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Major rejuvenation at Cranbrook sees loss of swim school

Parents are furious after a prestigious school in Sydney’s eastern suburbs is citing the “major rejuvenation” of its campus as the reason to axe a swimming school program.

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Parents at an elite eastern suburbs private school have been left “scrambling” for swim school places after a decision axe an almost two-decade-old service at the prestigious institution.

In a letter to parents last week, Cranbrook headmaster Nicholas Sampson said calling time on a deal with Eastern Aquatics, which delivers its Learn To Swim program, was “not made lightly”.

Mr Sampson cited the “major rejuvenation” of the campus as a factor in the decision to end the 19 year program.

Cranbrook School headmaster Nicholas Sampson said the decision was not taken lightly. Picture: AAP/Matthew Vasilescu
Cranbrook School headmaster Nicholas Sampson said the decision was not taken lightly. Picture: AAP/Matthew Vasilescu

“With the Masterplan Stage 2 development works removing access to Hordern Oval, Cranbrook will need to realign its PDHPE, Sport and co-curricular programs,” he said.

“With certain facilities inaccessible during part or all of the build phase, internal use by Cranbrook students of our available facilities will increase.

“It is with much regret, and following significant consideration and progression of our Masterplan, that the School has determined that it is not viable to renew the contract of Eastern Aquatics.”

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One parent said families were outraged and distraught by what they said was an abrupt decision.

“Distraught parents are now scrambling to find places in term three for their kids in other already full swim schools as a result of this abrupt decision by Cranbrook School,” they said.

While it would not longer continue its agreement with the company, the school said it would still offer other aquatics programs.

“We apologise for any interruption this poses to families who had intended for their children to continue in the Learn to Swim program after this time,” Mr Sampson said.

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Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/wentworth-courier/major-rejuvenation-at-cranbrook-sees-loss-of-swim-school/news-story/5b87b472af9457d36739593a9fd9e2b3