Christ College is celebrating a major milestone this year: 40 years since the introduction of co-education.

Founded in 1541 as a boys’ school, Christ College remained single-sex for more than four centuries until September 1985, when pioneering sixth-former Sally Stewart became the first girl to join the school. Her arrival marked the beginning of a transformational chapter that shaped the vibrant, inclusive community the school is proud of today.

To mark the anniversary, Christ College has launched a year-long programme highlighting the people and moments that defined its journey to co-education. Through a series of events, archive features and alumni stories shared across its social media channels and the CCB Community Hub, the school will honour the Old Breconians who helped pave the way for future generations.

Among the early milestones being revisited is the landmark moment in 1987 when girls from de Winton House competed in the House Music Competition for the first time—an event historically dominated by boys’ houses. It wasn’t until 1989 that houses were able to choose their own songs, enabling the girls to fully showcase their talents. Today, House Music is one of the most anticipated events of the year, a testament to the collaborative spirit co-education has fostered.

A special anniversary assembly this autumn brought together nearly all surviving former Heads of Christ College alongside Sally Stewart. They reflected on the school’s evolution over the past four decades—from the establishment of the first girls’ house under Mr Hockey, to the expansion of co-educational boarding under Mr Jones, and the continued growth of the school under Mrs Taylor, the first female Head.

As Christ College celebrates this important anniversary, the school pays tribute to the trailblazers whose courage and conviction helped shape its modern identity. Forty years on, the commitment to offering an exceptional co-educational experience remains central to the school’s ethos. For more information, visit ccbcommunity.co.uk.