MERNDA’S newest school, which has opened on the site of the failed Acacia College, had a slow beginning – just three students were enrolled at Christmas.
But Gilson College principal Mark Vodell said the Seventh-day Adventist school had 100 mostly former Acacia students from prep to year 7, when school started last week.
“While many questioned whether it would be possible to have a new campus operational and ready for the first day of school, I must pay tribute to a team of people who have worked tirelessly to put together the many elements that are required to operate a quality school program,” he said.
He acknowledged that the community was cautious after the failure of Acacia. “Many (parents) feel let down and they are wondering ‘who are the new providers and what will they be like?’ These concerns are valid but we have a very good track record with the communities surrounding Taylors Hill [the first Gilson College campus].
“Our plans for the Mernda campus include extending our classes through to year 12 and increasing our streams across all year levels.
“We have a dedicated staff with a first-class, technology-rich environment and we are excited about what this year will bring.”
He said Adventist Schools Victoria planned to open a canteen, run bus services and complete buildings.
“I feel blessed to be part of a school system that is just as focused on today as it is with its growth for tomorrow and in the long term,” he said.
He said Mernda parents were asking to join the Taylors Hill campus Facebook group.
“With over 100 families in the group this has proven to be a strong social network opportunity,” he said. “I am looking forward to helping facilitate another group being established specifically for the Mernda campus which will be an important avenue … to get accurate and timely information about Gilson College.”
