Students at Ballarat Specialist School will now have access to a range of new and modern learning facilities, thanks to the Allan Labor Government.

Minister for Education Ben Carroll celebrated the new buildings at Ballarat Specialist School, as they opened their doors for the first time today.

The new admin, specialist and junior years buildings will provide students with a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment to learn and grow.

Ballarat Specialist School caters to students aged from three to 18 years who have a diagnosed intellectual disability. The school population is drawn from roughly a 50 kilometre radius of Ballarat.

The school’s mission is “Achieving Personal Success Together”. It strives to enable students and staff to reach their full potential in a safe, stimulating and flexible learning environment. Its educational programs provide a balanced and personalised curriculum where student achievement is acknowledged and celebrated.

Ballarat Specialist School was also one of seven schools to recently share in $25 million in funding for new hydrotherapy pools in the Victorian budget 2023/2024, as part of a broader $235 million investment to support students with disability or additional needs in schools.

The Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to upgrade every single specialist school in Victoria.

Over the past 10 years, it has invested $16.9 billion in building new schools and more than 2,200 school upgrades.

These continued investments ensure every child can get a great education close to home, that our schools can cater for Victoria’s growing population, and that our schools are best equipped to prepare students for the world after school.

The Government is ensuring we continue to lead the nation in access to a great education – no matter where you live – cementing Victoria as the education State.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Ben Carroll

“Students with disability and special needs are entitled to exactly the same opportunities as every other student in Victoria, which is why we are investing in them and in their future.”

“We are delivering on our election commitment to upgrade every single specialist school in Victoria – and its great to be here In Ballarat today – seeing the change it is making in communities.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“By keeping our schools up-to-date and modern, we are transforming communities. Ballarat Specialist School isn’t just a school, but an essential neighborhood hub.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eureka Michaela Settle

“Modern learning environments help develop creative thinking and inspire learning for life – all critical skills for future success, and life after school.”

Quote attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“These state-of-the-art new buildings feature safe and specialised learning spaces and facilities to make sure students from across our region get the very best education close to home.”