Philip Watson, Principal of Burleigh Community College, argues the merits of having to learn to get on with each other from an early stage

Whilst many of our boarding schools are single-sex, there are a good many reasons why some have chosen to offer instead a totally different experience – that of mixed boarding. The reasons may be financial. With reductions in the Armed Forces abroad causing some schools to consider the prospect of closure, a move from two small single-sex houses to a single mixed provision has obvious attractions. Spare accommodation can be sold or used for other more profitable ventures, staff can be utilised more cost-effectively, significant budgetary savings can be made in energy, catering, laundry, transport and so on. A simplified management structure is another bonus.

However the welfare and happiness of the pupils has always to be the prime consideration and in this respect mixed boarding offers many pluses. The atmosphere in girls’ houses differs markedly from that in boys’ houses. Boys tend to be more noisy and boisterous, girls can be over-protective and cautious. In a mixed situation girls tend to modify the boys’ behaviour and boys seem to bring life to the overly staid existence of girls. Certainly the relationships which form are of the very healthiest kind and traditional stereotypes often fall by the wayside. The two sexes learn very quickly to respect their differences which are far more exposed in the tightly knit community of a boarding house than they are in day time school. All become more caring, thoughtful and considerate, prepared to share their emotions without fear of shame or embarrassment. Equally those in a position of influence – senior boarders – exert their power more sensitively, more constructively.

Clearly there are strict requirements to which mixed boarding houses have to conform. These may include, for example, separated rooms and bathrooms, separate staircases and clear rules regarding freedom of movement, bed times etc. Outside of these restrictions boys and girls mix quite naturally during dinner, in social areas, at prep times and walking to and from school. The boundaries are clear and pupils soon learn to operate happily within them – of course they test them from time to time but then young people would, wouldn’t they!

The overall sense in a mixed boarding house is one of a large family sharing the same values, caring for one another, responsible for one another. Given that boarding can never truly mirror life with loving parents, then arguably mixed boarding is as close as it is possible to get.

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