Tonbridge School has announced a landmark shift in its long-term strategy, confirming that it will welcome girls into its Sixth Form from September 2028. The transition coincides with the school’s historic 475th anniversary year and marks a significant evolution for the leading independent boys’ boarding and day school.
Under the phased roll-out, girls will initially join the Sixth Form as day pupils in 2028. Boarding provision for girls will follow in September 2030, allowing time for the development of residential facilities that meet the school’s existing high standards.
Enhancing an Academic Stronghold
The decision to modernise the Sixth Form comes from a position of established success. The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) currently recognises Tonbridge’s Sixth Form as a “significant strength,” pointing to its robust curriculum, academic enrichment, and exceptional pupil outcomes.
By introducing a co-educational environment at this pivotal stage, school leaders aim to create a more dynamic and diverse learning culture. The move is designed to better reflect life beyond the school gates, ensuring pupils mature both socially and academically in an environment that mirrors higher education and the modern workplace.
A Deliberate and Measured Evolution
Headmaster James Priory emphasised that while the decision represents an exciting step forward, the school’s core identity will be preserved.
“We are building on a position of strength, including a Sixth Form which is widely recognised for its quality and breadth,” Priory stated. “A co-educational Sixth Form will provide an environment that more closely reflects the world our pupils move into beyond school and will support their development as confident, capable young people. We will approach this development carefully and deliberately, ensuring that the School’s distinctive character, values and strengths remain central.”
The phased timeline allows the school to strategically invest in its academic, pastoral, and co-curricular infrastructure. Planned capital investments include dedicated boarding accommodation for girls and a new, purpose-built Sixth Form Hub.
Looking to the Future: Think 25
This structural change aligns with Tonbridge’s broader strategic framework, known as ‘Think 25’. The initiative encourages pupils to look well beyond immediate university entry, preparing them instead for the responsibilities and challenges they will face in their mid-twenties and adult lives.
Alongside the move to co-education, Tonbridge School reaffirmed its commitment to social mobility and widening access. The school will continue to expand its Foundation Award Programme, which provides financial support to pupils and is funded by the Sir Andrew Judd Foundation alongside private donors.
Further announcements regarding the school’s wider masterplan and detailed planning updates are expected to be released in the autumn.
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