A school in Kingston is emphasising the importance of 'all girls' education', like the one it offers, after the recent Girlguiding Girls' Attitudes Survey 2025 found that girls face many terrifying obstacles in their daily lives.

The survey found that one in ten girls aged 11 – 16 (10 per cent) have missed school to avoid sexual harassment, that 72 per cent of girls aged 11 -16 want more discussion about consent in schools, and that most girls aged 11 – 16 (54 per cent) agree that girls have to be careful about appearing too self-confident in front of boys for fear of abuse or mean comments.

The survey found that one in ten girls aged 11 – 16 (10 per cent) have missed school to avoid sexual harassment (Credit: Girlguiding)

It states that "Experiences of misogyny start as young as 7 years old".

As well as looking at misogyny in schools, the survey explores topics such as sexism, self-protection and sisterhood, mental health and wellbeing, and aspirations and role models.

It found that 68 per cent of 11 – 21-year-olds have changed their everyday behaviour in the last year to avoid sexual harassment and that girls want to be leaders now more than ever.

Almost two thirds (34 per cent) of girls and young women aged seven - 24 want to be leaders in their chosen job (Credit: Girlguiding)

A spokesperson for Marymount International School London said: "The recent Girlguiding Girls' Attitudes Survey 2025 has delivered a sobering insight into the daily reality for girls and young women in the UK.

"From avoiding public transport and social spaces to staying silent in classrooms, girls are being forced to shrink themselves in order to stay safe.

"This isn't a fringe issue—it's a national emergency. Yet, amidst this troubling data, there is an opportunity for real change: through the transformative power of all-girls education.

"When 1 in 10 girls aged 11–16 are missing school to avoid sexual harassment, and nearly a quarter hesitate to speak in class for fear of abuse, it's clear that mainstream schools are not doing enough to protect or empower girls.

"In contrast, all-girls schools offer a safe, focused learning space where girls can be free to be themselves."

The survey found found that 68 per cent of 11 – 21-year-olds have changed their everyday behaviour in the last year to avoid sexual harassment (Credit: Girlguiding)

They continued: "Girls in all-girls environments are more likely to take academic risks, voice their opinions, and pursue leadership roles without fear of being judged, interrupted, or belittled.

"Research consistently shows that girls educated in single-sex environments report higher levels of self-esteem and self-belief. All-girls schools are specifically designed to challenge stereotypes and foster ambition. Girls are encouraged to speak up, lead, and take up space.

"They are taught that their voices matter. In these spaces, it becomes normal—not exceptional—for girls to run student councils, lead STEM clubs, debate fiercely, and aim high.

"Even at primary school age, girls are being subjected to sexist comments and body shaming. This early exposure to misogyny has long-term effects on mental health, self-image, and educational outcomes. All-girls education helps interrupt this cycle by building resilience from an early age.

"Curricula in all-girls schools often incorporate gender equality, consent education, media literacy, and inclusive history, arming students with the tools to recognise and challenge sexism when they encounter it.

"Education is not just about grades—it is a powerful tool for cultural transformation. If we want to see a society where girls no longer have to plan their routes home with military precision, stay silent in classrooms, or alter their clothing to stay safe, we must start by radically reimagining their educational experiences. All-girls schools are leading the way by providing environments where girls are safe, supported, and seen.

"They aren't just educating students—they're building resilient, confident young women who are equipped to challenge the misogyny they face in the wider world.

"The Girlguiding report is not just a set of statistics—it is a call to action. Every girl deserves to feel safe, heard, and respected.

"And while systemic change requires government policy, investment, and societal transformation, all-girls educational institutions have an immediate and powerful role to play."

The school's Headmistress, Margaret Giblin, added: ""At Marymount International School London,  we recognise the importance of creating environments where girls can flourish. 

"These nurturing environments are essential for girls to be themselves, grow in confidence and become assured, empowered young women. As Headmistress, I am continually inspired by the strength, spirit, compassion and potential of our students."