Headmistress’ Welcome
Welcome to our summer edition of Marymount Matters. As we celebrate our 70th anniversary, we honour the vision of our foundress, Mother Butler, and the enduring strength of our community. Her philosophy of educating the whole person and fostering compassionate, capable, internationally minded leaders continues to guide us.
Our Anniversary Mass, which we celebrated as a school community in June, was a beautiful moment of unity and gratitude. With more celebrations ahead, including our whole school Giving Day and Advent Carol Service, we warmly invite you all to join in.
Fittingly, our Jubilee theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ encourages us to see our community not simply as a school, but as a collective of travellers on a meaningful journey.
The Bursaries Appeal is central to this vision. It ensures that a Marymount education remains accessible to all, regardless of financial means. We are currently halfway to our goal of supporting a student through her Diploma years. Every contribution, whether modest or substantial, is an act of hope and generosity for future generations.
Our alumnae, making a difference in communities around the world, are living proof of what a Marymount education makes possible. This milestone year is both a celebration and an invitation to gather, reflect, and renew. Thank you for your support, which keeps our legacy alive.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to honouring our past and enriching our present. Together, we will continue to build a brighter future, guided by the fundamental principles of a Marymount education. Thank you for being part of this journey!
real stories real impact
Urim, Class of 2024
Currently in her second year at Cambridge University, Urim is studying Natural Sciences.
“Alongside my academic journey at Cambridge, I have actively involved myself as a mentor in outreach programmes such as STEM SMART–a widening participation initiative aimed at prospective STEM students who have experienced educational disadvantages–and the Bridging Programme, which helps students from similar backgrounds have a smoother transition into university life. Over the past year, I have also taken up rowing as a sport, which I have absolutely fallen in love with.”
What did it mean to you to have a bursary?
“I believe that all achievement begins with an opportunity and a determination to succeed. For me, the bursary which made my education at Marymount possible was one of the greatest opportunities I had ever received. The bursary enabled me to move to the UK, establish my independence, and truly feel that I had complete control over my own education, thereby broadening my view on what is possible. I also came to understand that generosity is a chain that never ends. This instilled in me the desire to pass forward the same generosity and kindness that I was so fortunate to receive, so that others might have the opportunity to reach their
“At Marymount, I grew into a stronger leader, a more thoughtful communicator, and a more creative problem solver – but most importantly, I became a better friend, a better student, and a better person. Marymount taught me the value of community, collaboration, and kindness.”
Letitzia, Class of 2018
After leaving Marymount, Letitzia did a BA in Business Economics at LIUC Carlo Cattaneo University, near Milan, where she also did an exchange semester at Aarhus University in Denmark. After graduating in July 2021 she was offered a place at Copenhagen Business School to pursue a Masters in Innovation Management and Business Development, with a minor in Sustainable Business. Here she also started working part-time as a student researcher at Hays Specialist Recruitment, a global HR services firm. After two years, she graduated from CBS and joined Hays full-time as a consultant. She recently joined SATAIR, an AIRBUS company based in Copenhagen, as a Recruitment Specialist.
What did it mean to you to have a bursary?
“When I found out I had received a bursary and could continue my education by doing the IB Diploma at Marymount, I was over the moon. At the time, I didn’t fully realize how much this opportunity would change my life. It made me an independent, caring, values-driven, and motivated person. Receiving the bursary also reinforced my sense of responsibility. It pushed me to make the most of the opportunity by dedicating myself to my studies and personal growth, knowing that I had the chance to make a positive impact on my future. The bursary allowed me to always follow my dreams — it even helped me keep my passion for sports and the outdoors alive. I’ve recently started training for a triathlon, and my love for road cycling has really taken off here in Denmark.”
“Marymount’s international community taught me the importance of adaptability and open-mindedness, skills that have been invaluable in my global career. Marymount taught me to live life to the fullest, but in a genuine way — to embrace everything that comes your way and turn it into a positive experience.”
