Across the educational landscape, the conversation around single-sex versus co-educational schooling continues to evolve. While some argue that the era of single-sex education is on the wane, others – including many alumni – continue to see its enduring benefits.
At Malvern College, we ask a different question: can we combine the best elements of single-sex education within a co-educational environment? Our answer is a resounding yes — and our house-based boarding system is central to this philosophy.
Our Evolving Educational Model and Co-Educational Heritage
Some schools have turned to the “diamond model,” separating pupils by gender for certain stages of their education while integrating others. While effective in specific geographic and financial contexts, this structure isn’t practical for every institution.
Malvern College has embraced co-education since its merger with Ellerslie Girls School in 1992. For more than three decades, we’ve continued to explore how best to support and educate both boys and girls — academically, socially, and emotionally.
The Role of Boarding Houses in a Blended Model
Each pupil at Malvern belongs to one of 11 boarding houses — girls’ houses line one side of campus, while boys’ houses are positioned on the other. Whether boarding or day, every pupil begins and ends their day in the house: a familiar, supportive environment with same-sex peers.
The rhythm of school life — from morning registration and break times, to lunchtime meetups, afternoon activities, and evening study — centres around these communities. These houses become a home away from home, especially on weekends, where pupils are known and supported as individuals — able to relax, recharge, or choose from a range of social and enriching activities.
Tutor groups are typically single-sex and house-based, providing consistency and comfort for pupils. In the Sixth Form, students have the option to join mixed-sex tutor groups, reflecting the growing independence of their final years.
Single-Sex Strength Meets Co-Ed Collaboration
While houses remain single-sex, classroom and co-curricular life at Malvern is fully co-educational. This blend offers real-world preparation — pupils collaborate, debate, and lead across genders, gaining the cultural and emotional intelligence needed to thrive beyond school.
Pupils have the flexibility to shape their own experience — some naturally gravitate toward a largely single-sex environment through their house life and selected activities, while others embrace the opportunities of a more mixed and integrated day.
Even in the academic realm, subject choice can reflect these preferences. Pupils may find themselves in gender-skewed classes, not by design, but through their personal interests and choices.
Leadership, Role Models and Lasting Impact
Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles in student life — from house responsibilities to leading societies like Empower Her Voice, Cultural Capital, and the Black Students’ Union. Through these roles, girls and boys become powerful role models for younger peers, showing what’s possible and inspiring others to speak up, take action, and help shape the culture of the school.
They thrive in an environment shaped by strong role modelling — from staff and senior pupils alike — where inclusion, leadership, and personal growth are woven into daily life.
Co-Education: The Best of Both Worlds
There are clearly benefits to both single-sex and co-educational schooling. At Malvern College, we believe our model offers pupils the best of both worlds: defined, supportive spaces tailored to their needs, and the freedom to engage meaningfully and confidently with the wider school community.
Through this approach, we prepare our pupils not only for exam success, but for the complexities and opportunities of life beyond the classroom.
Keith Metcalfe
Headmaster, Malvern College
At Malvern College, we are proud to offer a distinctive model of education that brings together the best of single-sex and co-educational experiences. If you would like to learn more about our boarding houses, academic life or admissions process, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Enquire now to speak with our Admissions team or arrange a visit.