Testimonials | Independent Girls Schools | St Mary’s Colchester

Testimonials

Gain an authentic insight into the unique culture of St Mary’s through the different voices of pupils, teachers and parents. These heartfelt video testimonials will provide you with valuable accounts of school life. They cover the atmosphere at the school, our values, the numerous opportunities available to the girls and more.

Our pupils also answer some frequently asked questions below, providing you with a valuable insight into life at St Mary’s.

Meet Year 11 pupil, Eadie

Year 11 pupil, Eadie provides a pupil perspective on the positive culture and positions of responsibility at St Mary’s as well as how the school has helped her develop self-belief.

Meet St Mary's parent, Mr Lempriere

Mr Lempriere, whose daughter attended St Mary’s Lower School and then progressed to the Senior School, gives an insight into the benefits of all-girls’ schools and some of the many opportunities available to the pupils at St Mary’s.

St Mary's is a wonderful school of exceptionally high standards. Our daughter will have fond memories for many years to come. St Mary's Parent
The school has a sustained track level for high achievement National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE)

Meet St Mary's parent, Mrs Sofoluwe

Mrs Sofoluwe, parent of two daughters who have attended St Mary’s, provides a valuable parent perspective on how St Mary’s prepares girls for their lives beyond school, as well as the partnership with parents.

Enrichment activities provide rich learning opportunities and memorable moments National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE)

Meet Lower School pupil, Amandine

Lower School pupil, Amandine provides an insight into clubs, positions of responsibility and celebrating success at St Mary’s Lower School from a pupil perspective.

FAQs

Gain an insight into life at St Mary’s by watching these films, where pupils provide answers to frequently asked questions.

What subjects are studied at the Senior School?

How many classes are there in a year group?

What is Round Square?

What are the school houses?

How do you apply for a Scholarship?

inspection report

In February 2026, St Mary’s was confirmed to have met all the standards required by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). During the inspection, inspectors visited the Kindergarten, Lower School and Senior School, observing lessons, reviewing pupils’ work and speaking with staff and governors. Inspectors also considered the views of parents, pupils and staff through questionnaires, providing a broad picture of life across the school.

Inspections offer a valuable opportunity for reflection as well as recognition of the many strengths within a school community. The report highlighted our strong commitment to pupil wellbeing, a rich and varied curriculum and a culture of continuous improvement. Together, these ensure that our pupils are supported and empowered to thrive academically, personally and socially.

NACE challenge award

NACE has recently reaccredited the Lower School with the NACE Challenge Award. This award is given in recognition of commitment to high-quality provision for more able learners within the context of challenge for all.

The report highlighted that “Pupils have high aspirations”, “The school has a sustained track level for high achievement” and “Identification and provision for those who are exceptionally able or have multi-exceptionality is highly effective”.

The review also concluded that “The school’s new values of ‘Ambitious, Bold, Compassionate, Dynamic and Enquiring’ succinctly describe the aspiration of this outstanding school” and that “The school delivers a progressive, broad and balanced curriculum across the whole school with a good emphasis on developing the ‘whole’ child”.

It was also noted in the report that “[School leaders, including governance] have created an ethos of high expectations and are passionate about seeking out and celebrating all children’s achievements and strengths including those of the more able and talented”.