Headmaster's Welcome
Stonyhurst St Marys Hall is a springboard to a life of purpose. We empower our boys and girls to be the best that they can be, shaping leaders of the future who carry a sense of purpose and a desire to make the world a better place.
St Mary's Hall is the Prep School at Stonyhurst, where Years 3 - 6 are taught. Stonyhurst St Mary's Hall provides the first steps in each child’s education at Stonyhurst, characterised by a seamless education from age 3 to 18, with boarding from Year 3 (age 7) onwards.
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.
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.
As you read through our website, we hope that you find the information not only uplifting but also helpful. It will become increasingly clear to you that the children are happy and that they know it is good to be at St Mary's Hall.
About the Headmaster
Fr Christopher Cann was appointed Headmaster of Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall in 2022. Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall is Fr Christopher’s fourth Headship in independent boarding and day schools. Prior to joining Stonyhurst, Fr Christopher was Headmaster of Ratcliffe College Preparatory School in Leicestershire and previously Headmaster of Leicester Preparatory School and Denstone College Preparatory School. He has a Master of Arts degree in French from the University of St Andrews and in Theology from the University of Oxford.
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. St Mary’s Hall is an innovative, creative and diverse community where learning is celebrated, initiative and passions are nurtured, and lifelong friendships are formed.
Fr Christopher Cann, Headmaster Stonyhurst St Mary's Hall