Funding helps schools become even more inclusive

TWO Bellarine primary schools have received funding to build sensory gardens and outdoor learning areas to support students with disabilities and additional needs.

Bellarine MP Lisa Neville visited Clifton Springs Primary last week to announce the school had received $200,000, followed by St Leonards Primary, announcing $74,900.

The funding for Clifton Springs will build an indoor/outdoor sensory motor zone with a complimentary sensory garden, providing an innovative way for the school to become an even more inclusive school.

At St Leonards, the outdoor sensory area will incorporate a relaxation and learning space that has surrounding gardens with bird and animal attractions and indigenous characteristics.

Like Clifton Springs, the project will make the school a more inclusive place for all.

“Both Clifton Springs and St Leonards are great schools led by principals Meg Parker and Jenny Cowburn,” Ms Neville said.

“I congratulate them both and the entire school communities for their efforts in initiating these important projects.

“The state government is continuing to invest in schools to ensure students of all abilities can access a great education – no matter their circumstances.”

A further 92 schools across the state will share in $15 million in funding under Labor‘s $30 million Inclusive Schools Fund.

For more information about these projects, head to schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au.