Why attend a Girls' School?

There is strong evidence that girls who attend a girls’ school enjoy higher academic achievement, greater diversity of subject choice, stronger self-confidence and resilience and enhanced career progression.

Removing Stereotypes

The ‘boys’ subjects and ‘girls’ subject stereotypes commonly found in co-education schools are taken away which means girls are much more likely to take subjects such as maths, science and computing to name a few. The Girls School Association research shows that nearly 50% of girls in a single sex setting took one or more of the sciences, compared to just 1 in 5 nationally. The freedom to study without censure, or the pressure of convention, means St Mary’s girls will go on to make their mark in the world of work; challenging stereotypes and succeeding in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Being Leaders

Girls will learn to be leaders. The Head Girl Team will always be girls, the Sports Leaders will always be girls, the lead roles in the school production will always be girls. They are more likely to excel in these roles. Girls will find their voice at a single sex school and embrace it. They find themselves, feel empowered, gain confidence, and speak up! They become sure of their ability, opinions and views.

At St Mary’s, girls will find their own individual spirit and be empowered to follow their passions.  The supportive environment is liberating and confidence-building and they are more likely to get involved in a wider range of opportunities.

Approaches to Learning

A single-sex setting allows teachers to focus more effectively on the needs of individuals and for girls to be empowered, to secure their knowledge, and to actively challenge and debate concepts and ideas.

Opportunities for girls are maximised through:

• The timetable – length of lessons and structure of the school day.
• Curriculum content and classroom teaching styles.
• Subject offerings and co-curricular opportunities.
• Girls-only sports and fitness activities.
• A whole-school culture and approach conducive to girls’ education.

We have positive relationships with local schools including co-educational and boys schools – whether that’s through social events, debating clubs, co-curricular opportunities or sharing of facilities. Our girls are part of a wider community which they are part of for certain activities.

Useful links to learn more about the benefits of attending a Girls’ School