Muswellbrook Shire Council has voiced disappointment over proposed changes to the governance of the Richard Gill School, saying it was not consulted on plans for the school to join the Melos Education Limited Group.
The board of the independent music and STEM-focused school advised the community of the proposal late last week — a decision Council says it only learned of days earlier.
Council has been a major supporter of the school since its establishment in 2021, providing significant financial assistance as well as gifting the former Council Administration Centre and adjoining land for its use.
In a statement, Council said it was surprised not to have been given the opportunity to discuss the governance change before the decision was made, describing the move as a “betrayal” of the school’s original purpose.
“The Richard Gill vision and concept sold to Council and the community has been betrayed in just four years,” the statement said.
“What is now proposed would not have attracted the same level of support that the Richard Gill School received.”
Council said the school’s establishment was based on a clear understanding that it would provide a unique, non-competitive model focused on music and STEM education for Muswellbrook students.
It has called on the board and administrators to engage transparently with local stakeholders and to prioritise the interests of the Muswellbrook community in any governance or membership changes.
Council also said if the school can no longer deliver on its original purpose, it would be reasonable for the gifted land and facilities to be returned rather than benefit a private operator.
Council continues to seek discussions with the school’s leadership and is encouraging parents and residents to contact Council for more information or to share their views.
