The rise comes at a time when independent schools are navigating significant financial and policy pressures, and when a number of independent schools have faced considerable difficulties, leading to closures in some instances.
The increase in Year 7 acceptances follows the school beginning the current academic year with more pupils on roll than at the start of any academic year in over a decade. The rise in acceptances reflects continued interest from families in our academic provision and wider educational offering for girls. Girls will be joining the Senior School from over 20 different primary and prep schools.
Our most recent examination results demonstrate sustained academic strength. GCSE results last summer were excellent across a range of subjects, and government data confirmed St Mary’s as the leading non-selective school in Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk for GCSE Attainment 8 Score.
Meanwhile at St Mary’s Lower School, outstanding SATs results were achieved again last summer and St Mary’s was the largest feeder to Colchester County High School for Girls, underlining the effectiveness of our academic preparation.
Principal, Mrs Nicola Griffiths, said “We are pleased to see a rise in Year 7 acceptances for the coming year. Our focus remains on providing a high-quality education, supported by strong pastoral care and a broad co-curricular programme, and we will continue to do all we do to empower girls to thrive at school and beyond.”
Despite the increases in Year 7 acceptances this year, some places remain available for families who are still considering options for their daughter for the forthcoming academic year. Parents interested in finding out more are encouraged to contact the school’s Admissions Office for further information.