Single sex schools are a choice amongst many parents for a multitude of reasons. While for some, the decision is made for cultural or religious reasons, others see the benefits it can have on concentration and the removal of gender norms, which can help their child explore their identity and what they enjoy. In this post, we explore these benefits in greater detail and share what we have learned from a boys’ school in St Albans.
The Benefits of Sending Your Child to a Single Sex School
This is a collaborative post
Social Skills
Where some parents are split on the decision to send their children to a single sex school is the social aspect, as children aren’t exposed to the same opportunities to interact with the opposite gender. This is something that many private schools nowadays overcome by collaborating with opposite-gender schools.
Gender Roles
Going back to the point made earlier on gender roles, in co-educational schools, children often feel pressure to fit into gender roles and stereotypes. Girls with a keen interest in STEM subjects, for example, may be less inclined to pursue the subjects they like to fit in as they are typically male-dominated. The absence of the opposite gender can help children feel more comfortable in exploring their interests and natural talents.
Distraction
Another point some may consider a benefit is the lack of distraction. Girls and boys can get distracted by one another, so in theory, they should be able to work better in separate groups.
Performance
According to a study carried out in the early 2000s, it was found that girls performed better in girls-only schools. More recent research from 2015 found that 75% of pupils in girls’ secondary schools achieved five good GCSEs, comparatively 55% of those from co-ed schools achieved the same results.
While there is strong evidence to suggest that a single sex school may be beneficial for your child, the decision ultimately comes down to them and what you think is best based on their needs.
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