Prep Classrooms Upgraded for 2007

_{09, August 2006}

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New Prep buildings at two local state schools have been completed in readiness for the intake of Prep students next year, State Member for Ferny Grove, Geoff Wilson said today.

“These facilities at Ferny Hills State School and Grovely State School are designed to make Prep enjoyable for young students,” Geoff Wilson said.

“They provide an environment that encourages learning through play. 

“They make good use of natural light, have an open space for group activities, a carpeted area for storytelling and singing, and a ‘wet’ area for painting and building.

“Students will also have access to a kitchenette and outdoor learning and play areas.

“One classroom at Ferny Hills State School has been refurbished at a cost of more than $70,000, while the refurbishment of two classrooms at Grovely State School has cost more than $220,000

“I encourage any parents whose children are eligible for Prep in 2007 to contact their local school to make enrolment arrangements.”

The new facilities are among more than 1600 Prep classrooms being built or refurbished as part of the largest single school building program in Queensland’s history.

Education Minister, Rod Welford, said 2007 would be a landmark year for Queensland schooling with the introduction of the full-time, non-compulsory Preparatory Year in state, Catholic and independent schools.

“It will be an exciting time for the estimated 25,000 young children born between January and June 2002 who will start the Prep Year at more than 1,300 Queensland state and non-state schools,” Mr Welford said.

“Prep is based on a ‘play and inquiry’ approach to learning that has been used successfully in Queensland preschools.

“Children learn when they play because they’re making decisions, solving problems, communicating and developing thinking skills.”

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