Connect, Give Back, Grow Marymount Matters
Headmistress’ Welcome
Dear Marymount Community,
We are excited to present the latest edition of Marymount Matters, with the theme of “Connect, Give Back, Grow”. This theme encapsulates the spirit of our vibrant community—a place where connections flourish, contributions matter, and growth is nurtured.
I hope you will enjoy seeing the variety of activities on campus and how the school continues to live out the RSHM mission, “that all may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). Our students engage joyfully with one another and with the curriculum, they give of their time to others, and it is a pleasure and a privilege to witness their growth. It is our hope that you, too, will want to be part of this cycle which enables our community to thrive throughout the generations.
As we welcome new alumnae and hope our families have enjoyed a wonderful summer break, we encourage you to engage with our school community. Whether it is speaking with students, attending events, or supporting our Annual Appeal, your involvement matters. Together, we create an environment which promotes the flourishing of each individual.
Thank you for being part of our journey. I hope you enjoy the magazine, where stories are shared, gifts and talents are celebrated and our school goals are lived out. I invite you to contribute to our shared legacy enabling us to continue to “Connect, give back and grow”.
Warm regards,
Mrs Margaret Giblin Headmistress
Goal 1: To foster a personal relationship with God
Confirmation
Sunlight filtered through windows onto the expectant faces of families gathered in the Auditorium for the 2024 Confirmation Service at Marymount International School. The confirmandi embodied a quiet reverence as the ceremony commenced, anticipating the important sacramental moment. This ceremony was the culmination of 18 months of preparation for these students, and a sacred moment for them and their families. Bishop Philip Moger’s message resonated with warmth, emphasising the enduring significance of faith and fellowship. Congratulations to all the girls, their sponsors, and their families.
International Day:
why it is still so important?
In today’s interconnected world, celebrating International Day has gained even more importance. This annual event provides a unique opportunity for students to celebrate diverse cultures and promote inclusivity.
Although international-mindedness is woven through the IB curriculum and RSHM values, holding a special day in the calendar allows the school to shine a spotlight on cultural awareness. Students are exposed to a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and customs, which helps them develop empathy, respect, and an appreciation for cultural diversity.
An integral part of being a Marymount student is encouraging unity and international cooperation through shared learning, friendship, and curiosity. International Day serves as a reminder that, despite cultural differences, we share a common humanity and responsibility as global citizens.
By embracing the theme of the day, students play a vital role in creating an inclusive learning environment that prepares students to become global citizens.
Goal 2: To create Unity through diversity
Goal 3: To Instil a life-long love of learning
For Grade 10 students, the Personal Project Exhibition marks the culmination of their educational journey in the Middle Years Programme (MYP).
Every year, our Grade 10 students pour their energies into a wide range of projects, which they choose according to their own interests and passions. As they stepped into the spotlight, they shared their discoveries, insights, and creative endeavours with the Marymount community. At the heart of the Personal Project Exhibition lies the students’ demonstration of all they have learnt throughout the seven month process, on a topic that ignited their personal curiosity. Whether through exploring environmental sustainability, delving into their cultural heritage, or developing a new skill, each student has embarked on a deeply personal learning journey.
This year, visitors enjoyed an exciting array of exhibits:
• Furniture Design and Fabrication: a lounge chair that seamlessly blends form, function and sustainability.
• Heritage Jewellery: intricate pieces that celebrate cultural roots and personal narratives.
• Digital Cookbooks: a fusion of culinary learning, technology and personal histories.
• “Blinded by Love”: how perceptions and expectations of love are influenced by film and literature.
• Abstract Art: a painting demonstrating newly-learnt art techniques
• Documentaries: on such diverse subjects as ‘The Atomic Bomb’ and ‘the Effects of Scoliosis on an Athlete’.
• Dance Performances: a new dance style learnt and choreographed to create a video performance.
Grade 10 students know that this is not the finish line but a stepping stone, and that their learning journeys continue into the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and beyond. The seeds of curiosity planted during the MYP will grow, shaping their futures as lifelong learners.
How is the Personal Project assessed?
In keeping with the IB pedagogical philosophy, the MYP emphasises holistic learning, and the assessment criteria reflect this. Prior to the PP Exhibition, the students each wrote a comprehensive report, with a full bibliography, which will be externally graded by the IB.
The students reflect on their whole process in this report, and are assessed on various criteria, for example:
• Research: What steps did they take to gather information, analyse data, and synthesise their findings? Were their sources credible and diverse?
• Communication: Did they articulate their ideas clearly and persuasively? Did they find appropriate methods of communication and develop these skills?
