St Catherine'S Catholic School

St Catherine’s Catholic School London Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in the picturesque riverside town of Twickenham, southwest London, St Catherine’s Catholic School stands as a beacon of academic excellence, spiritual formation, and community engagement. Founded in the early 20th century by the Sisters of Mercy, the school’s heritage is deeply intertwined with the history of Catholic education in London. Its unique setting on the historic site of Pope’s Villa—once home to the famed poet Alexander Pope—adds cultural and literary significance to the campus, making it a compelling destination for those interested in the intersection of history, faith, and education.

As the only independent Roman Catholic girls’ school in the Richmond area, St Catherine’s has evolved through decades of change while remaining true to its motto, “Not Words, but Deeds.” This commitment to action, service, and moral development continues to inspire students and visitors alike. Whether you are a prospective family, a history enthusiast, or a traveler exploring Twickenham’s cultural sites, this guide provides detailed information on the school’s history, visiting hours, ticketing policies, guided tours, and practical visitor tips.

For more about the school’s heritage and current offerings, visit the official St Catherine’s Catholic School website or consult resources like the Open University’s guide to Roman Catholic communities in London.

Introduction
School History and Foundation
Educational and Community Significance
Notable Events and Leadership
The School’s Place in Catholic London
Visiting St Catherine’s Catholic School
- Visiting Hours & Booking
- Accessibility & Location
Pope’s Villa and Architectural Heritage
The Chapel of St Catherine
- History & Features
- Visiting Information
Visitor Tips and Practical Information
Nearby Attractions in Twickenham
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

School History and Foundation

St Catherine’s Catholic School was established in 1914 by the Sisters of Mercy at the request of Canon English, the Parish Priest of St James’s. Originally housed in a building still known as ‘St Catherine’s,’ the school moved in 1919 to Pope’s Villa—an architecturally significant site built on the grounds of Alexander Pope’s original villa (St Catherine’s School History, Wikipedia).

Throughout the 20th century, the school expanded its facilities and academic offerings. Significant milestones include the construction of a large hall, additional teaching buildings, and a swimming pool in the post-war years. The Ministry of Education officially recognized St Catherine’s as a grammar school in 1961, confirming its status as a leading institution for girls’ education in the region.

In 1991, the Sisters of Mercy passed the school’s stewardship to a charitable trust formed by parents, ensuring the preservation of its Catholic ethos while opening its doors to girls of all faiths and backgrounds (St Catherine’s School History).

Educational and Community Significance

St Catherine’s is the only independent Roman Catholic girls’ school in the Richmond area and operates under the Archdiocese of Westminster (Wikipedia). Rooted in the values of the Sisters of Mercy, the school cultivates a nurturing environment focused on compassion, service, and academic achievement. The motto, “Not Words, but Deeds,” reflects an unwavering dedication to practical action and community involvement (St Catherine’s School).

The curriculum is broad and balanced, integrating rigorous academics with arts, music, drama, and co-curricular activities. The school’s guiding principle—“Be who God wants you to be and you will set the world on fire”—inspires students to pursue intellectual curiosity, creativity, and leadership (St Catherine’s School).

The inclusive ethos is evident in the diversity of the student body. As of 2025, nearly one-third of pupils are from minority ethnic groups, and the school welcomes students regardless of religious background (Wikipedia). Alumni go on to excel in various fields, reflecting the school’s holistic approach to education.

Notable Events and Leadership

Centenary Celebrations: Over 100 years of academic excellence commemorated through special events and community gatherings.
Facility Expansions: Ongoing investments in modern classrooms, a Sixth Form Centre, and specialized spaces for the arts and sciences (St Catherine’s School History).
Curricular Innovation: Regular updates to include new subjects and technologies, ensuring students are prepared for the modern world.
Leadership: Headteacher Mrs. Nicola Thompson leads a dedicated team committed to fostering spiritual, academic, and personal growth (Right School).

