Highton families will have access to more kinder places and Maternal and Child Health services, with work set to begin on the Highton Early Learning Centre.
Minister for Early Childhood Education Jenny Mikakos today turned the first sod of the new $5.5 million integrated children’s centre at Bellaire Primary School, fulfilling an Andrews Labor Government election promise.
When complete, the Highton Early Learning Centre will provide kindergarten places for 30 three-year-olds and 99 four-year-olds.
The Labor Government provided $1.6 million for the project through the Children’s Facilities and Capital Grants program, with the City of Greater Geelong contributing the remaining $3.9 million.
The project includes Maternal and Child Health services along with other consulting services, a large multipurpose community space, an outdoor play area, a central foyer, toilets and a carpark.
Brand Architects will design the new kinder facilities in consultation with locals and children, while local company Lyons Construction Pty Ltd will take on the building works.
The Labor Government has invested a record $123.6 million to build, expand and improve early years infrastructure across Victoria to ensure local families can continue to access great local kindergartens.
Highton families will also benefit from the Government’s $202.1 million Education State Early Childhood Reform Plan, announced in the Victorian Budget 2017/18.
This reform 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 local parents can access improved parenting support and Maternal and Child Health services, as well as higher quality and more inclusive kindergartens.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education Jenny Mikakos
“We promised we would build a new Early Learning Centre here in Highton and we’re getting it done.”
“This is about giving every child every opportunity, so they are ready for kinder, ready for school and ready for life.”
“This means local families will get more kinder places, easier access to Maternal and Child Health services and help with the transition to school.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“This is a great outcome for Highton families, providing the community with access to the high quality education and care children need to thrive.”
“We’re upgrading and building early learning facilities like this one right across the state, to ensure no child misses out.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020