I think NEW have struggled to fill to their max class intake in recent times when their Rugby team was performing poorly in AAGPS competition.
With recent Rugby success they are now full, with a waiting list.
Tin foil hat says cause and effect.
If memory serves me correctly, the Newington intake of 2010 was about 150 boys. We field only four rugby teams, although the 13As were immensely talented.
But that year was the beginning of New's rise as a schoolboy rugby power. Be it largely confined to the top teams.The 2011 intake hit 240 boys and we fielded seven rugby teams in the 13s. This increase enrolment, is often accorded to our 2010 rugby success. Also we had a new Headmaster who has proven to be "Mover and Shaker". The previous Headmaster had a controversial time and many felt that this was the real cause for a decline in enrolment numbers.
Irrespective, most Old Boys I have spoken to, feel that that success in Rugby has been good for the image of the school. The belief is that if your school is perceived as poor in one area, it tends to reflect an institution failure in leadership, motivation and attitude within that School. Success is a Public Relations Asset and promotes the School and even a sense of pride and well-being amongst the boys,parents and Old Boys. Failure invites a perception that something is wrong at the school. Although other factors such as an unpopular Headmaster may be the real issue at hand.