Australia – Schools across Victoria will share in funding to build all-access play areas, sensory gardens and outdoor learning areas to support students with disabilities and additional needs.
Minister for Education James Merlino today visited Mt Waverly North Primary School to announce a further 53 projects across the state to an extra $10 million from the Labor Government’s Inclusive Schools Fund.
Mt Waverly North Primary School is receiving $200,000 to create an inclusive outdoor accessible play space which will transform a concreted area in the school to a covered area with synthetic grass to facilitate a wide-range of sports.
It’s one of many innovative ideas through this round of funding, which include accessible kitchen gardens, wheelchair-friendly playground surfaces, quiet musical areas, a bush playground and sensory zones with a range of tactile surfaces.
The $40 million Inclusive Schools Fund is helping government schools better cater for the social and educational needs of young people with a disability and additional needs. This is the fifth round of grants under the Fund.
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.
“This funding is about giving every child the best chance to meet their potential – regardless of their background or circumstances.”
“As we build the Education State, we’re continuing to invest in schools to ensure students of all abilities can access a great education regardless of background or educational needs.” said Minister for Education James Merlino
