St Mary's School, Cambridge

Founded in 1898 as a Mary Ward School, the institution is grounded in Christian values such as integrity, justice, hard work, and freedom. It emphasizes intrinsic motivation, encouraging students to take responsibility for their own learning and future. The school aims to empower girls to aim high, follow their dreams, and make a positive contribution to society within a happy, diverse, and supportive community.

The school offers a continuous educational pathway from Preschool through to Sixth Form. The curriculum includes core and optional GCSE/IGCSE subjects, such as the sciences, humanities, languages (French, German, Mandarin, Spanish, Latin, Classical Greek), and creative arts. The Sixth Form offers a wide range of A Level courses, including the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the Leiths Level 3 Extended Certificate in Professional Cookery. STEM education is a particular focus, supported by dedicated labs and awards.

Students achieve strong academic results, with 54% of A Level grades awarded at A* or A and 80% of GCSE grades at 9-6 in 2025. Graduates move on to a variety of higher education destinations. The school is recognized for its value-added approach, fostering resilience, self-confidence, and a love of learning in its students.

The school provides dedicated Learning Support and English as an Additional Language (EAL) tuition for international students. Pastoral care is a priority, with a focus on happiness and wellbeing, supported by a chaplaincy and programmes such as 'Girls on Board'. Careers advice is integrated into the curriculum from the Junior School through to the Sixth Form.

St Mary’s welcomes day pupils and boarders aged 3 to 18. The admissions process includes an online application, a non-refundable application fee, and a deposit to secure a place. The school offers scholarships for academic excellence, music, sport, art, drama, design, and creative writing, as well as sibling discounts in the Preschool and Junior School. International students are supported through dedicated admissions officers, EAL provision, and guidance on UK visa requirements and guardianship.

The school operates on a three-term academic year (Autumn, Spring, and Summer). Each term includes a half-term break, and the boarding house closes during these periods. The academic year typically begins in early September and concludes in early July, with specific dates for INSET days, induction mornings, and term start/end points provided annually.

The campus features dedicated facilities for different age groups, including a STEM Learning Lab and specialist learning spaces. The Sixth Form centre includes subject-specific classrooms, study rooms, a common room, and a careers suite. Art and Photography are housed at No. 47, which includes studios and a darkroom. Music facilities offer keyboard workstations and practice rooms, while drama is supported by studios and a full-size stage. Sports facilities include a gymnasium, outdoor gym, and courts for netball and tennis, alongside the St Mary's Boathouse. Boarding is provided at Mary Ward House.

Students participate in a wide range of activities, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, leadership opportunities, and enterprise programmes. The school offers extensive creative and performing arts opportunities, including LAMDA, music, and drama productions. Sports include rowing on the River Cam, netball, tennis, badminton, gymnastics, and dance, with access to an outdoor gym and facilities at Long Road. Additional clubs include the GO Club, STEM initiatives, and various academic enrichment activities.