Testimonials
"I absolutely loved St Cat’s. I always smile when someone asks me what school I went to because I love talking about St Cat’s. I have made the most amazing memories and strongest friendships and learnt so much with all the brilliant teachers. I am so grateful for the opportunities St Cat’s has given me." Una Gibson, Year of 2024
"We’ve been so happy with the quality of care, the high standard of education and the sense of community at the School. We feel it has been the best choice we could have made for our daughter and we can’t wait for our younger daughter to join her there and experience the joy of St Catherine’s.
She has absolutely loved her first year at St Catherine’s and it’s been a joy to watch her skip into School each day. She is so excited to tell us about what she has learnt and it’s been lovely to see her confidence grow!" Mr & Mrs McLean, Current Parents, 2024
"I just wanted to say on behalf of both of us how absolutely delighted and grateful we are for our daughter to have had you as a teacher for the last year. You’ve made her transition to St Catherine’s as fun and positive as possible and she now absolutely adores St Cats and has made some great friends. It’s been so obvious that you want the absolute best future for her and we couldn’t ask for more!"
Mr & Mrs Cullington, Current Parents, 2024
"A happy and supportive place to learn, filled with kind and passionate teachers, whilst being given the opportunity to build self-confidence and resilience." Alicia Crabbe, Current Parent, 2024
"The staff and facilities are the school’s greatest strengths in our opinion. The teachers go above and beyond to create exciting and challenging opportunities for the girls, across a huge range of activities.“ Mr & Mrs Craig, Current Parents, 2023
"The school’s greatest strength is the sense of confidence it imbues in its pupils. St Catherine’s girls leave the school with a sense that there is nothing they cannot do or achieve if they put their mind to it. Whether in sport, studies, music or drama they are taught to aim high and believe in themselves." Senior School Parent, Mrs Thompson, 2022
"My husband and I have been astonished by our daughter’s progress this year - her progress in reading and attitude towards this has amazed us. She has loved learning about the Great Fire of London, life cycles, learning to play the piano and getting to perform the nativity in the "actual" theatre (as she puts it). But more importantly, is the change in her confidence and happiness that we've seen. Previously it was a rather reluctant little girl we were anxiously waving off at the school gates in the morning and then receiving one word answers on pick up. Now she cannot wait to get into the gates and talks non-stop about her day, her friends and all the exciting activities she's been up to. She bounces in and bounces out. It goes without saying that Miss Moore and Mrs Silvester are utterly brilliant teachers and have given her so much support, encouragement and hugs this year. She is leaving PP3J (Year 2) a much happier, more resilient and curious little learner, who is genuinely excited about starting Form 1 (Year 3). We cannot thank you and your amazing staff enough - thank you." Mr and Mrs Woodroffe, Current Parents, 2023
"If you’re looking for a highly ranked, well established, impeccably led girls’ School in Surrey which fosters all areas of your daughter’s education, St Catherine’s should be right at the top of your short list.
We chose the School for our three daughters for its strong and distinguished reputation and its dynamic blend of establishment with open mindedness towards modernity and innovation. The School has a consistent emphasis on both academic excellence & the importance of high calibre pastoral care and all roundedness.
The pastoral care is world-class in our opinion and one of the defining reasons why we chose to send our girls to the School. Each and every child receives bespoke attention; nothing goes unnoticed by members of staff and there is excellent communication between staff and parents regarding how your child Is coping with all of the pastoral challenges she may face along the way." Mrs Bishop, Current Parent, 2024
"Lucky girls, amazing facilities and inspirational staff. Although busy the School totally suits my daughter and can see how her love of school and learning has developed through St Cat’s!" Jo Campbell, Current Parent, 2024
"Top class teaching." Bonita Smith, Current Parent, 2024
"She loves the music and so I would say the provision of all the extra-curricular music is outstanding. The teaching staff are (almost without exception) excellent……enthusiastic and encouraging." Claire Martin, Current Parent, 2024
"We are delighted to share with you our joy with all that St Catherine’s has helped our daughter to achieve. The depth and intensity of learning is astonishing and your individual approach to our daughter is reassuring. The range of extracurricular and social activities is vast. We feel our daughter, as a boarder, has really found a new family away from home, people who show as much care and affection as her own parents would. We can see her now as a young woman ready to take on any challenge, and we believe she will be a credit to your school wherever she may go." Mr and Mrs Bratulić, Current Parents, 2023
"The School’s greatest strengths lie in its rich History and proud traditions seamlessly integrating modern technologies and a forward-thinking curriculum. It not only meets the challenges of today but also opens bright prospects for the future.” Mrs Petrachkova, Current Parent, 2024
"I felt surround by lots of activities as I walked around, such as tennis, girls playing on the grass, hearing music practice. There was a great, friendly buzz. It is a vibrant, high quality and friendly school. Very proficient and dedicated teachers, attention to detail, excellent facilities, beautiful surroundings, well led with a sense that hard work and fun are not mutually exclusive." Robert Harris-Dibben, Current Parent, 2024
"Most of the privilege I have and continue to experience is because of my education at St Catherine’s. It has taught me to be a friend, a hard worker, a team player, a leader and most of all the confidence to be whoever I want to be. Thank you for providing and continuing to provide an education for girls to be the very best that they can be, in whatever path that they choose." Alumna, Suzie, Year of 2015
“I managed become national champion in both the Optimist and 29er class, the latter of which I am the only girl to ever win, to which I credit the self-belief and confidence gained from St Cat’s and the advice given by the many inspirational speakers we heard from at school.” Alumna, Emily, Year of 2021
"The girls are diverse, interested, interesting, fantastic multi-taskers and they rise to the occasion when it matters. Then they are kind and considerate and nice in the best possible way! Teaching them and seeing what they can achieve in every aspect of their lives is such a joy. I love it when you can see on someone's face that something has just clicked. I love it too when someone has perhaps struggled a little bit and you give them the confidence to keep going. Then there is the absolute buzz when someone writes or says something so brilliant you think I'm not sure I could have done that!” Cathy Williams, Senior School, Head of Economics & Business Studies
