Community concerns and chatter on social media around the future of Willyama High School, amid fears the two city high schools will be merged, have been laid to rest by Minister for Education and Early Learning and Deputy Premier, Prue Car.
It comes after comments from some local politicians and online commentators that the state government was looking at, or had already made up its mind, that in the event of Willyama High School being demolished due to the extensive mould remediation works potentially being required at the site, the school would not be rebuilt and instead pupils and teachers would merge with Broken Hill High School.
The Barrier Truth understands from our sources the merger option – pupils from Willyama being moved to Broken Hill High School permanently – is not being considered, with Ms Car ruling out any possibility of such an idea being tabled.
“In the event that Willyama High School cannot be remediated we will consider the options on rebuilding, as I have heard very clearly that the community has a preference for two public high schools in Broken Hill,” Minister Car told us on Tuesday.
“We are awaiting the advice from the independent hygienist, which will inform the next steps.”
On Tuesday, the Minister reinforced statements she made when she met with principals, teachers, and staff from the affected schools on a visit to Broken Hill two weeks ago.
“During my visit to Broken Hill I made a commitment to the teachers and families of Broken Hill to consult them along the way, and to be fully transparent throughout this difficult situation,” Ms Car told us.
“I am grateful to the staff and teachers from Willyama High School who have worked hard to continue face-to-face learning during difficult circumstances, and to the school communities from Broken Hill High School, Broken Hill North Public School and Morgan Street Public School for supporting the school community.”
An independent hygienist is continuing their assessment of the buildings at Willyama High School, with the Department of Education expecting a report to be returned shortly.
In the meantime, a pop-up Willyama High School is being delivered in the grounds of Broken Hill High School to ensure the entire Willyama cohort can resume learning together at one site from the beginning of Term Two.
It is also understood no staff from Willyama High School have lost their jobs as a result of the mould outbreak, including cleaners and canteen staff. The Barrier Truth has been told by official sources there are no plans to reduce staff numbers.
IMAGE CREDIT: AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts
