Funding for outdoor learning spaces has been granted to Point Cook YMCA early learning centre in a $9 million investment to improve kindergartens.
As part of the Building Blocks Inclusion Grants, the money will help support children of all abilities and learning styles to participate in the education program.
YMCA Victoria chief executive Carolyn Morris said that funding for these works at YMCA early centres is important for creating welcoming spaces.
“Children benefit from outdoor play in all seasons which is why shade sails and play spaces need to be accessible to all,” she said.
The grants are given to make kindergarten facilities more inclusive and accessible including specialist facilities and building upgrades. In particular, $200,000 will be granted to 41 kindergartens for building, playground and amenity improvements. Another $10,000 will be granted for 361 services to buy moveable and accessible equipment such as mobility tools, adjustable furniture and sensory equipment.
These inclusive resources can support those with different learning capabilities and different needs such as language barriers or those on the autism spectrum.
Point Cook MP Mathew Hilakari said, “These grants will support Point Cook’s littlest learners at our wonderful and free three and four year old kinder programs”.
