Making schools more inclusive in the education state

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, today announced that Riddells Creek Primary School has been allocated $100,000 for an innovative project that will transform parts of its school yard into a creative, restorative, learning space.

The grant forms part of the Labor Government’s new Inclusive Schools Fund, which is providing $10 million over four years to build inclusive school facilities and help government schools better support the social and educational needs of young people with a disability.

The 33 projects in this first round of the Inclusive Schools Fund include the construction of outdoor areas, accessible playgrounds, sensory spaces and equipment.

The project at Riddells Creek Primary School will provide an outdoor learning space incorporating a wheelchair-accessible kitchen garden, raised beds, wide pathways and sensory organic materials and structures including a free standing shed and shaded awning.

The Inclusive Schools Fund is one of nine initiatives outlined in the Special Needs Plan for Victorian Schools. A key election commitment, the Special Needs Plan aims to ensure that students with disabilities get the same chances as other students.The Fund is in addition to the annual Accessible Buildings Program, which provides government schools with funding for facilities to support students, parents and teachers with injuries or disabilities.

Schools unsuccessful in the first round of the Inclusive Schools Fund will be encouraged to apply in future rounds.

Quotes attributable to the Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas MP
"I want to congratulate Riddells Creek Primary School for this thoughtful, innovative project".

"The 2014 fires that surrounded Riddells Creek as well as the recent fire in Lancefield have had a significant impact on kids and their wellbeing. This innovative outdoor learning space will help children overcome some of their anxieties and establish a positive relationship with the natural environment again".

Labor is making Victoria the Education State by ensuring that every community has access to great schools, supporting our teachers and principals to be their best, and ensuring that every student has the chance to succeed, in learning and in life.”