Science set to soar at Mandurah schools

PIC: Supplied

Three Mandurah Primary Schools have been selected to receive the first round of McGowan Government funding dedicated to turn existing classrooms into science labs. 

The McGowan Government's $17 million election commitment included a $12 million funding pool to transform 200 primary school classrooms into science labs by 2021.

Greenfields, Dudley Park and Halls Head Primary Schools make up part of the first 100 schools to share in funding and have located an existing area to transform into a science lab.

All schools will also receive an additional $25,000 to purchase laboratory equipment and resources such as 3D models of the solar system and human anatomy, digital microscopes, 3D printers, virtual reality headsets, robotics kits and renewable energy kits thanks to an extra $5 million resource allocation. 

Member for Mandurah David Templeman said he was confident students at the selected schools would be able to take full advantage of the upgrades with the science programs expected to grow.

“I am excited that the dedication of staff and students at Greenfields, Dudley Park and Halls Head Primary School to their science programs has been recognised with funding for a science laboratory," he said.

“The McGowan Government wants to ignite an interest in science in WA kids from a young age, and a new science laboratory at Greenfields, Dudley Park and Halls Head Primary School will definitely get students excited about science.”

Schools were selected based on their plans to grow and improve science education at their schools to skill students for the jobs of the future.

Half the allocated schools are from low socio-economic areas where students are often disadvantaged by not having access to science facilities.

Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said all students will benefit from the scheme, being taught skills necessary to everyone, even those who do not wish to pursue a career in science. 

“It is vital for today’s students to understand the concepts taught in science, technology, engineering and mathematics for their future job prospects," she said.

“Delivering on our $17 million election commitment means students across the State will now be able to learn those skills in modern, well-equipped laboratories.”

Mr Templeman joined Greenfields Primary students, science teacher Tracy Curley and Deputy Principal James Peletier as the school plan to expand their science program with the new funding. 

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