By Alesha Capone
The playground, library and a peacock statue are among the favourite things for pupils at a new school in Truganina.
The pupils at Garrang Wilam Primary School were happy to point out their highlights when asked by Minister for Education James Merlino and Tarneit MP Sarah Connolly during a tour of the school last week.
The school features two new learning neighbourhoods, an administration building, outdoor play courts, a sports field, a library, a culinary haven, an art and design studio and a performing arts and physical education building.
It has more than 155 students starting this year, including 65 prep pupils.
The Truganina South East Integrated Family Centre will be built next to the school, to help children make a smooth transition from kindergarten.
“The first day of school is a big day every year – but particularly after the year we had last year,” Mr Merlino said.
“We want to make this a special year and there is nothing more important than opening a school.”
Mr Merlino said Garrang Wilam’s sandpit was “the biggest I’ve ever seen”.
Ms Connolly presented the school with a children’s encyclopedia and suggested that each pupil should take a turn reading it.
She thanked the staff and teachers at the school for making it welcoming for the new pupils.
“A fantastic school with state-of-the-art facilities like Garrang Wilam Primary School is what every student deserves,” she said.
Details: www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au
