I have to disagree I’m afraid. People do choose schools for other reasons besides how they look on league tables. Our daughter could have gone to other independents, and had the option of joining grammar; but we felt she would be happier and better supported, in an environment that was free from the pressure of collecting stars for the tables...
Our daughter was above average ability, but struggled in some things at primary, due to an undiagnosed dyslexia, which was dealt with brilliantly at the school. So much so, she achieved A*s in both her GCSE English exams, and A in A level English literature.
As for eBac, while some schools like Berkhamsted prioritise this as another league table favourite...St. Mary’s are more interested in what is best for the individual child. Our daughter struggled with languages, so although she was given support, it certainly wasn’t something we lost sleep over.
The year groups joining in recent years had grown considerably, averaging around 45. More than enough to find your tribe. And what a lovely tribe they were. Kind, friendly and supportive. Not the dog eat dog, sharp elbowed mentality of some. If that’s what you’re looking for, then yes, St. Mary’s is not for you. But if your no.1 priority is the happiness of your child, and being somewhere she will feel very much part of one big family..and being somewhere where she is more than a potential source of data to boost their tables and selling points...then I would absolutely consider this school.
For all my initial concerns at how relaxed my daughter had appeared to be, in the years and months before her GCSEs...while all her friends at grammar, were attending revision courses and private tutors...I need not have worried. She did far better than most of those girls. 6th form was a particularly happy time, and most of her year group stayed on, in spite of being offered grammar places for A level. AAB in 3 strong subjects as well as her EPQ...and is now well on course for a 1st at a highly regarded RG. Absolutely no regrets, and a happy, well grounded, confident young lady at the other end.