St Mary’s School: Preparing girls to lead and break barriers in today’s world

In a world still marked by gender inequality, pay gaps, and limited opportunities for women, the role of girls’ schools has never been more vital. These institutions are not designed to isolate or shelter girls from the challenges of the real world; rather, they are powerful incubators of leadership, self-confidence, and resilience. Girls’ schools, like St Mary’s School, Cambridge, focus on equipping young women with the skills, character, and courage they need to advocate for themselves and others, shaping a future where women not only participate but excel in every sphere.

The statistics on gender disparities are sobering. From the gender pay gap to the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles and STEM fields, the reality is clear: women continue to face systemic barriers. These obstacles aren’t going away overnight, which is why it’s crucial to prepare the next generation of girls to confront and overcome them. At St Mary’s, we believe education is the first and most powerful step toward dismantling these barriers.

Our approach to education is not just about academic achievement, though that remains a cornerstone. St Mary’s girls consistently perform at the highest levels, with more than 80 per cent of graduates going on to attend their first-choice universities. However, the foundation we build is much deeper than academic success alone. Our mission is to develop girls who are brave enough to use their voices, challenge inequality, and fight for their rightful place in the world. Through an environment where girls are encouraged to express themselves freely, we nurture the kind of confidence that leads to action.

Research supports the effectiveness of this approach. Studies show that girls in single-sex schools are more likely to develop higher self-esteem, hold leadership positions, and aspire to careers in male-dominated fields like STEM. Nearly 80 per cent of girls’ school students report feeling challenged to achieve their full academic potential, compared to only 44 per cent of their peers in co-educational settings. Girls in these environments are encouraged to take risks, to engage with complex ideas, and, perhaps most importantly, to fail and try again. This resilience is a cornerstone of leadership – an attribute we prioritise in our curriculum.

Beyond the academic and intellectual aspects, girls' schools also emphasise character development. At St Mary’s, we aim to nurture girls who not only know what they deserve but are also empowered to demand it. Whether through debate, public speaking, or leadership opportunities, our students learn to speak up, advocate for themselves, and push for change. This emphasis on agency is critical in preparing girls to thrive in a world that often undervalues their contributions.

Ultimately, the goal is not to create a sense of entitlement but to build a deep sense of justice and empowerment. By providing a safe space where girls can practise using their voices, develop their strengths, and support each other, St Mary’s is preparing them to step into a world where their voices matter.

As we look ahead to a future filled with both challenges and opportunities, schools like St Mary’s are playing a pivotal role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. We invite you to witness this transformative environment firsthand at our upcoming open events:

- Pre-prep and Junior School on 28 September

- Senior and Sixth Form on 5 October.

To register, visit stmaryscambridge.co.uk/visit. Join us and see how we are shaping girls who will not only participate in but also lead the charge for a more equal and just world.