Key support areas in schools to get upgrades - Wattle Grove Primary School

16/12/02
Education Minister Alan Carpenter today announced the Government would spend $300,000 upgrading the administration area at Wattle Grove Primary School.
The school is one of 19 that will receive new or revamped administration areas as part of a $4million Government program. The administration areas include reception, principal's office, other work areas and in some cases, a sick bay.
Mr Carpenter said the State Government's commitment to public education included better facilities, more and better trained teachers, investment in technology and programs to boost retention rates and improve literacy and numeracy.
"Though the focus remains on teaching and learning, there is a pressing need to continually upgrade these administration areas," he said.

"The demands on administration areas from personnel and modern equipment have increased dramatically in recent years, so that many of these areas in older schools are no longer suitable. We have a responsibility to see that staff and visitors to schools have suitable conditions."
Local MLA Martin Whitely welcomed the announcement, saying administration areas were a key part of a school and vital to its efficient functioning.
"Wattle Grove Primary School was chosen for upgrade by the department after consideration of factors such as the number of staff sharing the same office; occupational, safety and health issues; and the design of the existing building," Mr Whitely said.
Mr Carpenter said part of the work would be funded under the Smarter Schools program that will see an additional $30million committed to schools facilities.
"The Smarter Schools Program will accelerate the provision of facilities at 160 schools across the State including providing air-cooling, security alarms, security perimeter fencing and administration facilities," he said.
Minister's office: 9213 6800