Emma, Class of 2009
Emma studied Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) at Durham University. After a year of travel and working in Germany and Austria, she joined EY as a Consultant in London, working across a range of sectors, from banking to policing and made the move to the USA in 2016. She is currently based in LA, working for Deloitte Digital, delivering large scale marketing transformations for some of the biggest brands in Retail, Tech and Entertainment in the US. Some recent career highlights include spotlighting project work on stage at the Adobe Summit in Vegas, winning a Salesforce Innovation Award in San Francisco and most recently, taking a secondment as a Chief of Staff for Talent Experience at Deloitte.
What did it mean to you to have a bursary?
“Having a bursary at Marymount has truly been the foundation for much of the success in my adult life. At the time, I didn’t understand the full impact, but now I continue to realize the significance of having the foundation that Marymount provided. Being able to develop, grow and flourish in a community that prioritized a holistic education was so important for me as a young woman. I learned to embrace my own culture, value that of others and entered the world with a deep level of confidence that many young women are robbed of. Knowing that I had been able to secure a bursary was also hugely motivating. It served as a reminder to make the most of the opportunity I had been given and instilled in me even more pride at being part of the Marymount community. Simply put, I will always be grateful!”
“Marymount instilled in me a foundational ethos and values which continue to be core to my identity. The skills of leadership, personal integrity, inner reflection, and responsibility that Marymount teaches have served me well in my personal and professional development.”
Support a Bursary, Transform a Life
Why Give to Bursaries?
Bursaries ensure that a Marymount education remains accessible to all, regardless of financial means. Every contribution, whether modest or substantial, is an act of hope and generosity for future generations.
As Sister Rosamund Blanchet, RSHM, so eloquently put it, being human means taking part in a loop of grace. Grace, in the Christian sense, is understood as a generous unmerited gift or blessing. Sr. Rosamund reminded us that this grace only becomes fully active when we give this away, using our blessings for the good of others. When we do this, we demonstrate our capacity for love, empathy, care and compassion which in turn fosters this in others.
Through your support, you will certainly continue this loop of grace, and for this we are incredibly grateful.
Please see Page 20 to donate.
m arymount
of
Celebrating our 70th year prompts us to trace our roots, which are as strong and
nourishing as ever, back to 1955. When our foundress, Mother Butler, a farsighted educator, introduced subjects such as law, economics and science for girls, she opened new horizons. She set a standard for academic excellence which remains alive and well to this day. Furthermore, by coupling her holistic educational philosophy with an inspired mission to promote active global citizenship, the international RSHM Network of Schools came into being.
As our Chair of Governors, Cristina Serrano, herself a Marymount Alumna, reminded us at our Graduation in May, the RSHM Mission ‘That all may have life,’ “is more than a phrase. It is a commitment. A way of living with intention, compassion, and courage. These values taught me that faith is not just belief but action, that diversity is not something to tolerate but something to celebrate, and that leadership is not about standing out but lifting others up.”
As we carry our legacy forward, Marymount’s journey remains defined by faith, excellence, and a transformative education – a place where inquiry is encouraged, values are lived, and learning is deeply rooted in purpose.
‘Marymount gave me lifelong friends— women who always believe in me and are always there for me.’
- Laurelin, Class of 1995
On Friday, 9 May, the Green Room in Waterloo was alive with the spirit of reunion, as around 50 alumnae gathered for an evening of reminiscing and reconnecting. Joined by past teachers and current staff, guests shared laughter, stories, and cherished memories in a warm and vibrant atmosphere. Conversations flowed effortlessly as old friendships rekindled, making the event a true celebration of our school community and its lasting bonds.
tHe arts
Marymount Visual Arts Exhibition: A Celebration of Expression and Insight
This exhibition, held at the Rose Theatre in Kingston, marks the culmination of two years of dedication in the Visual Arts Diploma course, offering students a chance to curate and present their work in a group setting. It is a vibrant and integral part of the student calendar, highlighting their growth as they make thoughtful decisions about how to showcase their art.
Featuring the creative journeys of eight Grade 12 students, the collection explores a range of techniques and concepts. Through various mediums, each artist reflects on personal themes, offering unique perspectives on identity, relationships, cultural heritage, nostalgia, and transformation.
Marymount Dance Showcase: A Celebration of Artistic Expression
Our Grade 12 Dance students have successfully completed their Diploma, marking the culmination of a rich and immersive journey in dance.
