The Benefits of Single Sex vs Co-Educational Schools

The reasons behind choosing single sex or co-educational schools are sometimes very personal and there isn’t always one motivation behind the decision but perhaps an instinct or ‘feeling’ or a collection of them. This independent boys’ school in London encourages boys to thrive in their single-sex environment in a number of ways. What is interesting is that the school does not foster a ‘hothouse’ approach but a ‘greenhouse’ approach.

One draw for parents is that schools which only accept one sex, seem to be rather more relaxed than co-educational schools. This is especially true once children hit the terrible teens! Without the pressure of the opposite sex in class, children are able to fully concentrate on learning. They’re just as able to form friendships and have fun but without as many distractions! It’s not true for all young people, but some will certainly find the temptation of impressing peers to be a real issue when it comes to learning.

There is certainly evidence which seems to suggest many girls do better academically when learning without the added pressure of competing with or being distracted by the presence of boys. Equally, there is also evidence that boys are more keen to join in with artistic opportunities in school when there are no girls present. 

Your own child may have a preference or you might be guided by their past experiences. Some children will always do better in a co-educational setting and it’s worth considering this before you choose a school. It’s important that you talk to your child about their preferences – especially older children. They should feel as though they have a choice and the correct information to inform that choice.

A visit to any school you might be considering is important. Bring your child with you so that they can see how either type of school looks in practice. What do they notice, if anything, about the differences in both types of school.

If you do select a single-sex school, make sure your child does have a chance to mix with and socialise with the opposite sex in their extra-curricular activities. You don’t want the opposite sex to be too much of a mystery!

Whatever your final choice, you can keep an open dialogue with your child. Regularly check-in with them to ensure they are still happy with their school and their friends. The chances are that as your child reaches their teens, they may thank you for your decision!