A DECISION on the future of one of the west’s major private schools could be made as early as today.
Anxious students of independent P-12 school Mowbray College arrived this morning as rumours swirled that the school could close at the end of this semester.
As reported by the Weekly last month, the future of the school’s Patterson campus at Melton has been under review.
But ongoing financial problems have led to reports that National Australia Bank has become involved in talks about the future of the entire college.
Mowbray has about 1000 students across three campuses in Melton and Caroline Springs.
Principal Tony Keirsten-Wakefield, who was appointed in March, resigned earlier this week and was unavailable for comment.
In a statement, the school said his deputy, David Robertson, would take on the role.
‘‘David is well known by many of the children, parents and staff. He has a long history with the college and we have every confidence in his ability to lead the school until the new leadership plan is in place,’’ board chairwoman Tracey MacKenzie said.
An NAB spokesman said the bank ‘‘continues to work closely with the board of Mowbray College who are liaising with the state government to find a resolution to keep the school open’’.
A spokesman for Sunbury’s Salesian College this morning confirmed it had received enrolment inquiries from parents of Mowbray students.
Mr Keirsten-Wakefield last month told the Weekly that Mowbray was in financial difficulty, but he remained positive about the future of the school.
‘‘I want as many parents and students committed to staying at Mowbray and getting what I believe is a great education here. That’s what I see; that’s the vision I have,’’ he said.
‘‘We intend to be at Patterson campus until the end of the year and as soon as any decision is made, parents and students will be informed as soon as possible.’’
More to come.
