By GEORGIA WESTGARTH
SOUTH-EAST independent schools have gained a big chunk of the State Government’s $27.6 million education funding pie.
Some 18 non-government schools across Victoria have been named to receive cash injections, including Casey Grammar which can expect $1.3 million for a gym extension.
Hillcrest Christian College in Clyde North will receive $1.71 million, to put towards a discovery centre and administration building.
Another $2 million will be spent on a Year 9 building at St Peter’s College and schools in neighbouring growth corridor Cardinia have also won out.
Eighteen classrooms will be built at St Francis Xavier College in Beaconsfield using the state’s boost of $2 million.
St Clare’s Primary School in Officer is set to receive $1.5 million for eight new classrooms and Lakeside College in Pakenham will use $1.1 million to build stage two of the junior school building.
Victorian Minister for Education, James Merlino called independent schools a vital part of the state’s education system.
“One in three Victorian students attend Catholic and independent schools – this funding will help provide better facilities to more Victorian students,” Mr Merlino said.
The State Government has provided $120 million to help build and upgrade Catholic and independent schools, along with $1.1 billion to build new government schools and upgrade existing government school facilities around the state.
