Inspiring Inclusion: Why Single-Sex Girls’ Schools are the Ultimate Investment in Women’s Equity

In Australia, there is a noticeable shift happening in the education sector. Private schools are moving towards co-education. Late last year, Newington College, one of Sydney’s oldest private all-boys schools, announced that the school would become fully co-educational by 2033. The announcement has sparked debate about the benefits of co-ed, and whether more private schools should rethink gender-exclusive schooling. Ms. Kylie McCullah, Principal of Loreto College Marryatville in South Australia, remains adamant that single-sex girls’ education is the ultimate investment in girls.

With more than 20 years of experience in the girls’ education sector, Ms McCullah has witnessed firsthand how girls' schools contribute more positively to young women’s academic, psychological, and social development.

“The investment in girls and young women, typically begins with decisions concerning their primary and secondary education. Should parents send their daughter to an all-girls or co-educational school? Whilst this decision chiefly depends on the individual child, research concludes that wholistically, girls perform better in a single-sex or girls-only school environment” explains Kylie.

Higher uptake of STEM subjects

Not only is academic performance found to be higher in single-sex girls' schools, but so too is the uptake and interest in STEM subjects. ​

“Girls generally experience more positive attitudes and experiences in the areas of motivation, attendance, tertiary aspirations and even an increase in the likelihood of studying STEM courses, than would occur if the female student attended a coeducational environment” Kylie explains.

A study by Goodman Research Group found that girls’ school graduates are six times more likely to consider tertiary education in maths, science, and technology compared to girls who attended coeducational schools.

All-female environments build confidence in these areas because girls’ schools actively invest in strong STEM programs, clubs, and competitions, encouraging girls to explore and excel in these traditionally male-dominated areas. Gender-based stereotyping also has less of an impact on the curricular choices made by girls attending single-sex schools. This is because girls see other girls excelling in these areas, reinforcing belief in their capability. ​ ​

Improved leadership skills = improved outcomes

Increased confidence, engagement in the local community, and leadership skills are just some of the attributes graduates from all-girls schools are likely to develop in comparison to their co-ed counterparts.

In girls' schools, leadership is a more universal experience than in co-ed spaces. There is a greater opportunity for students to learn leadership qualities because all leadership positions are given to girls. ​

“Investing in women during their school years enhances their intellect, experience and leadership skills, and becomes a catalyst for positive outcomes and progress for broader society after graduation. When appointed to positions of leadership or influence, women characteristically use their impact and any financial gain and share it amongst members of their family and wider community. ​ This means not only is the individual woman gaining from the investment, so to, are the women and men around them” adds Kylie.

Investment in women’s education benefits wider society

Economic growth, poverty reduction, and improved health outcomes are just some of the benefits that come from investing in women’s education. Policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing women's economic status are not just investments in gender equality but are crucial for achieving broader developmental goals. ​

“It is this ‘pay it forward’ effect that accelerates progress not just for women but for all,” says Kylie. ​ “On this International Womens’ Day, not only should we be acknowledging women and their success, but we should also be finding additional ways to invest, encourage and develop the female leaders of tomorrow. It is these women who will work to ensure progress is accelerated for all.”

About Loreto College Marryatville

Loreto College Marryatville is South Australia’s leading all-girls day and boarding school, catering for students from Early Learning to Year 12.

Established in 1905, a Loreto education is built on a 400-year-old tradition first inspired by the founder of Loreto schools worldwide, Mary Ward, and encapsulates her beliefs in delivering an education which inspires strong, passionate, and confident girls and young women.

In delivering this view, Loreto College Marryatville provides girls with a well-rounded education where students are presented with a broad range of opportunities and given the support and encouragement to become confident and engaged learners with the knowledge and skills to make a difference to their world.