Massive money surprises Specialist School

THE Ballarat Specialist School is celebrating a huge State funding surprise received last Thursday morning which will set their big plans for the future into motion.

Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison announced a $10 million injection for school upgrades like more permanent buildings, and $705,000 of additional planned maintenance money.

Principal, Karen Biggelaar shed a tear, grateful to hear this significant news which she never expected.

“Thank you to the State Government of Victoria for prioritising the learning needs of our wonderful students that are some of the most disadvantaged young people. We’ve never had an exciting announcement like this,” she said.

“We have amazing plans. I would like to see us have the absolute best, modern facilities possible; inclusive, specialist and vocational learning spaces.

“I would like to bring the community into our school, expand our café and hospitality program and get a shop that the public can access and enjoy, to support the vocational learning of our students.”

Improving the hydrotherapy pool, technology, and sensory and therapy spaces is also planned.

One of BSS’s student leaders, Jasmine Warke Taylor is looking forward to seeing more inclusive play spaces.

“Having this funding help means the world to everyone here. I’d like to see our playground get a little bit bigger and better, because people do like it,” she said.

Ms Addison said the school has been in discussions with the State for years regarding ideas to further modernise their facilities, resources, and children’s education.

The leadership team at BSS expected they would need to consistently apply for funding packages and spread works out in the long-term, at both the Gillies Street and farm campuses.

“The government has listened and said, ‘we’re not going to stage this or do it in small chunks.’ This is an extraordinary school with amazing plans…offering quality education,” Ms Addison said.

“It’s fantastic news for the staff, students and parents and it’s an overwhelming figure. I’ve been a member of parliament now for two years, and this is right up there with my proudest announcements.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the leadership team, teachers and students for the work they’ve done to keep people connected and engaged in the most trying of times this year.”