"From my time at St Catherine’s I am extremely grateful to have learned some important lessons which have shaped who I am today. I would summarise them in 5 words : Identity, Confidence, Humility, Resilience and Adaptability. These five lessons have carried me through thick and thin through my university life and now my career in banking, and I believe that this combination of lessons is unique to the St Catherine’s education and have played a significant role in my achievements so far. I had a great time at St Cat’s while working hard for my GCSEs and A levels, but I made many close friends for life who I am still in touch with. In my 4 years at St Cat's I went from a really simple, 14 year old to a mature young lady, more sure of my own abilities and aspirations, and more ready for the next stage in my life." Xylona Lam, Alumna, Year of 2013
"Our daughter worked hard but without undue pressure, encouraged by passionate, first-class teachers whose enthusiasm for their subject is evident and who seem to know just how to get the best out of each girl! Thank you to all the whole School community that make such academic results possible, whilst enjoying a whole host of extra-curricular fun!" Mr Farthing, Current Parent, 2024
"Lucky girls, amazing facilities and inspirational staff. Although busy the School totally suits my daughter and can see how her love of school and learning has developed through St Cat’s!" Jo Campbell, Current Parent, 2024
"Massively impressed with the dedicated passionate teaching & the breadth of the St Cat’s offering!" Lucy Hayward, Current Parent, 2024
"The girls success in sport is a reflection of the effort and support the school puts into such activities as much as the girls' talent, work and determination. For that we are grateful." Mrs Rusu-Williams, Current Parent, 2023
"St Catherine’s is a hidden gem and has exceeded all our expectations, which is a rare thing these days. In our experience our daughter’s inner confidence has grown so much and now she believes anything is achievable. At age 15 she is ready to take on the world, thanks to the journey she has been on with St Catherine’s.“ Mr Webster, Current Parent, 2023
"We've found St Catherine’s Prep to be warm, nurturing and academically challenging in equal measures and our daughter is flourishing as a result. What we particularly liked when choosing St Cats was that the Prep School truly has its own identity whilst having all the benefits of a through school. The sense of community was also a big tick. The staff's level of professionalism, responsiveness and kindness have all exceeded expectations too. We could not be more happy with our choice and the PP1 journey so far." Mr and Mrs Matthews, Current Parents, May 2023
"Both of our daughters have been through the Prep School; our younger daughter is now in Year 6, and as parents we are approaching the end of our Prep School years with sadness. From the very first term, St Catherine’s has offered both girls the individual support, challenges and opportunities each has needed to thrive. The staff have been exceptional at tailoring their pastoral and academic support to each of our daughters; their dedication in finding the right approach for each child throughout their time at the school is a hallmark of their desire to achieve the best for each of their pupils. The ethos and outward-looking community spirit of the school have helped prepare our daughters not only for life at senior school, but for life outside of school, and for that we are immensely thankful." Mr and Mrs Mallin-Jones, Current Parents, 2022
"We feel it is a holistic experience - academic, nurturing, sport, the arts, social skills and life skills." Anneli Lowe, Current Parent, 2024
"I love that each term there is a different House activity as it has enabled me to be introduced to other younger members of the House and our Prefect roles mean that we can create a strong support network with them." Georgina, Boarder
"St Cat’s offers many great opportunities such as offering students to attend public lectures, organising London Network events (careers events with alumnae and parents) and supporting us in super-curricular activities." Siqi, Boarder
"I love how supportive all of the staff are with helping to get the best out of us! They genuinely want the best for you and will go above and beyond to help you reach your potential." Una, Boarder
"Looking back on my time at St Catherines the big take away for me is the work ethic it gives you. We all want to be our best selves whether our driving force is getting good marks, winning at sports, being as creative as possible in art, drama or music or in my case, competing to the highest standard across the board for my house. The ability to drive yourself and be proactive in what you do, is a large part of what St Catherines gave me to end up where I am now. I loved my time at St Catherines for the range of things I was able to try my hand at. It made me work out through doing it all what made me happy and was why I decided to combine my love of sports and the creative into a Job where I get the best of both worlds." Bea Stafford Smith, Year of 2013
"The passion and enthusiasm of the teacher is amazing, it creates such an incredible atmosphere for the girls to learn and develop." Paul Tweehuysen, Current Parent, 2024
"The opportunities and teaching are so much greater than when I was at school." Manisha Lukha, Current Parent, 2024
"Inspiring teachers." Julie Crawford, Current Parent, 2024
"Amazing teachers, amazing support and an amazing opportunity. We feel secure that our daughter is getting the best education possible and hope she can continue on to sixth form." Sarah Solomon, Current Parent, 2024
"Beautiful surroundings, it is an absolute joy and will be sure to reflect on the girls’ mental health and happiness in school. I value St Cat’s for - its kindness and understanding, alongside my daughter’s learning and sport. For encouraging excellence without extreme pressure. For knowing the girls’ strengths and weaknesses, I feel that the team at St Cat’s have got to know my daughter, holistically, and (that they) embrace and support her individual needs." Michele Pollock, Current Parent, 2024
"The teaching is very good." Manisha Lukha, Current Parent, 2024
"My daughters are very lucky - the breadth of their education, the quality of the teaching, the opportunities available to them and all in a beautiful environment and fabulous facilities. I have been impressed by the level of care given by the teachers when there are inevitable hiccups in the road and the encouraging nudges given to the girls to try something to try something new, get involved or push themselves a little to see what is possible." Ms Brinkley, Current Parent, 2024
"(I value) the all-round nature of the education delivered in a supportive environment where the individual is encouraged to fulfil her potential. John Hayward, Current Parent, 2024
