Co-Curricular

At St Mary’s, we believe some of the most important learning happens beyond the classroom. Our extensive co-curricular and enrichment programme gives every student the opportunity to discover new interests, develop their talents, build confidence and find the things they love.

With more than 120 clubs and activities on offer each term, opportunity is part of everyday life at St Mary’s. Students are encouraged to get involved, have a go and try something different – whether that means stepping onto a stage, joining a debate, experimenting in a science lab, learning a new skill, representing the school, taking on a leadership role or discovering an interest they never knew they had.

Our aim is not simply to keep students busy. We want them to find their thing: something that sparks their curiosity, gives them confidence and encourages them to go further.

Something for Everyone

The breadth of opportunities at St Mary’s means that every student can find a way to participate and thrive.

Those with a passion for performing arts can get involved in drama productions, dance clubs and companies, rehearsals and performance opportunities. Current activities range from Drama Club and Dance Club to our Senior House Dance Company and full-scale musical productions.

Music is equally embedded in school life, with opportunities to perform individually and as part of ensembles and choirs. Chamber Choir, Flute Group and Music Theory are just some of the activities complementing our wider programme of concerts, performances and musical events.

For students fascinated by science, technology and discovery, activities such as Robotics & LEGO Club, Science Club and Microscopy Club provide opportunities to experiment, investigate and explore beyond the curriculum.

There is also plenty to challenge students intellectually. Debating Society, TEDx Club, Politics Club and Culture Club encourage students to explore ideas, develop their own opinions, communicate confidently and engage with the world around them. Academic drop-ins, subject clubs and extension opportunities provide further challenge and support for those who want to take their learning further.

Creativity is encouraged in all its forms. Art Club, Art Scholars, Textiles, Vlog Squad, drama and dance provide spaces for students to express themselves, develop practical skills and turn their ideas into something tangible.

Sport at St Mary’s

Sport is an important part of this wider programme of opportunity. St Mary’s has recently received Commended status in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards for Sporting Achievement, reflecting the strength and variety of our existing provision.

Students can take part in activities including netball, football, tennis, cricket, badminton, volleyball, swimming, gymnastics, trampolining, climbing, basketball and dance, alongside competitive teams, fixtures and specialist opportunities.

We have continued to invest in our sporting provision through developments including our climbing wall and MUGA pitch, as well as new partnerships beyond the school. As St Mary’s becomes co-educational, we will continue to broaden our sporting curriculum and grow our PE provision to meet the needs and interests of both boys and girls.

Developing Confidence and Leadership

Opportunity at St Mary’s is also about preparing students for life beyond school.

Through activities such as Duke of Edinburgh, students develop independence, resilience, teamwork and practical skills. Clubs, societies, performances, trips and enrichment activities provide countless opportunities to collaborate with others, take responsibility and grow in confidence.

Importantly, students are not simply participants in school life; they are encouraged to help shape it. If an individual or group has an interest they would like to pursue or share with others that is not already represented, they can explore opportunities to establish a club of their own.

As students progress through St Mary’s, there are increasing opportunities to lead, organise and inspire younger members of the community. These experiences help develop the confidence, initiative and self-belief that are such an important part of a St Mary’s education.

Growing Our Opportunities

Becoming co-educational represents an exciting opportunity to build on everything that already makes life at St Mary’s so rich.

As our community grows and evolves, so too will our programme. We are excited to broaden the range of clubs, music groups, productions, academic enrichment, sport, trips, competitions and leadership opportunities available, responding to the interests and talents of our students.

Our ambition remains the same: to provide an environment in which every student is encouraged to embrace opportunity, explore their potential and excel in their own way.

The St Mary’s Co-Curricular Challenge

We encourage every student to make co-curricular activities an important part of their St Mary’s journey. The St Mary’s Co-Curricular Challenge recognises commitment, participation and leadership, encouraging students to broaden their experiences and become active members of our school community.

Bronze – awarded to students who participate in two activities across all three terms, with at least 80% attendance.
Silver – awarded to students who participate in three activities across all three terms and demonstrate leadership skills in at least one.
Gold – awarded to students who participate in four activities across all three terms and demonstrate leadership skills in at least two.
Platinum – awarded to Sixth Form students who plan, organise and lead a club for younger members of the school across all three terms.

Whatever their interests or ambitions, every student is encouraged to get involved, have a go and discover just how far their interests and talents can take them.

Student Testimonial

Throw yourself into everything that makes you stand out from others, everyone takes GCSEs and A levels, show people what makes you YOU.

Olivia - Former Student