• Creativity and Critical Thinking: Did they come up with innovative ideas or solutions to problems? How did they evaluate their options and make decisions?
• Organisation: How did they plan the steps to take at each stage of the process? How well did they manage their time, and their resources?
• Self-management: How did they respond to feedback? Did they succeed in maintaining their motivation? How did they manage any setbacks?
It is these key skills, and not simply content, that the IB emphasises. It is this that will enable students to continue to grow and flourish as lifelong learners throughout their education and future careers.
Goal 3: To Instil a life-long love of learning
a life-long love of learning
IBDP Grade 12 Visual Arts Exhibition
Senior Visual Arts students unveiled their final works in a captivating exhibition this semester. All Saints Church, Kingston buzzed with energy as attendees explored a diverse range of artistic mediums. From intricate portraits to thought-provoking sculptures, the showcase offered a glimpse into the creative minds of the soon-tobe graduates. This annual exhibition serves as a culmination of the students’ artistic journeys throughout High School, showcasing their technical skills and unique perspectives, as well as testing their reflective and analytical skills as they discuss and explain their works to the visitors.
Shakespeare Festival
The Bard took centre stage at Marymount this May as the annual Shakespeare Festival unfolded. All Grade 6 to 10 students were involved in this performance extravaganza, captivating the audience with their renditions of classic comedies and tragedies. Grade 6 tried their hand at Sonnets, whereas the more experienced Grade 9 and 10 students delved into Twelfth Night and Macbeth. The programme not only showcased the students’ acting prowess and their knowledge of lighting, set, and sound design, but also highlighted the school’s commitment to fostering the personal growth of each student, whether it be their creativity, collaboration, or communication skills.
Goal 4: To encourage and affirm personal growth
Goal 5: To awaken a consciousness of social justice
RSHM Model United Nations Festival
An interview with Mila, Egan and Preet, Grade 8
This year, Marymount International School London hosted the RSHM MUN Festival, with 80 students from our Rome and Paris schools taking part. Jane Wakiwaka, Class of 2002, opened and closed the event which covered the topic of ‘Sustainable Cities’.
Why did you sign up for the RSHM MUN Festival?
Egan said, “I knew it was going to be fun because I did it last year.” Preet added, “I signed up to meet new people from other schools.” Mila was “in it for the controversial discussions – I wanted to hear some strong opinions on both sides.”
What did you enjoy about MUN?
“The debates didn’t disappoint,” quipped Mila. “Vetoes were threatened by all sides at all times.” Egan said, “We rounded the event off with some friendly debates which made us all smile.”
What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing it next year?
“Do it!” they all cried in unison.
London Alumnae Reunion
Marymount International School Alumnae raised a glass to cherished memories at a reunion held in central London in May. The event, welcoming alumnae of all graduating classes, buzzed with excitement as graduates reconnected after years apart. Laughter filled the venue as classmates shared stories and reminisced about their time at Marymount. Attendees enjoyed catching up with former teachers who were also present, creating a warm and nostalgic atmosphere. The reunion served as a testament to the enduring bonds forged within the Marymount Community, proving that Marymount friendships truly transcend time and distance.
Goal
6:
“That all may have life.”
Graduation
by Hui Lim Chong, Class of 2024 - Valedictorian
Do you remember the first time you rode a bicycle? Unsteady, uncertain, but overflowing with determination. As children, we learn how to balance on the bike, to move forward, to fall off, to be helped back on, to trust, to love the joy of discovering something new and then finally to navigate unfamiliar but enticing pathways without the stabilisers on. And as I look back at my personal and our collective experience of completing the IB Diploma, this simple but profound memory of riding a bike for the first time, seems to encapsulate the pattern of behaviours and emotions which underpinned our IB journey.
In my early cycling lessons at the age of six, it was all about grasping the fundamental mechanics of a bike. To feel the distance from the pedal to the ground; to accept the physics of riding a bike and to delight in acceleration and then feel safe by braking. Without these foundational basics, the bike would have remained a formidable but unconquerable prospect. And I’d like to suggest that this was true of our approach to the IB. Our basic concepts were about making links between what we learned in the classroom with real-world scenarios. For example, in Mathematics we studied the cosine function with its peaks and troughs, and noticed on these trigonometric curves, that every minimum is followed by an ascent. In an Economic Business Cycle, we saw periods of boom and recession. These mathematical and economic models taught us that progress is not always straightforwardly linear; it involves struggle and recovery. Each lesson in the classroom was an attempt to pedal forward, but I’m realistic enough to admit that as we faced the EE, the IAs, tests, exams, or contemplated the predicted grades, sometimes it felt like we were back-pedalling, wobbling, or simply veering off course. But when we crashed, we were always helped back up and eased back into the saddle.
