Bermuda's aided schools are facing an uncertain future after it was revealed Government is considering changing the way they are run.

The Ministry of Education has reportedly told staff at St. George's Preparatory it could take management away from its governors and instead appoint a new board responsible for a cluster of schools. Parents say they understand the Island's other aided schools could be subjected to similar measures.

Last night Education Minister Randy Horton confirmed that Government was exploring the concept of a Government-appointed board.

"Government is considering this because it implements the recommendation of the Hopkins Report to have one standard for all school boards," he said.

But former St. George's principal Mervyn Moorhead said aided schools operate effectively due to their boards being appointed by their trustees, allowing head teachers a direct influence in the way they are run.

The damning Hopkins Report also hailed aided schools as an example for the rest of the Island to copy as it tries to improve its much-criticised standard of education.

The issue is expected to be discussed at tonight's public education meeting at the World Heritage Centre, Penno's Wharf, St. George's. One parent told The Royal Gazette yesterday: "I was told they are talking of collapsing the aided schools, doing away with all the trusts and boards and making them all Government. They have spoken with teachers and had a meeting with our chairman of trustees.

"People are very angry and concerned. Why are they taking St. George's Prep school, that's been proven to do well, and changing it?"

Mr. Moorhead said: "I have heard the Government are going to suggest the removal of aided schools. I know staff and parents are absolutely very, very upset about this, and rightly so.

"An aided school is a very good idea as they give the principal power to make decisions and not have things thrust upon them."

Principal Mary Lodge declined to comment ahead of tonight's meeting.

The Hopkins Report stated as one of its ten recommendations: "Harness the power of parents, business and the community in the reform effort. The review team believes that stakeholders should have greater direct involvement in the management of schools and have greater opportunities to support learning.

"The review favours the appointment of boards, filled largely by election, to run schools or federations of schools, building on the current example of aided schools."

Tonight's meeting takes place at 6 p.m.