Helping young women listen to their inner strength and purpose
In an all-girls educational environment, wellbeing is a cornerstone of personal and academic growth, laying the foundation for resilience, self-confidence, and a balanced approach to life. At St Mary’s, our approach to wellbeing is grounded in love, respect, and trust, creating a secure environment filled with joy. This nurturing atmosphere encourages students to gain a sense of their own worth, promoting emotional well-being and fostering the courage and resilience required to realise their full potential. These qualities are essential for young women aspiring to be global changemakers, providing them with the inner strength and confidence to tackle the world’s challenges.
Research from the Girls' Schools Association (GSA) shows that girls in single-sex schools are more confident, emotionally intelligent, and well-rounded than their peers in mixed settings. Many students in these environments report a healthy mastery over their emotions, which enables them to navigate life’s challenges mindfully and direct their paths with assurance. This emotional growth is supported by St Mary’s strong moral and spiritual framework, rooted in our values as a Mary Ward School, enabling students to explore, understand, and manage the complexities of today’s society. This depth of understanding is vital for young women who will go on to lead, advocate, and work in diverse fields across the globe.
Our inclusive community welcomes girls from all faiths and secular backgrounds, fostering an environment where everyone feels accepted, valued, and connected. This diverse body prepares students to be global changemakers by encouraging them to engage with and understand different cultures, perspectives, and beliefs. Through this experience, students develop an awareness of the nuances and global challenges that affect women and communities worldwide, equipping them to approach international issues with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and an informed mindset. Chaplaincy plays a vital role in supporting this inclusive spirit, embodying a ministry of ‘walking alongside.’ We all participate in this shared journey, accompanying each other in striving to live meaningful lives and exploring the world around us. Our School Chapel, nestled in the tranquil garden of the Elms Building, serves as a quiet space for prayer and reflection, always open for students and staff seeking peace or guidance.
A broad array of wellbeing initiatives—such as yoga, outdoor learning classrooms, and a wellbeing committee—demonstrates our commitment to supporting each girl holistically. In the Sixth Form, a comprehensive programme of social events creates a welcoming environment where students feel integrated and connected. Events like garden parties, cultural trips, Christmas celebrations, and punting excursions build community bonds and essential support networks. These activities cultivate emotional resilience and encourage students to connect meaningfully with others, both within and beyond the school, preparing them to foster and lead communities in a globally interconnected world.
This emphasis on wellbeing enables students to develop skills in self-care, stress management and maintaining a balanced approach—qualities essential for thriving in both personal and professional spheres. GSA data further reveals that girls in single-sex schools often possess higher mental toughness scores than their peers, helping them grow into capable, adaptable young adults ready to take on complex global issues.
These formative experiences instil the HEART value of Hard Work, showing students, that resilience, curiosity, creativity and compassion are keys to true success. With balanced wellbeing support, an all-girls education prepares young women to face global challenges with confidence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact.