Three non-government ACT schools will receive more than $2.5 million in Commonwealth funding for classroom upgrades under the Capital Grants Program.
St Matthew’s Primary School in Page will receive $771,954 to refurbish three classrooms and associated support spaces.
The Islamic School of Canberra in Weston has been allocated $1 million to upgrade an existing classroom block and amenities.
A spokesperson for the school said this federal fund would help the school to upgrade its old infrastructure to cater education for the students in an improved and student-friendly environment. Established as a primary school back in 2005, the ISC is progressing steadily; it will open Year 12 next year. The school expects to reach its enrolment milestone of 600 students in the next two years. The number of students is almost 500.
“The school community appreciates and acknowledges the funding both federal and state for the school. We take the opportunity to express our thanks and gratitude to the Federal Government and its local MPs for their general support and help for the school.”
Holy Family Parish Primary School in Gowrie will receive $750,000 to refurbish classrooms and build two new learning spaces, including breakout areas and a teacher collaboration zone.
Member for Fenner Andrew Leigh said the funding would give St Matthew’s students and teachers access to more modern learning environments.
“The Australian Government is committed to providing all schools with appropriate funding so that all students, including those at St Matthew’s Primary School, get the best possible education,” Dr Leigh said.
Member for Bean David Smith said the new facilities at Islamic School of Canberra and Holy Family Parish Primary School would support both current and future students.
“The teachers, staff and students at Islamic School of Canberra and Holy Family Parish Primary School have built a strong and positive school community, and these new facilities will further enhance our local educational opportunities,” Mr Smith said.
“Our Government strongly believes in providing the best possible resources so that local students can realise their potential and develop the skills they need to go on to further study or to find a job.”
The Capital Grants Program supports non-government schools that lack capital resources to upgrade or build facilities.
Funding is provided under the Australian Education Act 2013 through sector-based block grant authorities, and is in addition to contributions from state and territory governments, school authorities and school communities.
