More Schools are to build inclusive play areas, sensory gardens and outdoor learning areas to support students with disabilities and additional needs under the Victorian School Building Authority’s (VSBA) Inclusive Schools Fund.
Minister for Education, James Merlino announced that a further 74 projects across the State would share in funding under the sixth round of the Fund.
“This funding is about giving every child the best chance to meet their potential – regardless of their background or circumstances,” Mr Merlino said.
“Disability shouldn’t be a barrier to learning and achieving,” he said.
“This round will fund projects such as accessible wheelchair friendly playground surfaces, quiet musical areas, and sensory zones with a range of tactile surfaces.”
Mr Merlino said that under VSBA’s program Swan Hill Primary School would create an inclusive playground, with new play equipment and rubber under surfacing, and Elsternwick Primary School would create a new indoor inclusive learning space, which included new sensory equipment.
The Minister said Castlemaine Secondary College had received funding for a new outdoor inclusive learning space with new play equipment and landscaping.
“These innovative projects are all about giving our primary schools the infrastructure they need to inspire a passion for learning in all students,” he said.
Mr Merlino said VSBA’s Inclusive Schools Fund helped Government schools cater for the social and educational needs of all young people, including those with disability or additional needs.
