We are delighted to announce that, beginning in September 2024, Donhead will transition to a co-educational setting with a Pre School, welcoming girls and boys from the age of three into our Catholic school community.
We firmly believe that co-education is the future for Donhead and brings many advantages that will benefit all our pupils. It fosters a supportive environment where students of all genders can learn from one another, promoting academic excellence, social development, and equal opportunities.
Over the next few months, work will progress to ensure excellent facilities for all from September 2024. The curriculum will continue to reflect the thorough preparation required for Senior School entry at Year 6 for all pupils, with expert knowledge on hand. We remain committed to our innovative development plans linked to Science provision and work has already started on the expansion of our outdoor learning facility on site.
In this, our 90th Birthday year, when celebrations are focused on ‘blending tradition with innovation’, we are excited about welcoming girls into our school community and continuing to provide the outstanding education that has been the hallmark of the last 90 years.
Visit Us
For information about our next open morning please visit this page. We look forward to sharing more about our plans and providing you with an opportunity to meet staff and pupils.
Get in touch
To enquire about your child joining Donhead please contact Mrs Jodie Cosh, Admissions Assistant.
Frequently Asked Questions
The transition to coeducation and the admission of girls will begin in September 2024.
Research shows that coeducation can enhance learning by providing diverse perspectives and fostering healthy competition. This change will offer your son the opportunity to develop essential skills, preparing him for success in a globalised world. The curriculum will remain broad with an enhanced co-curricular offering.
No, the school is not in financial trouble. As with all good independent schools we constantly review our financial position to remain commercially viable. The prep school sector is currently experiencing several external influences that we cannot ignore. By making these decisions now, we can adapt our teaching and future-proof the excellent education we provide.
While most classes will be coeducational, some subjects or activities may be taught in single-sex settings when appropriate.
We are committed to a smooth transition. Our staff will provide support for pupils and families, addressing concerns and ensuring a seamless integration process for all.
With the inclusion of girls, we will expand our co-curricular offerings to cater to a wider range of interests and talents.
The current Donhead school uniform will not change. We will be working with uniform suppliers to create additional uniform items to suit a coeducational environment.
We encourage parents to attend meetings, provide feedback, and engage with us as we navigate this transition together. Your input is invaluable to us.
We will make necessary adjustments to admissions policies and accommodation while maintaining a safe and inclusive atmosphere for all pupils. Our excellent Early Years facilities are already in place, and the site will be developed to accommodate co-education and our Pre School in due course. We will continue to keep you updated on any planned changes. Our commitment to innovative curriculum development plans and our expansion of Outdoor Learning on-site remains unchanged.
We will be hosting a series of events for Donhead parents to meet with Ms Hitchcock where we will be able to share our plans and respond to any questions. We understand that this transition may raise questions, and we are here to provide information and support to ensure a positive experience for all.
