Newnham College Trans Admissions Policy

Newnham College Defies Supreme Court, Admits Trans Women

Newnham College, Cambridge University's oldest women-only college, has sparked controversy by deciding to continue admitting biological men who 'self-identify' as female. The move defies a recent Supreme Court decision and has drawn criticism from campaigners and legal experts.

The college, led by principal Alison Rose, announced the change in its admissions policy via email to students. It now states it is open to all 'female' applicants, including those born as men. Rose, a former diplomat, has been at the helm since 2020 and is known for her progressive stance on inclusivity.

The decision has been slammed by Maya Forstater, chief executive of Sex Matters, who argues that the college is not aligning its policy with the Supreme Court's decision from April 2025. The decision clearly stated that 'woman' means a biological woman. Equality lawyer Audrey Ludwig has also weighed in, stating that the college's decision is 'at serious risk of being determined as unlawful'.

Postgraduate student Maeve Halligan, co-founder of the Society of Women at Cambridge University, sees the decision as a sign that Newnham is 'no longer an all-female college'. Campaigners are planning to report the college to the Equality and Human Rights Commission and the Charity Commission over a possible breach of equalities law.

Interestingly, Newnham's admissions policy for students contrasts with its hiring guidelines for research fellows. The latter defines 'women' as those assigned female at birth.

The debate surrounding Newnham College's admissions policy is set to continue. While principal Alison Rose maintains that the policy has been cleared by lawyers and ensures the college stays 'inclusive', critics argue that it goes against the Supreme Court's decision and could potentially be unlawful. The college's stance on this issue will likely remain a contentious topic in the coming months.