John Henry Primary School students have started the 2017 school year in a brand new school.
Minister for Education James Merlino and Member for Eastern Victoria Region Daniel Mulino today welcomed all staff, students and families to their new school as part of the official opening.
The Pakenham school, to be headed by Principal Tanya Roberts, will help meet surging student enrolment numbers. It features a competition-grade gymnasium built to Netball Victoria standards and conference and meeting rooms for local community use.
It also has multi-purpose space that will be used by the YMCA after school hours to provide a range of community services and programs.
A YMCA-operated Early Learning Centre will facilitate transitions between early childhood learning and primary school.
John Henry Primary School is one of 10 schools to open this year in the growth areas of Mernda, Craigieburn, Point Cook, Cranbourne North, Cranbourne West, Clyde North and Epping North and Morwell.
An extra 90,000 students will enter the school system over the next five years and the Andrews Labor Government has delivered unprecedented investment to build and upgrade schools across the state to meet surging enrolments.
There are now 42 new schools in the construction pipeline – including the 10 new schools opening this year – and more than 1,000 upgrades under way across the state thanks to a $1.8 billion infrastructure investment.
For two years the Labor Government has put people first, building the Education State so every community can access a great school and every student is supported to be their best.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino
“Melbourne suburbs like Pakenham are booming, so we are investing in the school infrastructure needed to support growing enrolments.”
“It was inspiring being here today and watching first-hand the learning journeys that are about to begin.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region Daniel Mulino
“This is about creating bright futures for our kids in Pakenham and ensuring they have access to the education they need in the state-of-the-art facilities they deserve.”
Quote attributable to Principal Tanya Roberts
“Our vision is to provide the highest quality teaching and learning opportunities to our community.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020