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The case for single-sex schools amid the co-ed shift

It’s an age-old debate: are our children better off in a co-educational environment or a single-sex one?

While opinions and research vary on this topic, at Loreto College Marryatville, we firmly believe that the choice should ultimately rest with parents, who are most attuned to their child’s individual needs and preferences.

While there has been discussion about a widespread shift towards co-education, recent data suggests otherwise. There has indeed been a modest decline in the percentage of students educated in single-sex schools over the last decade, however the absolute number has grown, indicating continued demand for this educational model. In fact, girls’ schools have seen significant enrolment growth, with 96% of girls’ schools across NSW reporting increased demand for places in 2023. In South Australia, there has been nearly an 8% growth in enrolments within girls’ schools over the past 6 years.

A growing body of research suggests that single-sex education correlates with higher academic achievement, with NAPLAN scores tending to be slightly higher in single-sex schools compared to their co-educational counterparts.

Loreto College Principal Kylie McCullah says this underscores the positive impact that the focused learning environment of single-sex education can have on academic outcomes.

“In 2024, the importance of single-sex education remains significant as it continues to provide a valuable alternative to traditional coeducational settings,” Ms McCullah said. “By fostering a supportive and focused learning environment, single-sex education equips students with the tools they need to thrive academically, personally, and socially in an ever-evolving world.”

Click here to read the latest from our Principal in Educator Online.

 

 


Acacias Ball

As 2025 is fast approaching, we are excited to be well underway with plans to celebrate our milestone 120 years of Loreto College Marryatville and 150 year of Loreto College Australia and South East Asia next year. As part of the 120-year milestone, the College will be celebrating with The Acacias Ball held at Adelaide Oval. It promises to be a very special night for our college and wider community.

Read the Latest at Loreto

As we wrap up Term 3, there have been several memorable events in the last fortnight that showcased the spirit and culture of our school. We celebrated the Senior Sports Awards, recognising the achievements of our athletes. The Senior School Leadership Handover Assembly was a significant occasion, where we applauded the contributions of our Class of 2024 leaders and welcomed the incoming leaders from the Class of 2025. We had the privilege of hosting the Dusty Feet Mob, an Aboriginal dance group from Port Augusta. Students also enjoyed Languages Week, participating in a variety of cultural activities. The term concluded with our annual Mission Day, a fundraising effort supporting Mary Ward International, reflecting our commitment to service and social justice.

Read the Latest at Loreto

In this week’s school newsletter, we highlight important recent events and achievements, including R U OK? Day, where students came together to foster mental health awareness and support. Year 7 and 8 students participated in Reflection Days and Writing Workshops, engaging in self-discovery and creative expression. Year 10 students gained hands-on experience through Workplace Learning, while students in Years 6, 9, 10, and 11 embarked on camps that enriched both academic and personal growth. We also celebrate athletic accomplishments and the success of our annual springART exhibition, showcasing emerging and established South Australian artists.

The confidence journey: strengthening girls through education

Loreto College Marryatville Principal Kylie McCullah shares her thoughts on building confidence in students, particularly girls and young women.

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