Disappointed by Court Ruling, but Commitment to Tradition endures
Together with Student A (whose identity is protected by a suppression order) the Save Newington College (SNC) group is disappointed by today’s decision of the Supreme Court of New South Wales, in which Justice Parker ruled that the College Council’s intention to proceed with its plans to make Newington College co-educational is not a breach of the 1873 Trust Deed that originally codified the establishment of the school.
Notwithstanding this adverse decision, SNC group commends the efforts of Student A, who, with the support of his tutor Peter Johnston, brought this action having gained the express approval of the Attorney General of NSW.
Today’s decision, whilst respected, is at odds with the understanding held by generations of Old Boys, parents, staff, and community members — that Newington was founded, funded, and entrusted as a school for boys, consistent with the original deeds.
The campaign by Student A to protect Newington’s heritage has never been about resisting change. It has always been about ensuring that changes honour the school’s founding values, its purpose, and the legacy that thousands have contributed to over more than 160 years.
Student A’s efforts have also been about highlighting the many risks and pitfalls that will be encountered, now and into the future. Despite today’s Court decision, high risks remain around the future academic and financial performance of the school and continuation of its GPS traditions. Particular challenges around successful integration of future girls, anticipated pushback from surrounding all-girls schools and retreat by former supporters of the Newington Foundation have not been addressed.
Student A is deeply grateful to the many Old Boys, former and current staff, parents, and members of the Newington community who supported his efforts. Their encouragement was invaluable in defending the traditions, values, and character that have made Newington a respected institution in Australian education.
Although these current Court proceedings have now concluded, the broader discussion about governance, transparency, and community engagement at Newington College continues. We remain committed to advocating for decisions that respect the voices of those who built this institution and who seek to protect its identity for future generations.
Student A and his legal team are carefully reviewing the reasoning after yesterday’s judgement and have not ruled out an appeal.
