Education Department hedges bet on Kilmore public secondary school

After questioning from The Nationals Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, the Minister for Education has revealed the Department of Education has identified a site for a public secondary school in Kilmore known as ‘Kilmore Proposed 7-12.’

However, despite identifying a suitable parcel of land in Kilmore the Minister stated:

‘there are no immediate plans to fund the construction or building of a secondary school in Kilmore.’

Ms Cleeland said the department needed to ensure plans for a new school were put in place before it was too late.

“Kilmore has seen significant growth over the past decade – something which will only accelerate in the years to come,” Ms Cleeland said.

“We need to ensure this growth is supported with education options for locals.

“It is no good playing catch up when we can see there is clear demand for planning to be at an advanced stage.”

Given the pressure on other schools in the area Ms Cleeland said an alternative option would be needed sooner rather than later.

“Broadford Secondary College is bursting at the seams and desperately needs a capacity increase,” Ms Cleeland said.

“They were forced to turn away nearly 30 Year 7 students from Kilmore last year due to extreme enrolment pressure. There is obvious demand for public secondary schooling in Kilmore.

“While Assumption is a fantastic school there is no way every family can afford to send their kids there.

“The region needs another public option, and it needs to be located in Kilmore.”

Ms Cleeland said she would continue to advocate for educational investment throughout the Mitchell Shire.

“Last week I attended a ceremony where we saw 40 individuals from the Mitchell Shire welcomed as Australian citizens,” Ms Cleeland said.

“There were so many young families in the room, and they, alongside many others, will need quality, local education options very soon.

“I will continue to push for much needed investment in education to ensure future generations can learn and grow up in their own community.”