Hearts of Hope Marymount Matters
Headmistress’ Welcome
Dear Marymount Community,
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to this edition of Marymount Matters, a publication that continues to reflect all that makes Marymount International School London such a remarkable community. Each semester, these pages capture the spirit of our school; our commitment to exceptional education, the generosity and engagement of our community, and the lifelong connections that endure long after our students graduate.
This year has been particularly meaningful, as 2025 marked the 70th anniversary of our school, a milestone that invites both celebration and reflection. Throughout this year’s events, we have been powerfully reminded of the enduring vision of Mother Butler and her dedication to educating the whole person - heart, mind, and soul.
Our theme, ‘Hearts of Hope’, feels especially fitting. Inspired by the wonderful legacy of our foundress, we are reminded of her conviction that “Joy and cheerfulness are contagious, they work like magic in attracting hearts. Joy and happiness in the service of God are an absolute necessity.” These words continue to guide our mission and resonate throughout our celebrations and daily life at Marymount. They call us to nurture hope, uplift one another, and “give life” wherever we go, thereby leaving an enduring expression of the RSHM mission.
I hope you enjoy reading about the highlights of the past semester. Within these pages, you will find moments of learning, leadership, creativity, service, and joy that exemplify the very best of our school. Thank you for your continued engagement with Marymount International School London. Your support, your presence, and the difference you make ensure that Marymount’s mission, “That all may have life and have it to the full”, remains vibrant and that its legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Warmest regards,
Mrs Margaret Giblin Headmistress
C ongratulations C lass of
2025!
We could not be more proud of the graduates of the Class of 2025! Their outstanding IB Diploma results and excellent university offers across the globe are the product of their resilient class spirit. Courageous, faith-filled and good humoured, they faced challenges head on, remaining positive and searching for the good in everything. As an embodiment of the School’s mission and values, we offer the Class of 2025 our heartfelt thanks and congratulations on their incredible achievements!
- Nick Marcou DP Coordinator
On results day, a time which supposedly rewards individual achievement, the idiom, ‘it takes a village,’ was at the forefront of my mind. Achieving a 44 was not an individual effort, but rather a reflection of the collective support and guidance provided by my teachers and the wider Marymount community. My time at Marymount blends hard work, lessons and deadlines, with, and, as importantly, mornings with the Class of 2025, sports trips, co-curricular meetings, and countless laughs and memories. Being able to realise my academic potential whilst participating in events such as the THIMUN conference in the Hague, tennis tournaments in Greece, and costume competitions for Spirit Week created a unique, fulfilling, yet enriching high school experience.
Marymount’s values and receiving this result in the IB have reinforced my commitment to continuous learning, shaping the next steps in my academic and professional journey. Looking ahead, I will be attending the University of St Andrews in September, studying International Relations and Theology. I am also eager to advance my proficiency in Mandarin and skills as a tennis player. As a precursor to my tertiary studies, I have been working with a political NGO and think tank in a managerial role. I am excited to see what lies ahead and will be forever grateful to Marymount and the Class of 2025.
- Alexandra, Class of 2025
s ummer BBQ
a joyful start to the year
An enduring Marymount tradition, the Summer BBQ was the perfect way to start the new academic year. Despite concerns about looming rain, the event went ahead seamlessly thanks to the careful planning and collaboration of the Parents’ Association, Catering Department, and Operations Staff.
Students and their families were delighted to reconnect after the summer break and warmly welcomed new members of our community. Lively games and activities, paired with a delicious BBQ, created an atmosphere of fun and friendship that everyone enjoyed.
The day truly reflected the spirit of Marymount— filled with energy, joy, and togetherness. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Parents’ Association and volunteers for their dedication and support in making this event such a success.
a lumnae r eunion
This year’s reunion weekend was a joyful celebration of Marymount’s enduring spirit and its 70th anniversary. The festivities began on a Friday evening with drinks and lively conversation, and continued on the Saturday with a campus tour, a special 70th Anniversary Mass, and a family-friendly lunch.
Over 50 alumnae, some joined by their families, current and former staff, and special guests, came together to reconnect and share memories. A special thank you to the Class of 2005 for leading the way in numbers! We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us and look forward to celebrating many more milestones together at next year’s reunion, taking place on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 October 2026.
“Marymount is a place of instant friendship, community, broad learning and opportunity.
That level of agency and opportunity followed me throughout the rest of my life.”
