Shepparton East Primary School principal Les Walsh gives a thank-you speech to staff and students ahead of the unveiling of the new Peter Copulos Trade Shed.
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For many years now, the Peter and Maria Copulos Foundation has generously supported Shepparton East Primary School, helping fund projects that benefit both students and the community.
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Now, that generosity has been recognised again following the official opening of the Peter Copulos Trade Shed on June 15.
The philanthropist generously donated $17,000 to the school, bringing a two-year vision for a designated alternative learning area to life.
This contribution helped fund the internal construction of the shed, electrical works and purchase of the workbenches in an upgrade that will serve generations of students.
Principal Les Walsh said the shed was designed to create unique opportunities for students that thrived outside the traditional classroom environment.
“It’s a space for kids to do some hands-on learning, whether that’s woodwork or bike repairs,” Mr Walsh said.
“Given the shed is not a classroom, the kids are not allowed to work in it, so we made the equipment mobile so the kids can wheel it out and use it wherever needed around the school.”
The foundation’s long-standing connection to the school ultimately drove this donation, having previously contributed to the school’s sporting pavilion and with the couple having grandchildren and great-grandchildren attend the school.
Mr Walsh said the foundation’s support would have a lasting impact on future generations of students.
“The Copuloses’ contribution is an investment in our students, their learning and their futures,” he said.
“It is a gift that will create opportunities for young people to develop practical skills, confidence and a sense of achievement for years to come.”
To recognise the ongoing generosity and commitment to the education of students, the newly renovated trade shed will honour the Peter Copulos name, ensuring the foundation’s ongoing contributions to the school are remembered for decades to come.
Peter Copulos cuts the ribbon at the newly renovated Peter Copulos Trade Shed alongside Shepparton East Principal Les Walsh, Shepparton Men’s Shed member Gary Gray, Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project member Belinda Senini and Shepparton East Year 4 students Rebecca Trevaskis and Audrey Murphy.
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