Private schools to access a slice of an additional $171m for infrastructure projects under a loans scheme in this week’s state budget

A major funding boost aiming at ensuring generations of South Australian schoolkids reach their potential will be announced in this week’s state budget.

The expansion of the state government scheme will allow stand-alone private preschools to be allocated up to $10m from the new funding Picture: Brett Hartwig.

More private schools will have access to a slice of an additional $171m for infrastructure projects under a loans scheme to be announced in this week’s state budget.

The expansion of the state government scheme will allow stand-alone private preschools to be allocated up to $10m from the new funding.

Previously, a preschool campus had to be co-located with a primary or secondary school to be considered for loans.

Government has announced $170m in loans available to private preschools. St Thomas Preschool students Noah and James, both 4. Picture: Brett Hartwig.

Children would reach their full potential with more opportunity for upgrades at their sites, said Allan, 41, father of four-year-old Noah at St Thomas School and Preschool in Goodwood.

“We have seen Noah flourish at preschool and I am encouraged that all young learners can soon have a similar experience,” Allan said.

St Thomas School and Preschool principal Belinda Burford said the ability to apply for low-interest loans would be “an exciting proposition” to fund upgraded infrastructure.

Education Minister Blair Boyer said it would “ensure the best outcomes for a generation of South Australian children, some of whom are yet to be born”.

The funding was part of a $320m school loans scheme, which had already provided $142m for 22 projects. It is open until July 31.

Originally published as Private schools to access a slice of an additional $171m for infrastructure projects under a loans scheme in this week’s state budget