Alumnae

Dear Alumnae,

As we reflect on the first half of the academic year, we are delighted to share with you the exciting events, charitable initiatives, and incredible student achievements that have shaped life at Thornton. It has been a term full of energy, community spirit, and noteworthy accomplishments, and we are thrilled to keep you connected with all that is happening!
Community Engagement & Charitable Initiatives

This half term, Thornton hosted the much-anticipated MK Schools Lit Fest in October 2024. Working alongside Waterstones, we welcomed a range of authors who led workshops and shared stories with students from all year groups. In a truly collaborative effort, children from eight neighbouring schools joined us for a memorable day filled with creativity and inspiration.

Our charitable initiatives continued to thrive, with a total of £6,029.08 raised for Samuel’s Charity and the JM Charity in East Timor. Martin Leib and Sister Helen visited to collect the generous donations, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed.

Educational & Extracurricular Highlights

The Year 12 students embarked on their Sixth Form induction at Willen Lake, beginning a weekend filled with fun, challenges, and team-building activities. On their return, they were treated to a luxurious glamping evening in the walled gardens, complete with a barbecue and a cinema under the stars.

Meanwhile, our youngest pupils in the EYFS were introduced to an exciting new curriculum that included Japanese lessons, Forest School adventures, Zoology, and more, offering a vibrant and innovative learning experience.

Student Achievements

We are incredibly proud of our students’ achievements this term. A Year 11 student was shortlisted for the prestigious ‘Write on Art’ Award, celebrating creativity and originality in art history. Year 7 gymnast Tayah-Mya qualified for the Tumbling National Age Group Finals, ranking 4th in the UK—a remarkable accomplishment!

One of Year 13 students shared her Gold Duke of Edinburgh journey with the Year 1 and 2 girls, recounting her incredible experience sailing a yacht 278 nautical miles around the southeast coast of England. Additionally, our equestrian squad, swimming team, and cross-country runners all excelled in their respective competitions.

School Achievements

We were thrilled to maintain our Green Eco Award with Distinction, a testament to the hard work of the Eco Committees in both the Prep and Senior Schools. Furthermore, our Pre-Prep provision was shortlisted for Independent Pre-Prep of the Year at the Independent School of the Year Awards—an outstanding recognition of the exceptional work happening at this stage of our students’ educational journeys.

Thornton College was also honoured to remain listed in the Muddy Stilettos ‘Best Schools Guide,’ with a glowing review that praised the energy and engagement in our classrooms: Thornton College, Milton Keynes – Bucks & Oxon | Muddy Stilettos This recognition aligns
perfectly with our Excellent ISI inspection report and Outstanding CSI inspection, reinforcing our commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience.

Other Notable Events

This year, we were excited to partner with the University of Oxford for their Brainwaves programme, which supports students’ mental health and well-being. The programme’s evidence-based lessons have already begun to make a positive impact, helping students develop strategies to thrive both academically and personally.

The annual Fireworks event, organized by the Friends of Thornton, was another highlight, bringing our school community together for an unforgettable evening of celebration. Additionally, our Prep School’s European Languages Morning was a wonderful success, with students engaging in a range of cultural activities, from cooking and arts to languages and sports.

As we look back on a term full of achievements, we remain grateful for the ongoing support and engagement of our alumnae. Your continued connection with Thornton is a vital part of our community, and we hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the exciting life at school.

Warmest regards,

Dr Louise Shaw
Head Teacher

Dear Alumnae,

As we close the second half of the Michaelmas term, we are thrilled to share the wonderful accomplishments and events that have filled this term with energy, community spirit, and outstanding student achievements. We hope you enjoy this look back at the past few weeks at Thornton, and that you feel proud of all that our current students are achieving in the classroom, on stage, and in the wider community.

Community Engagement & Charitable Initiatives

This term, we were moved by the generosity of our school community. The ‘Bags of Kindness’ project, which involved collecting small Christmas gifts for those in need within the Northampton Diocese, was a resounding success. Our community contributed items for both the elderly and young, and we are so grateful for the kindness shown.

Our final House fundraising event of the term, themed “Cosy and Christmas,” took place and was a resounding success. Students and staff embraced the festive spirit, coming dressed as Christmas characters or simply in cozy attire, to raise funds for the chosen House Charity—the Air Ambulance Service. This vital charity provides life-saving support, and we look forward to supporting them throughout the year.

