About St. Mary’s Secondary School

Choosing a school is an important decision in a student's educational journey. Beyond academic performance, factors such as teaching methods, institutional values, learning facilities, extracurricular activities and opportunities for personal development help shape a student's experience. For girls, access to quality education in an environment that encourages confidence, independence, leadership and social responsibility can be particularly meaningful.

Located in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, St. Mary’s Secondary School is one of Nepal's established girls' educational institutions. Founded in 1955, the school has a long history of providing education guided by the educational philosophy of Mary Ward. Managed by the Sisters of the Congregation of Jesus, the institution emphasizes academic excellence, moral development, social responsibility and the empowerment of girls through education.

In 2025, St. Mary’s celebrated its Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years of educational service in Nepal. Over the decades, the school has developed an academic environment that combines classroom instruction with cultural programmes, leadership activities, community service and value-based education.

The institution currently serves students from Grade 1 to Grade 12. It follows the National Curriculum of Nepal at the school level and offers +2 programmes in Science and Management under the National Examinations Board (NEB).

Its educational philosophy focuses on developing young women who are intellectually capable, morally grounded, socially responsible and confident in facing the challenges of contemporary society.

Academic Programmes: From Grade 1 to +2

St. Mary’s Secondary School provides educational opportunities from primary education through higher secondary education, allowing students to continue their academic journey within the institution.

Primary and Basic Education (Grades 1–8)

At the primary and basic levels, the school follows the National Curriculum of Nepal. Its academic programme focuses on foundational knowledge, language development, mathematical understanding, scientific awareness and social learning.

The curriculum includes Nepali, English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Health, Population and Environment Education, along with other prescribed subjects.

During these years, students are encouraged to develop reading habits, communication abilities, discipline, independent thinking and an understanding of social values.

Secondary Education (Grades 9–10)

At the secondary level, students continue with the national curriculum and prepare for the Secondary Education Examination (SEE).

The school offers subjects including Nepali, English, Compulsory Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Health, Population and Environment Education, and optional subject choices.

Academic instruction is supported by laboratory activities, classroom discussions, practical assignments and assessment throughout the academic year.

The secondary programme aims to establish a strong academic foundation and prepare students for further studies at the higher secondary level.

Higher Secondary Education (+2)

St. Mary’s Secondary School offers two-year higher secondary programmes under the National Examinations Board (NEB).

Students who successfully complete the SEE can pursue the following streams:

• Science: The programme includes subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics and English. It provides an academic foundation for students interested in medicine, engineering, biological sciences, physical sciences and other science-related disciplines.

• Management: The programme includes subjects such as Accounting, Economics, English, Nepali, Social Studies and Life Skills, with options including Computer Science, Business Studies and Business Mathematics.

The +2 programmes provide students with opportunities to develop subject knowledge, analytical abilities and academic skills required for university-level education.

Educational Philosophy: Knowledge and Virtue

One of the defining characteristics of St. Mary’s Secondary School is its educational philosophy, rooted in the vision of Mary Ward.

Mary Ward, an English religious leader and pioneer of girls' education in the 17th century, believed that women deserved access to education and opportunities to participate meaningfully in society. Her educational vision continues to influence the institution's approach to learning and student development.

The school's motto, For Knowledge and Virtue, reflects its belief that education should develop both intellectual ability and moral character.

Its educational philosophy emphasizes the formation of the whole person. Academic achievement is considered alongside values such as honesty, compassion, justice, respect, religious tolerance and social responsibility.

The institution seeks to develop young women who can think independently, make responsible decisions, respect human dignity and contribute positively to society.

Teaching and Learning Approach

St. Mary’s Secondary School emphasizes academic learning alongside personal development and practical experiences.

Its educational approach encourages students to participate in classroom discussions, academic activities, group learning, cultural programmes and community engagement.

The school also recognizes the importance of learning beyond conventional classroom instruction. Field experiences and educational visits are included in its learning activities to help students connect theoretical knowledge with real-world situations.

The institution's academic philosophy emphasizes discipline, punctuality, regular attendance and consistent performance. Student progress is considered through academic assessments as well as behaviour and participation in school activities.

Through this approach, the school seeks to develop students who are academically prepared, responsible and confident in their abilities.

Learning Facilities and Infrastructure

A supportive academic environment requires access to facilities that encourage classroom learning, independent study and practical investigation.

St. Mary’s Secondary School highlights several facilities intended to support students' academic and personal development.

These include:

• Science Laboratories: Facilities for practical experiments and scientific learning.

• Mathematics Laboratory: Resources to support mathematical understanding through practical and interactive activities.

• Computer Laboratory: Facilities for computer education and technology-based learning.

• Library: A collection of academic and reading resources intended to encourage independent study and reading habits.

