Mount Scopus Memorial College principal Rabbi James Kennard retires in wake of scandals

Mount Scopus College’s principal has announced he’s stepping down as the school continues to deal with “inappropriate conduct” allegations against one of its teachers.

Mount Scopus Memorial College principal Rabbi James Kennard has announced he is retiring.

The principal of a Jewish school which has been at the centre of multiple scandals including allegations of “inappropriate conduct” involving a former teacher has announced he is retiring.

Principal Rabbi James Kennard, who has taught at Mount Scopus Memorial College in Burwood for the past 17 years, announced his retirement to the school community on Thursday morning.

In an email sent to families, the school’s college president Amy Hershan, wrote: “Over the recent summer break, Rabbi Kennard advised me of his intention to retire as principal of the college at the end of 2023.”

“Rabbi Kennard has plans for him and his wife Vicky to fulfil their dream to make Aliyah,” she said.
Ms Hershan wrote: “For the past 17 years Rabbi Kennard has dedicated himself to improving, extending and developing all facets of school life at Mount Scopus College.
“His contribution has been immeasurable and we will have many occasions throughout the year to pay tribute to him. I thank him for his leadership, vision and direction which has seen our school thrive.

“It is now time to build on this legacy and ensure that our school continues to go from strength to strength.”

Ms Hershan wrote Rabbi Kennard would remain as principal until the end of this year.
She said she and the school’s executive had commenced a global search process for a suitable candidate.

It comes after Jared Alford, a former director of student development who had worked at the school for more than 20 years, suddenly left after multiple former students came forward with allegations he behaved inappropriately towards them.

This led to the school commissioning a child safety audit by Child Wise.

In September last year, Rabbi Kennard and other school leaders shared the findings of the audit.

The letter sent to old scholars in September said the school would increase education for children in identifying and reporting signs of potential abuse.

Students, staff and leaders at the school underwent 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 was 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 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.”