WEST Morley Primary School will complete its outdoor learning area as part of the State Government’s Direct to Market (D2M) program in term one.
D2M gives schools the authority to seek quotes for projects up to $20,000 and select service providers, who may be able to carry out maintenance work at a better price.
Schools will opt in on a voluntary basis with the Education Department providing oversight and support.
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READ NOWQueensland has also adopted an opt-in model allowing schools to seek their own quotes for maintenance work.
Works could involve the installation of split system air-conditioners, minor electrical work, furniture and carpentry works, tile and carpet fittings, landscaping and gardening.
Principal Peter Harty said any savings made benefited the kids.
“We have a project ready to go…that’s why I’m jumping in to the program – we’ve made a magnificent outdoor learning area and we want to finish it off for the kids,” he said.
“The price of the contractors can be ridiculous.
“We’ve not gone through with some projects purely because we know it’s an exorbitant price.”
P&C representative Honor Burrows said money raised from fundraising could be spent on other projects.
Mt Lawley MLA Simon Millman said many schools would take part in the program because they would have more control over projects.
Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said the program was formed after hearing frustrations from P&C’s about extra work costs because it was being done on a government facility.
“This will be a great benefit for regional schools, who will be able to better connect with local contractors and local jobs,” she said.
“The experience elsewhere shows that it won’t just be those schools who opt in that benefit, but public schools more broadly.”
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