Happy Education Week!

EDUCATION Week is an annual celebration of education in Victoria. This year’s theme, Celebration of Cultures, highlights the rich diversity of our communities and the importance of ensuring every child feels safe, valued, and welcome at school.

One wonderful example of this commitment is djimbaya, the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative Kindergarten, which opened in 2021. It provides a culturally safe and supportive learning space for the local Aboriginal community.

Spaces like this allow children to see their culture reflected in their environment and help them connect with their identity as part of their learning journey.

Across the state, we are continuing to build Victoria as the Education State.

Recently, I had the privilege of joining students and teachers at East Loddon P-12 College to officially open their newly upgraded facilities. I was impressed by the modernisation of the arts and science rooms, wood and metal workshops, home economics rooms, and general classrooms.

These upgrades are about more than bricks and mortar—they’re about creating environments where teachers can deliver high-quality, and engaging learning, helping students develop skills that will have a real impact on their futures.

From kindergarten to local schools, through to TAFE and university, we know that education changes lives. And to receive the best education, our students deserve the very best facilities.

Spending time with students at East Loddon P-12 reminded me just how vital our schools and educators are—and how important it is to keep investing in the future of our young people.

Whether it’s upgrading classrooms, creating culturally inclusive spaces, or equipping students with the skills they need for tomorrow, our government is committed to ensuring that every family has access to a great local school and every young person has the best opportunity to succeed.

This Education Week, I want to say thank you—to our teachers, staff, and school communities across the region—for your dedication and hard work in helping every child get the best possible start in life.

Jacinta Allan MP

Member for Bendigo East

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