St Mary's School
Packhorse Road, Gerrards Cross, SL9 8JQ
Pupils
432
Ages
3 - 18
Gender
Girls
Type
Primary & Secondary
Head Teacher
Mrs Patricia Adams
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£2,430 to £6,870
ISC Associations
GSA, AGBIS, ISBA, ISA
Religion
Church of England
Bursaries
Available
About St Mary's School
St Mary’s School, located in the picturesque town of Gerrards Cross, offers a comprehensive education for girls aged 3 to 18. The school is known for its nurturing environment and commitment to developing each student’s potential. With a Church of England ethos, it provides a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that welcomes students from all faiths.
The school begins its educational journey with Little St Mary’s, catering for nursery and early years. This section of the school is well-equipped with ample space and excellent facilities, including a brightly coloured outdoor play area and a modern wooden main building. The curriculum is enriched with specialist teachers in subjects such as French, Spanish, PE, Art & Design Technology, Music, and Dance. The emphasis on creativity and individuality is evident, with children engaging in activities like experimenting with colourful chalk pens on LED boards.
As students progress to the pre-prep and prep stages, the academic focus intensifies. The school offers a robust curriculum with specialist lessons in dedicated rooms. Spanish is introduced in year 5, and the classrooms are designed to be bright and spacious, fostering an engaging learning environment. The school also boasts two well-stocked libraries, supporting the accelerated reading programme. The teaching staff are both capable and dedicated, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education.
The senior school is housed in an elegant main building, where students continue to thrive academically and personally. The curriculum is broad, with a wide range of A-level subjects available, including new additions like Computer Science and History of Art. The school places a strong emphasis on preparing students for higher education, with nearly all graduates progressing to prestigious Russell Group universities.
St Mary’s School is committed to providing a well-rounded education, with a strong focus on the arts and extra-curricular activities. The art department is particularly impressive, with students producing bold and imaginative work. Drama is also a key component of the school’s offering, with students engaging in innovative productions that challenge traditional norms. The music department offers a variety of options, including orchestras, choirs, and a composing club.
Sports are an integral part of the school’s curriculum, with PE taught four times a week. The school has achieved success in netball and gymnastics, and there are opportunities for students to participate in a range of sports clubs. The facilities include a sports hall, gym, and a new AstroTurf pitch, providing ample space for students to develop their athletic skills.
The school’s ethos is centred around providing the best all-round education for each child, promoting resilience and excellence. The pastoral care system is robust, with a focus on building confidence and addressing any concerns promptly. The school celebrates diversity and fosters a family-like atmosphere, with staff and older pupils leading by example.
Parents are generally well-heeled, reflecting the affluent area, but the school is accepting of different kinds of people. The PTA is welcoming, and parents can choose their level of involvement in school life. Scholarships are available for various disciplines, and there are means-tested bursaries in the senior school.
Overall, St Mary’s School is a vibrant and dynamic environment where girls flourish academically, artistically, and personally. The school’s commitment to each student’s wellbeing and individual strengths is evident, making it a place where lifelong friendships are formed, and students are encouraged to run their own best race.
To receive updates about this school including exam results, senior staff changes and open days please bookmark it using the button at the end of this review.
ISI Review
St Mary’s School is an independent day school located in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, catering for female pupils aged 3 to 18. Founded in 1872, the school has a Church of England foundation and operates as a registered charity. The school aims to provide a nurturing and challenging educational environment that fosters independence, self-confidence, and moral integrity among its pupils. The school community is diverse, with students coming from professional and business families, and the academic ability of the pupils is generally above average, particularly in the preparatory and senior schools.
The school has a total enrollment of 367 pupils, including 19 in the Early Years Foundation Stage, 85 in the preparatory school, 221 in the senior school, and 42 in the sixth form. The school’s leadership is under the guidance of Headmistress Mrs. Patricia Adams and Chair of Governors Mr. Derek Wilson. The school has undergone inspections to ensure compliance with educational standards and to assess the quality of education provided.
The regulatory compliance inspection revealed that St Mary’s School meets all the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The inspection focused on various aspects, including safeguarding, health and safety, staff suitability, and the handling of complaints. The school has established effective measures to promote the welfare of its pupils, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. The school’s leadership demonstrates good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively.
In terms of educational quality, the school has been recognized for its excellent academic achievements. Pupils consistently perform above the national average in standardized tests and examinations, including the Early Years Foundation Stage Profile, GCSEs, and A-levels. The curriculum is well-structured and documented, providing a broad and balanced education that encourages good progress among pupils. The teaching staff is highly skilled, and the school employs effective behavior management strategies to create a conducive learning environment.
The personal development of pupils is also a key focus at St Mary’s School. The school actively promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, encouraging pupils to become responsible and tolerant citizens. Pupils exhibit high levels of self-understanding and demonstrate excellent moral values, showing consideration for one another and understanding the importance of right and wrong. The school fosters a strong sense of community, with pupils engaging in various extracurricular activities and contributing positively to the lives of others.
The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with appropriate arrangements in place to safeguard their well-being. The school maintains a strategic approach to risk assessment and ensures that health and safety requirements are met. The school’s facilities are well-maintained, providing suitable accommodation for learning and physical activities.
St Mary’s School also emphasizes the importance of effective communication with parents and stakeholders. A range of information is made available, including details about the school’s ethos, curriculum, and policies regarding admissions, behavior, and complaints. The school has established a clear process for handling parental complaints, ensuring that concerns are addressed effectively and transparently.
The leadership and management of the school are characterized by a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of pupils. The school’s governance structure supports the effective implementation of policies and practices that enhance the educational experience for all students. The school’s focus on high expectations and exceptional role modeling contributes to a positive learning environment where pupils are motivated to succeed.
Overall, St Mary’s School provides an excellent educational experience, characterized by high academic standards, strong personal development, and a supportive community. The school’s commitment to fostering independence, responsibility, and moral integrity prepares pupils to take their place in the world with confidence and assurance. The positive feedback from parents and the successful outcomes for pupils reflect the school’s dedication to excellence in education and personal development.
Read full review
What Others Say
St Mary's School Location
Advertising Partners
Recent School Posts
Browse by features
Last Updated: 8 October 2024