School celebrates its updates

By Casey Neill
STATE and Federal Government MPs officially opened Upper Ferntree Gully Primary School’s upgraded facilities on Friday (7 November).
Education Minister Bronwyn Pike, Victorian Senator Jacinta Collins and Eastern Metropolitan MP Shaun Leane joined Knox Mayor Jim Penna, students, staff and parents in applauding the new learning spaces.
The students unveiled a plaque to thank the government representatives for their support.
“You can sense the warmth and community in your classrooms,” Ms Pike said.
Principal David Rose said that before the renovations, staff and students needed lights to see in the corridor even on a bright day.
Mr Rose said the building was now filled with beautiful natural light.
He said the improved facilities were attracting new enrolments: 40 preps would start at the school next year, the biggest intake since 2001. Former principal Les Boag began plans for the upgrades in 1996.
In 2000 the State Government approved stage one, and children began using the facilities in late 2006.
“The result is above expectations,” Mr Boag said.
Works included nine new and refurbished classrooms, a new library, upgraded staff and administration area, new canteen and external upgrades.
The school community contributed $70,000 to the project in addition to $900,000 from the Federal Government and more than $2 million in State Government cash.
The funding was part of the State Government plan to renovate or rebuild every government school across Victoria.