Preschoolers at Bendigo’s Lightning Reef Early Learning Centre will enjoy improved outdoor play areas, including a brand-new sensory garden, thanks to a grant aimed at enhancing services on offer to children and families.
Treasurer Tim Pallas today visited the Lightning Reef Early Learning Centre to see firsthand how funding is assisting Victorian kindergartens improve their facilities and amenities.
Lightning Reef Early Learning Centre is one of nearly 80 kindergartens receiving grants of up to $10,000 for refurbishments and playground upgrades, with a special emphasis on all-abilities access.
The grants form part of the Andrew Labor Government’s $60 million investment in the early childhood sector through the building and upgrading of kindergartens and children’s centres.
They will help Lightning Reef Early Learning Centre to enhance their outdoor programs through the construction of an outdoor Koori meeting place, incorporating a sensory garden with a focus on interactive elements to encourage children to explore and learn.
Nineteen kindergartens across Victoria have been awarded grants of up to $25,000 to enlarge their playrooms, providing flexibility and helping better accommodate the improved educator-to-child ratios now in effect.
Grants worth up to $1,500 were awarded to 139 kindergartens to purchase new desktop computers, laptops, tablets or televisions, giving early childhood professionals the resources they need to enhance their digital learning programs and to support their administrative functions.
The Labor Government to making Victoria the Education State – and this begins with giving every child a strong start in life.
Through these investments, the Labor Government is ensuring that our vital early years teachers and staff are supported and that more children will have access to high-quality early learning services.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Tim Pallas
“Early learning services are the foundation for long-term happiness, health and success, and investments in the early education of our children are some of the wisest we can make.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos
“We are working hard to make Victoria the Education State – and boosting the quality of children’s services across the state.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“I congratulate Lightning Reef Early Learning Centre on their successful grant, which will make a real difference to quality learning experiences for children.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020