Kemnal College boys’ school in Sidcup, offers places to boys aged 11-16 and both genders in sixth form.  However, in the last few years demand for places has fallen, prompting a dilemma for its education chiefs, governors and teachers.  Their current and most long-standing proposal is to become a co-educational school from the age of 11 upwards, admitting girls from September 2019.

School leaders have said that not only would this change increase pupil numbers but it would also reflect the school’s belief in equal opportunities to develop and learn for all pupils irrespective of their age, gender, ethnicity, attainment, background or disability. Headteacher Rob Pett said: “This proposal is an exciting opportunity for Kemnal Technology College to better serve the community and transform itself into a highly inclusive school, for the benefit of all.”

I agree, that this change really would help out Kemnal College and increase their demand for places.  Not only would this be due to girls joining but also more boys.  There are many reasons why some people prefer co-educational schools, some believe students learn more valuable life skills in a mixed sex environment, while some people prefer to have friends of both genders.  School is not just about learning facts in lessons and passing tests, but is also about developing yourself as a person.  This can be through wisdom gained from those around you and from hearing different types of people’s outlook and views on topics. Plus, attending a co-educational school would be a lot more comfortable and healthier for someone who is either gender fluid or transitioning. 

 As the world is developing to a more equal place for everyone I believe schools need to change with the times as well. Everyone should be entitled to the same opportunities in life regardless, so this should be the case in schools.

Slowly, we are getting closer to a world where jobs based on gender, wage gaps and stereotypes are disappearing but schools should not be forgotten in this development.  Gender should not be a criteria for school admission.

By Lily Buttery, Farringtons School