Reduced distractions, abolition of stereotypes and increased confidence; these are just a few of the plethora of reasons behind single sexed schools. Approximately 40% of secondary education facilities in the UK are single sexed, showing the significant nature and large impact of this matter. But is the heteronormative and segregative ideology behind these schools counterproductive, and could it even demonstrate inequality?
One of the first arguments for single sex schools is that through segregating the sexes, the focus and concentration of students’ is aided as distractions are reduced. This is making a colossal assumption that all students will be sexually attracted to (and therefore distracted by) the opposite sex. This heteronormative idea is massively inaccurate which encourages stereotypes as well as discrimination which is supported by the fact that almost 60% of students say they feel as if their school is not a safe place for the LGBT community. This lack of safety and security will inevitably have a severe impact on students and their education, counteracting the aim of these schools.
Furthermore, many believe that single sexed schools abolish gender stereotypes, and although they may eliminate traditional views, for example the idea of female’s being limited as housewives and mothers which may restrict a female’s education, they certainly do not aid the eradication of modern stereotypes which will provoke many problems. The feminist movement is progressing incredibly, but can it be supported with separation?
A contrasting argument that supports single sex schools is that they allow an increase in academic confidence due to their adaptations for the relevant sex. Some would say that single sexed schools allow freedom for all students within subjects that are traditionally seen for a particular sex. For example engineering may be stereotypically perceived as a majorly male subject whereas some may see drama as a subject primarily for females. Some may suggest that this schooling system gives access to these options which is liberating for students. The removal of these boundaries caused by certain stigmas is a step forward in gender equality, and supports the feminist movement as it shows that gender should be no limitation. This is one way that single sexed schools could be seen as positive.
There are many more important aspects involved in this matter, some of which include transgender rights and exclusion. There are many ways in which single sexed schools can be seen as beneficial for today’s youth and supporting female empowerment and feminism. However there inevitably many issues that arise, including the potential enhancement of stereotypes which is counterproductive in many ways. Can equality be reached through separation?
