A historic all-boys Grammar school has welcomed over 80 girls to its year seven class after nearly 70 years as a single-sex institution.

The Forest School, located in Winnersh, made the decision in July 2023 to begin the five-year process of turning the entire school co-ed.

This comes after a female student in the school’s co-ed sixth form class commented on the benefit that it would have for the local community across Wokingham and Wiinersh.

Head teacher, Ms Shirley Austin said: “I am so excited to welcome the first mixed-sex year following a long history as a boys school.

“It is so humbling to see the number of girls wanting to make history and excited to start at a new school.

“The reason we made the decision to open the school to girls is because of the lack of places available in schools across the area and to encourage a climate of inclusivity.”

The new female students and their parents were given the opportunity to choose their uniform before the start date on September 3 in order to encourage their inclusivity within the school.

Alongside the blue blazer, the girls have chosen to wear a blue, black and gold kilt.

With notable former students such as world-famous sport stars such as Team GB athlete Sam Duggan and Wimbledon Tennis player, Marcus Wllis, the school has said that they are committed to continued excellence.

Mrs Austin added: “We continue to inspire all our students to become elite in whatever they decide to do in life and we follow their journeys after graduation.

“We will continue to do that as a co-ed school.”

The Forest School have said that they will now offer a variety of clubs and activities catering for both boys and girls, as well as co-ed activities.

With a current student number of 900, there is still room for more capacity within the Winnersh based Grammar school which caters for children aged 11 to 18.