Since 2023, Clayfield College has been delivering the best of co-education and single-sex learning on one campus using the distinctive Parallel Learning model. 

For most parents, the single biggest dilemma in choosing a school is this: will a single-sex or co-educational school suit my child best? But imagine if you didn’t have to choose. 

At Clayfield College you don’t. The solution is called Parallel Learning and it delivers the best of both worlds. The Parallel Learning model sees students enjoy all the benefits of co-education through their Primary Years. In Years 7 to 9 they learn in separate streams for girls and boys, transitioning back through Year 10 to fully co-educational classes for Years 11 and 12. 

Parallel Learning provides gender-specific teaching when it matters the most for students, with all the social advantages of a co-educational campus throughout their entire school journey. The decision to embrace the Parallel Learning model leans into our intent for every student to be known, valued and understood. 

Parallel Learning is the solution to one of parenting’s most difficult choices. One that offers the best of both worlds.

Enjoy this short video to learn why Parallel Learning offers the best of both worlds.

For further information please contact our Enrolments team via the enquiry form below.

What is Parallel Learning and why is it important?

The Parallel Learning model provides co-education from Pre-Prep to Year 6. Boys and girls then begin single-sex learning streams from Year 7 through to Year 9. In Year 10, students come together for selected classes and then benefit from fully co-educational classes in Years 11 and 12. This is important because learning and social differences are most pronounced during the developmental phases students usually encounter during Years 7 to 10.

What are the benefits of Parallel Learning?

Parallel Learning provides tailored teaching when it matters the most for students, with all the social advantages of a co-educational campus throughout their entire school journey. At an age when students are experiencing so much physical, emotional and social change, having separate class streams enables students to focus more clearly on the task at hand.

The difference between the boys and girls stream is aligned with tailoring pastoral care — ensuring each child knows they are valued, understood and are learning in a safe and comfortable environment.

Why did Clayfield College decide to become a co-educational college?

We passionately believe that our students are at the centre of what we are creating at Clayfield College, and it is unlike any other school in Brisbane. We have chosen the Parallel Learning model because it gives students the best of co-education and single-sex learning when it matters most.

The decision to embrace the Parallel Learning model leans into our intent for every student to be known, valued and understood.

Does Clayfield College offer co-educational boarding?

Yes. The College is fortunate that the Carolyn Hauff Boarding House has ample capacity and, as a former hospital, its design easily adapts to create separate boarding facilities for boys and girls while benefiting from shared services such as catering. Clayfield is currently offering boarding for boys from Years 7 to 9, and from 2026, this will extend to Year 10.

If you have any further queries about enrolling your son or daughter at Clayfield, please contact our Enrolments Team on (07) 3262 0220 or enrol@clayfield.qld.edu.au.