Kalkallo students are starting the year in a brand-new primary school, as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s work to deliver a great education for families in Victoria’s fastest-growing areas.

Minister for Education James Merlino today visited Gilgai Plains Primary School to officially open the new school, which will provide primary school places for up to 550 students from Prep to Grade 6.

Gilgai Plains Primary School features two modern learning neighbourhoods, an administration building featuring a library, food technology, science and art rooms, a dedicated performing arts building and a Physical Education building, featuring an indoor multi-sport court and a canteen.

Led by founding principal Anthea Jamieson, the new school also includes two outdoor hardcourts, a sports field, bike shelter and playgrounds for students to use.

Local families can also access kindergarten and maternal child health services, with Kalkallo Community Centre situated on Toyon Road, and Kalkallo Interim Preschool and Maternal and Child Health facility adjacent to the new primary school.

The Labor Government has promised to deliver a kindergarten either onsite or next door to every new Victorian primary school – saving families time and helping them ditch the dreaded double drop-off.

The school is one of 14 new schools the Labor Government has opened in 2022 as part of its work to deliver 100 new schools by 2026 – with 48 of those schools now open for students and families right across the state.

In the past seven years, the Government has invested more than $10.9 billion in building new schools and more than 1,700 school upgrades, creating around 13,500 jobs in construction and associated industries.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino

“We’re delivering on our promise to keep pace with our growing city and state – and it’s so exciting to see this new school open to make sure families in Kalkallo have access to a fantastic school education.”

“This beautiful new school will be a fantastic place for hundreds of students to start their school years – and I can’t wait to see their ongoing success.”

Quote attributable to Member for Yuroke Ros Spence

“It’s wonderful to see Gilgai Plains Primary finally come to life – a huge welcome to the families who make up the school community, and I can’t wait to be a frequent visitor to see all the students’ achievements.”