Question 1

Is St Mary's School, Gerrards Cross a good school?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The school achieved positive judgements in the 2023 ISI Routine Inspection. GCSE results rank 540th of 3,895 schools in England for academic outcomes, with A-level results showing 70% at A*-B. The school's true distinction lies in its pastoral approach and individual attention to each pupil rather than elite academic rankings. Small class sizes and consistent staff relationships create an environment where pupils develop confidence and resilience.

Question 2

What are the fees at St Mary's School, Gerrards Cross?

Accepted Answer

Tuition fees range from £2,600 to £7,350 per term depending on year group. Fees include tuition, textbooks, most stationery, morning break, and lunch. Additional charges apply for school trips, external examinations, music lessons beyond the curriculum, and school uniform. For exact current fees for each year group, contact the school directly via their website or phone 01753 883370.

Question 3

Does St Mary's School offer scholarships and bursaries?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Means-tested Bursaries are available for pupils entering the Senior School whose families cannot afford full fees. Scholarships are available for Academic excellence, Music, Art, Drama, Sport (at 11+), and Dance (at 16+). Scholarships carry fee remission up to 30% for a specified period. Applications are competitive and merit-based. Contact the Bursar for detailed information on eligibility.

Question 4

How competitive is entry to St Mary's School?

Accepted Answer

Entry at Nursery involves a stay-and-play assessment. Reception applicants complete a stay-and-play session. Year 3 entry includes taster days where pupils experience school activities. Year 7 entry requires entrance examination in English, Mathematics, and reasoning. The school is non-selective in principle, accepting girls across ability ranges, though entrance exams demonstrate academic capability. Sixth Form entry typically requires grade 5 GCSE in subjects undertaken to A-level.

Question 5

What extracurricular activities does St Mary's School offer?

Accepted Answer

The school offers extensive clubs and societies including Choirs, Orchestra, Drama Club, Debating, Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh Award (Bronze through Gold), Young Enterprise, Chess Club, Tap Dancing, Cookery Club, Puzzle Club, Book Club, Street Dance, Economics Society, and Media Club. Sport includes representative teams in Netball, Hockey, Gymnastics, Badminton, Tennis, Football, and Rounders, with recent national success in gymnastics.

Question 6

What are school hours and wraparound care arrangements?

Accepted Answer

The main school day runs from 8:50am to 3:20pm. Breakfast Club operates from 7:45am for early drop-off. After-school care extends until 6:00pm. Holiday club is available during main school breaks. These extended hours support working families requiring flexibility around school hours.

Question 7

Is St Mary's School religious?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The school is Church of England and was founded in 1872 by the Community of St Mary the Virgin. The school has a Chapel used for worship, and religious education is part of the curriculum. However, pupils of all faiths and denominations are warmly welcomed. The religious character is genuine but inclusive, not exclusive.

Question 8

What is the school's approach to learning support?

Accepted Answer

St Mary's uses the acronym LEAPS (avoiding negative SEN connotations) for its learning support provision. Support takes multiple forms: classroom assistance, individual or small-group sessions, study skills coaching, examination technique training, and counselling. The learning support department is positioned prominently within the school rather than separated, allowing inclusive access without stigma. Specialist support enhances progress for pupils with various learning needs.

GCSE Performance

Grade Distribution