Located in the heart of New South Wales, Rosebank College offers an inclusive Catholic co-education, where boys and girls respect and learn alongside each other. With a rich 150-year history, Rosebank College challenges the common belief that empowerment is exclusive to single-sex schools. Read on to discover the distinctive approach of Rosebank College – led by Principal Iris Nastasi.
A CO-EDUCATIONAL WORLD
According to Iris Nastasi, Principal at Rosebank College, co-educational environments offer a powerful platform for young men and women. School is a setting where both genders learn together, and where girls and boys have the opportunity to lead and make a significant impact on their peers.
“I regularly hear how important it is to empower young women, but with this comes a message that all-girls schools are the only place this can happen.” Ms Nastasi adds, “In a co-educational context, young women have the opportunity to lead and be heard not just by their female peers but also by their male peers.”
On the needs of young men, Ms Nastasi highlights the necessity of nurturing a culture of respect where both genders share the same language and rise to the same expectations. She believes that co-educational settings can contribute to growing not just academically successful young men but good men who appreciate and respect the contributions of women.
This holistic empowerment, according to Ms Nastasi, goes beyond the classroom, preparing students for a world where collaboration across genders is essential.
A CULTURE OF RESPECT
Ms Nastasi emphasises the powerful dynamic created when female voices are heard across the table, and understanding the importance of female voices in mixed-gender settings is crucial and has a profound impact. “I believe that we can grow good men with women in the room, and it is important for young women to see this in action too.” Mrs Nastasi says.
Acknowledging the challenges of co-education, Ms Nastasi recognises the need for occasional separation but stresses the school’s commitment to avoiding perpetuating stereotypes and patterns of negative behaviour. Ms Nastasi comment, “Yes, there are times we do separate the boys from the girls, particularly in pastoral or dealing with some sensitivities.”
LEARNING AND LEADERSHIP
“Bringing boys and girls together must be done around a meaningful purpose, and what is a better purpose than learning and leadership?” Ms Nastasi says. The school takes pride in witnessing graduates lead ceremonies, make addresses, and support each other. This unique blend of co-educational learning prepares students for the co-educational world they will enter post-graduation, equipping them with the skills to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusive values.
The world is inherently co-educational and Rosebank College strives to be a place where both young men and women can learn, lead, and thrive together, fostering a culture of respect and collaboration that extends beyond the school gates.
For more information about Rosebank College and its co-educational philosophy, visit their official website
