A Ballarat school is changing its name as it moves forward toward a new era of providing a first-class education for local students.

Minister for Education James Merlino this week approved a request for Urquhart Park Primary School to change its name to Newington Primary School, to better reflect the school’s location and help build an even stronger sense of community at the school.

The school and school council requested the name change following extensive consultation with the school community. The school is located in the suburb of Newington, with the change in name enabling it to build closer ties with, and name recognition in, the vibrant and reinvigorated area.

The school was originally located on Urquhart Street, Ballarat, and changed its name to Urquhart Park Primary School in 1982, when it moved to its current site.

The community consultation included letters home to parents seeking feedback, a notice in the local paper seeking feedback, and letters to local businesses and organisations.

The Andrews Labor Government has invested $6.1 billion to deliver more than 1,400 school upgrades and supporting more than 7,500 construction jobs for Victorians.

Under the Labor Government’s school building boom, a total of 100 new schools will open by 2026, ensuring every child can access a great local school where students can achieve their best.

The Labor Government is building the Education State so that every student can access a great local school and get a great education.

Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

 “Schools aren’t just places for learning, but hubs for the community which is why it is so important local community voices were heard in this process.”

 “It is exciting for this school to receive its new name delivering what the school and community want.”

Quotes attributable to Principal Janet Hillgrove

“This is about moving the school into the future and connecting with our community”.