Minister pops in for cubby

Education Minister James Merlino with the Berwick Fields Primary School leaders as they walked through the Stephanie Alexander garden. During his visit the minister announced $100,000 in State Government funding would go towards an ECO Cubby at the school. 138214 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

By LACHLAN MOORHEAD

EDUCATION Minister James Merlino visited Berwick Fields Primary School this week to announce $100,000 in State Government funding for an eco cubby at the school.
It was one of several visits made by Mr Merlino to a number of primary and high schools in Casey on Tuesday 28 April.
Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley joined Mr Merlino during his visit to Berwick Fields, where he confirmed the funding for the project.
“The eco cubby will be a fantastic addition to Berwick Fields primary, providing students with a unique area to learn about sustainability and the environment,” he said.
“The Andrews Labor Government is making Victoria the education state.
“By investing in education and rebuilding our schools we will ensure our kids get the best start in life.”
Berwick Fields School Council vice president Kerrigan La Brooy said the eco cubby would be a great addition to the school.
“I can’t wait to see students and teachers getting their hands dirty in what will truly be an outstanding new facility,” he said.
“I’m hoping it will provide our students with a fantastic new learning space and many learning opportunities and more than anything I’m hoping it will cater to the needs of every single child.”
Mr Merlino, along with Ms Graley and Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan, also visited Fountain Gate Secondary College on Tuesday to confirm $15,000 in State Government funding for the school’s Future Problem Solving team.
The grant will go towards the team’s upcoming visit to Iowa, in the USA, where the group will represent Australia in the World Championships.
“I know that this team will again make us proud as they take on the world and I wish them all the best for such an exciting and worthwhile adventure,” Ms Graley said.
Mr Merlino also stopped by James Cook Primary School in Endeavour Hills during Tuesday’s visit to Melbourne’s south-east.