The School’s Place in Catholic London

St Catherine’s foundation coincided with a resurgence of Catholic life in London after centuries of religious tension (Open University: Roman Catholic Communities in London). The school’s presence in Twickenham—an area known for its historical diversity—has played a key role in maintaining religious identity and promoting social cohesion.

Visiting St Catherine’s Catholic School

Visiting Hours & Booking

St Catherine’s primarily welcomes visitors during scheduled open days and special events. These occasions allow prospective families and interested guests to tour the campus, meet staff, and experience the school community. General public access is limited, and the school does not offer routine tourist visiting hours.

How to Visit: Contact the admissions office to book a visit or learn about upcoming open events. Details are available on the official website.
Tickets and Entry: There is no charge for attending open days or official tours, but advance booking is required.

Accessibility & Location

The school is located at Cross Deep, Twickenham, TW1 4QJ, adjacent to the River Thames and near Strawberry Hill and Twickenham railway stations (Wikipedia). The campus is easily accessible by train, bus, and local road links. Limited on-site parking is available; public transport is recommended.

For those with mobility needs, accessibility arrangements can be made—contact the school prior to your visit (St Catherine’s School).

Pope’s Villa and Architectural Heritage

The school’s setting at Pope’s Villa is both historically and architecturally significant. The site features buildings and gardens on both sides of Cross Deep, connected by the storied Pope’s Grotto (St Catherine’s School History). This unique environment offers a tangible connection to England’s literary and architectural history, providing a special context for learning and reflection.

Modern developments—such as the Sixth Form Centre and new art studios—blend seamlessly with the historic character, ensuring that students benefit from top-tier facilities within a heritage-rich setting.

The Chapel of St Catherine

History & Features

The chapel is a spiritual and architectural centerpiece of the school, reflecting the religious heritage of the Sisters of Mercy and their dedication to faith-based education. Its beautiful stained-glass windows and serene atmosphere provide an inspiring setting for reflection, worship, and community gatherings.

Visiting Information

Visits to the chapel are primarily available during open events or by private appointment. To arrange a visit, contact the admissions team at [email protected]. There is no charge for visiting as part of official tours, but advance booking is essential due to the active nature of the school.

Photography is permitted during guided tours with prior permission.

Visitor Tips and Practical Information

Plan Ahead: Contact the school well in advance to schedule visits or attend open events.
Use Public Transport: Twickenham and Strawberry Hill stations are nearby; parking is limited.
Respectful Conduct: Dress modestly and behave courteously, especially during religious events.
Safety: Twickenham is generally safe, but remain alert and mindful of personal belongings (Travel and Tour World).
Accessibility: Notify the school in advance if you have special mobility or accessibility requirements.

Nearby Attractions in Twickenham

Enhance your visit by exploring local sites such as:

Strawberry Hill House
Twickenham Stadium
Orleans House Gallery
Marble Hill Park
The Thames riverside walk

For further information on Twickenham’s attractions, visit the Twickenham Tourism Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How can I arrange a visit to St Catherine’s Catholic School?
A: Visits are by appointment during open days or through the admissions office. See the official website for details.

Q: Are there tours for the general public?
A: The school primarily hosts prospective students and families; public access is limited to scheduled events.

Q: Is there an entrance fee for visits or tours?
A: No, visits during open events are free. Private tours require booking but are usually not charged.

Q: Is the school accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the campus provides accessibility features. Notify the school in advance for specific arrangements.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Photography is permitted during tours with prior permission and in accordance with safeguarding policies.

Conclusion

St Catherine’s Catholic School in Twickenham is more than an educational institution—it is a living testament to the values of faith, learning, and community that have shaped Catholic education in London for over a century. Prospective families and visitors can experience this legacy through open days, guided tours, and special events that highlight the school’s unique history, vibrant community, and inspiring setting.

To stay informed about visiting opportunities, events, and educational insights, consult the official school communications, check the Right School profile, and consider the Audiala app for real-time updates.

For a truly enriching visit, pair your exploration of St Catherine’s with other local attractions like Strawberry Hill House and Twickenham Stadium.