Students in Gulgong are set to benefit from a safer learning environment thanks to a $148 million investment across the State, earmarked in the 2022/23 NSW Budget.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders has today announced Gulgong Public School will receive funding under the Minor Capital Works program to install safety fencing between the two school campuses.
“The school environment plays a crucial role in students’ learning experiences, so it’s important that we provide high quality – and safe – teaching and learning spaces. That includes the playground,” Mr Saunders said.
“Local businesses will be encouraged to bid for works through the Local Trade Scheme, so that they too can also benefit from this funding.
“This will help ensure the investment supports our local tradies, extending the benefit beyond the school gate and into the wider community!”
The announcement builds on the $1.2 billion investment in planned maintenance from the 2022/23 NSW Budget, which is set to benefit every school in the Dubbo electorate.
This will include painting, fencing and gate repairs, floor renewal, window and door repairs, roof replacements and sewage repairs and replacements.
“We are completing priority works whilst also going above and beyond to create exceptional, comfortable and safe learning spaces,” Mr Saunders said.
“The NSW Government is committed to long term investments for our local schools and communities.”
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said she was pleased the NSW Government was not just investing in new and upgraded schools, but in maintaining schools across the state.
“Every student deserves to learn in an inspiring learning space, even the smallest of changes such as a coat of paint or laying carpet does contribute to a positive learning experience,” Ms Mitchell said.
The NSW Government is investing $8.6 billion in school infrastructure over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 160 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This builds on the $9.1 billion invested in projects delivered since 2017, a program of $17.7 billion in public education infrastructure.