Welcome to The Maynard!

Set in a leafy area of central Exeter in Devon, we are the leading independent day school for girls aged 4 -18 (Reception – Year 13) in the South West.

Steeped in a rich history dating back to 1658, The Maynard today is so much more than a top academic school. Over the years we have built an outstanding reputation for excellence in the Arts, Music and Sport whilst our pastoral care is widely regarded as second to none.

Discover more about
The Maynard

Latest Good Schools
Guide report

Independent Secondary
School of the Year 2025

Watch: In Our Own Words

The Power of Her Story…

“The Maynard has played a huge role in my life. The school really helped me to find confidence in myself and gave me the impetus and self-belief to apply to Oxford, and I’m still so grateful to the many amazing teachers that I had right across my time there… I loved the community of the school – which I still feel a part of, through the wide group of friends I still have to this day whom I met through The Maynard.“

Zoe Flood, BAFTA-winning filmmaker & journalist

“I honestly believe that my natural curiosity was brought to life by the string of fantastic teachers I had, especially for all the science subjects (but for other subjects, too!)… Had it not been for the dedication and constant accommodation of my passions, I don’t think I would be where I am today.”

Flora McKinney, Nuclear Reactor Operator at Hinkley Point

“I look back at my time at The Maynard with such fond memories and, without doubt, it has hugely helped with my journey so far! I was grateful for being surrounded by supportive staff and for all the many opportunities, and of course my friends and classmates who made my time at Maynard very special.”

Alex Daniels, Volcanologist

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at The Maynard! The school supported me to grow into a more confident person and instilled core skills such as adaptability, taking initiative and problem solving. These skills have been foundational to my career ever since.”

Charley McIntyre, Associate Executive Director, the Audain Foundation (Canada)

“I absolutely loved my time at The Maynard (and, embarrassingly, still remember the school song!)… I made some fantastic friends whilst at school and was supported by some truly excellent teachers. I always look back on my time very positively and, if I still lived in Devon, would love to send my daughter there.“

Charlotte Evans, Solicitor specialising in White Collar Crime

“My time at The Maynard really taught me to believe in myself and to not give up until I have achieved my dream! I don’t believe I would be where I am now without the unwavering support of my teachers and tutors.“

Ella Goddard, Specialist Paediatric Dietitian

“I always say to people that my time at The Maynard was honestly one of the best times of my life. The friends I met there, and the experiences that I had, will always be such prominent and fond memories on top of the skills I’ve taken and expanded upon.“

Isobel Pinsky, Actor

“I look back very fondly at my time at The Maynard. The environment really built my confidence in a way that has been incredibly powerful for my career. The encouragement to speak up and share your ideas in a safe environment comes in very handy in many situations…“

Ella Mooney, International Logistics Development Manager for M&S

“For me, The Maynard was a safe space where my confidence could grow. As a very shy child, I felt comfortable there from the start, probably because the teachers and students were all so welcoming. I really would not have wanted to go to any other school.“

Millie Dart, Wine Merchant

“I absolutely loved my time at the Maynard. The effort that the teachers took to give us the best learning experience possible was immense and so special. I particularly look back on my Food & Nutrition lessons at school with very fond memories and with a very full heart. Those were the lessons that clicked most with me and my soul; something that will always be treasured.“

Olivia Carbonari, Chef Tutor

“The Maynard will always hold a very special place in my and my family’s heart. I have two older sisters who went there before me – Marwa, who is now a GP in Yorkshire, and Safa who is a consultant at a global pharmaceutical company in London – and each of us were lucky enough to be on the Head Girl team! We often talk about how privileged we were to go to such a lovely school.“

Sara al Seaidy, Software Development

“The teachers were obviously fantastic, but the best part about The Maynard for me was the extracurriculars. I just threw myself into everything, from the hockey team to the school choir and orchestra, to leading assemblies, to Ten Tors, to modelling in a charity fashion show and running a sanitary pad making workshop for charity…“

Miren Sowden, NHS Health Policy

“Looking back at my time on The Maynard, I’d describe it as nurturing and supportive… The teachers went above and beyond to support their students, even those not in their own classes. During Sixth Form, there was a strong focus on supporting each student’s chosen career trajectory… It was a positive and encouraging environment to pursue our dreams.“