Music
At St. Mary’s College we enjoy making, listening to and appreciating music of all genres.We strongly encourage students to become involved in making music outside the classroom. Activities include:
- individual instrumental lessons in a wide range of instruments (piano, woodwind, brass, string, percussion, classical guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar).
- College Orchestra, made up of around 20 pupils and members of staff, that rehearses weekly. It performs music in a variety of styles (pop, classical, jazz, marching band, film themes, etc…).
- College Choir, which rehearses weekly and performs choral and popular music from the Medieval period through to current chart songs.
- College Worship Band, which is made up of between 4 and 8 pupils and staff, led by Bro. James. This rock band rehearses regularly and performs modern Christian rock and traditional hymns during the regular College Masses and other liturgies throughout the year, as well as performing in the College concerts. There are also opportunities for the Worship Band to help lead the music at international youth gatherings run by the De La Mennais Brothers in France and elsewhere.
- numerous pupil rock bands
- small ensembles and solo performance
- an annual College stage production.
Pupils are also encouraged in their music-making activities away from school, many being involved in local Music Theatre companies, Music Festivals, etc… There are opportunities for students to attend concerts, operas and musicals both locally and in London.
Sailing
Sailing continues to thrive at the College and over the last three years has become very popular with students in all year groups. Students have access to RYA certification through the use of the Southampton Water Activities Centre (SWAC) on the River Itchen. The six weeks courses are run from 4.00 pm until 6.00 pm on a Monday evening after school. Students are transported to and from the centre by College minibus. This activity does come at an additional cost but a discount has been negotiated with SWAC which makes it much more affordable. Current prices can be obtained through the School Office. For more information about the RYA levels and SWAC follow the link below.
Sports
The school also has a thriving Sports scene and students are encouraged to take part in a full range of activities. Cricket, Athletics, Running, Football, Netball, Table-tennis, Badminton and Dance (subject to numbers). The College has a new Fitness Room which will further enhance the quality of provision. The school blog maintains an excellent record of all the activities undertaken.
Spanish
Students with an apptitude for languages are able to follow Spanish in addition to French (compulsory), and Optional German. Currently Spanish classes occur after school on Thursday and Tuesday lunchtime.
Lunchtime Activities
Students have access to a wide variety of activities across the lunch hour. Table tennis in the main school gym has become extremely popular and the school has a thriving and successful table tennis club. Students are able to access the Fitness Gym and use a broad range of fitness equipment under supervision from staff. Those looking for something less active have access to ICT, Chess and Games clubs or perhaps something more relaxing in our Film Club. This time of day can be very active for those rehearsing for choir, band or school productions.
Students are able to use the library for quiet study or reading. The College is fortunate to have 18 acres of open space. Those students who simply wish to play outside, sit at picnic tables or in the Founder's memorial garden can do so.
