Port primary school redevelopment taking shape

PORTARLINGTON Primary School pupils are enjoying their new facilities and learning in state-of-the-art classrooms.

Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville took a tour of the new buildings last week, which feature modern classrooms, an art-and-craft centre and a learning centre connecting to the school’s wonderful fruit and vegetable garden.

“Portarlington is a great school and I congratulate the entire school community led by Principal Lesly Allbutt and Council President Karen Bourke-Finn in their commitment and hard work in having these works completed,” Ms Neville said.

“I also thank all teachers and staff in managing to provide a first-class education to pupils while working around a construction site over the last 12 months or more.”

Ms Neville said she was looking forward to the full completion of the school and the official opening in the coming months.

Final works are under way in refurbishing the school’s historic building, which was built back in 1882.

The refurbishment will ensure the building retains its character and prominence but importantly be fully accessible and will be used as a student welfare centre.

In addition, the school’s grounds are being landscaped with new plantings and a new play oval to be constructed.

The new buildings deliver on a $5.7 million 2014 election commitment of the Andrews Labor Government.