Throughout the course, they composed solos, duets, and group pieces, showcasing their creativity and choreographic expertise. Their academic exploration included a Dance Investigation essay comparing two distinct dance cultures, deepening their understanding of global movement traditions. Through dedicated lessons and workshops in Bharatanatyam, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, and Salsa, they refined their technique and performance skills, demonstrating both discipline and artistry.
With the successful completion of the DP Dance Showcase in both Year 1 and Year 2, these talented students have emerged as versatile and expressive dancers, prepared to take their passion beyond the classroom. Their dedication and artistic growth throughout the program have equipped them with the confidence and skill to embrace new opportunities in the world of dance.
The Marymount Music Showcase is an annual event that celebrates musical talent across all skill levels, offering a rich and eclectic mix of genres. From the Baroque elegance of Veracini and the romanticism of Grieg to the alternative rock sounds of The Cure, the showcase bridges classical and contemporary styles, allowing musicians to express their unique abilities. Whether through a delicate violin solo, the sweeping melodies of Chopin’s piano sonatas, or the electrifying energy of MGMT’s classic hit ‘Kids’, the event captivates audiences with its diversity and artistry.
Beyond technical skill, the performances highlight a deep appreciation for various musical traditions, emphasising collaboration and shared passion. The students, including those from Rokeby School, combined their talents in both the choir and orchestra, producing marvellous music through teamwork and dedication. More than just a concert, the Marymount Music Showcase stands as a testament to the power of music to connect, inspire, and entertain—transcending backgrounds and genres to create a truly unforgettable experience.
Marymount Theatre Projects: A Celebration of Creative Performance
This year has been exceptionally successful for the DP Theatre examination coursework, showcasing the creativity, dedication, and collaborative spirit of our students.
The Collaborative Project highlighted outstanding ensemble work, with students devising original performances that demonstrated a deep understanding of theatrical processes and global performance practices.
The Solo Theatre Piece (HL) allowed Higher Level students to shine individually, crafting compelling performances inspired by theatre theorists, which revealed both intellectual depth and emotional range.
The Production Proposal assignments displayed remarkable vision and design thinking, as students conceptualised innovative interpretations of play texts for contemporary audiences.
Finally, the Research Presentation reflected rigorous inquiry into world theatre traditions, with students presenting well-structured analyses that connected historical context with modern relevance. Altogether, the quality and ambition of this year’s work reflects a thriving and dynamic theatre programme.
Marymount
rsHm festivals
Each year, the RSHM festivals bring together Middle School students from our international network, offering them incredible opportunities to connect, learn and compete across Europe. A third of our students travel to Paris for the Sports Festival, another third to Rome for Model United Nations, and the final group stays in London for the Performing Arts Festival. Each RSHM school follows the same pattern, creating a truly international mix at every event. Whether debating global issues, showcasing their talents on stage, or competing in sporting challenges, our students build lasting friendships and broaden their horizons alongside peers from fellow RSHM schools across Europe.
Performing Arts at Marymount London
Now in its 12th successful year, the Marymount Performing Arts Festival continues to shine as a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and shared purpose. This year’s festival, inspired by the powerful theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, brought together Marymount schools from the European network, in a moving display of artistic expression and unity.
Through evocative performances in music, dance, theatre, and storytelling, students and educators explored the many dimensions of journey— personal, spiritual, and collective. As pilgrims walking together, they embraced the values of compassion, resilience, and faith, giving voice to diverse perspectives and experiences. The festival stood as a beautiful reminder that a Marymount education nurtures not only the intellect, but also the heart and spirit, in line with the vision of the RSHM. With each performance, workshop, and shared moment, the festival reaffirmed the transformative power of the Arts to connect, uplift, and inspire—a testament to the enduring strength of the Marymount community and its unwavering hope for a better world.
