In a significant shift for Singapore’s education landscape, Montfort Junior School (MJS) will open its doors to girls beginning in 2028, with plans for Montfort Secondary School (MSS) to grow co-educational by 2034 or earlier. The move, announced following a town hall meeting on March 4, marks a departure from the long-standing tradition of both schools as all-boys institutions. This decision aligns with a growing trend in Singapore, as several single-sex schools reconsider their admissions policies to reflect evolving societal norms and educational philosophies.
The St Gabriel’s Foundation, which oversees the Montfort schools, informed the Ministry of Education (MOE) of its plans, and discussions regarding implementation are underway. While specific details regarding intake numbers and the rationale behind the transition remain forthcoming, school leaders emphasized the benefits of a co-educational environment, citing the development of emotional intelligence, communication skills, and mutual respect as key advantages. The move comes as other schools, including Canossa Convent Primary, Maris Stella High School, and Anglo-Chinese School (Primary), have also announced plans to become co-educational in the coming years.
A History of Single-Sex Education at Montfort
Founded in 1916 as Holy Innocents’ English School, Montfort has a rich history rooted in Catholic education. The school was renamed Montfort School in 1959 and later split into MJS and MSS in 1974. Interestingly, Montfort previously admitted female students to its pre-university classes in 1961, but that practice ended in 1975. The current discussion about co-education began in 2019, with the St Gabriel’s Foundation forming a committee to explore how its schools could better adapt to changing educational needs, according to Mr. Dennis Ho, a member of the MSS management committee.
Currently, MJS, a government-aided Catholic school in Hougang, admits approximately 150 to 280 Primary 1 students annually. The decision to move towards co-education was not taken lightly, and school leaders addressed concerns raised by parents and alumni during the town hall meeting. These concerns centered on how the transition would impact discipline, teaching methods, infrastructure, and the school’s unique traditions.
Addressing Concerns and Reassurances
School leadership reassured attendees that the transition would be carefully managed, with a focus on providing stronger pastoral support, adjusting pedagogy, and upgrading infrastructure. Mr. Mark Tay, chairman of the MSS management committee, articulated the belief that a co-educational setting would better prepare students for the diversity they will encounter in workplaces and universities. He emphasized the importance of fostering an environment where students can “learn to see beyond their own experiences” and develop the skills necessary for a diverse society.
Parents expressed a range of reactions, with some anticipating the change given the broader trend towards co-education and Singapore’s declining birth rate. One parent, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that the all-boys environment was a key factor in choosing Montfort for his son, hoping for a “boy-centric education with exposure to ruggedness.” Alumnus Ross Gomes, a 29-year-old sales operations professional, described the decision as “inevitable” and a positive step towards inclusivity and collaboration. Gomes fondly recalled the “brotherhood” he experienced during his decade at Montfort, but believes the school can successfully adapt to a co-educational model.
Gomes added, “Some traditions might change, but while I’d be happy if it stayed all-boys, I don’t see any real issues with going co-ed.”
The Ministry of Education has acknowledged the St Gabriel’s Foundation’s plans and is currently discussing the details of implementation. Further information regarding the transition, including specific timelines and intake numbers, is expected to be released in the coming months. As Singapore continues to evolve, the move by Montfort Junior and Secondary Schools reflects a broader conversation about the role of single-sex education in preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
The next steps will involve detailed planning and consultation with stakeholders to ensure a smooth and successful transition to a co-educational environment. The school’s commitment to maintaining its high standards and unique traditions while embracing diversity will be crucial in navigating this novel chapter.
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