opportunity to fully participate and succeed.
State Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos has announced a $200,000 grant for Le Page, which will establish an outdoor inclusive learning space, that will include sensory equipment and timber decking.
The Victorian Budget 2021/22 invested $10 million into the Inclusive Schools Fund, building on a boost of $20 million in the Victorian Budget 2020/21.
The Labor Government launched the Inclusive Schools Fund in 2015 to help Victorian schools cater for all students, and make sure all children and young people can fully participate, learn, develop and succeed. Since then, more than 340 projects have shared in $70 million in funding for inclusive projects.
The next round of funding is open until 28 February.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino
“The Education State is all about ensuring every Victorian child has the best opportunities to succeed – regardless of differences – and small projects like these make a world of difference to students of all abilities.”
“Congratulations to all the successful applicants, I look forward to seeing these wonderful projects come to life to support more students to fully participate and succeed during their school life.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos
“The Le Page Primary School community is going to transform a tired and disused space into a welcoming and inclusive outdoor learning environment – I can’t wait to see the finished project.”
“I am very pleased that following a review of electoral boundaries, Le Page Primary School will be in the Bentleigh electorate. I am looking forward to working with the school community to deliver the best possible outcomes for our students.”