Model United Nations at Marymount Rome
Each year, Marymount Middle School students from Grades 6 to 8 participate in the RSHM Model United Nations (MUN) conference, a global event hosted by schools within the RSHM network. In 2024, Marymount London welcomed delegates from sister schools in Paris, Rome, and beyond to discuss “Sustainable Cities,” while in 2025, 20 students traveled to Istituto Marymount in Rome to explore “Emerging Technologies and Humanity.” The conference combined rigorous MUN sessions with cultural experiences, including visits to iconic Roman landmarks, interactive learning at the Europa Experience, and team-building activities like the Foxtrail in Villa Borghese. Despite an unexpected delay due to Heathrow Airport’s closure, students embraced the extra time in Rome, deepening friendships and enjoying local cuisine. Several Marymount London students received awards for their outstanding participation.
Beyond debate and diplomacy, the RSHM MUN fosters critical thinking, public speaking, and global awareness, preparing students for future conferences like THIMUN and nurturing their growth as compassionate, informed global citizens.
Sports at Marymount Paris
The RSHM Sports Festival had a profound impact on all of us. Beyond the medals and trophies, this event brought friendships closer, fostered new skills, and created international links that transcend borders. We had the opportunity to meet and compete with people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. These interactions have broadened our perspectives and reminded us that, despite our differences, we share a common passion for sports.
The Sports Festival was a melting pot where friendships blossomed. We saw teammates support each other through victories and defeats, forming bonds that will last a lifetime. I am not just talking about our wins; I am talking about the camaraderie and shared experiences that make us stronger together.
- Coco, Class of 2029
International Day was a vibrant celebration of culture and unity, bringing our school community together to experience the richness of global traditions. Performances showcased the diverse heritage of South Asia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, Nigeria, China, Spain, and the Philippines, to name but a few. In an exciting first, Grade 12 presented a collaborative piece honouring various dance cultures, symbolising the beauty of international exchange. The event was a joyous and immersive experience, highlighting the power of dance to connect us all and celebrate our unique identities.
The Bard took centre stage once again at Marymount this May, as students from Grades 6 to 10 brought Shakespeare’s timeless works to life in the 10th annual Shakespeare Festival. This year, the English Department invited students to take creative ownership of their performances, resulting in vibrant and original interpretations of Hamlet, Much Ado About Nothing, Romeo and Juliet, and Twelfth Night.
For the first time, students were also given a camera to document their own behind-the-scenes experience. The footage captured the energy and excitement of last-minute rehearsals, offering a candid look at the collaborative process that led to each performance.
The evening concluded with a return to tradition, as Grade 10 delivered a powerful and haunting rendition of Macbeth, exploring the dark ambition of the “dead butcher and his fiend-like queen.” From acting and directing to lighting and sound, the festival showcased not only the students’ theatrical talents but also their creativity, risk-taking and teamwork.
In an age of constant digital distraction, the Shakespeare Festival was a powerful reminder of the enduring magic of live performance—and of Shakespeare’s relevance “not of an age, but for all time”.
beHind tHe scenes
science Week
We celebrated Science Week 2025 by offering students a wide range of opportunities to explore, engage with, and apply scientific concepts beyond the classroom. The week was filled with experiments, discussions, and interactive activities that made learning dynamic and engaging. With student quotes capturing these experiences, it is clear that Science Week left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
A standout moment of the week was the lecture by alumna, Andrea, Class of 2019, who shared her research in Medical Biosciences. Her insights into the field and personal academic journey were an inspiration, encouraging students to explore careers in STEAM.
Meanwhile, excitement soared—literally—as Marymount’s UK Youth Rocketry Challenge team successfully launched test flights ahead of their regional competition. Their dedication to engineering and applied sciences exemplified the school’s commitment to hands-on learning and innovation.
At Marymount, Science Week is more than a celebration of scientific discovery—it is an affirmation of our mission to empower young women in STEAM. Research consistently shows that an all-girls education nurtures confidence, critical thinking, and leadership in STEAM fields, breaking down barriers and fostering growth. By providing hands-on experiences, mentorship and opportunities for independent research, we equip our students with the skills and mindset needed to excel in scientific careers.
‘I really enjoyed hearing about the opportunities she had at Imperial College (...) I know many of my classmates found it inspiring to meet someone who was recently in the same position as us and could relate to any worries or challenges we are experiencing.’
- Amy, Class of 2026
‘I am honoured to have joined the MAARS club, working with upper graders fostered growth, perseverance, and collaboration, inspiring my passion for science. I am grateful to be part of this fascinating club!’
