Controversial Bid to Convert Kelston Boys' High School into Charter School
A controversial proposal to convert Kelston Boys' High School into a charter school has sparked debate. Truist Education and Wellbeing Trust, along with former board member Siaosi Gavet, have submitted an application. However, the school itself has distanced itself from the bid, stating it's unsupported and unwanted by senior leaders and staff.
This is not the first attempt by the trust to establish a charter school. In the initial round, it applied but was unsuccessful. Now, it's seeking to convert Kelston Boys' High School, claiming it would provide more flexibility to influence curriculum and resources. The trust, founded by British grime artist Jme, describes itself as a 'by youth, for youth' charity, with a board comprising Pasifika and Māori members under 25.
Education Minister Erica Stanford has acknowledged the situation and referred the school to the Ministry of Education for support. The trust has opened consultation until Friday midnight, but the school's open letter has effectively ended this process. The trust and Gavet, who is also chief executive of Pro-Pare Management Trust, aim to complete the conversion by the new year.
The Charter Schools Authorisation Board will now consider the application, taking into account the level of community support. Despite the trust's aspirations, the school's unsupported stance and the ministry's involvement raise questions about the conversion's feasibility and potential impact on the school community.
