A lobby group pushing for a new secondary school in the inner-west has urged the state government to match Labor’s promise to build a $15 million education hub in Footscray if it wins November’s state election.
The SKY High working group – representing more than 3000 members in the Seddon, Kingsville and Yarraville areas – has been pushing for a new secondary school since 2006.
Earlier this month, Labor announced a plan for a preschool-to-postgraduate precinct to bring together a relocated Footscray City College with early childhood facilities, Footscray City Primary School and Victoria University.
At the time, SKY High president Melissa Horne told Star Weekly the plan would create a great new school while opening children’s eyes to a broad range of educational pathways, including TAFE and university.
“Without a doubt, this is the best plan anyone has ever come up with for children living in our local area,” Ms Horne said.
Victoria University vice-chancellor Professor Peter Dawkins said the concept had “considerable potential”. However, Mr Dixon said Victorians didn’t want a government making promises that were “uncosted, unfunded and undeliverable.”
In a letter to Education Minister Martin Dixon last week, Ms Horne said he had yet to respond to the group’s 2012 request for a meeting.
“The response SKY High has received following the opposition’s announcement has been strong,” the letter said.
“On the basis of this, we would strongly urge the government to consider at least matching this commitment.”