High academic standard but also the development of my whole daughter’s character, music, Duke of Edinburgh Award’s Scheme, sport etc. I also (see) strong independence and morals." Jonathan Shinn, Current Parent, 2024
"It is a nurturing environment that helps our girls thrive." Dimitra Karpouzli, Current Parent, 2024
"Such opportunities for the creative arts!" Anna Carson, Current Parent, 2024
"I value most the balance of academics and pastoral care." Pavel Khodak, Current Parent, 2024
"(Girls have) … access to so much with real thought and care." James Carson, Current Parent, 2024
"Girls are kind, polite and thoughtful but they also maintain their own individuality." Dr Rob Lowe, Current Parent, 2024
"High level facilities, a plethora of extracurricular clubs and a supportive and encouraging environment." Laura Forsyth, Current Parent, 2024
"St Cat’s is a community of close-knit teachers with high levels of communication. The leadership team are inclusive, tolerant, and encouraging and the staff collegial, cooperative and conscientious.” Dan Raymond, Director of Digital Technologies
"It is a real pleasure and privilege to be part of students' journeys through their time at St Cats; supporting tutees through difficult times and celebrating the high points with them and similarly with leading a team of colleagues. The relationships that are formed at St Catherine's are special; students make lifelong friends with their peers, teachers know their pupils well and are always there to support whether that is loudly cheering on the sidelines at Lacrosse Nationals or quietly offering a supportive word in a corridor and colleagues are equally supportive of each other. I enjoy teaching with colleagues who are passionate about their subject area and the academic discussions that take place in the staffroom; I learn a lot from my colleagues. Our students are engaged, ambitious, determined, and polite which makes teaching them a pleasure. I never cease to be impressed by the talents of both students and staff and enjoy watching them in the many House events, concerts, sports matches and more.” Nicola Austin, Senior School, Head of Chemistry
"What I love about St Catherine’s is the pastoral care being at the forefront of everything we do. The girls thrive in a smaller, more nurturing environment.” Katie Andrews, Prep School, PPI (Reception) teacher
"St Cat's is a place where each girl's potential and individuality is nurtured and developed. It is also a place where staff support and encourage each other and there is an atmosphere of friendliness and camaraderie." Lizzy Ryan, Senior School, Head of Academic Mentoring
"St Cat's has warm, supportive environment that allows all students many opportunities to thrive and be confident to "be themselves.” Philip Friend, Senior School, Head of Food & Nutrition
"The pastoral care is second to none. The whole teaching community is entirely focused on each girl reaching her potential - not just academically but holistically. The staff care about the students and each other.” Claerwen Patterson, Senior School, Head of Biology
"From the day I joined St Catherine's, I have felt supported, valued and respected. The whole team here at St Catherine’s, from the ICT technicians, catering team and teaching staff, are so welcoming and friendly and always have a smile on their faces. The girls here at St Catherine’s are wonderful! It is apparent that kindness is at the heart of everything that we do as they are well-mannered, caring and form lovely friendships with each other. In lessons the girls work incredibly hard and show a great level of respect towards staff and each other. I am incredibly proud to be a part of the wonderful, inclusive team here at St Catherine’s and have formed lifelong friendships with the team here.” Lucy Sinclair, Prep School, Form I (Year 3) Teacher
"What makes St Cat's special is the unique sense of camaraderie between staff, as well as the excellent relationships between teachers and pupils. There is a sense of community where everyone looks out for everyone else.” Laura Grizzelle-Lang, Senior School, Director of Drama
"Students here love to learn. The teachers love to teach. It’s a great combo.” Alasdair Wright, Senior School, Head of Mathematics
"I know I have probably said thank you before, but the changes I see in in my daughter compel me to constantly reflect on how fortunate we are and this all is a reflection of the environment she spends her most important part of the day and that's at school. The other day I said to her we need to get ready to prepare for the spelling test when we get home, we were driving home from school, my daughter asked me to test her right there and then as we parked the car. I was doubtful as I thought she would need to prepare herself. The speed at which she spelt all the words except for one was amazing." Mrs Zukowski, Current Parent, 2024
"The recent webinar was a hugely helpful session to help me as a parent further support my daughter - informative, practical and also reassuring. Clearly this topic is as much of a learning curve for us as parents as it is for the girls! It was also interesting to learn more about what the school does to support healthy friendships and we have certainly been very impressed thus far." Mrs Vivian, Current Parent, 2024
"We chose St Catherine’s as it has a strong reputation of being one of the top Schools in all areas across academics and extra-curricular including Sports, Drama and the Creative Arts and we felt this would allow our daughter to participate in a wide variety of subjects and allow her to develop as much breadth as possible. The location is beautiful with new modern buildings and facilities sat alongside the older main buildings and chapel.
We have found the pastoral care to be excellent. The teachers genuinely care about the students and want the best for them as individuals. We have found that staff are quick to address any concerns or problems the girls may have and reassure and guide them as needed." Mr & Mrs Forsyth, Current Parents, 2024
"It is St Catherine’s that has faultlessly supported and encouraged our daughter to develop her strength of mind, moral courage, perseverance, intellectual curiosity, humour in the face of adversity and generosity of spirit. We are not sure any more could have been asked for from a school and we know that the indelible mark that St Catherine’s has made on her is one that she will be very proud and privileged to wear for the rest of her life.” Mr and Mrs Brown, past parents of a 2023 alumna
"Mrs Phillips is approachable; always present at events, around the School site and is actively involved. We have also found her to be down to earth– her talks and presentations are honest and relevant. She has developed a school which creates kind, well-rounded girls, who are ready for life and the work place but with a true sense of belonging.” Mr & Mrs Forsyth, Current Parent, 2024
"All of the staff I have dealt with at St Catherine’s have been kind and supportive. I have most contact with my daughter’s Boarding Housemistress and I have found he to be fair, kind and firm. When I have raised any queries or concerns, I have found her eager to find the answer and provide support. She acts as a far-away mother figure and is polite and supportive towards every girl in the Boarding House.