Year 6 and Year 7 School Highlights

The Prep School enjoyed an exciting and creative workshop led by Waddesdon Manor on the theme of ‘Fairy Tales.’ The girls had a fantastic time engaging in art activities and creating vegetables for the garden in which Jack’s giant beanstalk would grow. Their artwork was proudly displayed as part of the Manor’s Christmas exhibition, a wonderful way to showcase their creativity.

In another special event, Year 6 and 7 students were given the unique opportunity to receive tuition in Bridge from world champion Mrs. Smith. Bridge, known for enhancing strategic thinking, memory, and social skills, sparked the girls’ interest.

Careers Programme

Our Sixth Form Health and Social Care students were privileged to hear from Julie Goodman, Head of Patient and Family Experience at Milton Keynes Hospital. Julie shared valuable insights into roles within the NHS and her work within the patient experience department.

Year 12 and Year 10 Politics students had the chance to visit Milton Keynes Magistrates Court, learning about the legal process and observing live cases. They were also able to question a JP about their role, gaining a deeper understanding of the judicial system.

In a career-focused Spotlight session, Mr. Cook, a civil servant, joined us remotely to discuss the incredible opportunities within the civil service, further enriching our students’ understanding of various career paths.

Student Voice & Leadership

Our Equalities Committee hosted a powerful exhibition for Black History Month, titled ‘Reclaiming the Narrative.’ The exhibition showcased inspirational individuals and fostered an insightful discussion within the Thornton community.

The Prep and Senior School Eco Committees continued to lead impressive sustainability initiatives, discussing projects and ideas to make the most of Thornton’s 25-acre campus. Their passion and dedication are truly inspiring, and we are proud of the leadership they’re showing in environmental matters.

Our School Councils also met to discuss important issues, with Mr. Salter from Harrisons and Mr. Grant, our Catering Manager, joining the conversation to share their expertise and advice.

International Partnership with The Visitation Academy

This term, we launched a new partnership with The Visitation Academy, an all-girls Catholic school in St Louis, USA. Our Year 9 students had the opportunity to meet their American counterparts online, and we are excited about the prospect of future exchange opportunities and continued collaboration between students and staff from both schools.

Musical Performances & Celebrations

We were treated to stunning musical performances this term. Our solo musical concert was a beautiful showcase of our students’ talent, and the Christmas concert was a true highlight, featuring contributions from all year groups. The dedication and hard work of our students and staff were evident, and it was a joy to celebrate such remarkable talent.

The Prep Nativities were a particularly special occasion, with Early Years and Years 1-4 putting on performances that wowed parents and teachers alike. The courage and talent displayed by our youngest students left everyone in the audience beaming with pride.

Debates & Student Achievements

Our students participated in a lively debate against St Paul’s on two thought-provoking motions: ‘This House believes the UK needs to do more to promote and protect freedom of speech’ and ‘This House believes capitalism is a force for good.’ The debates, along with a motivational video from Callum Anderson, MP for Buckingham and Bletchley, highlighted the intellectual curiosity and critical thinking skills of our students.

This term, we also saw outstanding achievements in the Mathematical Olympiad for Girls. Several Sixth Form and Year 11 students received their awards, having successfully completed a challenging 2.5-hour exam with complex problems. We are incredibly proud of their achievements!

Our sporting teams continued to shine, with the Intermediate Cross Country team qualifying for the Regional Final and our swimmers securing spots in the Independent Schools Association’s National Swimming Final. We also celebrated Tayah-Mya from Year 7, who was selected for the Great Britain Tumbling Performance Pathway Squad for 2025!

Christmas Market & Festivities

The Friends of Thornton worked tirelessly to create a magical Christmas Market that brought our school community together in festive cheer. It was wonderful to see so many families enjoying the spirit of the season, and of course, visiting Santa was a highlight for many!

Launch of the EY STEM App

We were excited to launch the Ernst Young ‘EY STEM App’ at Thornton, an initiative aimed at developing critical skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The app will help our students engage with STEM in an interactive way, preparing them for the evolving world ahead.

As we reflect on a term filled with successes, creativity, and a true sense of community, we remain so grateful for your continued support. We hope this newsletter has provided a snapshot of all the incredible things happening at Thornton, and we look forward to sharing even more achievements with you in the future.

Warmest regards,

Dr Louise Shaw
Head Teacher

Dear Alumnae,

As we reach the midpoint of the academic year, we are delighted to share with you the many highlights, achievements, and moments of joy that have filled the Lent term so far. From academic excellence and sporting triumphs to community service and creative expression, our students continue to embody the spirit of Thornton with energy, resilience, and compassion.

