A WINNERSH school will be going co-educational next year, nearly 70 years after it was founded as a boys’ grammar school.
The Forest School in Robin Hood Lane is to welcome girls into Year 7 from September 2024. It will take a five-year process for the entire school to be fully co-ed, as it welcomes each new cohort.
The Department of Education approved the change, and it was confirmed by the Regional Schools Commissioner on Thursday, July 27.
It follows a consultation of the school, residents and stakeholders, something the school says was broadly supportive.
The proposal aims to help address a shortage of secondary school level places across Wokingham borough and make use of its capacity.
Headteacher Shirley Austin said those at the school felt this will improve educational standards and it will help both sexes prepare for the modern workplace, the wider world, and adult life.
“While we appreciate that some of our parents may be disappointed by this news, we can absolutely promise that our focus on their boys through Years 8 to 11 will not lessen and our current values and policies will not change,” she continued.
“We believe that becoming co-educational offers an exciting opportunity to secure our future while consolidating the deep roots that we’re proud to enjoy within our community.
“The Forest School will flourish as it continues to deliver excellent education through its enhanced curriculum, elite facilities and excellent partners.”
She added: “Over years to come, we’ll continue to embed the core traditions and values originally set by The Forest Grammar School in 1957, and we look forward to helping young ladies thrive in the workplace alongside our young gentlemen.
“If you have any concerns or questions, we’re here both to listen and to reassure you.”
Anyone who wants more information about the change can email: trustees@forest.academy
