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Works have started on the Shepparton Education Plan with the first sod turned at the new Mooroopna Integrated Early Learning Centre.

Regional Victorian builder AW Nicholson began work this week with the centre due to be up and running for the 2021 school year.

The early learning centre has been made possible after the Andrews Labor Government invested $21.5 million to start the plan.

The Mooroopna Integrated Early Learning Centre will give families access to high quality early learning, including kindergarten and long day care services from one place. It will also bring together a range of services where professionals will work together to deliver education, care, health and support services to children and their families.

The centre will be co-located at Mooroopna Primary School, helping families ditch the dreaded double drop-off and making the transition from kinder to school easier for local children.

The Mooroopna Integrated Early Learning Centre is a key part of the Shepparton Education Plan, which will boost education outcomes across Greater Shepparton and provide students and teachers with the best facilities for learning.

The centre is based on the “Our Place” model developed by The Colman Foundation, a philanthropic organisation that supports the achievement of improved social outcomes by placing education at the heart of a disadvantaged community.

The Labor Government has invested $6.1 billion to deliver more than 1,400 school upgrades and supporting more than 7,500 construction jobs for Victorians.

As noted by Minister for Education James Merlino

“This new centre is not just a kindergarten – it is an Integrated Early Learning Centre and will provide extra support that local families will be able to get there.”

“We are getting on with the job of boosting education outcomes in Greater Shepparton.”

As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp

“The exciting appointment of a builder means we’re now one step closer to making this hub a reality, so Greater Shepparton families can get the early learning facilities they need for their kids to thrive.”