St Mary’s School

Set in the heart of Cambridge, we warmly welcome girls aged 3 to 18 into our happy, diverse school community as day pupils or boarders. Founded in 1898, we have a proud history of educating girls. At St Mary’s School every student is valued, supported and inspired. We empower our girls to aim high – not just in exams, but in life. As a Mary Ward School, Christian values such as integrity, justice, hard work and freedom sit at the heart of our forward-looking education.

From collaboration and risk-taking to independent thinking, concern for society and perseverance – a St Mary's education develops a breath of key skills and attitudes proven to prepare young people for study and life beyond. Our students leave us ready for the future; equipped with the skills, qualities and values they need to pursue a life of fulfilment.

We foster a love of learning, that comes from within. Drawing on the psychology of Intrinsic Motivation, our approach encourages students to discover what motivates them. They learn because they enjoy it. Driven by an internal sense of achievement, young people take responsibility for their own behaviour and future. They want to do well for themselves – because it feels good – rather than seeking external rewards or avoiding punishment.

Our approach to education has a strong ethos at its core creating a school community in which everyone is encouraged to develop a sense of their worth. We believe young people can achieve more if they are happy and exceptional pastoral care is a priority from Reception through to Sixth Form. Developed in partnership with parents, our school aims underpin our approach to education across our Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form and reflect our values as a Mary Ward School.

• To deliver an excellent, challenging and innovative academic education which fosters an independent love of learning, intellectual curiosity and knowledge.
• To provide an aspirational all-round education promoting creativity, enterprise, collaboration; building life-long skills.
• To encourage in each girl a sense of her own worth, talents and aptitudes so that she will realise these with courage and resilience.
• To provide a strong moral and spiritual framework underpinned by the core values of integrity, justice and respect for human dignity.
• To create an environment of love, hope and joy based on Gospel values in which individuals are cherished and genuine relationships are nurtured.
• To develop confident global citizens by instilling a strong sense of responsibility towards others and through charity and service to the local and world-wide community.
• To walk alongside our parents, valuing their role as the first educator of the child.