Mount Scopus Memorial College students scared to report inappropriate conduct
A bombshell review into Mount Scopus Memorial College has revealed the “very upsetting” feedback it received from students.
Education
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Students at an elite Melbourne school did not feel safe reporting inappropriate conduct, prompting a slew of widespread cultural changes, the Herald Sun can reveal.
Burwood Jewish school Mount Scopus Memorial College last year stood down its long-serving student development director, Jared Alford, following allegations of misconduct.
This led to the school commissioning a child safety audit by Child Wise.
On Monday night the school’s principal Rabbi James Kennard and other school leaders shared the findings of the audit.
Their letter to old scholars said the school will increase education for children in identifying and reporting signs of abuse.
Students, staff and leaders at the school will now undergo cultural diversity, gender, LGBTQIA+, disability, accessibility and inclusion training.
The letter contained a link to the report’s recommendations, but did not include a link to the report itself.
After initially failing to disclose why Mr Alford left the school – and even praising him on his retirement- the school’s leadership were forced to concede he was facing allegations of inappropriate conduct.
“Through this review, we have received some very upsetting feedback about child safeguarding, exclusion and inequity at the school,” the Monday letter said.
“During the investigation, we learned that students had not felt safe or comfortable reporting inappropriate conduct at school.
“We unequivocally regret the damage that has been caused by this misconduct and acknowledge the bravery of those who reported it and thank them for coming forward,” the letter said.
“Child safety is the school’s highest priority and we strive to ensure that all children and young people, regardless of their age, gender, ability, race, or sexual orientation, have the right to be safe and feel safe.
“We understand the change that needs to happen and will implement every recommendation from the Child Wise assessment.”
The school will now implement all 49 recommendations which cover issues such as complaints mechanisms, bullying, culture and inclusion, governance, student wellbeing and trust.
This includes establishing a clear governance model setting out key responsibilities for each level, setting up a group of child safety champions or working group and find more ways for students to participate in decision-making.
The working group, which will report to the school board, will develop a timeline over the next two years.
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