Education Minister Ben Carroll announced that seven schools would receive a $30,000 Active Schools grant as part of the latest round of this initiative, which helps schools encourage students to get physically active.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate Active Schools funding recipients and congratulate the successful schools involved for their contributions to keeping young Victorians active, healthy and engaged,” Mr Carroll said.
The selected schools include Greater Shepparton Secondary College, Mooroopna Primary School, Bourchier St Primary School, Wunghnu Primary School, Numurkah Primary School, Nathalia Secondary College and Numurkah Secondary College.
Up to 500 schools in disadvantaged communities have benefited from the grants since the initiative was launched in 2021.
Schools have previously used the grants to upskill PE teachers, purchase sports and fitness equipment, implement programs such as bicycle education, circus and dance, build outdoor learning spaces, upgrade playgrounds, install sensory play areas and cover costs associated with sports and physical activities.
State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said the program was a great way to get young people more active.
“Sports and physical activity help young Victorians thrive, and the Active Schools initiative is making sure that students get access to these benefits, no matter their background or where they live,” she said.
The Victorian 2022/23 budget included a further $20.8 million over two years to continue the Active Schools initiative, bringing the total investment to $45.4 million since 2019.