More than $18 million is being put towards an upgrade at Bendigo Senior Secondary College under a re-elected state Labor government.
That cash would be used to construct an “Applied Learning Centre” for students undertaking VCE Vocational Major, and Vocational Education and Training subjects.
The pledge was made at the school on Wednesday, October 14th by the party’s local candidates – Bendigo East hopeful Tim Rickwood, and Bendigo West’s Brenton Baldwin.
Both have connections to the school, with Mr Rickwood being employed as a teacher, and Mr Baldwin a former student.
In a statement posted to social media, principal Kylie Hand welcomed the funding commitment.
“This is incredibly exciting news for our college as we strive to educate every student for whatever pathway they choose – including being industry ready when they graduate if that is their aspiration,” Ms Hand said.
“Because all [of] Bendigo’s government school students – and increasing numbers of students from non-government schools – come to BSSC, this announcement is not just about our college, but is an exciting prospect for the entire Bendigo community.”
The total amount committed by Labor for the project is $18.59 million.
Photo: Bendigo Senior SC / Facebook
Current polling has the party lagging behind its rivals at a local and state level, with the Liberal-National coalition firming as the most likely to form government after next month’s state election.
Nationals candidate for Bendigo West, David Hutchings told our newsroom that Labor “cannot be trusted” when it comes to school funding.
“Before the last election, Labor promised to upgrade 89 schools across Victoria and has failed to deliver,” Mr Hutchings said.
“Under Labor, one in five schools are in ‘poor’ condition and almost half of all school buildings across Victoria are portables.
“It’s time for a fresh start and a new government with the right priorities.”
The Victorian state election will be held on November 28th.
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