Views sought on boys' school accepting girls

People are being asked whether they support admitting girls to the sixth form of a boys' school.

Victoria College in Jersey said in July 79% of respondents to a survey about the proposals backed the move which it described as "a very strong mandate for change".

Deputy Catherine Curtis, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, has extended the consultation island-wide and has sought views on the potential impact of the plans for students, families and the wider education system.

Gareth Hughes, head teacher of the States-funded, fee paying school, said girls joining years 12 and 13 would "strengthen the long-term sustainability and vibrancy" of the sixth form.

The college was established in 1852 with fees for the current academic year set at £2,989 per term.

It has about 700 pupils in years 7 to 13, usually admitting 80 students into Year 12 each year.

The response to the internal survey in June suggested the move was supported by the majority of staff, parents and pupils.

Hughes, writing about the public consultation, described the proposal as representing "the right strategic direction for Victoria College".

"In our view, a co-educational sixth form would create a richer and more diverse learning environment," he said.

"It would broaden opportunities for students, strengthen leadership and enrichment experiences, and better prepare young people for university, work and life beyond school."

He said no decision had been made and the wider community would have a say before any plans were approved.

If the changes get the go ahead, there is also the possibility they are extended to other year groups in the future, the government said.

The consultation runs until 4 January 2027.

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