St Mary’s has a strong, positive, shared vision and ethos that has learning at its core.  As a Catholic school our ethos is underpinned by the Gospel values.  We provide an inclusive ethos where the dignity and value of each individual is respected and valued.

We promote positive relationships and foster an ethos that encourages all pupils to respect themselves and others. It is our aim to promote positive behaviour through a range of strategies that highlight sound self-esteem for all children.

We have an active and engaged Parent Council and Fundraising Group who support the school in many ways. Our local community is interested in school involvement and we have developed strong links with St Mary’s Parish, Tesco, Active Schools, Healthy Valleys, Lanark Lanimer Committee and Biggar Rugby Club.

Our children are happy, secure and enjoy learning. The school works in a climate of continuous improvement with all stakeholders having a commitment to improvement and increased attainment. Pupils are encouraged to work hard, to have high levels of attendance and to wear their school uniform.  Homework is part of the school culture and parents, pupils and staff worked together to update our approaches to homework.

As a member of the Holy Cross Learning Community we enjoy close links with our colleagues in Holy Cross High School, and with Lanark Grammar School, Saint Aidan’s High School and local primary schools and nurseries to ensure smooth transitions.  We readily access the skills and expertise of other professionals when required to support the individual needs of our pupils and their families to ensure social justice and equity of opportunity.

Our school is privileged to have the spiritual support of Father John Paul McShane, the Parish Priest of St. Mary’s Church, who visits the school regularly as our School Chaplain.