- Angie, Class of 2010
Japanese and Korean Community events
This year, we were delighted to host both a Marymount Japanese Community Event and a Marymount Korean Community Event. Alumnae, past parents, current parents, and those with a link to the Marymount communities in Japan and Korea were invited and warmly welcomed.
The events provided meaningful spaces for attendees to exchange memories, celebrate shared traditions, and strengthen connections across generations. They reminded us of the lasting impact of the Marymount experience felt across the globe and the importance of community engagement.
alumnae networK remain ConneCted
However long your time at Marymount might have been, your journey continues after graduation. You are part of an extraordinary worldwide network. All shaped by their formative time at Marymount, your fellow alumnae offer kinship and support based on shared values and a lifelong love of learning. Our truly global community of alumnae, parents and staff across the world forms a network you can benefit from, for life.
Thank you to those who have already registered. As the data on our platform grows we will increasingly be able to channel the power of collaboration and expertise within our community.
As an All Girls Network, we are uniquely placed to match the ‘old boys club’.
Join the Network to reap many benefits, such as gaining insights into an industry, receiving support in your current role, or giving back by becoming a mentor.
Connect, Give back, Grow!
Each September, as the new school year begins, our Grade 6 and 7 students depart for the much‑anticipated PGL Camp. Designed to help everyone settle in, make new friends, and build confidence, the trip has become a Marymount tradition that students look forward to year after year.
The following piece, written by a Grade 7 student, offers a first‑hand perspective on the PGL experience:
One of the best parts about starting at Marymount is the annual PGL trip – and no, it doesn’t really mean “Parents Get Lost”! It takes place right at the beginning of the school year and is especially great for the Grade 6 girls, as it gives everyone a chance to bond and get used to being away from home. For the older girls, it is simply a fantastic way to spend time together.
When I first joined Marymount, coming from a different primary school and not knowing anyone, I was nervous about making friends. PGL turned out to be the perfect icebreaker. Two of our favourite activities were the Big Swing and Jacob’s Ladder - both incredibly fun and exciting. We wanted to go on them again and again!
As a Grade 7 student, last year’s PGL was an exceptional trip, and this year’s was even better. Just one week into term, we all headed off by coach to the coast for two days filled with climbing, zip lining, axe-throwing, dragon boating, dodgeball, and capture the flag. Dragon boating was amazing - the whole class in one canoe, singing and rowing together. Everything was about teamwork, and by the second night, sitting around the campfire roasting marshmallows, it felt like we had known each other forever.
Looking back, PGL really helped me feel at home at Marymount. It is a trip we will truly miss, and we hope the new Grade 6s will love it just as much as we did. It set the tone for what I’ve come to appreciate most about this school: we work hard, but we also know how to have fun.
- Amaya, Grade 7
rs H m l eaders H ip
trip to paris
Six of our Grade 8 students proudly represented Marymount International School, London at this year’s RSHM Paris Leadership Conference, hosted by Marymount International School, Paris. The three-day event brought together young leaders from RSHM schools across Europe to explore the themes of unity, dialogue, and human fraternity inspired by Pope Francis’ 2019 Document on Human Fraternity.
One of the most memorable moments of the conference was a live video call with representatives from Abu Dhabi’s Higher Committee of Human Fraternity. During this session, our delegates had the unique opportunity to engage in a questionand-answer discussion, gaining real-world insight into how interfaith dialogue is being lived out and promoted today.
Throughout the conference, our London delegates took part in a variety of interactive workshops led by partner schools, each focusing on key aspects of leadership such as belonging, empathy, and constructive dialogue. Our London delegates especially enjoyed the lively debate activity led by staff from Istituto Marymount - a true embodiment of dialogue in action.
Service was another central pillar of the conference. Together, all delegates visited Résidence Galignani, a retirement home in Neuilly-sur-Seine that provides housing and care for elderly and vulnerable individuals. On Thursday afternoon, our students spent time singing to residents, playing board games, and sharing stories, filling the home with laughter and warmth. The residents’ smiles said it all - our students brought immense joy to everyone they met that day.
In addition to these experiences, our students also began planning their own service project, inspired by what they had learned during the conference (watch this space!) This initiative will be launched in school very soon, continuing the spirit of compassion and leadership they embraced in Paris.
Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without seeing its world-famous sights! The highlight for many was a magical evening Seine River cruise, where delegates sailed past landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the City of Light.
