Established in 1908, St. Mary's is a day school for approximately 500 girls, of which 250 are in the Lower School.
The Lower School, set in extensive grounds at Comrie House, Stanway, admits girls from the age of four. It aims to provide a well-balanced curriculum, so that each girl attains the highest standard of which she is capable, and can achieve a smooth transition to St. Mary's Senior School or any other secondary school.
Standardised Testing is carried out from 5 years old upwards in Reading, and in the Junior part of the school in Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning. Girls are continuously assessed in the Junior Department, those in the top year receiving fortnightly grades.
Lessons in piano, flute, violin, brass and elocution are optional extras; outside speakers visit us to talk to the girls, and exhibitions are lent by the museum services.
In Year 6 all girls take the entrance examination to the Senior School, most who are eligible take the 11+, and those who so wish are prepared for Common Entrance and Scholarships.
We encourage each girl to play a full part in the life of the school, which provides a caring, enjoyable and well-disciplined atmosphere, a secure framework in which to work.
