East Gippsland Specialist School will receive almost $17,500 to buy new classroom and playground equipment for its students.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester this week announced the school was one of 11 across Gippsland to share almost $200,000 from the Federal Government.
“It is a great pleasure to be able to help some of our local schools to realise projects they would otherwise struggle to complete,” Mr Chester said.
“Times are tough for communities across Gippsland and fundraising can be difficult.”
“Our schools are the focus of many towns and districts, so by supporting our schools we are supporting our community. As many people know, a school playground in a small community can be used every day of the week.”
East Gippsland Specialist School Principal Barbara Olsen said the school had spent a considerable amount of money to try to improve its playground, however more equipment and development is still required.
“Our students took part in a community-based gymnastics program and we believe our students will improve their social and physical skills if we can provide basic gymnastic and climbing equipment for them,” Barbara said.
“We will also buy technical LEGO sets that teach computer coding for every classroom, as it will provide our staff with opportunities to engage, support and extend our students in their learning, regardless of their abilities.”
The Federal Government allocated $200,000 to Gippsland through the Local Schools Community Fund for grants between $1000 and $20,000 for small-scale projects. Fifty-four schools in Gippsland applied for funding totalling $900,000.
Other successful applicants in East Gippsland include:
Buchan Primary School, which will receive $20,000 to create a junior developmental play garden;
and
Orbost Primary School, which will receive $20,000 to repair and upgrade its basketball court area.
Schools were able to apply for funding for projects including small scale extensions and refurbishments, computer and ICT equipment, playground and sporting equipment, landscaping, furniture, air-conditioning and measure to support student well-being.
