It is a real joy to witness how wholeheartedly our students embrace every aspect of school life. Their enthusiasm and engagement are a living testament to our educational philosophy, one that encourages the development of all their gifts and talents.
At a recent school Mass, Fr. Chris reminded us of the blessing it is to gather in unity, and I could not agree more.
When hosting fellow Heads from the Catholic Independent Schools’ Council, our visitors remarked on the exceptionally warm and welcoming atmosphere at Marymount. They noticed how happy, engaged, and confident our students appeared, and commented on the sense of joy and purpose that permeates the school. Their reflections prompted me to ask: What is it that makes Marymount truly unique?
Having reflected on this question, I believe the answer lies in two foundational pillars: our RSHM ethos and mission, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) pedagogy.
Together, they create a powerful environment where intellectually curious, well-rounded individuals flourish. Mother Butler, the pioneering founder of the Marymount schools, believed in educating both the heart and the mind. She championed the values of scholarship, service, character, and leadership. Her commitment to holistic education resonates profoundly with the IB Learner Profile.
Her influence is present in every corner of our school; from the way we teach, to the way we nurture, and the way we inspire our students to lead lives of purpose.
As the first all-girls’ school in the UK to adopt the IB Diploma Programme in 1979, and ranked among the top 2% of IB schools globally, Marymount has a long and unwavering commitment to the IB.
Recognised worldwide as the gold standard in education, the IB Diploma is both academically rigorous and conceptually rich. It challenges students to think deeply, ask meaningful questions, and engage critically with complex ideas.
Our students study a broad range of subjects: Languages, Sciences, Mathematics, Humanities, and the Arts, through a lens that encourages them to make connections across disciplines and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
This contextualised learning lies at the heart of the IB philosophy. Students do not just learn facts; they understand how their learning fits into the wider world. They explore global issues, consider multiple perspectives, and develop the intellectual agility needed to thrive in an interconnected society.
The IB’s approach fosters not only academic excellence but also the ability to adapt, collaborate, and lead with empathy. Marymount students graduate as true global citizens.
Through the IB’s Service as Action and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) component, students engage in meaningful projects, from supporting local food banks to building relationships with our sister school in Zambia. These experiences cultivate compassion, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to making a positive impact.
Importantly, the IB prepares our students not just for university, but for life. They leave Marymount equipped with the skills, values, and confidence to thrive in higher education and beyond. They are independent thinkers, ethical leaders, and courageous changemakers, ready to shape the future with purpose and conviction.
Our alumnae are a daily testament to this. Many return to campus to share their journeys, inspire current students, and reconnect with the community that helped shape them.
One of the highlights of school life is when our graduates return to share first-hand how the IB Diploma has prepared them for university and beyond. Their stories bring to life the transformative nature of the IB and the opportunities it creates.
Events such as the Diploma Programme (DP) Open Eveningprovide valuable insights into the academic rigour, breadth, and global relevance of the IB Diploma. and how it prepares our students for success at university and in their future careers. Students also have the opportunity to speak with subject leaders and begin planning their own individual Diploma journeys.
Marymount remains a place of learning, growth, and purpose, where mission and innovation come together to shape young women who are ready to make a difference in the world.
Mrs Margaret Giblin – Headmistress
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