Who We Are
Co-curricular
With more than 100 co-curricular clubs, activities and societies, St Mary’s Calne offers an exceptional breadth and depth of opportunity. Our extensive programme enables pupils to engage purposefully with a wide range of pursuits. From the creative and cultural to the academic, athletic and adventurous.
A world of activities to explore and enjoy from Writer’s Guild to Equestrian Club, Jazz Band to Lego League and from Girl Guides to Illustration Club
co-curricular
Fun, challenge and creativity
Our rich co-curricular programme does not just fill evenings and weekends with fun, challenge and creativity, it helps pupils grow. Every activity fosters valuable skills such as teamwork, resilience, curiosity and confidence, ensuring girls develop both inside and outside the classroom.
Whether leading Young Enterprise, being tested physically and mentally in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award or learning to bake in Junior Baking, pupils gain memorable experiences that enrich their personal growth – an essential part of preparing every individual for their path beyond school.
Drama
Drama at Calne is vibrant, ambitious and full of imagination. From major school productions and the Edinburgh Fringe to Junior Drama, competitions and workshops with leading practitioners, pupils can experience every aspect of theatre. Whether performing, directing, designing or managing backstage, each pupil has the chance to shine.
Music
St Mary’s Calne has a long-standing reputation for musical excellence, supported by outstanding facilities in our purpose-built, four-storey Music School. A light-filled recital room with panoramic views and exceptional acoustics crowns the building, while 15 dedicated practice rooms and a state-of-the-art recording studio provide the perfect environment for musicians to excel.
Art
Art at Calne is stimulating, exciting and enjoyed by pupils of all abilities. In light-filled purpose-built studios, pupils explore independent projects supported by practising artists. Enrichment activities, visiting workshops and life drawing for the Sixth Form encourage creative thinking, while contemporary debates provide inspiration and insight into the future of art.
Sport
We love sport at Calne, both in PE and games lessons as well as our huge range of co-curricular clubs, activities and Tennis Academy. There is a sport for every pupil at Calne, whatever her ability or interest. With outstanding facilities and expert coaching, pupils can explore new sports, compete for the school, or even become a professional sportswoman. We have regular fixtures against other leading schools and trips and tours in the UK and overseas.
Futures Friday
Our Futures Friday programme for Lower School runs alongside our co-curricular activities to empower each pupil to shape her unique path, combining personal fulfilment with real-world impact. Through seminars, coaching and career talks, pupils gain essential skills in leadership, creativity and digital agility and make informed choices about GCSEs, A Levels, university and careers. Starting from Year 7 onwards, we guide every pupil towards the future that fits her best.
Donaldson Award Programme
In the Sixth Form, students engage in a wide variety of experiences across six key strands, working towards the prestigious Donaldson Award. In addition to the Sixth Form co-curriculum opportunities, the Donaldson programme is both personal and holistic, empowering every Sixth Form student to discover new interests, develop skills and reflect on her own growth. With the guidance of a dedicated tutor, each student is supported to set goals, track progress and make the most of every opportunity.
COMPANIES AT CALNE
Encouraging a spirit of teamwork and friendly competition
Every pupil is a member of one of five School Companies, named after local bishops. She remains a member throughout her time here, creating a lasting sense of identity and belonging.
The Company system brings together pupils across year groups for activities and competitions in areas like drama, music, charity and sport. It’s a chance to collaborate, showcase talents and share experiences beyond the classroom. With its blend of teamwork, camaraderie and friendly rivalry, the Company tradition helps pupils build connections, discover new strengths and contribute to a vibrant school community.
ST MARY’S CALNE BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL
Start your journey
At St Mary’s Calne, one of the UK’s leading schools for girls, every pupil is known, supported and inspired to achieve her best academically and personally. We would be delighted to welcome you to our community and show you how your daughter can grow, learn and flourish with us.