St Catherine’s is a fine school with superb teachers and an inspirational Head. Both of my daughters love the school and are thriving.
The School encourages compassion and integrity with volunteering forming part of the girls’ activities. Girls are given the confidence to stand by their convictions and the School encourages a girl’s intellectual curiosity and inspires a willingness to contribute to the community. The confidence and maturity they have both developed during their time at St Cat’s has been incredible. The School community is like a big family.” Mrs Chirakranont, Current Parent, 2024
"I will always remember St Cat’s as the place that gave me the opportunity to explore and develop my passion for drama. Throughout my years I have been lucky enough to have the most incredible and talented teachers who have all been huge inspirations to me. In the Prep School, Mrs Bennett’s encouragement and kind words which have continued to this day have always allowed me to keep believing in myself. I will also be forever grateful for the endless support and guidance Mrs P and Mrs GL gave me throughout my time in Senior School and the hours of additional time they gave to help me write my personal statement and secure a place next year to study Drama and Theatre Studies at Warwick. I loved taking part in all the extracurricular aspects of drama. From performing in plays in a setting as professional as the auditorium to studying LAMDA with the wonderful Mrs Solly for four years. St Cat’s has provided me with some incredible experience and memories which I will always treasure.” Moli Grewal, Alumna, Year of 2023
"I will always credit St Cat’s with making me think independently and able to fight my own battles. It made me resilient against the things that life throws at you - especially in business. It also taught me to value friendship.” Kiki McDonough, Alumna (1968), Founder of Kiki McDonough Jewellery
"I wanted to thank you, and your amazing teaching and support team, for giving my daughter, the most amazing first two years of senior school life. She has always been bright, very interested and keen on learning, and also a fairly rounded and individual girl, and when choosing a senior school (which also coincided with us considering a move from London as a family) we were encouraged and keen to go for the most high achieving academic girls schools. Had we stayed in London, our daughter would have inevitably accepted her offer from Godolphin and Latymer, and the obvious comparable choice in Surrey seemed to be Guildford High School, who also offered her a place with academic scholarship. The academic teaching at St Catherine’s is outstanding and the results are excellent, but it is the whole rounded, varied and, dare I say, FUN (what other school has the whole school, including head, taking part in a spy game??), holistic offering that really sets this school apart. Our daughter is absolutely thriving academically (evidenced in her recent results), but more importantly her social confidence and her personal, creative, music and sporting talents are being developed and celebrated. She is having more fun than one could ever imagine with the various after school activities, sports squads, orchestra, band and trips that she has been involved in, and has made the most wonderful supportive friends.
All of this is created by the most fantastic environment that you and your team have created. There is a clear and palpable mutual respect and support throughout the school, celebration of the individual and, crucially, the group or team camaraderie, all of which is supporting all of these young women to have the confidence to explore who they are and enjoy their own strengths and talents. As an aside, as parents, we also feel much more included and involved in our daughter’s school life than any of our friends at other great schools. I keep signing up as class rep as I’m enjoying being part of this wonderful collective!” Ms McDonald, Current Parent, 2024
"St Cat’s provided me with an incredible number of opportunities to perform, from early on in the prep school performing as Lucy in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to my final year in Sixth Form I played Belle in Beauty and the Beast, whether on stage acting in productions, or performing in orchestras, pitbands and choirs. The auditorium itself allowed me to perform to large audiences and work in a space similar to any professional theatre. The drama and music opportunities available at school have provided me with extensive experience for professional work and university, where I have gone on to assistant produce a show at Edinburgh Fringe and perform professionally in pitch orchestras as a violinist.” Marie-Louise, Alumna, Year of 2022
"Our daughter has had a wonderful foundation year in PPI. She has taken all opportunities given to her, made the very most of them and could not have been happier. Our only sadness is to say ‘goodbye’ (as we move into PPII) to Miss Jefford, Mrs Hughes and the wonderful PPI team who are the most enormous assets to the school. A very big thank you." Mr and Mrs Richards, Current Parents, 2024
"Thank you for the last 7 years of music. From the rehearsals and concerts to the solos in our Remembrance Service and recording for Children in Need. Mr Young, your passion for music is evident in everything that you do and makes all the ensembles that you lead so lively and a genuine joy to listen to. So, thank you for your dedication. Being part of Concert Band has been an amazing experience and now I’ve got the skills to go off and play in a Uni orchestra or maybe even a marching band! I will miss School music so much but if you ever play Lion King again I will be back – no matter where I am in the world - I WILL BE THERE!!" Pippa, Alumna, Year of 2023
"I just wanted to say thank you for accompanying the girls on their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition last term ... and all of the previous ones before now too! Our daughter has loved doing Bronze, Silver and now Gold D of E but has particularly enjoyed all the expeditions. Thank you for all your time, energy and expertise in organising everything that goes on to make it all happen and of course going with them come rain or shine! It really is much appreciated." Mrs Willoughby, Current Parent, 2024
"I want to express my gratitude for the Dance Show. The entire performance was highly professional and versatile, a testament to the great job of organizing participants with different skills to look so harmonious. It truly was a remarkable event." Mrs L Petrachkova, Current Parent, 2023
"I want to express my gratitude for the Dance Show. The entire performance was highly professional and versatile, a testament to the great job of organizing participants with different skills to look so harmonious. It truly was a remarkable event." Mrs L Petrachkova, Current Parent, 2023
