By MELISSA MEEHAN
IT’S the hidden gem of the hills according to federal MP Jason Wood – and he could be right.
Belgrave Heights Christian School opened their trade training centre last week with much fanfare and tasty treats.
Guests were treated to a two-course lunch prepared by students at the centre.
Principal Andy Callow welcomed guests, beaming with pride at the new building.
“Here in the Dandenongs we have the highest percentage of tradies and hospitality workers so we thought it was important to have something available for the students in the area,” he said.
“This is the first trade training centre for the Dandenongs, before this the closest was Box Hill.”
Mr Callow said that the project really came together because schools in the area were supportive of it.
Business manager of BHCS, Glenn Campbell said the trade training centre was a huge challenge, but was pleased with the outcome.
“There is $230,000 worth of equipment alone,” he said,
“It’s been a great outcome for us as a school, and the region as a whole.”
MP Jason Wood celebrated the opening, and made sure he acknowledged former MP Laura Smyth and her efforts to secure funding in the past.
“I was very negative of the BER but what it’s provided to Belgrave Heights Christian School, it’s the best news to me,” he said.
“It’s so wonderful to see that local kids can gain qualifications in the hospitality industry without traveling out of the area.”