I learned how to ride a bike from the guiding push from my parents and sisters. So, as we arrived at our final year of high school, we cycled off without the training wheels. For that, we needed to trust our instincts, and take that leap of faith. To all family, friends, teachers, houseparents, and guests, you are the reason for our bravery. You nurtured in us a spirit of independence, empowerment, and strength. It is also you, who helped to power our momentum and find our stride through everything: the rain, the haze, and the sunshine. We thank you for your support which came from nearby or across continents. And for this, we are beyond grateful.
As we arrive at the threshold of this new chapter, let us remember that our growth is not a sprint, but rather a marathon. Looking back on this two-year ride, we can reflect on the miles we have covered with a sense of accomplishment, and most importantly, celebrate how far we’ve come. I know for certain that we have and will achieve incredible things in our lives.
The Chinese philosopher Confucius once said:
This translates as: “It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop”. Let us keep our wheels spinning, and approach the complexities of this planet with brightness, curiosity, and empathy. Because we are equipped with the training, the stamina, and the tenacity to do so. We are ready, and it is time for us to venture beyond our comfort zone. The road ahead is wide open – we shall charge forward with courage and confidence! Congratulations to the Class of 2024!
College Destinations
The Class of 2024 has received the following University offers to date:
Albany College, New York, USA
American University, Washington D.C., USA
Arizona State University, USA
Ball State, Indiana, USA
Bard College, New York, USA
Bentley University, Massachusetts, USA
Bocconi University, IT
Boston University, USA
Brandeis University, Massachusetts, USA
Cardiff University, UK
Carleton College, Minnesota, USA
Catholic University of America, Washington D.C., USA
City, University of London, UK
Colgate University, New York, USA
Colorado College, USA
Drexel University, Pennsylvania, USA
Durham University, UK
Elon University, North Carolina, USA
Falmouth University, UK
Fashion Institute of Technology, New York, USA
Fordham University, New York, USA
Franklin & Marshall College, Pennsylvania, USA
Furman University, South Carolina, USA
Glasgow Caledonian University, UK
Goldsmiths, University of London, UK
Hamilton College, New York, USA
I.E. University, SP
Imperial College London, UK
King’s College London, UK
Kingston University, UK
Leiden University, NL
Maastricht University, NL
Macalester College, Minnesota, USA
Marist College, New York, USA
Marymount University, Virginia, USA
Marywood University, Pennsylvania, USA
Massachusetts C. of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, USA
McGill University, Canada
MetFilm School, UK
New York University, USA
Northeastern University London, UK
Oxford Brookes University, USA
Pratt Institute, New York, USA
Queen’s University Belfast, UK
Richmond American University London, UK
Ringling College of Art & Design, Florida, USA
Royal Holloway, University of London, UK
School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Illinois, USA
School of Visual Art, New York, USA
SOAS, University of London, UK
St Mary’s University, Twickenham, UK
Syracuse University, New York, USA
The London School of Economics and Political Science, UK
The New School, New York, USA
The Royal Veterinary College, UK
The University of Manchester, UK
The University of Nottingham, UK
The University of Sheffield, UK
University of Arizona, USA
University of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
University of Colorado - Boulder, USA
University of Indiana – Bloomington, USA
University of Maine – Presque Isle, USA
University of Oregon, USA
University of Richmond, Virginia, USA
University College London, UK
University of Bath, UK
University of Birmingham, UK
University of Brighton, UK
University of Bristol, UK
University of Cambridge, UK
University of Chichester, UK
University of Edinburgh, UK
University of Essex, UK
University of Exeter, UK
University of Glasgow, UK
University of Kent, UK
University of Leeds, UK
University of Leicester, UK
University of London, UK
University of Reading, UK
University of Roehampton, UK
University of South Wales, UK
University of Southampton, UK
University of St Andrews, UK
University of Strathclyde, UK
University of Surrey, UK
University of Sussex, UK
University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
University of Toronto, Canada
University of Warwick, UK
University of Westminster, UK
University of York, UK
Wake Forest University, North Carolina
West Chester University, Pennsylvania
York St John University, UK
Middle School Graduation
Grade 8 celebrated their transition to High School with a heartwarming ceremony. Mrs Giblin, Headmistress, Mr Marcou, Senior Deputy Head, and Head of Year, Ms Richter, delivered inspiring speeches, highlighting the students’ academic achievements and personal growth during their Middle School years. The ceremony culminated in the presentation of diplomas, met with thunderous applause from families and fellow students. Well done, Class of 2028.
