Gerald Lynch
Merriang Special Development School is among a number of schools throughout Hume and Whittlesea receiving grants to make big upgrades.
They have received $965,385 to upgrade their existing playground to support inclusivity and sensory needs.
Acting principal Kori Koochew said the funding will allow all students to enjoy their break times safely.
“At Merriang School, being an inclusive setting, it is paramount that all learners and all abilities are catered for within the learning environment,” he said.
“Our enrolment base includes students with a broad range of abilities, including those with physical disabilities, and in addition to intellectual disability. Students at Merriang are diverse learners each with their own interests, skills, and capabilities. It’s important that we continue to inspire, engage, and challenge our students within all settings, including outdoor learning environments.
“Fund will allow for the development of our yard that is located adjacent to our new learning spaces, to the east of the main learning pavilion. We have put together a team, led by our physical education specialist, Mr Brendan Colville, to identify a plan ahead.
“In working with the Department, the school community and other stakeholders, Brendan’s team will design and implement an inclusive playground setting, to best cater for the evolving educational needs of our students.
“The ‘Playground Committee’ forms part of our broader School Improvement Team and will seek to ultimately deliver the best possible and most innovative play space for our learning communities. Other members of the committee include our speech and occupational therapists, junior school coordinator as well as education support staff.”
The federal government funding was available for any state schools to apply for, and this round of funding sees $48.1 million being shared across 67 schools.
Norris Bank Primary School in Bundoora was given $963,166 for new playground equipment and shade sails.
Meadows Heights Primary School was granted $712,419 for a refurbishment of student toilets.
Westmeadows Primary School received $499,095 for new playground equipment and landscaping of facilities.
Findon Primary School in Mill Park received $94,693 for upgraded toilets.
Gladstone Park Primary School was given $460,951 to replace playground equipment.
