Malvern St James Girls’ School is a special place, as highlighted by two different perspectives about the benefits of all-girls’ education
DR GARETH LLOYD
How long have you been Head of Malvern St James?
I started as Head on 1 January 2024, and have absolutely loved every minute of it. All- girls’ schools are such fantastic communities, and Malvern is one of the most beautiful places in the world to live, so how could I NOT be attracted to working at MSJ?!
What immediately struck you the first time you visited the school?
The warmth of welcome from everyone – staff and pupils alike – was immediately apparent. There is a tremendous sense of kindness that permeates the whole school.
Have you had much experience of working in all-girls’ schools?
My ten happiest years were as Director of Music and Housemaster at an all-girls’ school, but I am predicting that my time at MSJ will become my new happiest years! I have worked as both teacher and Head at single boys’, single girls’ and co-educational schools, and by far my most rewarding experience has been in all-girls’ settings.
At Malvern St James, what opportunities do your girls have that they may not get in a mixed school?
A Malvern St James strives to allow each and every girl to thrive, to discover talents and skills and, most importantly, to be herself in a safe and happy environment. So many of our pupils opt for STEM A-levels and, thereafter, degrees – statistically, far more than in co-educational settings. I rejoice to see so many of our girls really commit themselves to the wide range of sports we offer, not at all self-conscious as I have observed as both a Head and inspector in co-educational schools. Opportunities to assume leadership roles commence from Year 5, and are carefully developed throughout the senior school, to help our girls grow into highly confident and competent young women, prepared for life after school.
Is there more peer support in a single sex school?
Good peer support at any good school should be the norm. Clearly, there are differences between co-educational and all-girls’ schools. At the latter, there is never any awkwardness, embarrassment or self-
consciousness in the conversations that our girls may wish to have with each other. As we have a strict policy of no mobile phones in school, it is wonderfully liberating not to be distracted by the all-too frequent unkindness that social media platforms can bring about. Through the peer support system in place via our Form structure, the girls experience empathy and encouragement that build confidence on so many levels.
RUQAYYA
Are you aware of the differences of being at an all-girls’ school?
Having experienced both environments, I would say yes. Being at an all-girls’ school, we are more confident, largely because we are more comfortable. This makes learning a lot easier and a lot more fun for the students and staff alike, as there is equal engagement from everyone. Here, my gender does not limit what subjects I should be good at or what sports I should enjoy.
What opportunities have you had that you may not have had elsewhere?
The opportunity to meet people from all over the world. From connecting with current students, to past ones through the Old Girls’ Association, I’ve started building my global network from such a young age. It’s very exciting and also comforting to think that no matter where life takes me there will almost always be an MSJ girl who can guide me.
As a Head Girl, do you take pride in helping the younger girls at the school blossom?
Definitely. Even before becoming Head Girl I always enjoyed interacting with the younger girls and helping them in any way possible, so I highly appreciate the fact that it’s now part of my role. I was once that younger girl, so I know how impactful it can be to have someone slightly older who has been through similar experiences that is always there to help.
How would you sum up the environment at Malvern St James?
Malvern St James is a community before it is anything else. Boarding or day, local or international, student or staff; we are all connected and working together to make the MSJ experience the best possible for everyone.