"I have grown so much in so many ways but it seems the more I know, the more I realise that I don’t know very much at all. Still, if there’s one thing St Cat’s has taught me, it’s how to learn; how to listen to others, and to think; to use everything I have and find my way through the wide, wide world; and how to keep going, even when I feel lost." Hannah, Alumna, Year of 2023
"St Catherine's played a huge part in nurturing our daughter to become who she is today, a confident and successful young professional in the financial services sector. Our family is very proud of her and we can't thank the school enough for providing her with an exceptional learning environment that helped her to strive. I am so impressed that the school continues to maintain its high standard in every aspect throughout these years." Pam Ku, Past Parent of a full boarder
"We were delighted to see the exceptionally high standards of performance on display by the students, and whilst we were grateful to sit in with them (at St Catherine’s Presents – The Band of the Welsh Guards) we had every confidence they could hold the performance on their own. For us, it is an incredibly rewarding experience to be inspiring future generations to consider a career in music." LCpl Benjamin Smith, The Band of the Welsh Guards
"I just wanted to send a quick note to say thank you for giving both my daughters such a wonderful day yesterday. (The girls loved their roles being teachers for the day as part of the Senior Management Team Takeover Day!) They haven’t stopped talking about it! It was a great experience for them and the sort of thing that really helps build their confidence. Just one small example of how wonderful the school is!" Mrs Lloyd, Current Parent 2023
"The support and encouragement girls provide for each other throughout Sixth Form and the breadth of extra-curricular offered for large groups of people is really special." Sarah-Jane, Day girl
"I love how supportive all of the staff are with helping to get the best out of us! They genuinely want the best for you and will go above and beyond to help you reach your potential." Georgina, Boarder
"The facilities in The 6 are all very new and the bathrooms are much cleaner than I expected. There is lots of storage space and it's really easy to keep the room warm in winter, and I really enjoy watching movies in the Common Room and Snugs." Deborah, Boarder
"The music department is amazing and includes both contemporary and classical music for everyone to enjoy. The music rooms are great fun to practise in with friends." Hailey, Boarder
"I love the feeling of independence and freedom in The 6, with support from teachers." Olivia, Boarder
"The amount of freedom we get as Sixth Formers is just right to prepare us for university." Alison, Boarder
"The A-level classes are small. The lessons are therefore heavily discussion based and I am able to obtain individual time with teachers very easily." Sophie, Boarder
"The 6 gives you opportunities to improve on yourself and gain confidence through experiences like the Sixth Form Musical Annie (which we produced ourselves) and the house competitions." Phoebe, Day girl
"Uni visits made me realise how comfortable and clean and nice The 6 is!" Deborah, Boarder
"Sixth Form at St Cat’s is by far the best part of the school and I am so happy I stayed." Sofya, Day girl
"I value the support the school gives through adversity you are trying to overcome and I would also shout about the sports St Cat’s offers, we have the best sports staff." Georgia, Boarder
"I really like how many opportunities there are in Sixth Form to take on roles of responsibility. Everyone gets some kind of leadership/prefect role and there are further opportunities within the house and boarding. Everyone really comes into their own and it is such a good way to develop and grow as a person." Grace, Boarder
"I really enjoy the extra independence that boarding in The 6 has given me. I have far more time in the evenings, meaning I can do homework and relax with friends." Emma, Boarder
"I love the sense of community, even long after leaving St. Cats and the communication between students and alumnae." Annabel, Day girl
"I love the supportive environment in the The 6 and the boarding house staff and the people around me. Everyone is really nice and always ready to help. I feel safe and supported." Solange, Boarder
"I love the opportunity to attend subject clinics if there is a particular aspect of a course you are struggling with - they allow you to receive more focused support from your teachers." Georgina, Day girl
"I love the friendly relaxed environment especially in The 6 between friends and also teachers." Thea, Boarder
"I love the freedom and independence The 6 offers, how you always have a place to work at and how there are always places you can socialise as this allows you to make new friendships." Phoebe, Day girl
"Sixth Form in The 6 is a really warm and friendly environment, where you can form friendships and socialise with girls across both year groups." Sarah-Jane, Day girl
"I love how teachers give us loads of opportunities to not only gain experience but also step out of our comfort zone." Georgia, Boarder
"I love how nice the teacher-student dynamic becomes in Sixth Form. We become a lot closer and feel more free to speak out about things that matter in this nurturing environment." Annabelle, Day girl
"I like having the independence in The 6 and also the sofas to sit down and relax on. Sometimes life gets hectic so The 6 is amazing to calm down and relax." Phoebe, Day girl
"I have really grown thanks to my leadership roles in Sixth Form, such as House Captain, lacrosse team captain and D of E mentor. It has helped me improve my confidence and public speaking and made me feel so much more involved with life at school." Ellen, Day girl
"I have really enjoyed the school trips I have done this year, both to Berlin and to CERN. I think they have been really great opportunities to enhance what I've learned in class while also having a lot of fun." Emma, Boarder
"I appreciate the mental separation from work space and break space. e.g the SHLIB (Sixth Form Library) is for working and The 6 is for relaxing." Daniella, Day girl
"I appreciate the extensive alumnae network." Lucy, Day girl
"Rosie had a FANTASTIC first day! Thank you to all and icing on the cake to get a little note from her teacher at lunchtime! I had to stop Rosie tonight with all the exciting day 1 feedback “…and this happened …and we did this…my new friends….” As it got to 8.30pm, I needed her to get to sleep! Roll on tomorrow!" Mrs Campbell, Current Parent, 2023
"I wanted to write to thank you Mrs Phillips, for the last 7 years I spent at the Senior School. From U3 – U6 your guidance, lessons and values have shaped me into the young woman I am today. I know all of the girls would agree. This School will always hold a special place in my heart." Molly Newman, Alumna, Year of 2022