- Danielle, Class of 2028
middle scHool Graduation
Grade 8 marked their transition to High School with a heartfelt ceremony, celebrating their journey through Middle School. Mrs Giblin, Headmistress, along with Mr Marcou, Senior Deputy Head, and Ms Russell, Head of Year, delivered uplifting speeches, reflecting on the students’ academic accomplishments and personal growth. The event reached its pinnacle with the awarding of diplomas, met with resounding applause from proud families and fellow students. Congratulations, Class of 2029!
Graduation
By Annika Grossmann, Class of 2025 - Valedictorian
As I stand here today, I am fascinated by and grateful for the simple fact that the Class of 2025 is gathered here together in this building right now, in this very moment. We have journeyed on such different paths to arrive here, coming from countries far and wide, and we will soon go on to harness both our individual and collective potential in countries and continents around the world.
We speak different languages, we have different passions and fears and talents, and yet we are all here together at this crossroads in our lives.
As I reflect on my time at Marymount and our collective adventure through the IB, my mind does not dwell on all the important milestones we had along the way, instead my memory prioritises all the “firsts” we had and the courage it took to take those first steps. The moments when we tried something completely new, unsure of what we were doing but willing to give it a shot anyway.
Whether it was our first draft of our Internal Assessment, our first Creativity, Activity and Service reflection, or our first experience with missing a deadline – we were practically on a never-ending learning curve. And to be honest, we were not exactly brilliant at it in the beginning. And that is fine.
What I’ve come to realise is that there is something deeply honest and humbling about admitting you are not good at something – yet.
But that “yet” is everything. If we were perfect from the start, aced every test, got an A and 7 in everything, there’d be no growth, no discovery, and honestly, no fun. The pride we feel today does not stem from always getting it right – it originates from knowing how far we have come.
I’d like to tell you a story that I think encapsulates the IB experience quite well. Two years ago, I found myself to be very bored during summer and as one does, I looked up how to make rocket fuel. To my surprise, it did not seem all that complicated: all you need is potassium nitrate and sugar. I did not have potassium nitrate lying around the house, but luckily, my grandparents live in a farmhouse. So, with the help of my uncle, we scraped it off the old brick walls. Fuelled by curiosity and questionable decision-making, we built a rocket. It did not fly very high, but it did something far more important: it sparked an idea. That moment paved the way for what is now known here at Marymount as the Marymount Astrophysics and Aerospace Reseach Society or simply MAARS club – a team of 12 brilliant students who went on to build our very first model rocket together.
We built this rocket despite having no clue about what we were doing. It was badly constructed, it had holes, was not airtight, had questionable structural integrity and was probably more of a bomb than a rocket. And that, to me, perfectly represents the start of the IB. Not the bomb part, but the trial and error. The honest messiness of learning.
That first lab report or essay you wrote probably had some literary holes that needed patching. The first artwork you made may have looked better in your head. The first econ paper you wrote probably sounded more like a conspiracy theory than an analysis of supply and demand. None of us knew how to write an extended essay, we just opened a blank document and started somewhere. Maybe with a title. Maybe not even that.
I will never forget the time we first tested the rocket. Expectations were sky high, stratospheric you might say, as we hoped that it would launch safely and return to earth with the egg intact. However, to our dismay, the parachute did not deploy, and the rocket came hurtling down at us at incredible speed with the hard egg turned into scrambled eggs.
But we learned, we got better. We rebuilt, rethought, and retried. But like any rocket, we did not get off the ground alone. Behind every semi-successful launch was a whole team, friends who helped duct tape things back together when they started to fall apart, teachers who stood by as our mission control, and family who were always there to remind us that crashing once did not
mean that we would not eventually fly. In those moments, when it felt like we were spiralling out of control or stuck on the launchpad, it was the people around us who gave us the extra push. Over time that momentum built and looking around today, I think it is safe to say: we have truly begun to take off. Perhaps the German writer, philosopher and polymath, Johann Goethe, best encapsulates the correlation between failure and success when he writes: ’By seeking and blundering, we learn.’ (Goethe).
