Bermuda Parent Bermuda Parent Fall 2014 | Page 47

you see an advantage for parents and Q what : are Do child(ren) to attend a single sex school? If so they? A: At BHS girls take centre stage. For 120 years, the school has focused on educating girls in a tradition of excellence. Today, in that tradition, we continue to challenge out stu- dents to become skilled, confident, compassionate young women. Strong female role models, reduced societal stereo- typing in the classroom and learning opportunities that en- courage students to pursue their interests, all help to create an inspirational learning environment where girls develop the skills and confidence to excel and lead. Q : Are there girls that should not attend an all- girls school? A: Some parents — and educators — think that all-girls’ schools create a falsely safe space, removing a girl from the influences of the opposite sex. They worry that this unrealis- tic environment, may render her ill-prepared for co-ed life. At BHS, we disagree. Each student’s world will continue to in- clude boys and men — in extra-curricular activities, at home, on weekends and holidays. And, finding her voice, collaborat- ing on projects and excelling in academics will prepare her for a purposeful life. qualities are able to be developed by a Q : What girl attending an all-girls school? A: In a single-sex school, a girl can comprehend her value and her capabilities in ways that have nothing to do with how she looks or whom she dates. She can be free to experiment and explore, trying out new things and trying on new roles. She can follow her ambitions without wasting a second thought or a backward glance on how her male counterparts might perceive her. We find our graduates are open-minded, aspirational, reflective, compassionate, resourceful and able to take calculated risks. should parents consider an all-girls Q : When school for their daughter? A: Girls’ schools create a culture of achievement in which academic progress is of great importance, and the discovery and development of a girls’ individual potential is paramount. By subtracting boys an all-girls’ education adds opportunities. At a girls’ school, a girl occupies every role: every part in the play, every leader- ship position on the student executive, every position on every team. Not only does she have a wealth of avenues for self-exploration and development; she has a wealth of peer role models. www.bermudaparent.bm 45