Meet the Headmaster

Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall, together with Stonyhurst College, is the UK’s leading independent Catholic boarding and day school for boys and girls aged 3 – 18 years.  

Children at St Mary’s Hall live life to the full; St Mary’s Hall is a family to which the children know they belong. Our motto, ‘Quant Je Puis’  (as much as I can), is our over-arching principle. Each child is encouraged to give of their best, whether it is in the classroom, on the sports fields or through the myriad of other opportunities they have for their personal development and all-round growth. One of our principal aims is for every child to feel that their contribution to school life is valid and worthwhile, and their needs are recognised.

Here at Stonyhurst we are privileged to live, work and play within glorious surroundings. Each child is encouraged to pursue his or her innate fascination with the world around us. 

We are a Catholic school in the Jesuit tradition. This means that we have a particularly strong focus on pastoral care and nurture, and on developing the whole person. We treat each child as an individual; each is supported and encouraged by the other boys and girls and by a strong, talented and extremely committed staff. This positive atmosphere enables children to flourish. 

Our boys and girls have access to some truly excellent teachers, innovative wrap-around care and belong to an internationally-minded community. I’m a firm believer that children can achieve anything if they have the platform and the inspiration to do so. The breadth and richness of our curriculum has been designed with that in mind and seeks to truly enhance children’s formative years. Our curriculum may be forward-looking, but it is underpinned by respect for our proud history and traditions in the pursuit of personal excellence, wherever it may lie. 

It is not possible to share everything through the pages of a website, nor will you truly be able to appreciate the vibrancy and warmth of our school community. Ultimately, it is the children who breathe life into St Mary’s Hall. If you would like to know more about our school and spend time amidst its people then please do come and see us. You are assured the warmest of welcomes.  
 

Ian Murphy
Headmaster