Science and Maths Boost for Brunswick Schools

Victorian children already perform well in maths and science, with the latest data showing Victoria outperformed every other State/Territory in achieving the numeracy benchmark in each of Years 3, 5 and 7. But our schools need to do better if we want to increase Victoria’s expertise in science and mathematics and remain competitive in the new and emerging fields of science, technology and innovation.

The Maths and Science Equipment grants program aimed to improve maths and science performance in Years 5 and 6 and Years 7 to 12. In these years of schooling, science and maths becomes a lot more challenging and students must have the highest quality equipment and programs to support them during this important time.

Local schools in Brunswick, Coburg, Pascoe Vale South and Fitzroy North will use the science and maths grants to replace out-dated science and maths equipment, or buy extra hands-on equipment such as digital microscopes, centrifuges, magnets and even weather stations. Students will be able to enjoy a more challenging, dynamic maths and science program with these grants and help ensure they remain engaged and enthused about science and maths right through to their senior years of school.

Grants of up to $55,000 have been allocated to secondary schools and grants of up to $10,000 have been allocated to primary schools.

All primary schools and special schools will receive $300, plus $32.65 per student, with a minimum allocation of $1620. Secondary schools will receive $4000, plus $25.45 per student, with a minimum of $12,000.

The Maths and Science Equipment Grants were part of the Bracks Government’s $76 million science and maths strategy to encourage more students to study science and maths announced during the election.

As well as grants, the strategy includes more funding for teachers, science room upgrades and new maths and science specialist centres.

The Bracks Government will also spend a massive $1.9 billion to rebuild or modernise about 500 schools in the next four years, giving students the opportunity to learn in a world class environment and reach their full potential