Mr Ford's email to staff on Thursday comes after the passing of a second no-confidence motion by Independent Education Union staff members on Wednesday evening.

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During enterprise agreement talks he became aware that he had unintentionally frustrated staff with his communication and consultation style. "I have listened and learned and I see a way forward that will give all staff the opportunity to have their opinion and be heard," Mr Ford wrote.

"I am looking to change with a new style of communication and active consultation. I will listen to, and value, all staff's opinion and feedback."

Mr Ford, who has been headmaster since early 2018, has overseen significant staff turnover and an apparent drop in staff morale.

For the first time in the school's 175 year history, IEU staff members are contemplating a strike.

Parents are also known to be concerned about a changing culture at the school.

However, Mr Ford retains the backing of the Grammar board chairman Nigel Bailey.

IEU assistant secretary David Brear said the email read like it was from someone who was desperate to hang on. "The School Board seems to be trying to convince everyone through the media that the no-confidence motion in the Headmaster is some form of union beat up," he said.

"But at the same time, the Headmaster is writing to his own staff admitting that the problem is real and that significant change needs to take place to address it."

"The no confidence motion was motivated by a desire to avoid further damage being done to the school's culture not by a desire to bring it down."

Mr Ford he would establish a consultative forum. To alumni he pledged transparency and a "trust rebuild".