The Andrews Labor Government is consulting with Merri-bek North residents to develop their uniquely tailored education plan, with a community engagement report released today.
The Merri-bek North Education Plan being developed will transform the future of secondary education in the area, supporting local schools to deliver better learning opportunities for students and responding directly to their needs.
Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins today released the community engagement report ‘What We Heard’ for the Plan, which covers Coburg High School, Glenroy Secondary College, John Fawkner Secondary College and Pascoe Vale Girls Secondary College.
The Department of Education consulted with local families and students to support the Plan’s development, which identifies and responds to the unique challenges and strengths of the community – with 561 responses to the survey, the largest of any education plan to date in Victoria.
The top priorities identified for the Merri-bek North Education Plan are a focus on a diverse and high-quality range of subjects and learning opportunities, a learning environment that promotes wellbeing and inclusivity and more real-world experiences.
The Victorian Budget 2023/24 delivered $17.8 million for Coburg High School to build a double-storey technology building, which will create places for 250 more local students, and $14.5 million to build new science and visual arts and food technology buildings at John Fawkner Secondary College.
Many education plans focus on supporting children, parents, families and carers throughout key transition stages in learning, and creating stronger partnerships between educational services and local communities.
Education plans are a key part of how the Labor Government is making Victoria the Education State, with eight locally-focused plans also currently underway in Bayswater, Bendigo, Flemington, Footscray, Lilydale District and Yarra Valley, Oakleigh, Frankston North and Shepparton.
As stated by Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins
“Family and student voices are critical to improving educational outcomes across the state – local communities are at the heart of all our education plans, and the plan for Merri-Bek North will be no different.”
As stated by Member for Pascoe Vale Anthony Cianflone
“We know quality secondary education matters to Merri-bek North families – which is why community feedback will ensure local students get the facilities and resources they need to reach their full potential.”
As stated by Member for Broadmeadows Kathleen Matthews-Ward
“We are pleased to share the results of the Merri-Bek North Education Plan consultation and engagement phase – thanks to all who took part in sharing their visions and ideas for their local community.”
