HISTORY was made last week, when the first secondary school places were offered to girls attending a Winnersh school.
From September, The Forest School is to become co-educational, with the first mixed sex year group starting in Year Seven. There will be a year group of 295 pupils, of which 91 are girls.
Until now, it has been an all-boys setting until sixth form.
Shirley Austin, Headteacher of The Forest School, said: “I am overwhelmed that we are the school of choice for so many students as they ‘Aspire to become Elite’.
“These students are the pioneers of the future as the first co-ed year group in the main school.”
The Forest, based on Robin Hood Lane, had a roll of 210, but decided to increase the number of offers it made to students due to demand.
“This follows the day the school is awarded for being in the top 25% of schools in the country for attendance, showing our students love coming to school and following record exam success in the summer,” Ms Austin said.
“Our community has come together as the school journeys to outstanding at pace. This is testament to our whole school community; all the Forest family and our fantastic students and their successes.
“I would like to give special thanks to my inspirational head girl Honor Bradshaw, who had our vision and gave me the clarity I needed to drive for the co-ed decision with the trustees.
“We are delighted that all those who visited our school saw what fantastic opportunities, curriculum and facilities we offer.”