On the final day, Mrs Burke and Miss Pothunnah led delegates in creating a “Signature Tree of Hope”. Students were invited to explore their own core values, consider threats to human dignity, and reflect on how we can restore and protect human dignity at a personal, communal, and global level, drawing inspiration from Pope Francis’ Document on Human Fraternity.
The conference concluded with a beautiful Mass in the Chapel at Marymount, Paris, where students and staff gathered in prayer and thanksgiving. It was a truly wonderful way to close a fantastic few days, celebrating the friendships formed, lessons learnt, and shared mission that unites all RSHM schools.
Our Grade 8 delegates discovered that true leadership is rooted in service, compassion, and a commitment to the common good, values that are at the heart of Catholic Social Teaching. As they returned to London, our delegates carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and connection, ready to lead with empathy, courage, and faith.
Our students poured extraordinary energy and creativity into bringing Sister Act to the stage. From acting and singing, to performing in the orchestra and managing lighting and sound, every element of the production was entirely student‑led. We are immensely proud of our students for embracing each aspect of the show with such confidence and ownership.
Congratulations to all who participated in such a superbly energetic show!
tHougHts from tHe Cast and Crew
Being new to Marymount makes this experience even more special. I have always enjoyed working with tech and computers and being given the opportunity to be part of the Lighting and Sound Team for Sister Act has been incredible. Stepping into the technical role fills me with joy and energy. I am excited for the show and to contribute my craft to the production.
- Malaika, Grade 10
Working on Sister Act has truly been an invaluable experience, not only because of the supportive cast members and faculty, but because of the genuine camaraderie between actors, lighting, backstage and all of those who have put so much effort into our final result. It is thanks to Ms Szym, Ms Tozer, Mr Bader and Ms Oh, who brought passion to this show, their energy was always contagious, inspiring us to express ourselves creatively through every step of the way. This has been my fourth musical at Marymount, and each year I appreciate even more the special experiences I get to be a part of throughout the whole process. I’m so grateful for the friendships I’ve made, the confidence I’ve gained and the memories I will carry with me long after the final curtain closes. I find it difficult to sum up the memories I cherish within, however, each feeling revolves around the excitement, laughter and love that filled every moment of preparing for this musical.
- Cristina, Grade 11
Being in the cast of Sister Act taught us so much, including that your theatre family is like your own family. We have loved being in the cast and enjoyed going to rehearsals to not just be able to act, sing and dance, but also to hear the talent of others and make new friends! As it is our first play at Marymount, it will be a play that we will never forget, which is a good thing as this play is Fabulous, Baby! We are in Grade 6, so it is our first year at Marymount. When we joined the play it felt like we fitted in and everyone was warm and welcoming towards us.
- Katherine and Josefine, Grade 6
a dvent C arol s ervi C e
Bringing our Community together
This year, the Marymount community gathered for an uplifting and joyful Advent Carol Service in the prayerful setting of Sacred Heart Church in Wimbledon. Nearly 300 attendees filled the space, creating a wonderful opportunity to celebrate together and close the year in harmony and hope.
Our talented choir, instrumentalists, and all participating staff and students offered a deeply moving hour of cherished carols and timeless readings, concluding with a special blessing from Father Raj. The success of the service was a testament to the power of the Gospel and the beauty of music—reminding us that the true spirit of Christmas lies in light, joy, and hope.
A heartfelt congratulations to the choir for presenting such a glorious range of music that lifted every heart!
C H ristmas f air
Once again, the Marymount Auditorium was beautifully transformed for our annual Christmas Fair, creating a truly festive atmosphere. Alongside the ever-popular crepe vans, students enjoyed a wide variety of games and activities, with an impressive selection of prizes at the tombola.
Excitement built throughout the afternoon for the much-anticipated raffle draw—especially with seven stunning prizes on offer, including the top prize of a brand-new iPhone!
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Parents’ Association, the fair was a wonderful success, bringing our school community together to embrace the holiday spirit. The commitment of our parent volunteers continues to foster a sense of celebration and belonging that makes Marymount so special.
BThe Berlin trip was an extremely enriching experience that allowed me to understand the Cold War, not just as a topic studied in the classroom, but as a lived reality that shaped people’s everyday lives. Visiting sites such as the Stasi Prison, Checkpoint Charlie and the remaining sections of the Berlin Wall helped to contextualise what we had learnt in our history lessons.
