St Mary’s School, operating in the vibrant city of Cambridge, stands as a distinguished institution for girls aged four to 18. With a Roman Catholic affiliation, the school embraces students from all faiths and non-religious backgrounds, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The school’s ethos is deeply rooted in empowering young women to reach their full potential, both academically and socially.
Founded in 1898, St Mary’s has a rich history of providing education tailored specifically for girls. The school’s commitment to nurturing intellectual and social confidence is evident in its approach to teaching and learning. By offering a supportive environment where each girl is valued for her individuality, the school encourages students to discover and develop their unique talents.
Academically, St Mary’s boasts impressive results. In 2024, 59% of GCSE entries achieved grades 9-7, while 52% of A-level entries were awarded A*/A grades. These achievements are particularly noteworthy given the school’s non-selective admissions policy. The Times 2024 Parent Power Rankings placed the school at 192, reflecting its strong academic performance.
The curriculum at St Mary’s is broad and balanced, with a strong emphasis on STEM subjects. Languages are also highly valued, with French, Spanish, German, Latin, Greek, and Mandarin offered at GCSE level. The school’s High Performance Learning strategy provides a framework for best practice across the curriculum, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.
Beyond academics, St Mary’s offers a rich array of extra-curricular activities. The arts are taken seriously, with art being one of the most popular choices at GCSE and A-level. The school’s drama department stages regular productions, while music is an integral part of school life with numerous ensembles and orchestras available for students to join.
Sport is another key aspect of life at St Mary’s. The sports programme encourages a healthy lifestyle and love of the outdoors. Students have access to excellent facilities for hockey, touch rugby, football, netball, tennis, athletics, and rowing. The boathouse on the River Cam allows girls to row up to elite level.
Boarding at St Mary’s begins from Year 5 in Mary Ward House, which overlooks the picturesque Cambridge University Botanic Gardens. Boarders enjoy comfortable accommodation with shared bedrooms for younger students and individual rooms for Year 13s. The boarding experience is enriched by a variety of weekend activities and trips.
Pastoral care at St Mary’s is highly praised by both students and parents. The school’s ethos promotes confidence and independence while ensuring that each girl feels supported throughout her time at the school. A female lay chaplain and counsellor are available to provide additional support when needed.
The leadership team at St Mary’s is committed to maintaining high standards across all areas of school life. Headmistress Hannah Helliar brings a wealth of experience to her role, having held various senior leadership positions since joining the school in 2012. Her vision for the future includes ambitious plans for development as part of the school’s 125th-anniversary celebrations.
In conclusion, St Mary’s School offers an inspiring pathway to prestigious universities and careers worldwide. Its combination of academic excellence, diverse extra-curricular opportunities, and strong pastoral care makes it an ideal choice for families seeking an all-girls education in Cambridge.
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