Mr Whelan announced his sudden resignation last August after a period of personal leave, sparking an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his exit.

While the report was expected to be released to the public last week, parents and students are still waiting and their concerns of unfair dismissal are growing.

Karen Stillman, a parent to one of the school's year 12 students, said the morning's gathering was not a protest, but rather a demonstration of support.

"We just want answers, we want the review to be released because we don't know why they are holding onto it," she said.

Mr Whelan's influence on the students was known by many, but felt even more so in his absence.

"He's so dedicated to the kids and the school, he's a great principal and he got my child through with outstanding, incredible results, so we'd love to see him back," Ms Stillman said.

"We mean no disrespect to the new principal now, but we want Rod back, it was an unfair dismissal and we want justice."

Fellow parent Rebecca Ferguson shared the faith in Mr Whelan's leadership of the school, saying now was the time for "accountability and transparency".

"Rod is the one the kids aspire to be like, they want his leadership and that's what they need back," she said.

"As a parent, I have two children here and I still have two more to come.

"I want them to come to a school where the leader is as passionate about my children's futures as I am.

"It's time to come clean."

Chants of "Who do we want? ROD! When do we want him? NOW!" rang out across the oval as students pledged their support for Mr Whelan, before collectively reading a statement.

"We are here this morning as members of our catholic school community - teachers, students and parents - for two reasons," the statement read.

"Firstly, to show our support for our loved, and highly respected, principal Rod Whelan.

"We miss you and cant wait to have you back where you belong.

"Secondly, to let Archbishop Prowse know that the only outcome we will accept is for Rod to be reinstated, as soon as possible."

Justin Bentley was another parent joining the crowd lining the boundary of Kildare College in support of their children's mission.

"Rod's leadership was unlike any other and that's what's missing from this school now," he said.

"People are replaceable, but it should be on their own terms, and we know he wants to come back.

"I know he'd be proud of what's going on today."

The findings of the report are now expected to be released to the school in June, after the review committee "agreed to a delay of the report to the school council to allow it to be considered more fully".