Victoria’s 1555 Government schools will this month share in $7 million to buy more computers for students.
Education Minister Bronwyn Pike said the latest funding boost was part of a $28 million allocation in 2006 to schools to help more students access computers in the classroom.
“Our schools are about to share in $7 million to buy the latest computer equipment for our kids and this is great news for Victoria’s primary and secondary students,” Ms Pike said.
“The Brumby Labor Government agrees with parents that nothing is more important than their child’s education.
“That’s why we are investing in state-of-the-art computer equipment, so students can continue to grow and thrive at school.
“Students tell us that they work better when they have access to new computer technology, so our Government has made it a priority to put more computers on their desks.
“In addition, we’ve invested in 500 Apple iPads and distributed those to eight schools across the state as part of a trial of the technology.
“We’re also investing in more than 10,000 laptops as part of our innovative netbook trial.
“Trialling new technology allows us to understand the impact it has on student learning and communication, and on the way teachers plan and deliver curriculum in the classroom.”
Ms Pike said this year the Brumby Labor Government had invested more than $150 million in information communication technology in schools, so students could stay up-to-date with the digital age.
“Thousands of Victorian students and teachers are connected to the Ultranet – and online learning portal that reflects the modern classroom by breaking down the traditional walls.
“Our Government is giving Victorian students a real head-start in life – that’s why we’re continuing to deliver the latest in learning technology straight to the classroom.”