Additionally, hearing people’s personal testimonies alongside the guided tours was incredibly insightful, and enabled us to have a deeper understanding and make further connections regarding the divisions and tensions that defined life in East Berlin during this period.
The street art and graffiti tour provided a contrasting perspective, highlighting how Berlin has transformed its past into a form of creative expression. Overall, the trip strengthened my understanding of the Cold War and made the historical events we studied feel far more relevant and memorable.
- Johanna, Grade 12
s H ort - t erm i mmersion
p rogramme : f ostering g lo Bal r elations H ips
This term, we were delighted to welcome students from Colombia, New York and Argentina, as part of our growing short-term immersion programme - an initiative designed to strengthen links with our sister schools within the RSHM network and beyond, while offering a rich academic and cultural exchange. During their stay, the students joined classes, participated in a range of clubs and activities, enjoyed trips out to London and other local places of interest, and experienced life in our boarding community, forming friendships that span continents. Their experiences beautifully reflect the Marymount ethos: fostering international understanding, encouraging intellectual curiosity, and nurturing young women who feel connected to a global network of learning, leadership and purpose.
Debbie Bellenger Head of Admissions and Communications
“Marymount has been a great experience because I’ve had the chance to meet many new people. I was also able to experience what it’s like to study in a country that isn’t my own and to study in a language that I’m not used to. It has been an amazing experience that has opened my mind to many new things that I had never imagined before. I’ve also met a lot of wonderful people, and I’m really grateful for that.”
Isabella, Grade 11
St Andrews Scots School – Buenos Aires, Argentina
“This community of kind and encouraging people has made my transition into Marymount London such a positive experience. Everyone has been so welcoming and supportive, and its made getting to know new friends and adjusting to life here enjoyable.“
Angela, Grade 10 Marymount, New York
“The culture is very different but it is very warm and welcoming. You can tell that the school is designed for us to be calm and to have the best mental state to learn, which is something that I really liked.”
Gabriela, Grade 9 Colegio Marymount, Barranquila, Colombia
a g limpse into B oarding
“Boarding at Marymount is more than just living away from home; it’s about finding oneself in a place filled with laughter, support, and global friendships.”
- Yashvi, Grade 12 (7 day boarder)
“I’ve been boarding for four months now, and I’ve found it to be a great opportunity to learn, grow as a community, meet new people and learn about new cultures. The first few weeks are difficult because you don’t know anyone, and you miss home and family. Then you start opening up to people, allowing them to get to know you, and you start to create a sense of family with everyone, including the boarding parents. Boarding also organises activities to relieve stress and have fun with your friends.”
- Manuela, Grade 7 (7 day boarder)
“I have been a boarder at Marymount since Grade 6 and it has truly been an unforgettable journey. This year, boarding has already done so many fun activities such as a Titanic museum, a pantomime, ice skating, gingerbread house decorating and many more. All these activities have given us and opportunity to bond with other grades and get to know more people.
Boarding has become part of my family, my safe space. I am always happy to see my boarding family grow together. We are a small community which means we know everyone, this is good because if someone is feeling sad, they can always have someone to talk to. This is why I love Marymount boarding so much.”
- Capucine, Grade 7 (5 day boarder)
Service at Marymount
Kingston Foodbank
This year, Grade 12 had the opportunity to lead the service initiative which collects food and hygiene products for the Kingston Food Bank. Kingston Foodbank aims to help those in our community who are facing food insecurity. We were able to collect a range of items that will provide some relief and support families in Kingston during a difficult time. This initiative reminded us how small actions from our school community can make a real and positive impact to those in need, and we’re grateful to everyone who contributed!
- Ayuka and Lynn, Grade 12 Foodbank Leaders
Science Garden Project
I would like to tell you about the Science Garden Project I took part in when I joined the Marymount community. On ‘New Student Induction Day’ in June, before we even started at Marymount, we were tasked to plant vegetables. We learnt all about how to bury the seed leaf within the ground to give them space and watch them grow, and then months later, we learnt a special technique to harvest all we had planted.
When we started at Marymount, the plants had grown, and there were so many squashes and pumpkins! We got to harvest them, and we sold some, donating the money St. Joseph’s school in Zambia, and gave the rest to the school kitchen, who used it make a delicious meal.
It was a fun and educational project, and I would love to do something like this again.
