After a turbulent week of headlines, Selborne College has confirmed that its relationship with former Springbok coach Jake White is back on track.
The premier East London school had come under scrutiny after White abruptly stepped away from his rugby consultancy role, citing a lack of support and alleged interference in rugby matters.
Reports also suggested that director of rugby Derek Page had similar concerns.
White sent a letter to the school detailing his grievances, particularly surrounding an apparent lack of backing from headmaster Andrew Dewar.
Dewar went on to defend his position, suggesting that a legal process was underway.
“I can say though that my role is to service the whole school and support everything we do, not only focus on rugby,” Dewar told Rugby365.
Now, in a formal media release issued on Friday the school says the matter has been resolved amicably – and that its partnership with the World Cup-winning coach will continue.
Selborne moves to steady the narrative
In its statement, Selborne acknowledged the fallout from a leaked internal email that fuelled the controversy, while emphasising its commitment to a balanced, values-driven approach.
The school also confirmed that its rugby programme will remain part of a broader vision that includes academics and other sporting codes.
FULL STATEMENT: Selborne College
According to a press release from the school dated 17 April 2026
“Selborne College acknowledges the concern arising from the circulation of an internal email and the commentary on social media with regards to the school’s rugby programme.
Selborne College is a value-driven institution committed to excellence in academics, culture, and sport. Guided by integrity, accountability and respect. The School provides an environment that empowers young men to thrive and achieve their full potential across all aspects of school life.
We take this opportunity to apologize to the greater Selborne community for the unfortunate negativity that has arisen from the email leaked to social media.
The School is pleased to confirm that the internal issues have been amicably resolved and that it will continue to work in partnership with Jake White in strengthening and advancing its rugby programme. We extend our gratitude to Jake for his continued support and involvement.
This partnership reflects a unified commitment to aligning goals and establishing a clear, combined vision that supports excellence both on and off the playing field.
Selborne College welcomes a renewed and forward-looking chapter for its rugby programme, centred on collaboration, shared purpose, and long-term sustainability.
This initiative forms part of a broader strategic approach, where the rugby programme will serve as a foundation for growth and development across all school sporting codes. Through this model, Selborne College aims to create a cohesive and high-performance environment that nurtures talent, discipline, and character.
At the core of this collaboration is a shared vision of academic, cultural, and sporting excellence. The rugby programme is intended not only to enhance sporting performance but also to contribute meaningfully to the holistic development of learners and the continued sustainability of the School.
This partnership marks a positive step forward, through a renewed approach, as the school continues to build a legacy of excellence and opportunity.
We thank our community for its ongoing support and look forward to an exciting future shaped by collaboration, vision, and shared success.
The Headmaster, staff of Selborne College, the School’s Governing Body, the Old Selbornian Association and the Selborne Foundation Trust remain committed to the success of the implemented rugby structure, as we are with all other sports, and will align with the School’s vision, values, governance structures and long-term objectives.
Selborne College remains steadfast in its commitment to principled leadership and sound governance, in the best interest of every learner.
We thank our Selborne community for its continued support. Together we will continue to move forward with purpose and confidence and prepare young men of character and substance for the future – where boys become men – Palma Virtuti!”
White clears the air
According to the Daily Dispatch, director of rugby Derek Page, who had stepped back amid the dispute, is also back in the fold.
A Friday morning meeting involving the Old Selbornian Association, the Selborne Trust, White, Page and Dewar helped align all parties on a way forward.
White also released a statement on Friday, confirming his commitment to the school:
“The Headmaster is the person who runs the school. I agree with that 100%. I respect that too.
Selborne is 153 years old. I was really happy to assist Selborne Rugby for free. Gratis. Why? Because I love rugby. I was excited about associating myself to a traditional rugby school.
Importantly too, I was asked by a friend. He is an ex pupil, ex master and an ex 1st XV coach (Phiwe Nomhlomo). Yes, helping out a friend. Rugby does that to you.
I am like most South Africans. I read the schools 1st XV rugby results. When my alma mater is winning 1st XV matches, my school is doing well. It gives us old boys bragging rights. It makes our weekend. Rightly or wrongly.
I’m an old boy like most, that wants a 1st XV team that gets better and better every year. Even if I know it’s highly unlikely.
I believe in South Africa that rugby in schools is very important. It should be the most important investment for a school. It gives the best returns.
I believe that the 1st XV rugby team are your marketing team. Again, rightly or wrongly. They influence your recruitment, sponsorship, old boy involvement and a lot more. Successful teams are a must.
My only objective was to assist Selborne Rugby. My intention was pure.
A leaked letter has now unfortunately turned a situation that was supposed to be positive into something negative. For that to all Selbornians, I am sincerely sorry.
My letter was merely to explain that if the Headmaster of a school and my old boy philosophy are not aligned, then I’m not your guy. Please respect that.
It’s important to everyone linked to Selborne for Selborne to do well. Now more than ever. Selborne is and will always be a valued school in our country.
Going forward, I will always be supportive to any of the school’s rugby needs. I will definitely not turn my back on them.“
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