Parents of pupils at a prestigious private boys’ school are furious over a proposal to end the school day at 1.50pm one day a week by 2025.
The change in class times was suggested by Scott Marsh, the principal of the elite Scotch College in Hawthorn, in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
In a petition on Change.org, parent David Chu said the early completion was intended to allow for “on the job staff training” at the $40,000-a-year college.
“This change would have a negative impact on students, parents and caregivers,” he wrote.
‘Boys will now be forced to take up new interests in a limited number of hobby subjects, participate in activities that are part of the curriculum, or leave school early.
The change in class times was suggested by Scott Marsh, the principal of the elite Scotch College (pictured) in Hawthorn, in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
‘In addition, there will be additional pressure on parents and carers to accommodate their work commitments so that there is a 1.50pm pick-up time for students who do not wish to take up a new hobby subject.
‘For parents and caregivers with regular work schedules, managing the logistics of these changes can be challenging.’
The petition received more than 650 signatures in just three days.
“As aptly described by another co-signer, this is a breathtakingly arrogant move,” one angry parent responded to the petition.
‘Our boys deserve the education we pay for. Does a shorter lesson hour mean a lower rate? Probably not!’ wrote one mother.
“Cutting school hours by four periods per week undermines the significant $40,000 per year tuition we pay and jeopardizes the quality of education we expect and deserve,” said a fed-up father.
Pictured is Scott Marsh, principal of the $40k Scotch College in Hawthorn, Melbourne
In an update on Thursday, Dr. Chu announced that Scotch College would maintain traditional school hours in 2025 due to community pressure.
“This outcome is directly attributed to the collective effort of our community, which collected more than 650 signatures in just three days,” he wrote.
‘I am deeply grateful to all of you for your invaluable support and dedication. Your willingness to defend our school’s tradition has truly made a difference.
“I want to thank the principal and school board for considering the voices within our community and making a decision that supports the best interests of the students.”
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Scotch College for comment.