The Fin Inside the fight to keep girls out of boys' schools
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Feb 12, 2025 Brook Turner, an AFR magazine contributor and expert on the co-education debate in Australia, dives into the heated controversy surrounding single-sex versus co-educational schools. She discusses why Sydney has become a focal point for this issue, particularly the polarizing decision by Newington College to admit girls. Turner highlights the cultural ramifications and the clash between traditional values and modern educational practices, while shedding light on parental concerns and the implications for gender roles in Australian education.
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Single-Sex Education in NSW
- Single-sex education, a late 19th-century ideal, is surprisingly prevalent in New South Wales due to historical population factors.
- While single-sex schools often perform better academically, experts haven't found conclusive evidence of their inherent educational advantages over co-ed schools.
Rugby's Transition
- Even prestigious, centuries-old single-sex schools like Rugby in the UK are transitioning to co-educational models.
- This trend suggests a global shift in educational ideals, mirroring Newington College's recent decision.
Newington's Co-Ed Decision
- Newington College's decision to go co-ed stemmed from a review of its diversity, educational model, and size.
- Despite extensive consultations, the announcement triggered a strong backlash, highlighting the complex emotions surrounding this issue.