Annah Langan, Deputy Head Pastoral at Marymount International School London, discusses the benefits of all-girls’ education
Throughout my 15 years as a pastoral lead in an all-girls’ senior school, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of all-girls’ education. The environment fosters a unique culture of empowerment, self-discovery and academic excellence, enabling young women to reach their full potential.
As a provocative topic of discussion of late, unleashing young women’s intellectual potential drives forward the desire for girls’ schools to remain as such – a place where girls can perform without socialised restrictions. Recent data provided by the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) has shown that students in girls’ schools consistently outperform their peers in co-educational institutions when it comes to academic achievement.
This is attributed to the single-sex setting, which allows for a dedicated focus on girls’ learning styles and interests without the distractions and gender dynamics that can sometimes hinder them in co-ed settings. All-girls’ schools provide a nurturing environment where students feel confident to take academic risks and challenge themselves. They also pursue more STEM subjects, in general, than in co-ed settings.
At Marymount International School London, our students are encouraged to celebrate each other’s triumphs, own their individuality and pursue their aspirations without fear of comparison. This supportive atmosphere cultivates a strong sense of self-belief and confidence, empowering them to believe in their abilities and express their ideas with enthusiasm throughout their academic and personal journeys.
Our students show a fearlessness when tackling problems, whether that be in the classroom or when considering global issues through Model United Nations or service programmes. They are praised for the undeniable sportsmanship that they show towards each other, which gives me great hope for what their futures hold.
By nurturing leadership qualities and empowering girls to take charge, we provide a platform for them to develop and hone their leadership skills; to be role models for each other and inspire those who come after them to be aspirational and inspirational. The emphasis on female role models and mentorship encourages girls to step up and take initiative, a mindset that prepares them for future success in their careers. As they build resilience and emotional intelligence, the concept of navigating life’s challenges is even more achievable. They have, after all, spent their formative years in an environment of support where they feel comfortable expressing their emotions, seeking guidance, and developing strategies for success.
“By empowering girls to take charge, we provide a platform for them to hone their leadership skills and be role models for each other”
As to the question of whether girls are limited in their experience educated in a setting without boys, the answer is that we can be creative in our approach – finding ways for girls to collaborate with boys and yet maintain the academic excellence of their all-female school environment. Marymount International School London is part of a global network, RSHM, which includes both all-girl and co-ed settings. This gives us opportunities to socialise and collaborate with boys outside of the school classroom through Sporting, Arts and MUN Festivals held annually in the various schools around the world.
So, I ask you, why not an all-girls’ education? The challenges that young women will face as they enter employment are still present in 2024. This requires a holistic approach to their education, where they are supported to be whatever they aspire to be. This enables them to hold their place in a world that requires, and will benefit from, the skills expertly nurtured by an all-girls’ environment.
Marymount International School London marymountlondon.com
Further reading: Sixth Form 2:0 – how sixth-form life is changing
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