The Andrews Labor Government is helping more schools build inclusive play areas, sensory gardens and outdoor learning areas to support students with disabilities and additional needs.

In total there are 74 projects across the state that will share in over $12.5 million under Round 6 of the Labor Government’s Inclusive Schools Fund.

The Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous MP, announced today that both Thornbury Primary School and Westgarth Primary School will benefit from this round.

Thornbury Primary will receive $200,000 to create an inclusive playground, including new equipment and rubber surfacing, while Westgarth Primary School will receive $166,000 for a new outdoor inclusive learning space, which will include a shed and landscaping.

The Inclusive Schools Fund is helping government schools better cater for the social and educational needs of all young people, including those with a disability or additional needs. This is the sixth round of funding.

Since the Fund was established by the Labor Government in 2015, more than 300 creative projects to build inclusive learning spaces and inclusive playgrounds have been announced.

Locally this has included $198,000 investment at Croxton Special School that supported the creation of an outdoor sensory play space and $200,000 for Thornbury High School for the development of an inclusive outdoor learning space to support their long running integration program.

Inclusive education is about ensuring that all students, regardless of ability, are able to fully participate, learn, develop and succeed in Victorian government schools.

Quotes attributable to Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous MP

 “This is a fantastic outcome for all students at Thornbury and Westgarth Primary Schools who will soon have some amazing new spaces in which to learn, play and be inspired.”

“As we build the Education State, I’m proud to be supporting our local schools to access funding that ensures students of all abilities can benefit from a great education in spaces that are welcoming and responsive to their needs.”

“Sensory play, contemplative play, energetic play, social play – these are all vital elements in improving learning outcomes for our children and we are embedding them within our education system.”