Families in Ferny Creek are a step closer to getting the first-rate school facilities their children deserve, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Education James Merlino today visited Ferny Creek Primary School to announce that the school will receive $285,000 from the School Pride and Sports Fund to build a roof for the school’s netball court.

Ferny Creek has limited covered outdoor space, which makes playing outdoor sport a challenge in poor weather. The new roof will create additional play space and shelter for students and help them stay active all year round.

The $16 million School Pride and Sports Fund helps strengthen community pride in schools and build sporting facilities for students.

It forms part of the Education State target of increasing the proportion of students taking part in physical activity five times a week.

During his visit Mr Merlino also helped Principal Matthew Coyle hand out leadership badges to Year six students selected to represent their peers and set a good example.

Taylor Krysko and Felix Gladkoff were appointed as School Captains and Mera Pringle, Maebh Manello, Vanessa Bateman, Martha Box, James Clarkson, Charlie Eames, Leuwin Robbins Davis and Nick Whyman were appointed House Captains. Emma Harbourd and Lilly Murray-Finlayson were made Visual Arts Captains and Jida Saxe and Caitlyn Phillips were made Performing Arts Captains.

The Andrews Labor Government was elected to put people first and we’ve spent every day of the last two years achieving that by building a stronger and fairer Education State.

By making sure students have access to the best sporting facilities we can increase the proportion of kids staying active. It will make students happier, healthier and more resilient and boost community pride in Victorian government schools.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino

“This new roof will allow teachers and students at Ferny Park Primary School to enjoy playing netball come rain, hail or shine.”

“I congratulate those who have been selected as school leaders. I hope they do their best to set a great example to the other students at Ferny Creek.”