From high academic standards to excellent behaviour; aspirational goals and strong traditional Catholic ethos; we offer an education that treats our students as individuals, teaches them respect for themselves and each other, and encourages them to emerge into the wider world as well-educated, well-rounded, ambitious and confident young adults.

St Mary's Catholic High School is an 11-16 co-educational, mixed comprehensive school, set in the heart of Croydon. It has been serving the local community since its foundation in 1851. The school prides itself on its diverse and harmonious school community, where students feel safe and well cared for, with leaders who  expect  all pupils to achieve highly, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and speakers of other languages who are beginning to learn English.

In November 2021, Ofsted once again rated the school as 'Good', stating:

"St Mary’s Catholic High School is a deeply caring community. Its pupils and staff live up to their core values of being welcoming, serving others and working hard."

"Pupils like coming to school and enjoy learning. They feel safe here and know that staff go the extra mile to check their whereabouts and well-being."

In December 2021, the Diocesan Section 48 Inspection also rated the school as 'Good', stating:

"The extent to which pupils contribute to and benefit from the Catholic Life of the school is outstanding."

"Pupils derive great benefit from attending this highly inclusive school where pupils feel safe and secure. There is a clear focus from the leadership team on the preferential treatment of the poor and disadvantaged."

St Mary’s Catholic High School is a caring community which has Christ at its centre.

The School aims to promote mutual respect and understanding of each other and the environment, to develop the full potential of the individual, and to provide equal opportunities for all.     

In pursuance of these goals, we offer every member of the school community opportunity to study the impact of the Gospel message of love through all the subjects in the curriculum and to reflect on these through a genuine experience of worship and prayer.

In order to maintain a high standard of education, we provide an atmosphere where good communication can take place, nurturing a pastoral dimension that offers appropriate support to all within the school community.

We foster links with the wider community in order that the Gospel message can be lived practically with all people caring for others and making a positive contribution to the advancement of humanity.

St Mary's Catholic High School is:

• situated in the heart of Croydon
• a seven minute walk from East Croydon Station
• a five minute walk to West Croydon Station
• next to the Croydon Tram system, connecting Wimbledon, Beckenham and the surrounding area
• close to excellent shopping and local amenities
• provides on-site parking for staff.

St Mary's staff benefit from:

• a collaborative approach and positive relationships
• strong strategic leadership
• support from managers and colleagues
• equality of opportunities for staff
• appreciation of staff achievement and contribution
• induction of new staff and ongoing development for ECT
• students' respect for staff and others
• support for career progression
• links with St Mary's University for professional development (10 members of staff have either completed or progressing on the MA in Catholic School Leadership)
• generous local authority pension scheme for support staff.

We are part of the Archdiocese of Southwark Commission for Schools and Colleges to find out more please click here.