Joining St Mary’s for GCSE studies
In our small classes of a maximum of 18 (often smaller in GCSE classes) we’re able to tailor our teaching to each and every student, not just in terms of level but also preferred method of learning. We also monitor progress closely to ensure each girl is fully supported, encouraged and stretched in every area.
Request a virtual tour today
About St Mary's
We’re the only truly independent secondary school in Colchester with charitable status, meaning all fees go to providing the outstanding education we offer here, with no profits to owners or shareholders.
We’re also the only independent provider of single sex education in Colchester. We’re part of the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) and are experts in contemporary girls’ education.
Excellent academic results
Despite not being a selective school, 98% of all St Mary’s candidates achieved five or more GCSE passes at grade four or C, or above.
Last year we saw a 100% pass rate in 13 subjects – Art, Biology, Chemistry, Drama, French, History, Italian, Music, PE, Physics, Religious Studies, Statistics and Textiles.
GCSE subjects
Compulsory subjects
- English Language
- English Literature
- Maths
- Triple or Double Science
- Modern Foreign Language – French, Spanish or German
Optional subjects
- Art and Design
- Classical Civilisation
- Drama
- Geography
- History
- ICT
- Latin
- Music
- Physical Education
- Religious Studies
- Statistics
- Fashion and Textiles (Cambridge O Level)
- Further Maths (Level 2 Award)
- Hospitality and Catering (Vocational Award)
Please note that some options may not be available in some option blocks. Please contact our Registrar on 01206 594180 or at registrar@stmaryscolchester.org.uk to find out more.
Brilliantly balanced education
We believe in providing a balanced education. Enrichment sessions and lunchtime clubs, from sports and DofE to public speaking and orchestra, present a whole variety of opportunities for students to broaden their interests.
A full-scale drama production takes place every two years. Science Week, Activities Week and Wellbeing days take place annually and there is a programme of trips and visits to enhance students’ learning in all subjects.
Caring community
At St Mary’s, every girl is not just known but understood. We have many initiatives in place to support the welfare of our students and really do believe that happy girls are high achievers.
When students join us at the Senior School they are assigned a buddy and become part of a buddy family consisting of a girl from each year. Carefully chosen and trained Year 11 girls act as Listeners to provide peer support, and staff are all trained in the area of wellbeing.
Fees
| ST MARY’S SCHOOL TERMLY FEES: FROM SEPTEMBER 2020 |
|---|
| Years 10 & 11 | £5,145 |
There are three terms per academic year. Fees include lunch and drinks, certain books, and extra tuition and learning support required.
There are a range of ways for parents to pay their fees, including spreading your fees and paying monthly through My School Fee Plan, 0% APR.
Parents who wish to pay several years’ fees in advance, may be able to take advantage of a discount and should contact the Finance Office for a quote.
Please note that fees are reviewed every Summer term.
St Mary’s School fees are inclusive of:
- lunch and drinks
- certain books are included in the fees, but there are some additional books (depending on the subjects) that do incur an extra cost
- extra tuition and learning support are also included in school fees
- accident insurance
Additional fees or ‘extras’ include:
- Entry fees for external examinations are not included and are payable separately on application. This is normal at most independent schools.
- Private music lessons are available for singing, all string, woodwind and brass instruments, guitar and drums. The fees range between £15-£20 per session, payable to the individual music teacher.
- Breakfast Club, £2.75
- Homework Club, £2.50
- There are some extra-curricular activities that incur an additional cost (eg ballet, tennis etc). These costs will be outlined before pupils sign up.
- Some trips, both optional and part of the curriculum, incur a cost.
