Jake White: I’m sorry Selborne letter went public
· The South African
In an unexpected story that has made headlines this week, former Springbok coach Jake White wrote a ‘private’ letter to Selborne College – which eventually became public – highlighting a host of issues that he explained were cause for him to step away from his role as a rugby consultant.
Most of the concerns revolved around the alleged lack of backing from Headmaster Andrew Dewar, who subsequently stated that he had been simply aiming to fulfil his responsibilities to “service the whole school” and not just the rugby programme.
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In the latest twist, Selborne acknowledged and lamented the fallout from the leaked internal email that fuelled the controversy, while stating that the issues have been ‘amicably’ resolved, opening the door for White to continue contributing to some extent.
Jake White shares his side of the Selborne story
In an interview with Rugby365, White said he never intended for the letter, or the private grievances, to become public.
“My only objective was to assist Selborne Rugby. My intention was pure.
“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 schools rugby needs. I will definitely not turn my back on them. Rugby teaches you that too.”
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 apologise 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!”