The Andrews Labor Government providing better support for students with intellectual disability and their families in the Latrobe Valley, with the opening of the Latrobe Special Developmental School regeneration project.
Visiting the Latrobe SDS in Traralgon today, the Minister for Education said she was proud to open the new facilty, which can accommodate 88 students in a space that caters to their diverse needs and ensures local kids have better access to the resources they need to thrive.
Community consultation with the school and broader community was undertaken to develop the exciting master plan for the project, which has included relocating and rebuilding the Latrobe SDS and creating immediate physical connections to other mainstream schools in Traralgon.
Students and teachers are benefiting from state-of-the-art facilities, including spaces for STEM, music and food tech, with the rebuild also including an outdoor sensory garden, adventure play area and playing fields.
The investment has also included Traralgon College’s senior campus, which delivered a new VCE centre, including state-of-the-art facilities including new classrooms, a maker space, and presentation space.
Stage two of the project will include a new administration building, library, years 9 and 10 building and a science building, ensuring local kids are provided the cutting-edge educational infrastructure they deserve.
In 2020 $13.7 million in funding was allocated to Latrobe Special Developmental School, while in the Victorian Budget 2020/21 Traralgon College received a further $13.376 million for Stage 2.
Since 2014, the Victorian Government has invested $12.8 billion to build new schools and deliver 1,850 upgrades, creating around 17,400 jobs in construction and associated industries.
As stated by Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins
“We’re ensuring that every Victorian child has access to a good education, regardless of their abilities, background or family circumstances – and this latest project delivers just that to local kids in Latrobe Valley.”
“The new facilities at Latrobe SDS create a safe, respectful and evidence-based learning environment where students feel included, valued and happy, while being actively engaged and supported to achieve success.
As stated by Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“This beautiful new school is a testament to the hard work, partnerships and passion of the teachers, staff and school community and it’s been a privilege to advocate for this outcome. Not only is it bright, modern, and fit for purpose, the school’s location also provides students with wonderful opportunities to participate in a broader range of activities and experiences.”