"We are absolutely delighted that our daughter has been awarded The Bryden Cup for Physical Education, we look forward to joining her on the day to collect the Cup. Thank you for all your support this year in helping her to achieve this, as with any good athlete there will always be a talented and hugely successful team of coaches working alongside. Her love for sport shines and may it long continue." Mr and Mrs Thomson, Current Parents, 2023
"It’s so amazing to receive this great news of our daughter achieving a Grade 8 Distinction on flute. It’s her “first” time to get such a good grade. Thanks for your kind teaching. She has been given many chances to nurture her music passion throughout various kinds of performance this year." Mrs Wong, Current Parent, 2023
"My daughter and I would both like to say thank you so much for everything you have done for her in U3 - I hope as you saw, she absolutely loved being in the intermediate orchestra and your help with all the theory is hugely helpful for us. We both wanted to let you know that your support and encouragement to keep the music going really is deeply appreciated." Mrs Cardy, Current Parent, 2023
"We just wanted to drop you a quick line to let you know how impressed we’ve been with (and how much our daughter has enjoyed) a couple of lessons she has had lately. The science lesson which turned the class into a team from CSI using chromatography to figure out which teacher’s pen had been used to write the suspicious note was a stroke of absolute genius! Similarly, her geography lesson which had the girls taking on all the roles within the fair trade banana supply chain sounds brilliant. We heard all about the concerns and interests of everyone in the process and a real understanding of the tensions and pressures involved. Hearing our daughter explain that the banana shippers really didn’t want to have to buy the bananas sounds like there could have been some very serious microeconomics woven in there as well." Mr and Mrs Kneale, Current Parents, 2023
"Thanks to you I now have a job at ‘Somewhere’ agency with Danni Alves-Braithwaite (Year of 2000) as a consequence of the Internship I did last summer with help from the Association. They’ve taken on a few new employees as a result of the growing agency which now represents 12 brands; I’m really enjoying the work, so I really appreciate all of your help!" Maddie Wakefield, Alumna, Year of 2020
"I left School in 2021 but it’s great to still feel part of the St Cat’s Community via the Association and all they have to offer." Grace Heath, Alumna, Year of 2021
"In the car this evening I was greeted by a very enthusiastic daughter who was showing me her Morrisby profile, how it worked, how it suggested careers, analysed her strengths, how she’d saved career ideas and then telling me how she was going to try and research them and find out more. Clearly impressive software, easy for the girls to use and review and the right level of content to intrigue them and encourage them to consider their future career options. Thank you for giving them this opportunity in L5 to profile their strengths and for training them in this tool – it has clearly sparked some ideas!" Ms Carter, Current Parent, 2023
"I’m in my 2nd year at Nottingham University. The Association has already been invaluable to me. They helped me connect with alumnae when I was choosing unis and degree courses, I’ve attended a university social gathering which they arranged, and I’ve been to a couple of London networking events for younger alumnae which have been so useful and interesting. It’s so lovely to still feel connected to St Catherine’s and it’s always great to catch up with other alumnae and former staff!" Millie Francis, Alumna, Year of 2021
"All the little St Cat’s girls are so polite, enthusiastic and eloquent! It really is a wonderful school throughout." Kirsty Stancombe, Baby Cats visitor with her young toddler and an Alumna, June 2023
"St Catherine's has been very welcoming to us as a family. Our girls settled in immediately and are very happy at School. It has been wonderful to see their confidence and love of learning grow alongside the nurturing relationship with their teachers." Mrs Lloyd, PPI Current Parent, May 2023
"It has been an absolute joy to watch my daughters immerse themselves in the many and varied Music, Art, Science and Sporting extra-curricular activities on offer. Not only has their self-confidence grown by being able to sign up and ‘have a go’, they have also been able to develop new skills, improve on existing interests and are so excited and grateful to have the opportunity to try such a huge variety of activities." Mrs Bishop, Current Parent, May 2023
"My daughter's educational journey could not have got off to a more positive start, far exceeding our not insignificant expectations. There has not been a single day that she has not raced through the school gate with delight and come home full of enthusiasm for the learning, activities and fun of the day. Her growing knowledge, curiosity about the world and new-found confidence are testament to a team of educators who know exactly what they are doing.“ Mr and Mrs Vivian, Current Parents, May 2023
"Cat Class was a wonderful introduction for our daughters to get to know the school and made both us and the girls already feel a part of the St Cat’s community.“ Mrs Lloyd, Cat Class Parent, June 2022
"Our daughter has loved every moment of her studies at St Catherine's, making friends from the start and enthusiastically participating in the rough and tumble of competitive team games, especially Lacrosse and Netball. Whilst of course an important part of the success of St Catherine's stems from the wonderful facilities on offer, nonetheless even more important will surely have been the excellent academic and pastoral support the school provides; any routine difficulties which may have arisen in day-to-day school life have been swiftly resolved, meaning that our daughter's studies have progressed apace from the outset, particularly in Latin, Maths and the Sciences.“ Mr and Mrs Norris, Current Parents, 2023
"We chose the School for our daughter based on its reputation for results, coupled with a strong, deserved reputation for pastoral care.“ Mr Ian Kilpatrick, Current Parent, 2023
"When I decided to come to St Cat’s I don’t think I realised how much of a life changing decision that would be……. I will forever cherish my time here.“ Sarah, Alumna, Year of 2022
"We liked the straightforward ethos of the school: to always be kind and considerate to others going out into the wider world as good citizens.“ Mr & Mrs Turner, Current Parents, 2023
"St Cat’s is very much about giving girls the chance to find, and shine at, their ‘thing’.“ Current Parent, 2023
