EXPRESSIONS of interest for child enrolments are now open for the pioneering Richard Gill School.
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Founded on the innovative philosophy and foresight of renowned music educator and conductor Richard Gill AO, the school is scheduled to open its doors in Muswellbrook in 2021 and enrol students from Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2.
As announced in September 2018, when the concept was first unveiled, the facility will occupy the soon-to-be-vacated Muswellbrook Shire Council Administration Centre.
"Our school, which is non-denominational and independent, will be driven by Richard Gill's strong vision of music and physical activity as cornerstones of a sound curriculum," board chair Kim Williams AM said.
"Our strongest desire is to create a warm, supportive, high-quality learning environment, which enhances the capacity of children to learn and thrive through applied creativity.
"Richard Gill believed a structured program of primary school music education based on singing, moving and creating has benefits for all areas of children's learning and that every child should have access to quality music education.
"I'm honoured to be involved with moving that vision forward as we establish a unique creative school for regional NSW.
"The school will lead not only in creative tuition, but also in the 21st century disciplines of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics."
Chris English was appointed the founding principal in January.
He's a highly-experienced educator and musician, who has worked in various teaching and leadership roles in the Hunter Valley and beyond.
"I feel privileged to be leading the Richard Gill School as foundation principal," he said.
"I look forward to working with the community and welcoming our first intake of children and their families.
"Richard Gill School offers an exciting educational journey in a very special environment where creativity will take a major role alongside the full suite of primary school subjects."
Originally from Newcastle, Mr English and his family relocated to Muswellbrook, which they are now proud to call home.
Esteemed education specialist architects Stanton Dahl have been engaged to prepare the site.
The Richard Gill School was established with the significant and generous support of Muswellbrook Shire Council.
"We recognise the opportunity for regional students to take part in a unique school where creativity takes a central role alongside science, technology and mathematics," mayor Martin Rush said.
"It's such a good fit for this town."
The school is currently finalising registration with the NSW Education standards authority.
An early information prospectus is now available and expressions of interest for enrolment are being accepted.
To register your interest, email admin@richardgillschool.org.au
"By registering an interest, parents will be kept up to date with matters relating to the school including construction works, curriculum development, school registration, community forums and formal enrolments periods," Mr English said.
