A new specialist school in Aintree, now formally named Dharra School, has officially appointed its principal, Lizzie Tout.
The school will provide educational programs for students with mild to profound intellectual
disabilities.
Located in Woodlea, the school delivered by the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) is scheduled to open for term one in 2024.
‘Dharra School’ was recently chosen as the new school’s name following consultation with the community.
Dharra is a Woi-wurrung word of the Wurundjeri people, meaning white hawk.
Serving most recently as the principal of Hamilton North Primary School, principal Lizzie Tout said she is focused on creating a supportive and responsive learning environment for the students at Dharra School.
“In a specialist setting, we have the resources to respond to the needs of each pupil by working with the student, their families, and support team to individualise their education program,” she said.
“Our top priorities are ensuring we recruit to a high standard, have supportive high-level processes in place for enrolment, and that the families feel welcomed from the moment they meet us.”
School facilities will include a library and community centre, two learning neighbourhoods and a hard court.
Dharra will be located next to the soon-to-open Yarrabing Secondary College, north of the intersection of Taylors Road and Frontier Avenue.
Woodlea project director Matthew Dean said he’s proud the new community can offer inclusive education options for all stages and abilities.
“This specialist school will add to the range of public and private primary schools, secondary schools, and early learning facilities available by 2024, achieving our vision of offering an
education option for every young student at Woodlea.”
Enrollments are now open.
Details: www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/aintree-specialist-school-interim
-name.
