Charlotte Avery, Head of St Mary’s School, Cambridge, discusses what attracted her to what is now the only single-sex school in Cambridgeshire.

What did you do prior to becoming headmistress of St Mary’s School, Cambridge?

I was the first female deputy head in Highgate School’s 400+ year history. My role was to oversee the introduction of girls into the school. My whole career has been spent in education including both the state and independent sectors. 

What attracted you to the school?

There are many different aspects of life at St Mary’s which remain as attractive and important 16 years later as they were for me on appointment! As a passionate feminist, teaching in an all-girls’ space was, and is, deeply important. As a Christian, teaching in a Christian school in the Catholic tradition is equally important. Cambridge as a location was also a draw. Intellectual life in the city affords our young women so many experiences and events. The remarkable legacy of Mary Ward was also key.