In 1914, a request sparked a legacy. That’s how St. Catherine’s School began. Here beside the River Thames, St. Catherine’s School stands as a testament to girls’ education.
St. Catherine’s School in Twickenham has been nurturing young women for over a century. Imagine this place buzzing with the energy of girls eager to learn. The Sisters of Mercy arrived here at the request of Canon English. He was the Parish Priest of St. James’s. They named the school after St. Catherine of Siena. She was the patron saint of the Superior who answered Canon English’s call. The original building still carries the name St. Catherine’s.
In 1919, St. Catherine’s School relocated to Pope’s Villa. The grounds expanded across both sides of Cross Deep. A unique underground passage called Pope’s Grotto connected them. By 1920, the school had grown to 100 students. About 20 of them were boarders.
After the 1940s, St. Catherine’s School saw significant development. A spacious hall appeared. More teaching facilities emerged and also a swimming pool.
The Sisters of Mercy concluded their dedicated service in 1991. Parents then established a charitable trust. They purchased the garden site. They appointed the first lay Headmistress. This ensured the school’s continuation.
The new century ushered in further expansion at St. Catherine’s School. The Prep School grew. A new Sixth Form Centre opened. Sports facilities improved. New spaces for Art, Photography, Food Technology, History, and Science came into being. By 2011, St. Catherine’s School featured brand new dining facilities. More teaching areas appeared.
Today St. Catherine’s School has 440 pupils. The Prep School has 110 pupils. The Senior School has 330 pupils. The values of the Sisters of Mercy still resonate. This was clear during the celebration of 100 years of Mercy education in 2014.
The school motto is ‘Not Words, but Deeds’. It highlights the importance of action. The saying of St Catherine of Siena encourages girls to focus on their gifts.
As St. Catherine’s School progresses into its next century, further developments are planned. These include upgrading sports facilities. They will also upgrade the Music Department. The aim is to help girls find enjoyment and success.
So, as you stand here, remember the journey of St. Catherine’s School. It’s a story of faith, dedication, and a commitment to empowering young women. A place where girls are encouraged to set the world on fire.