Strong opposition to a proposed merger between Hobart City High School and Elizabeth College has led to the state government abandoning the idea entirely.
Instead, the two schools will remain separate entities after a report found “overwhelming support” for Elizabeth College and Hobart City High School to maintain their independence while continuing to operate in partnership.
Education Minister Roger Jaensch said the report by 3P Advisory was commissioned in line with a policy to extend all Tasmanian high schools to year 12.
“The findings from the consultation were overwhelmingly in favour of this proposal and we thank those involved in expressing their wishes and sentiments so clearly,” he said.
“This also means Hobart City High School will continue to deliver more Years 11 and 12 subjects that meet the needs of their students and the government’s commitments.”
Concerns raised by stakeholders included logistical challenges, the absence of a transition to college, reduced diversity and potential disruptions to senior students’ focus.
“From an operational and community perspective, concerns were raised about the potential loss of each
school’s distinct identity and the risk this posed to enrolments at Elizabeth College in particular,” the report reads.
“From a practical perspective, there were significant concerns, particularly among students and parents, on travel between campuses affecting the ability of students to focus on their final years of schooling.”
“It was indicated that a combining of the high school and college would potentially result in those students shifting to alternative colleges, impacting both the enrolment and student populations at those schools and disrupting the diversity of students at Elizabeth College.”
Elizabeth College has a rich history dating back to 1911, while Hobart City High School was established in 2022 following the merger of New Town and Ogilvie high schools.
