Martindale Public School parents fight Department of Education recess ruling

Parents and the P&C Association of Martindale Public School are campaigning to prevent the Department of Education from placing the historic Upper Hunter institution into recess starting in 2027.

The decision follows a review of student data. While the school currently has a student body of seven, the P&C Association, led by president Ellise Bunt, argues that enrollment is poised to grow. Through community canvassing, the association identified at least eight potential enrollments for 2027, with projections reaching up to 16 students by 2030.

Ms. Bunt expressed concern that placing the school into recess would make it difficult to attract enough prospective students to eventually reopen. The school has served the rural community near Denman for over 100 years.