Students prefer single-sex classrooms

Teenage girls and boys prefer being taught in single-sex classes, work harder and do better in examinations, according to a four-year study at a leading British co-educational comprehensive school.

The boys found that they could concentrate better without the distraction of the opposite sex and participated more in lessons.

They could "speak from the heart" without fear of embarrassment, they did not have to worry about being judged or upstaged and there was less pressure to show off.

Single-sex classes boosted their confidence and improved their work habits.

The girls agreed. They said they felt less inhibited without boys around. The atmosphere was more relaxed and they could explore their views more thoroughly and openly.

As one put it: "Girls think about feelings more. Boys express feelings by punching each other."

Single-sex classrooms were calmer and better behaved, the girls said. They could focus more on their work and did not have to keep checking to see if particular boys were watching them.

Both sexes, however, regretted the loss of the other's point of view and said there was less of a "buzz" in class.