WALLAN Secondary College has been awarded a $30,000 grant to help more students get active. Member for Kalkallo Ros Spence announced the school is one of 100 recipients in the latest round of the Active Schools initiative.
The program is run by the State Government. It aims to give every Victorian student the skills, confidence and motivation to stay active throughout their lives. Since 2020, the Active Schools program has provided more than $25 million in grants to 500-plus schools across the state.
Schools have used the funding in many ways. Some have upskilled their PE teachers. Others have purchased sports equipment or built outdoor learning spaces. Playground upgrades, sensory play areas and programs such as bicycle education and dance have also been supported.
The focus of the program is simple: get kids moving. This means encouraging activity during class time, at recess and lunch, and on the way to and from school.
The 2024-25 state budget includes $42.3 million over four years and $10.7 million in ongoing funding to continue the program. This brings the total investment in Active Schools to $87.8 million.
Acting Minister for Education Gayle Tierney said regular physical activity is vital for young people.
“Regular physical activity makes a huge difference to young people’s mental and physical health as well as their educational outcomes,” she said.
“That’s why investing in our students is important, giving them every opportunity to find an activity they love.”
Minister for Community and Sport and Member for Kalkallo Ros Spence said “every young Victorian deserves the chance to find their sport”.
“Whether that’s on the court, in the pool or on the bike track, these grants are opening doors to new opportunities.
“This Active Schools grant will help local students at Wallan Secondary College thrive by making sure they get access to sport and physical activity,” Ms Spence said.
The Active Schools program has proven successful over the years. It helps students develop healthy habits early. It also gives schools flexibility to find the activities that best suit their students.
PE teachers, school leaders and parents all play a role in making the program work. By investing in facilities, equipment and programs, the government hopes more children will stay active for life.
Wallan Secondary College is already planning how they will use their grant. Options include upgrading sports equipment, creating new outdoor learning areas, and running more physical activity programs during the school day.
Parents and the community are encouraged to support schools as they roll out their Active Schools initiatives. With this funding, young Victorians are set to enjoy more opportunities to move, play and stay healthy.
The Active Schools programme is helping to shape a generation of students who are fitter, happier and more engaged in their learning.