Sister Paula Thomas, BEd (Hons) MA

St Catherine's is a vibrant Catholic day school for girls aged 3 - 18 and for boys aged 3 - 7, that warmly welcomes pupils from all faiths. Small classes are the norm from Reception up which enables us to focus on the individual to help every pupil achieve their personal best and to build a strong community spirit. High academic standards are maintained but without undue pressure.

Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1914, the school combines almost a century's tradition and experience with a modern curriculum that prepares our pupils for success in the 21st Century.

The school has a strong commitment to sport, music and drama as well as to academic excellence. At every age our young musicians, actors and dancers are given many opportunities to develop their imagination and creativity, whilst our sporting stars achieve considerable success both at regional and national level. We give added support to such talent by offering academic, music, drama, sports and art scholarships. An extensive extra-curricular programme is offered which includes many opportunities to participate in residential trips abroad.

The Preparatory Department is an integral part of the school but has its own purpose built accommodation. Small classes ensure good progress and a smooth transition to the Senior School. The happy, secure environment fosters a love of learning through creative and stimulating lessons. Specialist teaching is available in Physical Education, Swimming, French (from Year 3) and Music. There is an After School Club which cares for pupils from the end of the school day until 6.00pm, helping with homework, supporting play and there is even a hot meal available.

The Senior School regularly achieves excellent grades at GCSE and our Value Added scores are well above independent school norms. We recently received four excellent inspection reports for its Senior School, Early Years, After School Care and Catholic life. An extension for the Prep Department opened in 2008 and a purpose built Sixth Form area opened in September 2010. We are frequently in the top 20 of the top 50 small schools of the Sunday Times Parent Power magazine.

These are interesting and exciting times for all at St Catherine's and we hope you will come and visit us to discover for yourselves what we believe makes us so special. Please check our website (www.stcatherineschool.co.uk) for details of our Open Afternoons and Evenings.

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