- Published:
- Wednesday 14 February 2018
Footscray families will soon be able to access a new one-stop-shop bringing kindergarten and Maternal Child and Health Services together under one single roof thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Early Childhood Education Jenny Mikakos today visited Footscray City Primary School to announce a new integrated early learning centre to be built adjacent to the school, with design work to begin in March 2018.
The centre, which will be built in partnership with Maribyrnong City Council, will include rooms for kindergarten programs, provide Maternal and Child Health services and provide facilities for other family services for the community.
Co-locating the early learning centre next to the school means drop-off time will be easier for parents of young children, while also providing greater support for children in their transition from kindergarten to school.
The centre is part of the Government’s $10 million plan to build early childhood facilities at new government primary schools.
It forms a part of the new Footscray Learning Precinct, which will link, expand and upgrade schools across Melbourne’s inner west and integrate learning at all levels, from early childhood to university.
The Labor Government is investing a record $76.4 million to build, expand and improve kinders across Victoria to ensure local families can continue to access great local kindergartens.
Footscray families will also benefit from the Labor Government’s $202.1 million Education State Early Childhood Reform Plan, announced in the 2017-18 Victorian Budget.
This plan recognises the importance of providing families with strong support in early childhood, so kids are ready for kinder, ready for school and ready for life.
It will mean parents can access improved parenting support and Maternal and Child Health Services, as well as higher quality and more inclusive kindergartens.
Quote attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education Jenny Mikakos
“Our record investment in first rate kindergartens and childcare facilities will ensure that Footscray kids get the best start in life.”
Quote attributable to Member for Footscray Marsha Thomson
“Making Victoria the Education State starts with the early years – we’re investing to set our little ones up for their best possible life.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Member for Williamstown Wade Noonan
“Our record investment in our children means more families can access the great kindergarten and childcare services they need – all conveniently located under one roof at a great local school.”