Informed decision-making is the cornerstone of a successful school selection process. Parents who are prepared to gather relevant information and interpret it through critical analysis are best placed to select the right school for their child. One of many important decisions you will have to make during your selection process is whether to choose a single-sex or co-educational school for your child.
Single-sex schools vs co-educational: make the right choice for your child
Informed decision-making is the cornerstone of a successful school selection process. Parents who are prepared to gather relevant information and interpret it through critical analysis are best placed to select the right school for their child. One of many important decisions you will have to make during your selection process is whether to choose a single-sex or co-educational school for your child.
Single-sex schooling versus co-education is an age-old debate, so take your time to understand the advantages of both options – and make an informed decision.
Advantages of single-sex schools
In the UK, most single-sex schools are found in the independent fee-paying sector. In contrast, only a small proportion of government funded (state) single-sex schools remain.
- Single-sex schools were top of the class in the latest Sunday Times Parent Power academic rankings – a common trend. In the state sector, for example, among the ten leading schools – all selective grammars – seven are single-sex, with boys-only schools edging the girls by four to three.
- Supporters of the single-sex school model believe that, because studies show boys and girls learn at different rates, they benefit from attending single-sex schools as these institutions can tailor the curriculum and lessons accordingly – increasing academic performance.
- Pupils can try different things and explore unique interests and skills without the influence of social expectations stemming from gender stereotypes – such as the assumption that there are male and female dominant subjects or that certain sporting activities are more popular with girls or boys.
Advantages of co-education schools
In the UK, most schools across both the independent and state sectors are co-educational.
- Competition is an essential part of life and education can reflect that. Not only does this drive pupils to feel passionate about subjects and strive for success; it helps them to manage failures. Having girls and boys in the same classroom creates a competitive balance, allowing pupils to stretch and challenge each other – where girls excel, they can raise the standard for boys, and vice versa.
- Co-education helps girls and boys to develop their personality by improving their understanding of each other. This exposes them to equality from an early age, teaching them how to treat each other with respect and form constructive relationships.
- When pupils leave school, they will have the confidence to adapt in different situations thanks to their experiences in a balanced environment where they will be compelled to interact with each other.
Empowered by this information, you can make an informed decision about the best option for your child – and rest assured that they will reap the rewards.
Get help from the experts
Relocation specialists Simply London can guide you through the state or independent school selection and application process. We offer two options, depending on your requirements:
- School phone consultation – advice on schools, admissions and the general process.
- Full school search package – an in-depth, bespoke service that’s tailored to your family’s requirements.