Malvern St James
Malvern St James is a leading independent school for girls set at the foot of the majestic Malvern Hills. What helps to make us distinct and refreshing, is our recognition and active support for the individual talents, interests and passions of girls, and the liberating and inclusive ethos the school embraces.
We nurture a freedom of spirit, respect for others and support of every member of our school community. Our staff are innovative and passionate about their work and constantly evolve new ways to inspire learning and exploration of their subjects, often beyond the curriculum. We actively encourage debate and open discussion. We explore the world around us, at home and across the globe. We believe in maintaining truth and transparency as a school community.
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The Prep Department, Senior School and dedicated Sixth Form Centre sit together on the main school site, whilst Boarding houses are a stone’s throw away, and a short walk from the town of Great Malvern where girls can go to shop, have coffee, or to see a film or play as they grow older and more independent. As well as full or weekly boarding, girls can flexi-board one, two or three nights per week.
MSJ is a refreshing and inspiring school for girls. A school that helps girls to truly develop their thinking skills, to explore who they are and to develop the courage and self-belief to go out into the world and be true to who they are.
Curriculum: MSJ doesn’t produce a ‘type’ of girl. We achieve excellent academic results but we are not an exam factory. Our ethos is one of inclusion and respect. Girls can pursue their passions and interests in the field of their choice – all routes are equal. It may be horse riding, engineering, politics, the environment or climbing. We recognise the importance of allowing each individual to grow and flourish. We find ways to support girls to achieve their passions.
The curriculum also supports pupils who need special provision including very able pupils, and those for whom English is an additional language. Those who have specific areas of expertise have adapted timetables to allow them to focus on their specialism, giving time to practise and train, with personalised coaching and mentoring sessions.
Our ‘Russell Up’ provides preparation for the most competitive UK and international universities and career pathways.
Scholarships: Academic, Drama, Music, Art, Riding, Technology, Boarding and Sport Scholarships are available and our Founders’ Awards bursary programme enables outstanding girls applying for Sixth Form to access the excellent educational opportunities offered at MSJ. We also offer generous bursaries.
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Entrance examinations: For entry to MSJ Prep girls are invited to attend a Taster Day at MSJ where a more informal assessment will take place.
Girls looking to join Year 7-10 will sit an English Comprehension examination and a Cognitive Ability Test (multiple choice verbal, non-verbal, quantitative and spatial ability test) and each girl will have an interview. Here at MSJ, we are looking for potential in the results. For girls whose first language is not English, a CEPT test will be required alongside the CAT test.
Girls applying for Sixth Form are asked to complete three subject papers for subjects they would like to study at A Level, followed by a CEPT test for girls whose first language is not English.
Location: The School benefits from being positioned in the small but culturally lively town of Great Malvern, on direct rail routes from Birmingham and London Paddington. The M5 and M50 are nearby and London, Birmingham, Bristol and Manchester airports are within easy reach.
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"…at the forefront of thinking on girls’ education...the school feels driven and full of girls who are going to change the world…"
"Every morning when I drop my daughter at school, she is happy and looking forward to the day. At MSJ she has learned a great life lesson – to appreciate that every single person has something to contribute. Respect for others seems to be embedded within the DNA of the School."
"Malvern St James has helped me to explore my interests further than I had ever thought possible, challenging and enriching me in so many positive ways. So many of the extra-curricular activities have helped me to learn new skills and develop existing ones. Whatever path I choose in life, I know I’ll be well prepared. Whether it’s debating passionately about the ethics of medicine, or giving everything for the team at the lacrosse nationals, MSJ has helped me flourish."
School Videos
School Information
- Head - Mrs Olivera Raraty
- School type - Girl's School
- Age Range - 4 - 18
- Pupil Numbers - 400 (160 Boarders)