Auckland School’s Charter Takeover Bid Fails Amid Controversy

The attempted takeover of Auckland’s Kelston Boys’ High School by a controversial charity has collapsed, following a legal challenge aimed at silencing media coverage. The bid was linked to Rhys Cullen, a former general practitioner whose medical license was revoked in 2007 due to improper prescribing practices. Cullen’s association with the Bangerz Education and Wellbeing Trust (Bewt) raised significant concerns, prompting a backlash from the school’s community.

Cullen’s history includes convictions for receiving stolen vehicles, which contributed to the scrutiny surrounding his involvement in Bewt’s plans. The charity sought to convert the state school, which serves around 800 students, into a privately-run charter institution under its control. The proposal faced strong opposition from the school’s board and staff, who expressed their discontent throughout the process.

In response to media inquiries regarding his role, Cullen initiated legal action against the New Zealand Herald, aiming to prevent the publication from revealing his connections to Bewt. This move was perceived as an attempt to stifle public discussion about the takeover bid, which had already ignited significant debate within the Auckland educational community.

On October 24, 2023, the Kelston Boys’ High School board announced that Bewt had officially withdrawn its proposal. In a public statement, they described the news as “wonderful,” reflecting the relief felt by many stakeholders who opposed the takeover. The withdrawal marks a significant victory for those advocating for the preservation of the school’s public status and its existing governance structure.

The controversy surrounding the takeover attempt has highlighted ongoing discussions about the role of charter schools in New Zealand’s education system. Critics argue that such initiatives can undermine public education by diverting resources and funding away from established institutions. As the situation unfolded, community members rallied to protect the integrity of Kelston Boys’ High School, emphasizing the importance of accountability in educational governance.

With the collapse of this takeover attempt, attention may now shift to the broader implications for other public schools contemplating similar transitions. The case of Kelston Boys’ High School underscores the need for transparency and rigorous oversight in the management of educational institutions.

As the school community regroups, it remains to be seen how future proposals will be evaluated and whether this incident will prompt changes to policy regarding charter school applications in New Zealand.