And so, as I reach the end of my speech, I want to take a moment to compliment the class of 2025 behind me. You are, without a doubt, some of the most determined, courageous and resilient people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. I have seen you power through 15- or even 20-page essays on barely two hours of sleep, fuelled by an absurd amount of coffee and an even more absurd belief that you could still finish it before the deadline, and somehow, you always did. I have no doubt that each of you will head out into the world and take on adulthood with the same spirit. And sure, you might not get everything right the first time – but if the IB has taught us anything, it is that we grow, we learn, and eventually we soar.
IBDP Results 2025
university destinations
The Class of 2025 has received the following University offers to date:
American University, Washington D.C, USA
American University of Paris, FR
Arts University Bournemouth, UK
Augustana College, Illinois, USA
Beloit College, Wisconsin, USA
Binghamton University, New York, USA
Bristol, West of England, UK
Brock University, Ontario, CA
Brunel University of London, UK
California Lutheran University, USA
Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK
Cardiff University, UK
Christopher Newport University, Virginia, USA
City, University of London, UK
Columbia College Chicago, Illinois, USA
Durham University, UK
Ecole Polytechnique, FR
Falmouth University, UK
Florida International University, USA
Franklin University Switzerland, CH
Glasgow Caledonian University, UK
High Point University, North Carolina, USA
Hollins University, Virginia, USA
Huron at Western University, Ontario, CA
Imperial College London, UK
Juniata College, Pennsylvania, USA
Kingston University, UK
King’s College London, UK
Lancaster University, UK
Leeds Beckett University, UK
Lewis University, Illinois, USA
London School of Economics & Political Science, UK
London South Bank University, UK
Louisiana State University, USA
Manchester Metropolitan University, UK
McGill University, Montreal, CA
Missouri Southern State University, USA
New York University, USA
Newman University, UK
Northeastern University London, UK
Northwest Missouri State, USA
Parsons, New York, USA
Portland State University, USA
Queen Margaret University, UK
Quinnipiac University, Connecticut, USA
Saint Mary’s University Halifax, UK
Spelman, Georgia, USA
St Andrews University, UK
The New School, New York, USA
The Royal Veterinary College, UK
Toronto Metropolitan, CA
UC Berkeley, California, USA
University at Buffalo, New York, USA
University College London, UK
University of Bath, UK
University of Birmingham, UK
University of Bristol, UK
University of British Columbia, CA
University of Connecticut, USA
University of Dayton, Ohio, USA
University of Edinburgh, UK
University of Exeter, UK
University of Greenwich, UK
University of Leeds, UK
University of Lincoln, UK
University of Liverpool, UK
University of Manchester, UK
University of Michigan, USA
University of Missouri, USA
University of Mount Union, Ohio, USA
University of Nottingham, UK
University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
University of Roehampton, UK
University of Saint Mary, UK
University of Southampton, UK
University of Surrey, UK
University of the Arts London, UK
University of Toronto, CA
University of Warwick, UK
University of Westminster, UK
University of York, UK
Wartburg College, Michigan, USA
Washington College, Maryland, USA
Whittier College, California, USA
York University, CA
York College of Pennsylvania, USA
7 books for 7 decades of marymount!
Written by our Director of Research, Ms Sarah Openshaw
When asked to pick one book for each of Marymount’s 7 decades, little did I realise the challenge involved! I hope you will enjoy the selection below – I could not resist some ‘special mentions’ too!
So, with thanks to the English department for their support and ideas, and with an apology and a caveat that many obvious masterpieces and worthy choices are missing, I hope you find something that resonates with you, whichever of the 70 years of the Marymount family’s history you belong to.
1955
1965
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Prejudice, justice, courage and life lessons – and characters we cannot help but fall in love with.
Special mentions:
Lord of the Rings trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien – eternal themes of quests and fate versus free will A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle – a ‘good versus evil’ adventure through space and time (Middle School)
The Sound of Waves by Yukio Mishima – timeless love and coming-of-age story set in Japan
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. Chosen for its uniqueness, ingenuity, and sheer longevity in delighting children (and adults!) across generations and continents.
Special mentions:
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez – universal themes of love, death, family and repeating history, chronicled through 7 generations of a family
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou – harrowing, important exploration of race and gender
Schindler’s Ark by Thomas Keneally (better known by its film title Schindler’s List). Heart-wrenching depiction of the Holocaust, and the fight to save lives.
