- Minister for Education
Kallista Primary School will become more inclusive for students with disabilities and additional needs, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Education and Member for Monbulk James Merlino today announced a grant of over $87,000 for a new Sensory Retreat at the school.
The Retreat will provide a welcoming and calming space for students with sensory needs, with an outdoor patio separated from the general play area so children with sensory needs can enjoy the outdoors without the noise of the general playground.
This is one of 53 projects across the state being funded from the additional $10 million announced in this year's budget, as part of the Labor Government's $40 million Inclusive Schools Fund.
This round of grants will fund a range of innovative ideas such as accessible kitchen gardens, wheelchair friendly playground surfaces, quiet musical areas, a bush playground and sensory zones with a range of tactile surfaces.
The Inclusive Schools Fund is part of the Labor Government's commitment to inclusive education, which is ensuring that students with disabilities and additional needs get the same opportunities as other students.
Since the Fund was established by the Labor Government in 2015 more than 230 creative projects to build inclusive learning spaces, outdoor sensory areas and accessible playgrounds have been announced.
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.
More information about these projects is available at: www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Education and Member for Monbulk James Merlino
"This is great news for Kallista students, who will get the benefits of new and welcoming inclusive spaces to cater for a wider range of options for teaching and learning."
"Disability doesn't need to be a barrier to learning and achieving - these innovative projects are all about giving our primary schools the infrastructure they need to inspire a passion for learning in all students."
