Two Sydney Anglican Schools Lose Heads, Sparking Calls for Accountability

Susan Petterson, sister of Tony George, former headmaster of Kings School, and wife of Tim Petterson, former headmaster of Shore School, has expressed concerns over recent leadership changes at both institutions. Both schools, operated under the Sydney Anglican Church diocese, saw their headmasters dismissed within a short timeframe. Petterson has called for greater transparency and accountability, highlighting the need for reform in how these schools are governed.

In an open letter published on LinkedIn, Petterson questioned the internal processes and decision-making within the diocese and its affiliated schools. She pointed to the dismissals as indicative of a broader issue: a lack of clear accountability structures and due process. The letter emphasized the importance of ensuring that school councils, which oversee these institutions, operate with integrity and serve the interests of all stakeholders.

The recent events at Kings School and Shore School have led to legal action, as internal mechanisms for addressing grievances appear inadequate. The schools, registered as charities under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), are expected to maintain responsible governance. However, Petterson argues that the structures in place do not provide meaningful avenues for accountability, leaving councils with unchecked authority.

The ambiguity surrounding the governance of these schools raises concerns about who holds real authority and who is empowered to challenge decisions. Without clear lines of responsibility, councils may act in ways that are opaque to the broader community, including parishioners, alumni, staff, and donors. These groups, who support the schools financially and spiritually, are left without a clear mechanism to hold leadership accountable.

Petterson’s call for reform underscores the significance of these institutions within the Sydney Anglican Church. As major educational charities, they serve tens of thousands of students, hundreds of staff, and manage substantial financial resources. Ensuring that these bodies operate with transparency and fidelity to their mission is essential to maintaining trust and upholding the values of the church.

The situation highlights the need for a renewed commitment to stewardship and accountability. As the Bible reminds us, justice and mercy are central to God’s character (Micah 6:8). In the context of church leadership, this means fostering environments where decisions are made with integrity, and where the voices of all stakeholders are heard. The call for reform reflects a desire to align institutional practices with the principles of accountability and service that underpin the Christian faith.

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