Why changing schools won’t fix toxic masculinity.

There’s been a lot of discussion lately about toxic masculinity in boys’ schools and whether moving to co-educational systems is the answer. Some parents are making the switch, thinking that boys will thrive better alongside girls, and that this will somehow dissolve the issues around toxic behaviour.

But here’s the thing, I don’t believe simply changing the environment will solve the problem. Boys should be able to thrive in boys-only private schools. Moving the problem from one setting to another doesn’t address the root cause. In fact, it risks subjecting young girls to these same issues without solving anything.

The real fix isn’t about changing schools. It’s about guiding boys towards healthy masculinity, no matter where they are. As parents, coaches, teachers, carers, and mentors, we can’t shy away from this challenge. Instead, we need to address it head-on. Boys can be strong, respectful, and purposeful if they’re taught how to be.

Recently, the Courier Mail reported on the growing trend of parents moving their sons to co-educational schools to escape toxic masculine cultures in boys-only institutions. While it’s understandable to want a safer environment, simply shifting the problem doesn’t address the underlying issues.

Some schools are actively tackling this challenge. For example, the Men of Business Academy in Southport has implemented structured programs that emphasise leadership, discipline, and positive role modelling. Initiatives like these are designed to help boys develop healthier expressions of masculinity while being held accountable for their actions.

Research shows that boys often respond well to clear expectations and consistent discipline. Studies indicate that environments that combine positive guidance with well-defined boundaries see improvements in both behaviour and academic performance. Simply put, boys thrive when they know what’s expected of them and when they’re guided by mentors who hold them accountable.

We shouldn’t be running away from the problem by merging schools or diluting boys’ environments. Instead, we should focus on providing the right guidance and teaching young men how to embody healthy masculinity, wherever they are.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Have you experienced similar challenges with boys’ education? Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear from you.