Sunbury College

Mr. J. BULL (Sunbury) — I rise to speak on the adjournment debate tonight to raise with the Minister for Education the matter of funding for a science wing at Sunbury College. The action I seek is confirmation of the Andrews Labor government’s commitment of $3 million for a new science wing at the college. The Andrews Labor government is committed to making Victoria the education state and ensuring that every child receives the very best possible education. We are focused on improving student outcomes, but this does not happen in isolation. We need to give teachers and principals the tools to develop and enhance their performance in the classroom.

As a former science teacher, I have a strong passion for quality learning environments that allow students and teachers to be the best they can be. We all know that great facilities assist lessons and help students and staff gain a world-class education so that they can go on and get the skills they need for the job they want. Students deserve the best classroom science equipment for the many experiments and practical exercises they do while they complete their coursework. As a former student, from 1997 to 2002, Sunbury College is a special place for me. I can recall doing year 12 physics and chemistry in the current science wing, and I am extremely determined to see this project delivered.

Members will recall that during the election campaign Labor committed $3 million to restore the science wing at Sunbury College, which is in desperate need of repair. I thank the former member for Macedon for her strong advocacy for the school and her strong representation in the area over many years. In August I joined the Premier to tour Sunbury College, and it was wonderful to see many of my former teachers still working hard to ensure that students can achieve their best. However, it was clear that the science buildings were in great need of repair. Teachers showed the Premier and me numerous examples of structural damage caused by sinking foundations under the science wing.

I am certain that principal Stephen Smith; assistant principals Geoff Dillon, Margaret Bates and Cecilia Hoey; and students, parents and friends of the college will warmly welcome this project. I am determined to see this commitment delivered in full. Today I ask the minister for an update on this project.