Leading the Way in Co-education
From the Head of College, Mr Scott Bedingfield
On Monday I attended the Term 1 HICES (Heads of Independent Co-educational Schools) network meeting at Hunter Valley Grammar School, with another 40 heads from Co-educational Independent Schools across NSW. The focus of our discussion was on the benefits and challenges of co-education, and we were fortunate to have Associate Professor Kellie Burns from Sydney University to present thoughts on the topic. Dr Burns, who is also an Oxley parent, provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of co-education and its impact on students.
Having only ever taught in co-educational schools, and with a strong personal belief about the advantages of co-education, it was reaffirming for me to hear that who we are at Oxley, offers a range of benefits for all students.
The Benefits of Co-education
The research highlights that co-educational settings lead to happier and healthier young people. Socialising boys and girls together from a young age helps them develop better interpersonal skills and prepares them for the real world, where they will need to work and interact with people of all genders. Co-education also challenges traditional gender norms and promotes gender equity, essential for creating an inclusive society.
One of the key points discussed at the HICES meeting was that while co-educational schools may not always address gender issues perfectly, we are best positioned to do so. It was interesting for me to reflect on some of the reasons why co-education began in the first place. For many institutions it really was a pragmatic financial decision rather than intentional, but over time, it has proven to be a valuable approach for fostering character and collaboration among students.
Co-education in the Media and Educational Community
Co-education has been a hot topic in the media lately, with many schools in Sydney considering or transitioning to this model. While there is no conclusive evidence that one system outperforms the other, co-education offers a balanced approach that prepares students for the complexities of the real world. It encourages students to see beyond traditional gender roles and develop a more nuanced understanding of identity and relationships.
Dr. Kellie Burns’ work at Sydney University further supports this view. Her research on gender, sexuality, health, and schooling emphasises the importance of a holistic, community-involved approach to gender inclusivity. Dr. Burns argues that becoming co-educational is not the sole answer to gender inclusivity; rather, schools need to adopt comprehensive strategies that involve the entire community. Something Oxley has been doing for a long time now.
Oxley College: An Authentically Co-Educational School
For more than 40 years, Oxley College has been at the forefront of independent co-education in New South Wales, a considerable amount of time when you compare it to other independent institutions. Founded on the principles of co-education, the school has consistently demonstrated the benefits of this approach, fostering an environment where students of all genders learn and grow together. This approach has allowed Oxley to create a diverse and inclusive environment where students learn to work collaboratively and respect each other’s differences.
Our commitment to co-education is evident in our curriculum, teaching methods, and the culture of the school. We strive to create an environment where all students feel safe, valued, and supported, regardless of their gender. Our leadership roles, such as the SRC and Captains, are designed to promote gender equity and provide opportunities for all students to develop their leadership skills.
We are well-placed for the future
At Oxley College, our enduring commitment to co-education has established us as a leader in this field within NSW. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where we “exist for the development of character”, we empower our students to become “Challenge Ready” and to make a meaningful difference “near and far.” As we continue to engage with the latest research and best practices, we remain dedicated to promoting gender equity and creating a school where all students can succeed, embodying our mission to continue to develop character and care for the whole child.