As the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) celebrates its150th year, ImpactEd Evaluation and the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA)partnered to ask all those involved in girls' education what their experience of girls’ schools is.

The research sought to discover:

-           What are the benefits of single-sex girls’ schools through the eyes of those who are involved with them?

-           To what extent do girls' schools equip students for future success, both professional and personal?

-           What areas of improvement could girls' schools focus on to better prepare students for their future endeavours?

The research was conducted from June through to October2024, during which ImpactEd Evaluation and GSA sought the input of pupils, teachers, parents, and alumni. The research study included primary and secondary students, along with teachers who shared their educational expertise. Alumnae participants were divided between pre-2000 and post-2000 graduates to enable generational comparisons, while parents contributed additional perspectives.

The research findings demonstrated the key benefits of single-sex girls' schools. Parents primarily choose these schools for academic excellence, while teachers value the opportunity to be female role models and provide gender-specific teaching. Evidence suggested a positive trend: gender stereotypes have diminished, and students report increased comfort in the all-girls environment.

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Donna Stevens, the Girls’ Schools Association Chief Executive, says: “This research gives voice to every generation, providing the fullest expression of the female experience in girls’ schools from the youngest of girls in school to the oldest of alumnae. I’m proud to bring together all these voices and viewpoints from every kind of girls’ school, unifying state and independent girls’ schools’ experiences. The Girls’ Schools Association has always championed young women and places of learning to serve their interests best. In our 150th year it is right our association continues to examine and push for ever better educations for girls, so that they can have the best opportunities in the future.”

Nina Vafea, Project Researcher, “We were pleased to collaborate with GSA on this critical research on the impact of girl’s education. We were able to articulate what girls enjoyed most about their education but also identify areas which we could adapt and improve programmes for the future.”

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