A statutory manager has been appointed to the board of Wesley College which was earlier ordered to close its hostels due to concerns for student safety.
Ministry of Education deputy secretary Isabel Evans directed the appointment of a limited statutory manager for the Wesley College Board today.
According to an official notice, the limited statutory manager would take over the board's abilities to employ staff, establish policies and procedures, and manage communications.
They may also advise the Wesley College board on its functions, powers and duties relating to the health and safety of students and staff.
In November last year, Wesley College was ordered by the Ministry of Education to close its boarding hostels early, bringing forward a previously announced end-of-term deadline following "further serious incidents".
The ministry also suspended the school's boarding licence at the time.
The college launched legal action following the ministry's move, with its principal telling media he believed the suspension was unfair.
The Methodist Church dissolved the Wesley College Trust Board in November.
During the transition, Methodist Church president Te Aroha Rountree was to act as the interim Wesley College Trust Board, supported by the vice president and general secretary.
Rountree said at that time the decisions followed careful reflection about the 181-year-old college's future direction and the church's responsibilities as its founder.
"This is a time to listen, to learn, and to rebuild with integrity and care. The wellbeing of students, staff, and whānau remains at the heart of everything we do," she said.
"Our decision to pause, review, and renew its governance is about ensuring the college has the strongest possible foundation for the years ahead."
1News held a year-long investigation into the school in 2023 that highlighted allegations of bullying, violence and abuse and historical violence at the special character Methodist school.
The Ministry of Education has been contacted for further comment.
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