- First science lab transformation revealed at Belmont Primary School
- Second round opens tomorrow for a further 100 classrooms conversions from 2020
- McGowan Government delivering its key 'Science in Schools' election commitment
The first transformation of a primary school classroom into a science laboratory has been completed.
Belmont Primary School today opened the doors to its new science lab, designed to improve the science education they can deliver to skill students for the jobs of the future.
In addition to the classroom conversion, the school also received $25,000 to purchase laboratory equipment such as test tube kits, trolleys, microscopes, experimental resources and construction materials.
The McGowan Government's $17 million 'Science in Schools' election commitment will see 200 primary school classrooms transformed into science laboratories by 2021.
Belmont Primary School is the first completed laboratory of 100 allocated in the first round, to be delivered in 2018 and 2019. Half of the allocated schools are in low socio-economic areas.
From tomorrow, public primary schools can express interest in the second round, which will see another 100 science laboratories delivered from 2020.
Schools are selected based on their plans to grow and improve science education to skill students for jobs of the future. Expressions of interest open on Tuesday July 24, 2018 and close on Friday August 17, 2018.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"We want all children in Western Australia to be excited about science from a young age so they continue to study it in secondary school and prepare for jobs of the future.
"Important skills are learnt in science, technology, engineering and mathematics which are vital for future jobs."
Comments attributed to Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"Our focus on science in schools means more students across the State can take part in new learning experiences in a well-equipped, contemporary science lab, and teachers have more resources to plan hands-on activities.
"The generic skills students will learn in these new labs are vital for their future job prospects and for the State's future economy."
Comments attributed to Science Minister Dave Kelly:
"Having access to first class equipment and resources in the classroom is essential to igniting an interest in science in students.
"The delivery of this election commitment complements the McGowan Government's initial investment of $3.3 million to begin delivery of the State's first STEM skills strategy."
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Education Minister's office - 6552 5700
Science Minister's office - 6552 6100
