New primary school and literacy program at Somerly

The new $10.9million Somerly Primary School in Clarkson is helping toddlers get a head start on the basics of reading through a special program offered to local parents.

Education Minister Liz Constable today officially opened the new school which is part of the record $1.1billion investment in new schools and building, refurbishment and improvement work across the State this year.

"The State Government built this school to meet the needs of the local community of South Clarkson, where substantial numbers of families with young children live," Dr Constable said.

"The school opened its doors to students for the first time last year and has experienced a rapid rise in enrolments in 2010, with nearly 500 students and a wider school community involved in its innovative programs.

"In a short time, staff have worked hard to make Somerly Primary School a community hub."

The Minister said the school runs a number of programs, including a breakfast club in partnership with Foodbank; an Active After School Communities sporting program; and Support-A-Reader literacy program.

"The school also runs a toddler reading program where parents with young children visit the school each week for a story session followed by arts and crafts related to that day's book," she said.

"They can also borrow books from the school library.

"It is grassroots' initiatives such as these that build the foundations for the development of children's future literacy skills."

The school features four teaching blocks with 16 classrooms, an art room, music room, library, undercover area, canteen and administration block.

Sporting facilities include basketball and tennis courts, cricket nets and an oval.

Minister's office - 9222 9699

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