MAKING SCHOOLS INCLUSIVE FOR STUDENTS IN MACEDON

More students with disability and additional needs will have the support they deserve thanks to a funding boost by the Allan Labor Government – delivering more inclusive play areas, sensory gardens and outdoor learning spaces for students in Macedon.

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas announced that Daylesford Primary School, Macedon Primary School and Mount Macedon Primary School will share in more than $9 million to create facilities suitable for students of all abilities, as part of Round nine of the Labor Government’s Inclusive Schools Fund (ISF).

Daylesford Primary School is receiving $244,855.00 through the Fund, giving local students of all abilities more chances to play, learn and socialise through a new inclusive playground for the Junior School.

Macedon Primary School is receiving $297,773.00 through the Fund, giving local students of all abilities more chances to play, learn and socialise through an Inclusive Adventure Track The space will directly support the vast range of students with diverse learning needs by engaging in important opportunities to play and regulate their emotions through the outdoors.

Mount Macedon Primary School is receiving $268,942.00 through the Fund, giving local students ofall abilities more chances to play, learn and socialise through an inclusive playground and sensory area. The project includes a diverse range of play experiences, adaptable equipment, and sensory elements to enhance engagement and well-being.

Since its establishment, around 420 creative projects have been funded through the transformational program, helping build inclusive learning spaces and specially designed accessible playgrounds –ensuring all students are able to fully participate, develop and succeed in Victorian government schools.

The Labor Government launched the ISF in 2015 to help schools cater for students whose additional needs require extra facilities. A total of $80 million has been invested to deliver these works throughout Victoria.

The Government is investing nearly $1.6 billion in the Disability Inclusion program to better respond to the needs of students with disability, ensuring they can participate and achieve their full potential at school and beyond.

This year, another $235 million is giving more students with disability the support they deserve, with a focus on students in specialist schools – as well as supporting parents and carers of children with disability with things like out-of-school-hours care and space for specialist medical appointments within special schools.For more information about the Inclusive Schools Fund, visit www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/inclusiveschools-fund

Quote attributable to Mary-Anne Thomas MP

‍“We’re ensuring every child and young person in Macedon can meet their potential and access great education – regardless of their background, abilities or differences, and I’m thrilled that Daylesford, Macedon and Mount Macedon students are getting the full range of benefits from these upgrades.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Ben Carroll‍

“We’re ensuring every child and young person in Victoria can meet their potential and access great education.”

“We’re proud to continue investing in the Inclusive Schools Fund – giving schools the infrastructure they need so more students can fully participate and succeed in their years of schooling and beyond.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Disability Lizzie Blandthorn

“Our landmark Disability Inclusion reforms are supporting students of all abilities to thrive at school.We’re making sure that this has a lasting impact by not only investing in facilities to help students thrive, but also making it easier for parents and carers to access the essential services they need."

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