Born in 16th century Yorkshire, Mary Ward (1585-1645) was called to live as a Religious in ways which would have been considered revolutionary for her time.
Mary Ward
Committed to the education of girls and women, she sought to give practical expression to the hope expressed in the gospels of a world of equality and justice.
She believed “Women in time to come will do much.” This vision continues to inspire our girls to ‘do much’ – to aim high, not just academically - but to become confident, compassionate young women who play a positive role in society.
Mary Ward’s vision inspired the creation of schools around the world and we are part of a global network of almost 200 Mary Ward Schools.
The five Values of a Mary Ward School
Mary Ward led a life of integrity, discernment, courage and love. Her vision for education is defined in five Values, which describe a life focussed on the greater glory of God. They shape everyday life in our Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form and they underpin our School Aims.
- Freedom
- Joy
- Justice
- Love
- Truth
We live these values in school every day by using our H.E.A.R.T. - an acronym that encompasses both the intellectual and character traits that we are seeking to develop as a community but is also deliberately based on our collective Christian heritage.
H - Hard Work - we show perseverance and sustain focus.
E - Empathy - we are kind, joyful, generous, value friendship and celebrate diversity.
A - Adaptability - we adjust to difficult situations, are open-minded, discerning and take calculated risks.
R - Responsibility - we act justly and strive to uphold truth and lead by example.
T - Thoughtfulness - we are creative, reflective, attentive, show gratitude, hear others and disagree well.
Our Values provide our girls with a moral and spiritual framework that will help them to navigate their path in a rapidly changing and often uncertain world.