The headmaster of one of Australia's most historic and expensive private schools has initiated legal proceedings against its governing council in the Federal Court, following his dismissal over an alleged physical altercation with a student.
Legal Battle Delays Dismissal
Tony George, the 20th headmaster of The King's School in Parramatta, was issued with a termination notice by the school council. This came after allegations emerged that he struck a student on the back of the head during a heated discussion in a Biblical studies class.
The incident, described in court documents as a 'clip to the ear', is said to have occurred in mid-2024 within the school's historic Futter Hall. Around 100 students were reportedly present for a debate concerning religion and free speech at the time.
Mr George has now sued the school council, seeking damages. His legal action, lodged between Christmas and New Year, has initially succeeded in delaying the effect of his termination notice until at least January 19, when a hearing is scheduled.
A Prestigious Institution Under Scrutiny
The King's School, founded in 1831, is a prestigious boys-only institution with approximately 2,200 students. Fees can reach up to $49,980 per year, with total costs for Year 12 boarders soaring past $88,000 annually.
Following the alleged incident, the school launched an investigation. In a letter to parents in late July 2024, seen by Daily Mail Australia, the school confirmed the probe and stated Mr George had taken leave, partly due to contracting the shingles virus. The communication assured parents that student wellbeing and the integrity of the learning environment were paramount.
Mr George later wrote to parents extending his leave to ensure the investigation proceeded without any perception of interference. He expressed support for a "full and fair assessment of the facts."
A Controversial and Qualified Leader
Tony George was both highly qualified and a respected figure, though his tenure was not without prior controversy. Parents noted he had been openly critical of 'victimhood' and 'wokeness' since becoming head in July 2017.
In 2023, he publicly criticised media coverage of elite schools, labelling 'toxic masculinity' a "memetic cliché of progressive extremism" and lamenting that genuine reflection had given way to "movements of cancel culture."
He was also at the centre of a financial controversy in 2022, when the school covered business class flights to London for him and his wife, alongside the deputy headmaster and his wife, to attend the Henley Royal Regatta rowing event.
The school itself is financially robust, reporting a surplus of $4 million in 2024, on top of receiving substantial government funding.
Federal Court orders have placed confidentiality rulings over exhibits and affidavits that identify the student involved and a chronology of events filed by the school. The court documents indicate that mediation between Mr George and The King's School, presided over by leading Sydney barrister Max Kimber SC, can begin this week.