"I really enjoyed making the most of the incredible opportunities and facilities in the music department at St Catherine’s. It has led me to peruse contemporary music at university and the skills I developed at School prepared me well for performing with other musicians. I really appreciate the encouragement I got to do what I really love at BIMM Institute.“ Mimi, Alumna, Year of 2022
"Our daughter is loving Sixth Form, and absolutely loving boarding. She has 4 University offers and waiting to hear from Edinburgh. The whole family were at the House Communion on Sunday which was a wonderful morning. We will all miss the school when our daughter moves on." Current Parents, 2023
"Thank you so much for organising and leading the Cambridge University visit for girls interested in Oxbridge applications. My daughter came home absolutely buzzing from visiting Colleges and meeting with St Cat’s alumnae currently studying there. She is more motivated than ever to do well in her exams. I am hugely grateful to you for sacrificing your entire Saturday in order to run this trip." Mrs Salford, Current Parent, 2023
"St Catherine’s is a wonderful school and we’re so happy to have sent our daughter to this lovely place as a boarder. It’s sad that her time there is now almost over given how happy she feels at St Cats and how much she has developed during her time at the school, having constantly grown in confidence and enjoying the time with her friends, particularly now in ‘The 6’ the fantastic new Sixth Form accommodation and social space." Mr and Mrs Zundel, Current Parents, 2022
"I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed the Gala Concert last night. It brought back so many amazing memories of my time at St Cat’s. You all did such a wonderful job and what you do for the girls is honestly so amazing. I know when they grow up they will look back on everything you did for them with so much gratitude. It was also so lovely to see you all again and catch up, I will 100% be back because apparently, I just can’t seem to leave…" Alumna, Antonia, Year of 2021
"Thank you so much for arranging the wonderful concert last night! Our daughter had such a great experience and was most inspired. What lovely, talented and down to earth performers! We will remember that night for a long time." Mr and Mrs Walton, Current Parents, 2022
"A rather late but still big thank you for organising the woodwind and brass festival. Due to school holidays and commitments, my parents have never been around to come and watch a concert and they were so pleased to be able to watch the rehearsal of the concert band. They do watch the concerts online but the experience is nothing compared to the live ones. They loved it. I also really enjoyed it; it is great to be able to see how a band/orchestra piece is rehearsed. A big thank you as well to Mr Young to accept us in the audience. As always, the woodwind and brass concert was brilliant. So many talented girls - and staff members. We are really looking forward to the next 2 weeks with all the excellent musical events coming. A very busy time of the year!" Mr and Mrs Duggan, Current Parents, 2022
"Our daughter has thoroughly enjoyed her first year at St Catherine’s and is often excited to be back in school after weekends and school holidays. She has made a lot of new friends, learnt to be more independent and is happy with her school. As parents, we are relieved, knowing that the school suits her and we look forward to many more happy years as she progresses through the school." Mr and Mrs Araga, Current Parents, 2022
"We have been very happy with how Camelia has grown in confidence over the last year, she has been enjoying going to school every day and has made wonderful friends." Dr Montazeri and Dr Kobravi, Current Parents, 2022
"What an absolutely magnificent education my children are getting, it is a joy to see them come out of school bursting with excitement and enthusiasm about their learning." Ms Forder, Current Parent, 2022
"We’ve seen our girls thrive, their abilities growing in step with increased confidence. Our daughter, age 6, announced ‘I can be Prime Minister’ whilst watching the Jubilee celebrations – this self-belief has been nurtured at St Cat’s. The School effectively blends being academic yet nurturing. A real selling point are the specialist teachers and incredible facilities shared with the Senior School . There is a strong sense of parent:School partnership – the teachers know every girl and care for her as an individual. The girls also look after each other, the older girls taking responsibility to care for and support the younger ones, sharing their skills and School experience. The sense of community is wonderful – from listening to Informal Concerts and joining PTA social events, to offering careers talks to Senior girls – the community is welcoming, supportive and valuable. We would recommend St Catherine’s with confidence." Dr and Mrs Lowe, Current Parents, 2022
"We are delighted with our daughter's progress this academic year. She is very interested in performing arts and music. We hope the School can nurture her passions in this area. Many thanks to Miss Jefford’s dedicated teaching." Dr Ong and Mr Leong, Current Parents, 2022
"St Cat’s have given our daughter immense confidence and an excellent environment, we will always be thankful to you for that." Mrs Akbar and Mr Khan, Past Parents, 2022
"Our daughter enjoys School and I am really pleased with how well the first year has gone. Her reading, writing and counting have all improved. Huge thanks to Miss Jefford and the team for helping her reach her potential." Mrs Jones, Current Parent, 2022
"Our daughter has really enjoyed her time in The 6. She has made so many friends from all corners of the world. She has been lucky to have the support of all the boarding staff as well as her teachers." Mr and Mrs Riddy, Past Parents,2022
"We have come back down to earth now after the immense anticipation and excitement of (the GCSE exam results) yesterday! This really goes to all our daughter's teachers; as parents we would like to send heartfelt thanks to St Catherine’s for the incredible teaching, guidance and support that she has received over the last 3 years, which has enabled her to do so well. Eight 9s and two 8s - over the moon doesn’t cover it! A 9 in History, being her favourite subject, was a personal goal too. She is really happy and really looking forward to The 6. St Catherine's has been all about building our daughter’s self-belief whilst giving her access to so many wonderful and diverse opportunities. A few years ago she may have held back or hesitated, and now we see her throwing herself into literally everything she can - Gold DofE, Philanthropy, school plays, netball, lacrosse, fundraising, House events; it's so great to see this." Senior School Parents, Mr and Mrs Martin, 2022
"We are writing to thank you and your team for the wonderful experience and education Grace has had while she has been at St Cat’s.
