 Prior to the appointment of Sheryll Ofner as principal in 2008, Selwyn College experienced a tumultuous few years as some local residents and the local MP Allan Peachey criticised the school for its falling roll and alleged academic and disciplinary failures.Other members of the school community, parents, teachers and students fiercely defended the school in the face of what they saw as unfair criticisms.Peachey was forced to apologise publicly for sending an offensive email to the then co-principal, Carol White ONZM.