More than one million Victorian students returned to school this week, with families in Melbourne’s growing western suburbs benefitting from five of 12 new schools open for Term 1.

Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins officially opened Ngarri Primary School, Karwan Primary School, Nearnung Primary School, Thornhill Park Primary School and Lollypop Creek Primary School and welcomed the schools’ first students.

Ngarri Primary School has space for 650 students, while Karwan Primary School, Nearnung Primary School, Thornhill Park Primary School and Lollypop Creek Primary School have space for 525 students.

The schools feature specialist learning spaces for subjects including food technology and science as well as a competition-grade gymnasium, two outdoor hard courts and music and drama spaces.

The other new schools open for Term 1 include Wollert Secondary College, Mickleham Secondary College, Donnybrook Primary School, Wayi School, Barrawang Primary School, Kurrun Primary School and Quarters Primary School.

All new primary schools have a kindergarten on-site or next door, allowing children to make a smooth transition from pre-school and helping parents ditch the dreaded double drop-off.

Seven of the primary schools will have kindergartens operating on-site or next door from 2023, with the remaining three kindergartens opening next year.

Each Prep student at a government school will receive a free Prep bag with books like The Two-Hearted Numbat by Ambelin and Ezekiel Kwaymullina, a brother and sister team of Indigenous writers, a Meet the Mathscots ruler, a world map jigsaw, SunSmart stickers and a Get Your Move On frisbee.

Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested $12.8 billion in building new schools and more than 1,850 school upgrades, creating around 17,400 jobs. The Government is ahead of schedule in opening 100 new schools by 2026, with 75 new schools opening between 2019 and 2024 – ensuring every student can access a great local school.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins

“I’d like to wish every student that returned to school this week the best of luck in the coming year – it’s an exciting time filled with new friends, learning and experiences that shape you forever.”

“More students than ever have the facilities and first-class education they deserve, thanks to the Labor Government’s record investment in school infrastructure and support for teachers – ensuring Victoria remains the education state.”

Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“It’s great to see these new schools officially open – giving students in Melbourne’s growing west the modern learning spaces and facilities they deserve.”

Quote attributable to Member for Tarneit Dylan Wight

“These new schools will provide a huge benefit to local families and students in the area.”

Quote attributable to Member for Melton Steve McGhie

“This is exiting news for students and families in Melbourne’s growing west – with the new schools opening in the area just in time for Term 1.”