Young and elderly Victorians will learn under the same roof together, with the Andrews Labor Government backing construction of an international learning centre in Mornington.
Minister for Early Childhood Ingrid Stitt today announced Andrew Kerr Care will receive $500,000 from the Labor Government to construct a 66-place facility creating an Intergenerational Learning Centre.
This intergenerational model of care offered by Herd, provides opportunities for children and aged care residents to come together five days a week to enjoy activities together, such as art, music, lunch, storytelling, or just visiting.
The Herd offers children unique opportunities to become part of an extended family; to learn about the ageing process; to accept people with disabilities; and to be involved with people who are two or three generations apart.
The aged-care residents will benefit from frequent interaction with children throughout their day; physical activity in playing with the children; and opportunities to play, laugh and enjoy the spirt and joy that children bring to their home environment.
The project will help meet the local demand for three-and four-year-old kindergarten in the Mornington area and deliver a unique, intergenerational approach to education and care.
The service will offer a unique model that provides many benefits to participating children including enhanced social-emotional development and greater awareness of difference, empathy and tolerance.
Construction works are expected to start by February this year and be finished mid-year.
The Labor Government has committed $1.68 billion over the next decade for co-investments in early childhood infrastructure - the largest investment in early childhood infrastructure in the state’s history.
Building the Education State starts with the early years – that’s why the Labor Government is investing $5 billion over the next decade to provide universal access to Three-Year-Old Kindergarten.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Ingrid Stitt
“We are investing in the early years to ensure our children have the best educational start to life.”
“The Intergenerational Learning Centre will enable our elderly and youngest people to connect and learn from each other to provide a unique approach to care and education.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victorian Jane Garrett
“We are thrilled to soon have a leading intergenerational centre in our community, to foster a love of learning and compassion spanning the decades.”
“We know that quality early childhood services provide a better start in life and this investment will ensure no child is left behind.”
Reviewed 18 January 2021