About

We empower girls to aim high, to follow their dreams and to make a positive contribution to society.

Welcome

Set in the heart of Cambridge, we warmly welcome girls aged 3 to 18 into our happy and 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.  

A 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.

A love of learning

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.

Happiness matters

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.

Pupils make strong progress across the range of subjects’ and are: ‘highly successful in their achievements beyond the classroom in a range of activities encompassing different interests. ISI Report 2022

Read the full ISI report