Special mentions:
The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende – a blend of historical fiction and magical realism
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor – Newbery medal-winning work about African-American struggle for social justice during the Depression (Middle School)
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. Global best-seller about having the courage to follow your dreams – read it in our library in Portuguese, French, English, or Arabic!
Special mentions:
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood – shocking, dystopian, feminist novel Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks – World War I, love, and how our history shapes our present
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry – identity, family, resilience and survival, set in 1970s-80s India
There can only be one winner here – the Harry Potter books by J K Rowling. Voted second in our ‘favourite books of all time’ survey. Read in Polish, Portuguese or English in our library!
Special mentions:
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon – helped bring neuro-diversity into the public consciousness (upper Middle School)
Atonement by Ian McEwan – guilt, forgiveness, and the inability to change the past…
Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell – narrative voices from past to future show our interconnectedness
The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom – love, forgiveness and the meaning of life
All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. Moving page-turner set in World War II with narrative perspective alternating between a blind French girl and a young German soldier.
Special mentions:
Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel – politics and power in the Tudor court
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson – verse memoir of childhood and becoming a writer (Middle School)
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro – what price humanity?
I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai – autobiography of “the girl who stood up for education”
Small Things Like These by Clare Keegan. Multi-award-winning, beautifully moving story about how the smallest kindnesses can make the greatest differences in the world.
Special mentions:
Safiyyah’s War by Hiba Noor Khan – how the Grand Mosque in Paris sheltered Jews from the Nazis (Middle School)
Educated by Tara Westover – (non-fiction) memoir of a woman’s inspirational struggle to be educated
The Hill We Climb by Amanda Gorman – stunning, uplifting poem about the power - and responsibility - we hold to change our world
Flying Over Water by Shannon Hitchcock and N.H. Senzai – multi-faith understanding in a school (Middle School)
at marymount
Connect, Give Back, Grow!
As we celebrate our 70th Anniversary Year, we reflect upon the enduring legacy of the RSHM Mission. Widening access to this nurturing Mission, which sits at the heart of Marymount’s transformative education, is a key focus of our 70 year celebrations. In tune with our Founders, we believe that a family’s financial circumstances should not be a barrier to their daughter’s education. We also believe that the students leave Marymount as rounded and resilient young women, who enter the world as compassionate global citizens.
Recently the government made access to independent education in the UK more difficult through additional taxation. For this reason, support for bursaries has become more pressing than ever. Talent is spread evenly throughout society, opportunity is not. You too can help a talented young girl reach her full potential by contributing to our Bursary Fund through the Annual Appeal (see pages 2 and 3 for “Real Stories. Real Impact. Powered by Bursaries.”)
upcominG events
Summer BBQ
Saturday, 30 August 2025, 12noon - 4pm
Marymount International School
To Attend: tickets are included in the PA membership fee for current parents and students. Please RSVP via Schools Buddy. This event is an enjoyable family day at Marymont, with games and entertainment for all ages, a delicious barbecue with a wide selection of global foods. This is a chance to reconnect with returning families and meet new joiners. A day of fun in the (with any luck) sun.
IB Diploma Programme (6th Form)
Open Evening
Tuesday, 30 September 2025, 6pm - 7.30pm
Marymount International School
To Attend: Please register on the Marymount website. www.marymountlondon.com/open-day
Alumnae Reunion
Friday, 3 and Saturday, 4 October 2025
Marymount International School
To Attend: tickets are free. Donations to the Bursary Fund are encouraged. Register on the Marymount London Network. (network.marymountlondon.com)
Advent Carol Service
Tuesday, 16 December 2025, 4pm - 5pm
Sacred Heart, Wimbledon
To Attend: we are proud to open this event to alumnae, past parents and past faculty. RSVP by emailing: development@marymountlondon.com
The Advent Carol Service is a beautiful celebration of the Advent season, with music, singing and readings from the Marymount Community. We are delighted to open this event to our wider community. As this is a popular whole-school event, please note that priority will be given to current Marymount students, their families and faculty.
Alumnae