- Eiwa, Grade 6
Saturday School Programme
As apart of SGIC (the Student Goals and Implementation Committee) we run a Saturday School program. We teach children from Years 5 and 6 from a local primary school, St. Joseph’s, on a Saturday morning.
We choose an annual book to base the lessons off of, for example, this year’s book is Alice and Wonderland and the book is incorporated throughout the lessons during the school year to make it more engaging for the children.
It is such a fun and rewarding experience working closely with children and helping them have fun learning on a Saturday. All SGIC members are so committed to this program, not only working to create interesting and interactive lessons, but dedicating their time weekly.
- Clemmie, Grade 11
Science Service Learning Project
As part of our Grade 9 Science Service Learning project, we worked with our group to research an environmental issue within our school. My group researched wind speed, light intensity, and air quality at various areas of our school between 12:00 and 2:00 pm over multiple months. We focused on an area because of factors such as sunlight, airflow, and air quality.
By collecting data frequently on a set schedule, we were able to notice patterns over time. We shared our research with Peter, our gardener, so that he could use the data to inform decisions about plant placement, maintenance, and improving the sustainability of our school’s outdoor spaces. This project taught us the importance of environmental responsibility, teamwork, and how small actions within a community can lead to meaningful change.
- Matilda, Grade 9
Operation Christmas Child
Operation Christmas Child is a project we have taken part in to help make sure every child wakes up to a present on Christmas. It was a joint grade initiative, and everyone donated a box which contained different gifts such as toys, games, clothes, stationary and also essentials like toothbrushes and hair ties. Each box donated brings a smile to a child’s face on Christmas morning. It was a very rewarding experience and I hope we can do more projects like this in the future.
- Leticia, Grade 9
As part of the Operation Christmas Child initiative, I supported efforts to help children feel included and valued during the Christmas period through donations and festive activities. The initiative focused on spreading kindness and community to those in need.
- Amelia, Grade 8
Corner To Grow
This year, the National Honor Society (NHS) at Marymount have been working on our year-long ‘Corner To Grow’ initiative. We are working with ‘Evolve Housing and Support’, a London-based charity that provides aid for the city’s homeless community. Alongside fundraising for the organisation, we have also been collecting book and toy donations for their Stockwell branch, which specialises in young mothers and children, where we will be building a cosy reading space.
It has been a great way of uniting our committees to achieve a common goal, and has allowed for Grade 11 and 12 students to work together to make a difference in the wider community. We look forward to completing the project in the New Year!
- Amy, Grade 12
NHS President
Philanthropy at Marymount
Appeal - 70th annivrsary bursaries at marymount
We are nearly there!
To mark our 70th Anniversary, we set an ambitious goal: raise £70,000 for the Bursary Fund. Thanks to the outstanding generosity of our alumnae, past families and current parents, we have reached £63,000 as we go to press.
Now, we are making a final appeal to our current community to get us over the line. Bursaries transform lives—not only for the recipients but for our entire community. We all benefit from the fresh perspectives, motivation, and proven achievements of our worthy recipients.
Following Father Gailhac’s example, we believe that a family’s financial circumstances should not be a barrier to their daughter’s education. The £70,000 fund will make the two years of the IB Diploma accessible to a worthy student.
Please consider making a gift of any size. Together, we can reach our target—and make a lasting impact.
Thank you for supporting our mission: “THAT ALL MAY HAVE LIFE”
Network.marymountlondon.com/supportus please specify bursaries in the comment section
upComing events
Open Mornings
Tuesday, 21 April 2026
Marymount International School
To Attend: Spaces are limited. Kindly visit the Admissions section on our website and sign up using the form provided.
If you are unable to make the Open Mornings, or wish to visit our school at a different date, we offer a limited number of private tours throughout the year. To book a tour, please get in touch with our admissions team: admissions@marymountlondon.com
London Alumnae Reunion
Friday, 8 May 2026, Location: Skylon
To Attend: Tickets are free; please register using the link on email inviations coming soon or visit: network.marymountlondon.com/events
Parents’ Association Summer BBQ
Satuday, 29 August 2026, 12 noon - 4.00pm Marymount International School
To Attend: Tickets are included in the PA membership fee for current parents and the students.
Alumnae Reunion Weekend
Friday, 2 and Saturday, 3 October 2026, Marymount International School
To Attend: Tickets are free; please register using the link on email inviations coming soon or visit: network.marymountlondon.com/events
Advent Carol Service
Thursday, 17 December 2026, 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.
Alumnae
