Scotland's only state-run girls' school could start admitting boys

A consultation on whether to allow boys to attend Scotland’s only state-funded girls’ school has been launched.

The future of the denominational Notre Dame High School in Glasgow will be determined following the six-week consultation.

Parents and pupils will be asked to comment on proposals to shape the future of the 120-year-old school, which include options to leave the school as it is, admit boys and change the catchment area.

A campaign group, NDH4ALL, was set up by parents who want boys to be able to attend the school.

They argue making the school co-educational is good for equality, the community, attainment, the environment and is a better use of council resources.

 A statement on the group’s website said: “Girls-only Notre Dame High is the only state funded single sex school in Scotland. It is the only Scottish council-run school that excludes catchment kids purely based on gender.

“Notre Dame High has a long and varied history. It began life 120 years ago as a private school for girls. Since then it has transferred into the state sector and opened its doors to all faiths and none.

“We hope that Notre Dame High will soon be able to progress once more to enter a new and exciting chapter of inclusion and co-education.”

A Glasgow City Council spokeswoman said: “The consultation is the ideal opportunity for all interested parties to make their views known as part of the consultation process.

“Public meetings are being held during April and May and we would urge people to come along and hear about the proposals and from the various campaign groups before submitting responses by the 26 May.”

The consultation is due to start on March 18.