Our founders recognised that the union between Girton Girls’ School and King’s College for boys would make us stronger together.
Co-Education
Our Motto, Ex Unitate Vires – Out of Unity, Strength, reflects our origins and our belief that we are stronger together through co-education.
The Value of Co-Education in Fostering Equality and Inclusion
One of the great strengths of Australian education is choice, and co-educational schools are part of the choices available to families. Co-educational schools exist because we firmly believe that gender should not be the organising feature of one’s education. True equity and equality come when young people learn together, care for one another, and do this through respectful relationships based on kindness, trust and mutual understandings.
Learning Together, Leading Together
Schools are social institutions that ready young people for engaged, fulfilling and promising lives. We equip individuals with the knowledge, understanding and skills to collaborate with the greater diversity represented in our current and emerging society.
If a school actively manages and nurtures its culture, teaching young people what it means to learn, care and live together as equals in practice – not in theory or in abstract ways – they see it, feel it and learn to lead together with a social ease that represents true equality. Their readiness for a life of purpose, work and further education has been honed by learning to experience diversity and inclusion, including working with people of all genders.
Creating Cultural Change in Schools and Beyond
Co-education is a gift, and there is so much to be proud of – just as much research to highlight advantages, successful graduates to hold up and celebrate, and of course, the stories of true inclusivity, respect and kindness that we witness every day both in and outside the classroom.
Pembroke’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equity came to the fore in 2025 when our students led our inaugural Respectful Relationships Student Symposium, attended by almost 150 young people from 16 schools across Adelaide.
These inspiring attendees listened intently to expert guest speakers, asked thought-provoking questions and collaborated in workshops, learning steps they can take to break down stereotypes and create cultural change in schools and beyond.
It is just one example of how Pembroke students harness co-education with a desire to make a lasting impact for all.
Mark Staker
Principal
Our Vision
Free to be ourselves and find our place as we shape a hopeful future.
Pembroke’s story began in 1974 when two single-sex schools united behind the power of co-education.
Our unique learning and caring culture fosters equality of opportunity for all, making us stronger together.