A Warm Welcome from the Headteacher

Welcome to Folkestone St Mary’s Church of England Primary Academy — a school where every child is known, nurtured, and empowered to succeed in their own way.

As Headteacher, my vision for leadership is rooted in transparency, collaboration, and a deep belief in the potential of every child and every member of staff. I want St Mary’s to be more than a place of learning — I want it to be a community where people grow, belong, and thrive.

We are proud of our Christian values of Friendship, Forgiveness, Compassion, and Service, which shape our culture and guide our decisions. These values help us create a safe, inclusive, and ambitious environment where children feel supported and inspired to achieve their very best.

At St Mary’s, we are building a learning-centered culture that celebrates diversity, prioritises well-being, and holds high standards for all. We believe that education should be rich in opportunity, full of joy, and deeply connected to the world beyond the classroom.

Our goal is to be a prestigious and trusted school at the heart of the Folkestone community — a place where families feel welcome, staff feel proud, and children leave with the confidence and character to make a difference.

I warmly invite you to explore our website, visit our school, and discover the spirit of St Mary’s for yourself.

Warm regards,
Mr Richard Paez
Headteacher