Shore School headmaster Tim Petterson to leave after culture review
The headmaster of one of Sydney’s top private schools will be replaced following an independent review into the school’s culture.
Education
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The headmaster of one of Sydney’s most elite education institutions will leave the school after an independent review into the school’s culture and leadership.
Dr Timothy Petterson has left his role as principal of Shore School effective immediately, with Dr John Collier, the recently retired Head of St Andrew’s Cathedral School, stepping into the role on an interim basis.
In a letter to parents, Shore Council chair Bay Warburton said the decision followed deep deliberation.
“As part of this deliberation, the council commissioned an independent review into the culture and leadership of the school to more fully understand the nature of and reasons for recent disquiet within elements of the school community,” Mr Warburton said.
“This decision is not based on any suggestion of improper conduct on his part. However, the council has concluded that in the interests of unity within the school, leadership renewal is required.
“While the council appreciates the significance of a change in leadership, we believe that it is in the best interests of the school and its students.”
The decision comes after a turbulent period for the prestigious Anglican school.
Earlier this year Dr Petterson apologised to staff for low morale, after more than 90 people quit over a two-year period.
“Following extensive consideration, Shore Council has determined that a new leadership approach is needed for the school, and that consequently Dr Timothy Petterson will not continue as headmaster,” a Shore spokeswoman told The Saturday Telegraph.
“Dr John Collier, the recently retired Head of St Andrew’s Cathedral School, has been appointed as interim headmaster.
“Council thanks Dr Petterson for the loyalty and commitment he has given Shore.”
Dr Petterson was named the 133-year-old school’s eighth headmaster in January 2020.
He steered the school through Covid lockdowns and controversies including the ‘Triwizard Shorenament’, a muck-up day activity that required graduating students to complete tasks including “get with an Asian chick”, “sex with an 80kg+ woman”, and “f**k a chick who’s a three out of 10 or lower”.
“My initial response was one of shock and dismay,” Dr Petterson said at the time of the student-developed challenge.
“I was saddened that boys could think it was OK to be associated with something like that.”
Tuition at Shore School runs close to $40,000, with additional costs for boarding.
Shore Council said the search for the school’s next permanent headmaster would begin “immediately”.
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