Thank you and your wonderful team once again for enabling Grace to leave school with an excellent set of academics, a supportive and close group of friends and wonderful memories of her school life." Mr and Mrs A, Parents of Grace (Year of 2022)
"Having been out of the school for so long (due to pandemic restrictions), "Oliver!" was a much needed reminder of how much we love the school." Senior School Parent, Mrs Brown, 2022
"All the boarding housemistresses and personal tutors provide my daughter with excellent pastoral care. As a result my daughter considers her boarding house as her second home getting on with both fellow boarders and day pupils alike." Senior School Parent, Mrs Chan, 2022
"I remember throughout my time at St Catherine’s we would often have courageous and inspirational people come to talk to us. I never felt like the sort of person that would be so adventurous and brave, but the point of those talks was not to get us all to become dare-devils and explorers, but to give us the courage to do what was in our hearts." Alumna, Katherine, Year of 2005
"St Catherine's has been the perfect place for me, I've grown up and I'm happy to say that I'm proud of the person I have become and I couldn't have got here without the school, the teachers, the friends, the opportunities and your constant support." Alumna, Juliette, Year of 2020
"The pastoral care is excellent … the school has supported our girls every step of the way. They are continually looking out for them and the communication by their form tutors, head of house, and tutors has been invaluable in making the girls feel safe and looked after." Senior School Parent, Mrs Strode, 2022
"Whilst the school produces exceptional academic results, my experience is that it is achieved through encouragement and support from the staff and the focus on an all-round educational experience, including extra-curricular activities and fostering a sense of community, which surpasses the desire for just achieving academic results." Senior School parent, Mrs Waghorn 2021
"Girls have an identity, an empowered sense of being but not an arrogant approach, the girls are so supportive of each other it creates an environment where they give it a go; the pastoral care is second to none." Senior School parent, Mr B Webster 2021
"The school encourages my daughters to look beyond what they think they should do, to what they could do if they set their minds and hearts to it." Senior School parent, Mrs Thompson 2021
"My daughter has totally absorbed herself in, and loved, school life and its myriad of opportunities. She has grown in confidence, made life-long friends, been able to make the most of her abilities and discovered many new interests through being encouraged to “give it a go” – a luxury that many schools are simply unable to offer." Senior School parent of 2021 Leaver, Mrs P
"For my part I am so grateful that she is so well cared for by you and that she is noticed and is therefore finding herself. Thank you so very much." Senior School parent, Mrs McMonigall 2021
"We are grateful to St Catherine's for instilling such a strong sense of self-belief in a lady at such an early age." Senior School parent, Mrs T Epshteyn 2021
"My daughter has thrived since being at St Catherine’s and this is all thanks to the amazing support of an amazing team. Any new family can rest assured they will have a well-rounded, strong, independent daughter showing kindness and thoughtfulness. And one able to thrive as an individual in an environment where their own strengths are always embraced." Prep School parent, Mrs Blanche Koche 2021
"At St Catherine’s Prep school the girls are not only taught academics, but also confidence and a strong sense of community. The range of sports, clubs, trips and other activities gives them a huge number of amazing opportunities in a friendly and encouraging environment. Importantly all of this takes place with a real sense of fun – they enjoy what they do at School and come home smiling and excited every day." Prep School parent, Mrs Cardy 2021
"St Catherine’s greatest strength is its ability to bring out the best in each girl in her own way, by seeing and appreciating what makes them unique and amplifying it." Prep School parent, Frances Cushway 2021
"We have watched our daughter meander through the senior school, quietly picking up and storing small confidences along the way. ‘Meander’ maybe isn’t a good description, time has flown and suddenly we are almost at the end of L6, and goodness what a year. It has been an absolute joy to watch her find her feet this year and alongside many beautiful characteristics, the seed of self-confidence has taken hold. It is as though she has now gathered all those little moments and thrown them in the air whilst shouting ‘ta-da, here I am!’" Current parents, Mr and Mrs Cookson 2022
"May my wife and I take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to you and all the wonderful staff at St Catherine’s school, for the superb teaching and nurturing environment which have greatly benefited our daughter. She has thoroughly enjoyed school from the first day. We are thrilled to see her thriving and morphing into a young lady who has made significant progress in all areas as the academic year draws to a close. Thank you for everything." Current parents, Mr and Mrs Palmer 2022
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at St Cats and am ready to tackle all that I will encounter in my journey ahead with the enthusiasm and resilience I have developed whilst being at St Cats.” Alumna, Anbie, Year of 2022
“St Cats offers an inspirational setting for all girls to flourish and learn, with fabulous facilities which support their academic, musical, sporting and pastoral development. Always forward thinking, but underpinned by a clear commitment to the traditions which form the bedrock of school life, the highly experienced leadership team is ably supported by excellent teaching staff at both Prep and Senior level.
Entrusting your child’s education to one school for the majority of their formative years takes a leap of faith and a measure of trust in how they will be cared for, nurtured, encouraged and educated. From Form 1 to Upper 6, both of our daughters have received the very best academic and extra-curricular education at St Cats which has enabled them to become formidable young women who now step forward into adult life with confidence, clarity of purpose and above all kindness and respect for others.” Parents of 2019 and 2022 students, Mr and Mrs Nott, 2022
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you as well as the whole St Catherine's community. It was truly an honour to be a part of this big family, and I will always look back on this memory with so much gratitude.” Alumna, JJ Tan, Year of 2022.
“Both our daughters have thrived in the Prep School; two very different individuals who have loved their time at school, become independent learners and grown to be confident girls ready to embrace their next chapters.
I know that it’s a whole team that support the St Cat’s journey for any family, as we all know it takes a village to raise a child, but I wanted to take a moment to recognise you Miss Bartholomew. The leadership that you bring to that team. As a figure head you inspire not only your team, but the girls as well to become independent, confident individuals with kindness at their core.” Mrs Bride, Past Parent of Prep, Current Parent of Senior, 2022
“Joining St Catherine’s has given my daughter a wealth of opportunities to develop new and exciting interests. From participating in the informal music concerts, which boost the girls’ confidence, learning to play the harp and passing Grade 1 within the year, attending LAMDA and Design & Technology classes to joining netball and tennis clubs. As Year 8 approaches I hear, “I can’t wait to return and try the new ceramics club”. Whatever their interests, there is something for everyone.” Current parent, Mrs Lofthouse-Jackson LVO 2022