A new term at St Mary’s School, a new academic year, and a fresh look at the future.

From the moment they join St Mary’s, girls are encouraged to be ambitious in what they aim to achieve and to have high aspirations about who they want to become. With the new academic year now underway, there is no better time to feel inspired by the many exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

On the first day of term, we welcomed guest speaker, Jude Abblitt from Murray Edwards College, Cambridge, who advised our Year 11 and 12 students about the educational opportunities close to home. As Access Programme Manager for Murray Edwards, she spoke about applying to Cambridge, the role of extra- and super-curricular activities and the importance of choosing the right A Levels and then degree courses. She also explained how the individual Cambridge colleges operate within the wider Cambridge University structure, with each one providing its own pastoral and academic support while contributing to the world class education and fulfilling student experience that Cambridge is renowned for.

Meanwhile, Year 13 were engaged in a workshop on personal statements, led by Edward Fisher, School and College Engagement Officer at the University of Exeter. His guidance included the importance of avoiding cliches, not leaving everything to the last minute and using AI responsibly. Copying directly from an AI tool, he cautioned, can be construed as cheating. A personal statement should reflect a student’s authentic voice – something St Mary’s strongly champions – because nobody can tell your story better than you.

Armed with this advice, our students are off to a strong start. With the right guidance, encouragement, and determination, they are already taking the next steps towards their futures with confidence.

4 September 2025