New Fund Gives Students Their First-Ever Camp Experience
Twenty-eight children from Debney Meadows Primary School today set off on their first-ever school camp thanks to a $148.3 million Andrews Labor Government fund which helps cover the costs of school activities for disadvantaged families.
Member for Essendon Danny Pearson joined parents and staff to farewell the Year 4, 5 and 6 students who had missed out on camps in previous years.
The Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund was established by the Labor Government earlier this year so every student – regardless of their background – has the chance to go on camps and excursions with their peers.
A total of 30 students from the Flemington school are attending the three-day camp at Cottage by the Sea in Queenscliff – for 28 of the students, it is their first school camp since joining the school.
Families who hold a valid means-tested concession card, or those who are temporary foster carers, are eligible to apply for assistance under the fund.
Eligible primary school students receive $125 a year, with secondary school students receiving $225 a year. The payment is covering 100 per cent of the cost of the camp for students from Debney Meadows Primary School.
For Victoria to become the Education State, it is vital that all Victorians join in the Education State consultation and share their ideas and aspirations for our education system.
Head to www.educationstate.education.vic.gov.au to join in the conversation.
Quote attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino
“By helping disadvantaged families we’re supporting these children, and hundreds of thousands of others across Victoria, to get the start they deserve in life.”
Quote attributable to Member for Essendon Danny Pearson
“The Government’s new fund made it possible for 28 students to go on this camp, where they will join their classmates and learn essential skills that will stay with them for life.”
Quotes attributable to Debney Meadows Primary School Principal Vicki Watson
“Just like in previous years, these students would have missed out on this camp and other important educational activities were it not for the State Government’s new Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund.”