More schools across Victoria will get a funding boost to build all-access play areas, sensory gardens and outdoor learning areas to support students with disabilities and special needs.
Visiting Specimen Hill College in Bendigo on Thursday, Victorian Education Minister, James Merlino, announced a further 93 schools across the state will share in $15m in funding under the government’s $30m Inclusive Schools Fund.
The fund is part of the Victorian Government’s Special Needs Plan for Victorian Schools, which is ensuring that students with disabilities get the same opportunities as other students.
Specimen Hill Primary School alone will receive $200,000 to create an outdoor sensory area where children can play and learn in a natural setting featuring flowing water, timber, plants, textured pebbles and larger boulders, along with a frog pond.
Since the Inclusive Schools Fund was established by the Labor Government in 2015, nearly 90 creative projects to build inclusive play spaces, outdoor learning areas, sensory gardens and calm spaces have been delivered.
“This is about giving every child, every chance – regardless of their background or circumstances. That’s what this funding will deliver,” Merlino said.
“As we build the Education State, we’re continuing to invest in schools to ensure students of all abilities can access a great education – no matter their circumstances.”
Member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards, said 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.
“These projects are all about giving our primary schools the equipment and infrastructure they need to inspire a lifelong passion for learning for all of their students and to show that disability isn’t a barrier to learning and achieving,” Edwards said.