Connect, Give Back and Grow
Marymount Fosters Connections with New Alumnae Platform Launch
Marymount International School London has launched the Marymount London Network, a dedicated online platform designed to connect alumnae across generations.
This exciting new space strengthens the Marymount Community by providing a space for graduates to reconnect, share experiences, and offer support. The platform boasts a range of features designed to foster lasting bonds, including:
Class Finders: Easily locate classmates and reconnect with old friends.
event Calendar: Stay up-to-date on upcoming alumnae gatherings, school events, and reunions, like the upcoming Open Day on 21 September and the Alumnae Reunion on 4 and 5 October.
news and stories: Read about the accomplishments of fellow alumnae and stay informed about school news.
“We are thrilled to launch the Marymount London Network,” says Nick Marcou, “This platform reflects our commitment to fostering a lifelong connection between our School and its graduates. We believe this network will be a valuable resource for our alumnae, empowering them to connect, collaborate, and give back to the Marymount Community.”
The Marymount London Network is open to all alumnae of Marymount International School London. Graduates can register for free on the platform’s website at:
A Musical Journey at Marymount An Interview with Ms Susan Rennie
Susan Rennie, Marymount’s esteemed piano teacher, has dedicated an impressive 23 years to nurturing and accompanying young musicians at the School. Since 2001, she has left an indelible mark on the School’s musical landscape, shaping countless lives through her passion for music.
First Impressions
Ms Rennie vividly recalls her initial moments on the Marymount campus. Standing in front of Main House, she gazed out over the lush lawns—a scene that remains etched in her memory.
Choir Tours and Memorable Musicals
Choir tours and musical productions hold a special place in Ms Rennie’s heart. Her journey began with the musical “Oliver!”, an experience which she described as “jumping in the deep end”! She has fond memories of the performances of “Cats” and “West Side Story” too. As part of the orchestra, Ms Rennie revelled in the magic of live music. She even played the viola during the school’s production of “The Sound of Music”.
Vienna: A Choir Tour to Remember
Of all the choir tours, Vienna stands out as the most memorable. Ms Rennie, Mr Marcou, and their talented group of singers found themselves in the heart of this historic city. Their voices resonated within the central Cathedral of St Stephen’s, as well as St Peter’s Church, creating unforgettable moments. Beyond Vienna, the choir explored other remarkable destinations, including Berlin, Bruges, Salzburg, Barcelona, and Florence. These tours allowed Ms Rennie to connect with her students outside the classroom, fostering deeper relationships, and gave her the chance to meet new students.
Unforgettable Students
Ms Rennie’s impact extends far beyond music classrooms. She has encountered countless remarkable students, each leaving a unique impression. Students like Coco (Class of 2023) and Charley (Class of 2010), whom Ms Rennie guided from Grade 6 to 12, hold a special place in her heart; these are but a couple of the dozens of students whose names are written indelibly in Ms Rennie’s memory and whom she recalls deftly and with a broad smile. One-to-one lessons provided moments to discuss not only music but also life’s broader themes; it is these conversations, and not just the big events, that Ms Rennie remembers fondly.
Infusing Lives with Music
Ms Rennie’s legacy echoes through the lives she has touched. Her passion for music led her to initiate the Chamber Concert series—her gift to the school following the donation of a piano in the Parlour. Through these concerts, which continue to this day, Ms Rennie continues to inspire and uplift the Marymount Community. Thank you, Ms Rennie, for your unwavering dedication to the world of Marymount music!
“Having Ms. Rennie as my piano teacher was an incredible experience. She guided me through my first concerts at Marymount and saw me through to my final recital. Her guidance and constant patience gave me the confidence to pursue performance at university. Having the privilege of duetting with her will always be one of my most cherished moments.”
Coco, Class of 2023
Annual Appeal
Thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s Annual Appeal.
Supporting Marymount means helping caring, capable, courageous young women who can change the world. Unlike some older schools, Marymount has no form of endowment, meaning that we are entirely reliant on income from fees and philanthropy. Every building on campus has benefitted from some form of philanthropic support from the Marymount community. Each generation of Marymount families has “paid it forward” for the generations to come.
The Annual Appeal, launched in 2022, supports capital projects, bursaries, and partnerships at the school, helping Marymount students to have life to the full.
We are so grateful for the support of every family, alumna and friend of the school who chose to support the Appeal, which this year met its target of £40,000!
Next year, we want to increase this further. Please do give if you can.
