General News
31 December, 2024
Dunolly PS boosted with grants
Dunolly Primary School has again received a grant as part of the Victorian Government’s Active Schools initiative.
After recently extending their bicycle education program with their previous grant, the school now hopes to upgrade their playground equipment.
Principal Katie Lovel said they are fortunate to receive the $30,000 grant again.
“To be successful twice really is just amazing for our kids,” she said.
“We don’t often get that opportunity, so we’ve put in the proposal to get a large climbing web.”
She said that a variety of outdoor active spaces are essential for the students’ social and physical development.
“That will bring in a new element to encourage the kids to use their gross motor skills,” Ms Lovel said.
“We are really excited about it being installed, a different option for play is a vital part of their education.”
Ms Lovel said the staff focus on increasing activities for kids and providing them with something rural students don’t already have access to.
“For a school of our size and at a rural disadvantage, if we want to purchase new playground equipment, we don’t have those sorts of funds. A grant like this is our only way to be able to do it,” she said.
Ms Lovel also said that due to the cost of living, fundraising efforts can be limited.
“Families are feeling the cost of living crisis, so we are really mindful of making sure that we are not overdoing fundraising and supporting them the best we can,” she said.
“We try and make sure that we keep our eyes out for those grant opportunities.”
Earlier this year, the school received a class set of bicycles and scooters and opened a 300-metre bike path.
“Utilising those grants and accessing them means that we can provide our kids with these opportunities and the equipment they need to be healthier and more active,” Ms Lovel said.
Active Schools is an initiative that aims to ensure all Victorian students have the skills, confidence, and motivation to be active for life.
Schools who receive the grant can use it to upskill teachers, upgrade facilities, build outdoor learning spaces, install sensory play, and implement new programs.
It focuses on finding opportunities to be active throughout the school day, including in the classroom, at recess or lunch and getting to and from school.