New pool benefits Bunbury students with special needs

6/3/07
Local students with special needs are enjoying the benefits of a new school pool.
Premier Alan Carpenter today officially opened the new $1.425million hydrotherapy pool at College Row School in Bunbury.
The pool will allow the school's students to take part in water-based therapy programs.
Mr Carpenter said College Row School was providing an exceptional learning environment for students who needed support.
"College Row staff provide intensive support for the school's 26 students from kindergarten to Year 12, all of whom have severe disabilities," he said.
"The pool has added to the range of tools at teachers' disposal, with a state-of-the-art hoist and tracking system, to provide interesting and effective programs for students."
The new 12 by 7.5m pool is heated to 35 degrees Celsius, the recommended temperature for hydrotherapy, and features an internal ramp, fully equipped spacious change rooms and the hoist and tracking system.
Minister for Education and Training and the South-West Mark McGowan said the pool would assist the development of local children.
"During special hydrotherapy sessions, trained practitioners work with students in the pool to help them gain more mobility and strengthen their limbs," Mr McGowan said.
"This new pool is in addition to the State Government's annual $1.5million improvement program to enhance and upgrade facilities for education support students.
"These upgrades are vital to ensure the continued high standard of facilities is available for Western Australian students in education support."
Mr Carpenter said his Government was committed to providing world-class education facilities for WA public schools.
Minister's office - 9222 9111