Written by
our
Director of Research, Ms Sarah Openshaw
Suitable for High School & up
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan. Multi-award winning, short and beautifully moving. This novel has a quiet strength, showing how the smallest of actions can have the greatest of impacts, and that changing the world is in our hands if we choose acts of kindness.
Shortlisted Booker prize 2022; Winner Orwell Prize for Political Fiction 2022; Shortlisted Rathbones Folio Prize 2022; A Book of the Year for The Time, Observer, New Statesman, Financial Times, Irish Times & TLS.
Suitable for Middle School
Flying Over Water by Shannon Hitchcock & N. H. Senzai. A wonderful, uplifting story, in which 12-year-old Noura, a Syrian fleeing Aleppo, and 12-year-old Jordyn, a swimmer struggling with anxiety, meet at their new Middle School in America. Together, they work to fight prejudice and build community by creating a multi-faith prayer room, and learn that friendship, understanding and empathy can overcome fear and bigotry.
N.H. Senzai attended Marymount International School, London! According to the ‘About’ page on her website, she was “voted ‘most likely to lead a literary revolution’ due to her ability to get away with reading comic books in class!”
Suitable
for ages 14-15 up, approximately
Incredibly well-researched historical thriller set in 1980s Romania, shortly before the 1989 revolution. 17-year-old Cristian lives under a repressive dictatorship; fear and suspicion are part of daily life, and one day he is blackmailed and faced with an impossible choice… Fascinating, shocking and moving.
Marketed as ‘Young Adult’, but I loved it, and learnt so much about this period in history. Brilliant.
Shortlisted Yoto Carnegie Medal 2023; Winner Yoto Carnegie Shadowers’ Choice Medal 2023.
Suitable
for ages 9 up approximately and English B.
Troofriend by Kirsty Applebaum. Funny, sweet, endearing… and remarkably insightful into human relationships. In Troofriend, androids are marketed as the ideal companion; they can be switched on and off as required, and will never develop feelings or emotions…. or will they?
This is a delightful book about friendship and what makes us human, and, as an adult, I love the touching humour in this book. Utterly charming!
I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys.
Upcoming Events
Summer BBQ
Saturday, 31 August 2024, 12noon-4pm
On campus
To attend: tickets are included in the PA membership fee for current parents and students. Please RSVP via SchoolsBuddy.
This event is an enjoyable family day at Marymount, 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.
Careers Day
Friday, 27 September 2024, All Day
Please find more information on the opposite page
Open Day
Saturday, 21 September 2024
On campus
To attend: registration is free for this event. Register on the school website, or contact our Admissions team on admissions@marymountlondon.com. Visit our beautiful campus for a tour of the school where you will meet students, staff and parents and discover why we are so Proudly Marymount. If you are unable to come to the Open Day, the team offers a limited number of private tours throughout the year. Get in touch today!
Alumnae Reunion
Friday, 4 and Saturday, 5 October 2024 - On campus
To attend: tickets are free. Register on the Marymount London Network (see page 15).
IB Diploma Evening
Monday, 14 October - On campus
To attend: registration is free for this event. Register on the school website, or contact our Admissions team on admissions@marymountlondon.com
Find out more about why the International Baccalaureate is the gold standard for higher education worldwide, and how it could benefit your daughter’s future.
If you are unable to come to this event, the team offers a limited number of private tours throughout the year.
Advent Carol Service
Tuesday, 17 December 2024
On campus
To attend: we are proud to open this event to a limited number of alumnae, past parents and past faculty. Contact communincations@marymountlondon.com if you wish to join us.
Formerly known as Lessons and Carols, 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.
Careers Day
We are excited to announce our inaugural Careers Day, a day completely dedicated to life beyond school to which parents and alumnae are invited. The day is led by our Careers Counsellor, Ms Eckhardt, and will take place throughout Friday, 27 September 2024
The school is looking for alumnae, parents, past parents, and friends of the school to sign up to take part in the day.
In the morning, an ‘arena style’ careers fair, where High School students will have a chance to interact with as many careers groups as they like.
In the afternoon, industry and professional panels will be on a carousel with skills workshops.
In a recent survey, students showed that their interests are incredibly varied, and we would love for our panels and participants to reflect this. Whatever your background, we would love to hear from you!
Privacy Policy
As part of our scheduled updates of policies, we have updated our Privacy Notices to make it easier for our community to understand how we process your personal data. We are committed to providing you with the most up-to-date information about how we use your data and keep it safe.
Keeping your data safe and secure is a top priority at Marymount. If you have any questions, please contact the Bursar (Data Protection Officer) Mr Alan Fernandes on bursar@marymountlondon.com
Please find a QR code to the privacy notices below:
