St Mary’s School showcases artistic talent across all ages
St Mary’s School Cambridge recently held a striking art exhibition that transformed the Senior School and No. 47 Arts Centre into vibrant galleries displaying the creative journey nurtured across every stage of the school.
For our youngest artists, the joy of making begins in the Junior School, where children follow a carefully structured, knowledge-rich creative curriculum. From learning about line, colour, and texture to exploring diverse media such as collage, printmaking, textiles, photography and more, pupils progressively build both their technical skills and artistic vocabulary. The curriculum not only introduces foundational elements of art but also interweaves learning about global movements - from Impressionism to African art - so that by Year 6, children can both emulate and reflect upon the practices of pioneering artists.
This nurturing framework came to life yesterday as Junior School work was proudly displayed within the Senior School - finding a new stage in which to surprise, delight and excite older students, staff, and families.
Proud parent of a Year 6 artist, Michal says:
"The girls have clearly put a lot of hard work into their art, with so many different techniques explored. With the Father's Day breakfast this morning, it has been a lovely day for both my daughter and I."
Meanwhile, GCSE students showcased their Art, Craft & Design coursework and externally set assignments at No. 47 Bateman Street, the School’s dedicated Art & Photography Centre. Working with specialist teachers and technicians, they engage with a wide range of 2D and 3D media - from digital artistry in Photoshop to ceramics using the kiln, and printmaking using press equipment.
For Sixth Form students studying A‑Level Fine Art, No. 47 becomes their creative hub. Here, they build a personal portfolio and produce final responses in extended, examiner‑set tasks. The environment encourages research, experimentation, and independence, underpinned by access to professional darkrooms, lighting studios, and the full suite of art-making tools.
The exhibition highlights a seamless continuum of artistic development - from Primary sketchbooks and exploratory prints to GCSE portfolios brimming with layered research, creative development and reflective annotation, to A‑Level artworks that resonate with personal vision and critical understanding. Students have benefited from enrichment opportunities such as plein-air trips, competitions, gallery visits, and professional workshops - illustrating St Mary’s commitment to supporting creativity beyond the classroom.
The parents of Year 11 student, Romily W. were both impressed by the sheer scale of the work displayed in the Art Centre.
“The standard of the artwork was one of the influencing factors when we were first choosing St Mary's for our daughter. It felt more like a dedicated art college, and we were fascinated by the wide range of mediums being shown.”
Romily herself was excited to show her parents her display, proudly pointing out individual pieces. She spoke highly of her teachers, describing them as amazing in the way they have inspired her confidence - something she feels will serve her well as she continues to study art at a higher level.
The event offered an immersive experience for families and visitors, showcasing how St Mary’s carefully builds artistic potential from the age of five through to 18. It’s a testament to the school’s belief that art is not merely taught - it’s lived, experienced, and celebrated.
A snapshot of the Junior School exhibition is here, and of the Senior School and Sixth Form is here.