New schools for the north

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Five new schools will be built in Hume and Whittlesea and a further three upgraded if Labor is re-elected at next month’s state election.

The new schools and upgrades are part of the government’s pledge to invest up to $850 million for works at 89 primary and secondary schools.

Meadow Heights’ Bethel Primary School, Gladstone Park Secondary College and Whittlesea Secondary College will receive upgrades under the spending pledge.

The government has also promised to build Wollert Central Primary School, Mickleham South Primary School, Wollert Andrews Road Primary School, Lockerbie Secondary School and Lockerbie Specialist School.

Premier Daniel Andrews said the new schools responded to the demographic needs of communities, catering to population growth in primary or secondary age groups.

“We want every Victorian child to have the best start in life – but you can’t get a first-rate education in a second-rate classroom. That’s why we’re delivering great local schools for every Victorian family,” he said.

Education Minister Natalie Hutchins said: “We’re proud of our record in building and upgrading schools in every corner of our state – and if we’re re-elected, we’ll keep working hard to make sure every family has access to a great local school”.