More than one million Victorian students head back to school this week, with families in Melbourne's growing south-eastern suburbs benefitting from two of 12 new schools opening for Term 1.
Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins today officially opened Quarters Primary School and Kurrun Primary School and welcomed the schools' first students in Prep to Year 6.
Kurrun Primary School has space for 525 students, while Quarters Primary School has space for 715 students, including around 65 spaces for young people with disabilities and additional needs.
Both schools feature specialist learning spaces for subjects including food technology and science, as well as a community hub competition-grade gymnasium, two outdoor hard courts and music and drama spaces.
The other new schools opening for Term 1 are in Melbourne's growing west and northern suburbs and include Ngarri Primary School, Karwan Primary School, Nearnung Primary School, Wollert Secondary College, Mickleham Secondary College, Donnybrook Primary School, Wayi School, Barrawang Primary School, Thornhill Park Primary School and Lollypop Creek Primary School.
All new primary schools have a kindergarten on-site or next door, allowing children to make a smooth transition from pre-school and helping parents ditch the dreaded double drop-off.
Seven of the primary schools have kindergartens operating on-site or next door from 2023, with the remaining three kindergartens opening next year.
Each Prep student at a government school will receive a free Prep bag with books like The Two-Hearted Numbat by Ambelin and Ezekiel Kwaymullina, a brother and sister team of Indigenous writers, a Meet the Mathscots ruler, a world map jigsaw, SunSmart stickers and a Get Your Move On frisbee.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested $12.8 billion in building new schools and more than 1,850 school upgrades, creating around 17,400 jobs. The Government is ahead of schedule in opening 100 new schools by 2026, with 75 new schools opening between 2019 and 2024 - ensuring every student can access a great local school.
As stated by Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins
"I'd like to wish every student returning to school this week the best of luck in the coming year - it's an exciting time filled with new friends, learning and experiences that shape you forever."
"More students than ever have the facilities and first-class education they deserve, thanks to the Labor Government's record investment in school infrastructure and support for teachers - ensuring Victoria remains the education state."
As stated by Member for Cranbourne Pauline Richards
"These new schools will benefit all local families and students in the area - with modern classrooms and learning spaces that are close to home."
As stated by Member for Pakenham Emma Vulin
"It's great to see these new schools officially open for Term 1 - giving local students in the area every opportunity to thrive both at school and in life."