• Smart Classrooms: Technology-supported classroom facilities to enhance teaching and learning.

• Playground: Space for sports, physical education and recreational activities.

• CCTV and Security: Surveillance arrangements intended to support campus safety.

These facilities provide opportunities for students to engage with different areas of learning and participate in activities beyond textbook-based instruction.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

St. Mary’s Secondary School considers practical experiences an important part of education. The institution organizes activities that allow students to explore subjects, understand their surroundings and develop a broader perspective on society.

Its institutional information identifies several regular activities:

• Field trips

• Educational visits

• Community and social service

• Model United Nations (MUN)

• FOZ

• SQC

These activities provide opportunities for students to develop communication, collaboration, critical thinking and social awareness.

Field trips and educational visits help students connect classroom learning with practical experiences. Community service encourages them to understand social challenges and develop a sense of responsibility towards others.

Participation in Model United Nations provides an opportunity to engage with international issues, develop public speaking skills and understand different perspectives through discussion and debate.

Student Development, Leadership and Co-Curricular Activities

At St. Mary’s, education extends beyond academic achievement. The school gives importance to cultural activities, leadership formation, social engagement and student participation.

Its institutional approach emphasizes developing students who are confident, compassionate and capable of taking responsibility.

Activities such as cultural programmes, social outreach, student leadership initiatives and academic events provide opportunities for students to discover their interests and develop individual abilities.

The school also promotes discipline, teamwork and cooperation through its institutional activities and student responsibilities.

These experiences can help students develop confidence, communication skills, organizational abilities and a stronger understanding of their roles within society.

Social Responsibility and Community Engagement

Social responsibility is an important part of the educational philosophy of St. Mary’s Secondary School.

The institution encourages students to participate in community-oriented activities and develop awareness of the needs of disadvantaged groups.

One of its notable initiatives is its association with Mary Ward Schools, including institutions in Jhamsikhel and Lubhu, which serve economically and socially marginalized communities. According to the school's institutional information, approximately 500 students receive free education through these schools.

The school also has sister institutions in Pokhara, Gorkha and Biratnagar, extending its educational mission beyond Jawalakhel.

These initiatives reflect the institution's commitment to making education accessible and promoting social responsibility among students.

Alumnae Network and Social Contribution

St. Mary’s has an established alumnae community whose members have pursued careers in different professional and social fields.

The school identifies the Association of St. Mary's Alumnae Nepal (ASMAN) as an important part of its extended institutional community.

Established in 1990, ASMAN is a non-governmental, non-profit organization that supports disadvantaged Nepali women and children. Its activities cover areas including health, education, environment, cultural awareness and development.

The association brings together former students of St. Mary’s and provides a platform for continued social engagement and community support.

The alumnae network also represents the long-term influence of the school's educational philosophy, connecting generations of former students through shared institutional values and experiences.

Institutional Background and Educational Vision

St. Mary’s Secondary School was established in 1955 in response to the need for a strong educational institution for girls in Nepal.

The school began its journey after the Government of Nepal invited the Sisters of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM), based in Patna, India, to establish an educational institution in Lalitpur.

Its educational foundation was influenced by the vision of Mary Ward, whose work emphasized the importance of educating girls and empowering women through knowledge and opportunity.

Over seven decades, St. Mary’s has developed into an established educational institution, expanding its academic provision and community engagement activities.

In 2025, the school celebrated its 70th anniversary in the presence of the President of Nepal, Ram Chandra Paudel.

The school's mission emphasizes the formation of fearless and responsible citizens who can face life's challenges with confidence, compassion and integrity.

Its vision also highlights education as an instrument of social transformation, encouraging justice, religious tolerance, human dignity and respect for life.

St. Mary’s Secondary School at a Glance

An Educational Institution Dedicated to Knowledge and Virtue

St. Mary’s Secondary School has developed an educational identity shaped by its long history of girls' education and the vision of Mary Ward. Its emphasis on academic learning, moral development, leadership and social responsibility reflects an approach that considers education an important foundation for individual empowerment and social transformation.

From primary education to higher secondary studies, the school combines the national curriculum with practical learning, cultural activities, community engagement and opportunities for leadership development.

Its commitment to educating girls, supporting disadvantaged communities and maintaining an active alumnae network further reflects the broader social dimension of its educational mission.

For parents and prospective students, choosing a school requires careful consideration of academic programmes, teaching practices, facilities, admission requirements, fees and the learning environment. Visiting the institution and understanding its educational approach can help families make an informed decision.

Families interested in St. Mary’s Secondary School can contact the institution directly for updated admission information, programme details and other school-related enquiries.

St. Mary’s Secondary School
Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal
G.P.O. Box: 8975, EPC 481, Kathmandu, Nepal
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01-5421574, 01-5424848
Website: stmarys.edu.np