Cologne’s Ursuline Schools Make Historic Move to Co-Education, Signaling a Shift in German Educational Landscape
COLOGNE, GERMANY – In a landmark decision poised to reshape the educational landscape of Cologne, the Ursuline Schools – institutions with a legacy stretching back over three centuries – have voted overwhelmingly to introduce co-educational classes beginning in the 2026/27 school year. This breaking news, confirmed Wednesday evening after extensive consultations with parents, students, and teachers, marks a significant departure from the schools’ long-standing tradition of single-sex education. This isn’t just a local story; it’s a bellwether for the evolving debate surrounding single-sex versus co-educational learning, a topic gaining increasing traction in educational circles globally. Archyde.com is on the ground with the latest details.
A Tradition Reimagined: Balancing History with Modern Needs
The decision, framed by the words of St. Angela Merici – “Daring to do something new on tried and tested paths” – reflects a careful consideration of the changing needs and expectations of families. While the Ursuline High School has already experimented with co-education in its upper levels, this move extends the practice to all grade levels, including the crucial 5th grade intake. The secondary school, previously entirely single-sex, will also implement mixed-gender classes for new students. Importantly, existing classes will remain unchanged, ensuring a smooth transition for current students and their families.
“School never stands still, but means permanent development,” explains Monika Burbaum, headmaster of the Ursuline High School. “We’ve noticed that while mono-education has its strengths, families are increasingly drawn to our specialized programs – particularly in MINT (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and music – rather than solely the single-sex environment. We’re focusing on profiling these strengths and leveraging our unique campus advantage with two schools.”
More Than Just Mixed Classes: A Commitment to Holistic Development
This isn’t simply about integrating boys into existing classrooms. The Ursuline Schools are emphasizing a pedagogical approach that prioritizes gender-sensitive, individualized learning, and the nurturing of each student’s unique strengths. The schools are committed to continuing their targeted support for girls, especially in traditionally male-dominated fields like STEM, while simultaneously developing specific programs to support boys’ development. This nuanced approach addresses a key concern often raised in discussions about co-education: ensuring equitable opportunities for all students.
The shift also aims to enhance permeability between the two schools – the grammar school and the secondary school – fostering greater collaboration and equal opportunities. Headmaster Monika Schäfers of the secondary school highlights the strengthened school pastoral care and potential for joint extracurricular activities, such as a combined choir, as key benefits. Proven programs like ‘Kicking & Reading’ will continue, demonstrating a commitment to retaining successful elements of the past.
A Vision Shared: Support from School Boards and the Archdiocese
The decision has been met with enthusiastic support from both school boards, who hailed the change as “historic with heart and vision.” Cornelia Vondey, chairwoman of the high school’s school board, emphasized the intensive discussions that led to the vote, involving school management, teachers, parents, and sponsors. The Archdiocese of Cologne has also expressed its support, recognizing the schools’ commitment to their core values of high-level education, social responsibility, and Christian orientation.
“We are very grateful for the far-sighted school development work carried out here,” says Thomas Pitsch, head of the School & University Department in the Archbishop’s General Vicariate. “This decision is a powerful sign that we want to take new paths together into the future.”
The Broader Implications: Co-Education in the 21st Century
The Ursuline Schools’ decision arrives at a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate about the merits of single-sex versus co-educational learning. While proponents of single-sex education often cite benefits such as reduced gender stereotypes and increased academic performance, particularly for girls in STEM, research on the topic remains complex and often inconclusive. Co-education, on the other hand, is often seen as better preparing students for the realities of a mixed-gender world, fostering social skills and promoting inclusivity.
This move by the Ursuline Schools suggests a growing recognition that the benefits of specialized programs and a supportive learning environment can be effectively delivered in a co-educational setting. It also highlights the importance of adapting to the evolving needs and preferences of families, who increasingly prioritize a holistic educational experience that prepares their children for success in a rapidly changing world. The success of this transition will undoubtedly be closely watched by other educational institutions across Germany and beyond.
As the Ursuline Schools embark on this new chapter, their commitment to providing a high-quality, inclusive education for all students remains unwavering. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this developing story and in-depth analysis of the evolving educational landscape.