Tauranga MP Simon Bridges says the National Government's Jobs and Growth package has benefited schools in the region to the tune of $5.6 million so far.

'The package means we have new classrooms and much needed building upgrades to 19 schools in the electorate,” says Simon.

Building in schools, such as the new Papamoa College, is part of the government's Jobs and Growth programme.

'National has spent a total of over $5.6million upgrading our schools in the Tauranga electorate.

'This is directly benefiting our students, and giving our teachers modern and effective working environments.

'We are now spending $200 million a year more on school property than the previous government.

'National is committed to building a quality education system for our children, and I'm pleased we are seeing the benefits of this here in Tauranga.

'Upgrading schools in the Tauranga electorate has also kept construction firms going at a time when other parts of the market have slowed down.

'Throughout the country, an additional 2000 jobs have been created because of this building programme.”

Jobs and Growth is the government's multi-billion dollar investment to fast-track important construction projects throughout New Zealand.

Total spending on schools was $628 million last year and is expected to rise to $741 million over the next year.