UNITED KINGDOM


HISTORICAL CONTEXT Until the end of the 18th century, single-sex education was commonplace around the world. During the 19th


century,


more and more coeducational schools were set up. In many countries, single-sex education has almost vanished, but there are some countries, such as the UK, where it is still a viable option, depending on where you live. In other countries, particularly in Asia, single-sex education has prospered as the result of religious and cultural beliefs rather than the idea that students perform better if the two sexes are segregated.


Most educational experts agree that boys and girls have different learning needs. “Girls and boys mature at different rates, so, in a learning environment, it makes sense to give both girls and boys what they need at each varying stage in their development,” explains Antonia Beary, headmistress of Mayfield, a girls’ independent day and boarding school in East Sussex. “Does one size fit all?” asks Miss Beary. “I don’t think so.


It is a generalisation, but one with much truth: girls and boys predominantly learn in different ways – not better, not worse, but differently. We ought to be celebrating these differences and the complementary nature of different genders, not trying to pretend that everyone is the same and requires the same challenges and support.


“It’s a truism, but most girls don’t like making mistakes, and education is about learning from mistakes. In fact, neurological research confirms that it hurts more to make mistakes and take risks if you are a girl, so it stands to reason that, to help girls learn, they need encouragement to make mistakes and take those risks. “Most boys don’t need the same reassurance; they need help in other areas. Single-sex education allows teachers to create environments where girls feel confident in taking risks. It doesn’t mean girls are cosseted and wrapped in cotton wool, but that their confidence and individuality are nurtured. “Girls don’t have to have boys present 24/7 to be able


to engage as equals – far from it. They benefit from space to learn about themselves and become independent, aspirational, assured young women who expect to forge strong relationships based on mutual respect, not stereotypes. It’s all about informed choice.” However, it’s important not to confuse the grown- up world with the world of a teenager. “I think what is important when we think about the big, wide adult world being coed is that 13-, 14- and 15-year-olds are in a very different world that is not necessarily real life,” says Elizabeth Hewer, headmistress of St George’s Ascot, an all-girls day and boarding school in Berkshire.


Mill Hill International


Always looking forward


Educational excellence for international pupils aged 13–17


London in the Countryside Uniquely located in 120 acres of parkland just half an hour from central London, Mill Hill International offers first rate day and boarding education and Academic Summer Courses with plenty of space in which to learn.


Contact us


The Mount, Mill Hill International Milespit Hill, Mill Hill Village London NW7 2RX


+44 (0)20 3826 3366 millhillinternational.org.uk registrar@millhillinternational.org.uk


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