As almost one million Victorian students return to school today, Premier Daniel Andrews told parents he is working hard to ease the pressure of the busy ‘Back To School’ week on the household budget.
Mr Andrews visited St Kilda Primary School today with Minister for Education, James Merlino, to meet some of Victoria’s youngest students and their families.
Some 120 prep students will embark on the most important year of their young life at St Kilda Primary, alongside 444 fellow pupils in other years. Among the new class of preps at the school are three sets of twins.
Mr Andrews said it has been a costly and stressful week for Victorian families, because several years’ worth of education cuts has taken away the support that so many parents relied on.
When the $150 million Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund is established, it will cover the increasing costs of these trips so the pressure is eased on the family budget.
To make sure all kids fit in and get the best start, the Andrews Labor Government will also partner with State Schools Relief to give uniforms and eye glasses to kids who need them, but whose parents can’t afford them.
A plan to establish breakfast clubs at disadvantaged primary schools across the state – to provide 25,000 free breakfasts a day – will keep our kids healthy and make things a bit easier for families.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“Liberal education cuts have made this week so much harder for families. Some parents tell me this year has been the most difficult of all.”
“We’re working hard to ease the financial pressure of this busy week, so parents have the support they need by this time next year.”
“Our Sports, Camps and Excursions Fund will help parents cover the increasing costs of these trips and free up the family budget for the big weeks like this one.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, James Merlino
“The Andrews Labor Government will be there for parents every step of the way, as they prepare for some of the most important years of their children’s lives.”
“I hope the young ones have a great first day at school today. My little girl has her first day, too. I know they’ll make us all proud.”
Back to school fast facts
In 2015, approximately:
• 914,400 students will attend a Victorian school;
• 575,600 students will attend a Victorian government school;
• 515,500 primary and 398,900 secondary students will attend a school;
• 76,400 preps will attend a school, including 52,300 in government schools; and
• 66,900 Year 7s will attend a school, including 36,200 Year 7s attending a government school.
There are 1,529 government schools, including 1,129 primary schools, 78 primary-secondary schools, 238 secondary schools, 80 special schools and four English language schools throughout Victoria.
Reviewed 19 August 2020