Prime Highlights:

• Magdalen College School in Oxford will start admitting girls into its main student body from 2027, marking a historic step toward inclusivity.
• The move reflects the school’s commitment to creating a diverse and welcoming learning environment while continuing its long tradition of academic excellence.

Key Facts:

• Girls will join years three and four in 2027, with plans to include year seven by 2030.
• The school, founded in 1480, has allowed girls in its sixth form for the past 15 years and is regularly ranked among the UK’s top independent schools.

Background:

Magdalen College School (MCS) in Oxford, one of the UK’s oldest schools, will welcome girls into its main student body for the first time in nearly 550 years.

From 2027, girls will join years three and four, with year seven to follow in 2030. Girls have attended the sixth form for 15 years, marking a move toward a more inclusive school.

Founded in 1480, Magdalen College School is known for academic excellence and is regularly ranked among the UK’s top independent schools. The school has a distinguished list of alumni, ranging from Tudor statesmen Cardinal Thomas Wolsey and Sir Thomas More to contemporary figures such as Oscar-winning director Sir Sam Mendes and actor Jonathan Bailey.

Bob Price, chair of governors at MCS, expressed his enthusiasm for the change, saying the school is “delighted” to welcome both boys and girls to “enjoy the stimulation and excitement of life” at Magdalen. He added that opening the school to all young people capable of flourishing at Magdalen College School “honours our legacy and enriches our community for generations to come.”

Helen Pike, the current master of the school, described the transition to co-education as “an exciting time for everyone at Magdalen College School.” She emphasized the school’s commitment to offering a happy and inclusive learning environment.

The school’s plan to admit both boys and girls will be checked by the Department for Education before it starts.

This is part of a trend among historic UK schools to mix tradition with modern values. For Magdalen College School, it marks a new chapter, creating a more inclusive and diverse community.

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