Gordon to share in TAFE top-up

A FUNDING refuel has been pumped into The Gordon, with $6.6 million to be spent on vocational training.

State Training Minister Gayle Tierney visited the city campus yesterday to announce the top-up cash from the Stronger TAFE Fund.

The funding emanates from this financial year’s Budget rather than the 2017-18 statement, which will be handed down by the Treasurer, Tim Pallas, next week.

“We created the Stronger TAFE Fund to make sure our TAFEs can support students now and into the future,” Ms Tierney said.

“Transforming the training and TAFE sector after four years of cuts is no easy feat.

“That’s why we’re investing record amounts in TAFEs, including The Gordon, to make sure they’re up to the task.”

Geelong MP Christine Couzens said the extra cash would ensure the region’s school leavers would get the best possible vocational training.

“We’re making sure The Gordon is able to better align training to the skills people need to get the jobs they want in our region that will meet local industries’ need,” she said.

Meanwhile, Colac Specialist School principal Suzanne Armstrong will take charge of the North Geelong Special Development School.

State Education Minister James Merlino announced Ms Armstrong would head the new school, to be opened next year.

The school, which will have capacity for 168 students, will feature a hydrotherapy pool, games hall and sensory gym area, liberty swing for children in wheelchairs, and dedicated spaces for healthcare professionals.

“Suzanne Armstrong has an outstanding record working with school communities and students, particularly in the field of special education,” Mr Merlino said.