RoC Cabinet Sacks English School Board Over Admissions Scandal

The decision, announced on Wednesday, aims to protect the school’s integrity and ensure that admissions remain fair. A new board, led by Nicholas Kyriakides, has been appointed to restore confidence in the institution.

In a statement, the presidency said the council of ministers had prioritised “the smooth operation of the English School and the well-meaning interests of the student and educational community” in making its decision.

The controversy erupted when headteacher Stuart Walker accused board members, including chair Ioanna Demetriou, of urging him to bypass entrance requirements. Walker claimed he was repeatedly pressured to admit a board member’s child despite their failure to meet the school’s standards. He refused, citing fairness and the school’s reputation.

The scandal deepened after reports surfaced of an alleged audio recording implicating Demetriou in the affair. While she has denied any wrongdoing, the accusations have sparked public outrage. Parents and students have called for accountability, with tensions escalating following Walker’s sudden leave of absence in January. Many suspect his departure was linked to the dispute, raising further concerns about retaliation.

Government intervention was widely expected after calls for transparency grew louder. Many parents had expressed frustration over what they viewed as preferential treatment for certain families.

The English School, one of the most prestigious institutions in Cyprus, has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, and allegations of unfair admissions have struck a nerve in the wider community.
The English School has faced scrutiny before over issues of privilege and fairness in public sector access.

Former house president Yiannakis Omirou recently reignited debate by alleging that in 1998, English School graduates were given extra points in National Guard officer selection due to insufficient Greek language education. He said the policy was later abolished under his leadership.

With this fresh scandal, concerns over governance and transparency have resurfaced. Many parents, students, and alumni are now demanding an independent investigation into the allegations. Some legal experts suggest that if the claims against the dismissed board members are proven, they could face legal consequences.

The dismissal of the board is seen as a strong statement by the government, but challenges remain. The newly appointed leadership must work to rebuild trust and reinforce the school’s commitment to merit-based admissions.

For many, the controversy has highlighted broader issues of accountability in elite educational institutions. With scrutiny growing, all eyes are now on Kyriakides and his team to ensure the English School moves forward with integrity.

Source: Cyprus Mail