.jpg?command_1=resize&width_1=600)
Alleyn’s School 
Being co-ed is not just something we do, it is who we are. We became co-ed in 1976 when we made the decision to become independent, so it sits right at the heart of our DNA. Co-ed to us means working together, showing up for each other, supporting each other, listening to each other, and respecting each other when we have different points of view.
It’s a powerful thing, sparking connections that create joy, energy and a feeling of belonging. Over the last fifty years, so many amazing, long-lasting friendships have formed in our co-ed community, and so many more being formed at school every day: opening up opportunities, offering perspective and, of course, fuelling no end of fun as Alleyn’s pupils find their own paths here at school.
It's been a year to remember already. From our new permanent 50 Years of Co-Education exhibition, unveiled at Founder's Day 2026, to a pupil anniversary logo competition, to a joyous summer concert at Southwark Cathedral, our celebrations were in full swing throughout the 2025/26 school year.
There's plenty more to come. In September 2026 we'll be issuing a special Anniversary Edition of Scrib, our annual year book, followed in October by our Edward Alleyn Dinner, where alumni and our whole community will gather to mark the milestone together. Our Festival of Inspiration will bring pupils face to face with inspiring guest speakers from a variety of industries, and our much-loved House Music competition returns with a special rendition, bringing the sounds of the 1970s roaring back to life.
We're also adding a new friendship bench beneath the iconic chestnut tree in the quad, so there's somewhere lasting for our community to sit, chat, and make new memories for years to come. Here's to half a century of friendship, and many more to follow.
Because being co-ed is a really important thing to do well, we were excited and honoured to be awarded Independent Co-Educational School of the Year for 2025 by the Independent School of the Year Awards.