Parents at a unique music and STEM-focused primary school in the Hunter Valley have received firm assurances that its secular character will remain intact following a controversial merger with a larger education group.
Council Demands Land Return Amid Merger Concerns
Muswellbrook Shire Council has demanded the return of land and facilities it gifted for the establishment of the Richard Gill School, expressing deep concern that the merger with Melos Education Group would create an institution "very different" from the secular vision originally supported. The council had provided the former council administration centre and land, along with financial assistance, to establish the school which opened in 2021.
"In assisting with the establishment of a secular school like the Richard Gill School, council's intent was to expand high-quality educational opportunities for children in Muswellbrook Shire, in harmony with the existing blend of local schools," a council statement said. The council has stated there are already faith-based education options available locally.
Parents Seek Clarity, Defend School's Future
Despite the council's stance, many parents are supportive of the merger. Jane Finn, whose son Lachlan attends the school, said most parents were comfortable after meetings with Melos executives. "We had a meeting with the executive principal of the Melos Group where we were able to ask any questions and discuss concerns. They were transparent and have been very good at keeping parents updated," Ms Finn stated.
She emphasised that parents have been clearly advised the school will not become a religious institution. Scripture classes would be offered on an opt-in, opt-out basis, similar to state schools, and the day-to-day operations, staffing, curriculum, and low-fee structure would remain unchanged.
Frustrated by the council's position, a group of parents has written to the Office of Local Government requesting an investigation into the council's actions. Their letter claims the council's decisions "have generated substantial community concern regarding fairness, transparency, procedural integrity, and compliance with legislative and governance obligations."
Melos's Ethos and the School's Secular Promise
Melos Education Group's website states the organisation was "born from plans initiated by Green Point Christian College in 2019" to strengthen Christian education. It operates schools in Green Point, Moree, and Brewarrina, with another opening in the Riverina this year.
However, the commitment to maintaining the Richard Gill School's secular nature has been a key point of reassurance. The school, named after renowned composer and music educator Richard Gill, was established to provide a secular, music and STEM-focused education for about 60 students in the Muswellbrook Shire.
Former school chairman Kim Williams, who resigned following the merger, confirmed the deal was complete. He strongly defended the school's position, stating its educational mission was "unchanged" and its financial position "solid." Mr Williams, also chairman of the ABC, criticised the council, saying public statements from the council were "factually inaccurate about the foundation of the school and its subsequent operation."
The council has said it asked for evidence of the school's solvency and operational viability but had not received it, and that the merger progressed despite its expressed concerns. Ms Finn countered that she had personally paid for a copy of the school's title deed, which showed a legitimate transfer of land, with the only clause being that the site must remain an educational facility.
Melos Education Group declined to comment on the council's specific claims. The future of the distinctive school now hinges on navigating this complex dispute between parental support, council demands, and the promises of a new owner.
