More than one million Victorian students head back to school this week, with families in Melbourne’s growing northern suburbs benefitting from five of 12 new schools opening for Term 1.

Member for Kalkallo Ros Spence joined the Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins today to officially open the first stages of Mickleham Secondary College and welcomed the school’s first students.

Mickleham Secondary College’s first stage includes space for 800 students, science and technology buildings, a community hub and a competition grade basketball and netball court. Once complete, it will accommodate 1,200 students.

Mickleham Secondary College is the eighth new government school delivered for our community under the current Labor Government since 2014.

During such time, the Labor Government has invested $12.8 billion in building new schools and more than 1,850 school upgrades, creating around 17,400 jobs. The Government is ahead of schedule in opening 100 new schools by 2026, with 75 new schools opening between 2019 and 2024 – ensuring every student can access a great local school.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins

“I’d like to wish every student returning to school this week the best of luck – it’s an exciting time filled with new friends, learning and experiences that shape you forever.”

“More students than ever have the facilities and first-class education they deserve, thanks to the Labor Government’s record investment in school infrastructure and support for teachers.”

Quote attributable to Member for Kalkallo Ros Spence

“We’re making sure that all students in Melbourne’s growing northern suburbs have the best spaces to learn and every child is given an opportunity to succeed.”

“This is the first secondary school in the growing outer northern suburbs of Mickleham and Kalkallo.”

“Mickleham Secondary College is a terrific new school that will mean local students will finally have a secondary school closer to home.”