Developing Social Skills
Attending an all-girls school can significantly impact learning and shape their identity during their formative teen years. Here are some of the social benefits of attending an all-girls school:
- Strong Female Friendships and Support Networks: Girls learn to form strong female friendships and support networks through shared interests, values, and experiences, which can last a lifetime.
- Leadership Skills: Girls practice and learn leadership skills through co-curricular clubs, teams, and committees. They can take on challenges, try new things, and follow their own path.
- Freedom to Be Themselves: Without social pressures, girls can be themselves. They can engage fully in class without fear of judgment. The sense of community and interdependence creates a foundation for building confidence.
- Customized Cocurricular Activities: Catering specifically to female students’ interests, girls have greater freedom and leadership opportunities. This includes various activities like outdoor education, community service, and student-led clubs.
A study from the Australian Gender Equality Council studied how the gender mix in schools affects confidence. Dr Terrance Fitzsimmons of the University of Queensland found that girls and women are less confident in mixed-sex environments such as schools and workplaces and, importantly are equally as confident as males when in and from single-sex (female) environments.
As a proud member of International Coalition of Girl’s Schools, further research as to why choosing a girls’ school is beneficial can be found on their website.
All Girls School Community
All-girls schools in Perth foster tight-knit communities that become like a second family. A 2019 study of Western Australian girls’ schools found that a sense of belonging was key to combatting anxiety. The schools that were studied showed lower rates of depression than national averages. Parents also appreciate the safe environment and high-quality pastoral care. Through charities, community spirit events, and outreach, these schools empower students to enact positive change.
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Preparing for the Future
Many Perth all-girls schools have robust programs to help students guide and define their university studies and future careers. Guest speakers, alumni, and mentors provide a diverse range of female role models and inspiration.
Students receive targeted advice on stereotypes and challenges women face in the workplace. By Year 12, girls have the skills and self-assurance to pursue male-dominated fields like business, law, and STEM, if so inclined. The old-scholar networks also help open doors to internships and jobs after graduation.
St Hilda’s Strategic Plan was designed with our future 2030 graduates in mind and was the winner of the 2022 Australian Education Awards for the Best School Strategic Plan.
While views differ on the ideal school environment, the potential benefits of all-girls education are clear. All-girls schools provide a supportive and empowering environment where girls can thrive academically and socially. They foster a sense of community and promote gender equality, which can help young women succeed in life. For parents debating the best options, Perth’s top all-girls schools give girls the space to learn, grow, and thrive.