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.

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 Principal, Mrs Griffiths

St Mary’s Principal, Mrs Nicola Griffiths, gives an insight into the girls at St Mary’s and how we celebrate individuality.

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.

The school's strong culture of pastoral care fosters and supports a highly developed self-understanding amongst its pupils From ISI inspection report 2023 - rated 'excellent'
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.

Rated excellent

St Mary’s was rated excellent by the Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) in February 2023. This rating of excellent is the highest award given and covers both ‘the quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements’ and ‘the quality of the pupils’ personal development’.

The key findings emphasised the high levels of attainment across the curriculum for Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), in National Curriculum tests for Year 6 and at GCSE level.

The inspection also noted our emphasis on the importance of pastoral care. Inspectors commented on the school’s culture of monitoring pupils’ progress and wellbeing, which allows the girls to develop and express themselves to be reflective learners.

The report highlighted that “Pupils’ academic and other achievements are excellent, in confirmation of the school’s aspiration to help pupils develop creative flair, sporting prowess and other talents” and that “Pupils reach excellent levels of attainment in lessons, work and public examinations”.

Inspectors also noted that “The many leadership opportunities within the school enable pupils to develop a strong understanding of their responsibilities to each other and the local community”.

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”.

Additional Kindergarten places now available

Due to growing demand for places at our Kindergarten we are expanding and have additional places now available. Get in touch to find out more about our:

  • excellent early years provision
  • numerous activities on offer
  • first-class nursery facilities
  • flexible childcare options

Find out more