Community Spirit & Global Connections

This term began with a celebration of our international partnerships, as Thornton was awarded the British Council’s Intermediate International School Award. Our ongoing collaboration with JM Rabweh in Lebanon continues to flourish, with Sixth Form students engaging in meaningful dialogue and shared learning. We also proudly launched our Year 12 Peer Mentor Project, empowering students to support one another’s wellbeing through peer-led initiatives.

In a moving tribute to our global family, our Global Ambassador led the creation of an international choir for St Claudine’s Day, uniting voices from JM schools across 29 countries. The day was filled with acts of service, from car washing and litter picking to heartfelt performances for local guests, culminating in a joyful Mass and a sweet treat from the Sisters.

Academic & Creative Excellence

Our students have continued to shine academically. Year 13 Chemists took on the UK Chemistry Olympiad, while students in Years 10 and 11 earned Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards in the UK Intermediate Maths Challenge, with several qualifying for the Kangaroo round. Year 11 students also explored new GCSE subjects through engaging taster sessions in Psychology, Business Studies, and Citizenship.

Creativity has flourished across the school. Year 5 students shared their learning through a vibrant performance, and our EYFS students led a Horizons lesson in Japanese for the Sixth Form! Meanwhile, students in Years 8 and 9 coded programs for the European Space Agency, which will run aboard the International Space Station later this year. 

Careers & Alumnae Inspiration

Our Spotlight careers programme continues to thrive, with inspiring talks from professionals including alumnae working in international development and representatives from Freeths Solicitors. We were especially proud to welcome back an alumna now working with WaterAid, who shared her journey from Thornton to a fulfilling career in the charity sector. Her story, filled with resilience and purpose, was a powerful reminder of the impact our alumnae continue to make in the world. 

The STEM Fair was a standout event, welcoming 26 organisations—including Tesla, BP, and the British Army—and students from six local schools. The fair was a celebration of innovation, curiosity, and future possibilities.

Performing Arts & Esports

The performing arts remain a vibrant part of life at Thornton. Our Glee Club enjoyed a magical trip to see Mrs Doubtfire in London, and our choirs are already preparing for their summer tour in France. Students also excelled in LAMDA examinations, with 88% achieving Distinction.

In a new and exciting development, Thornton launched its first-ever Esports team, the “Thornton UFOs,” who have already celebrated several victories in the national Girls’ Schools Association league. Their teamwork and strategic thinking have been outstanding, and we are thrilled to see this innovative programme take flight.

Sporting Success

Our athletes have had a phenomenal term. The Equestrian team secured multiple county titles and national qualifications, while our netball teams across Prep and Senior Schools achieved impressive wins against local schools. Our cross-country runners qualified for the ISA National Finals, and a Year 4 gymnast was named Silver All-Round Champion at the Southern Region competition.

Student Leadership & Recognition

We were proud to announce our new Sixth Form Leadership Team, selected after a rigorous application process. Their passion and commitment to the school community are already evident. Meanwhile, two Year 8 students were named finalists in the MK STEM Awards for their pioneering role in establishing the Esports team.

Our Prep-tacular Pioneers and Doodle Champions have been celebrated for their exceptional learning habits and contributions to school life, and our Eco Committee continues to lead sustainability efforts, including food waste reduction initiatives inspired by Laudato Si’.

Looking Ahead

As we look forward to the second half of the Lent term, we are excited for upcoming events including the Friends of Thornton Easter Trail, more fixtures and performances, and continued academic and personal growth for all our students.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support and connection to Thornton and we look forward to seeing many of you at the Eater Trail! 

With warmest wishes, 
Dr Louise Shaw 
Head Teacher

Dear Alumnae,

As we conclude the Lent term, we are delighted to share the many moments of joy, achievement, and community spirit that have filled the past weeks at Thornton. From academic accolades and creative expression to charitable initiatives and unforgettable performances, our students continue to embody the values and vibrancy of our school community. 

Community Spirit & Celebrations 

This term was rich in community events, with the Friends of Thornton Easter Trail drawing over 200 families for a day of sunshine, egg-rolling, and festive fun. Our Spring Open Morning welcomed prospective families, showcasing the warmth and excellence of Thornton life.

The school also marked World Book Day with a “Bedtime Stories” theme, featuring creative costumes and a delightful “bear hunt” led by senior librarians. Assemblies throughout the term explored themes such as courage, leadership, culture, and transformation, reinforcing our shared values. 

Academic Excellence & Creative Expression 

We were thrilled to be awarded the NACE (National Association for Able Children in Education) Challenge Award, recognising our commitment to high-quality provision for able learners. Students across the year groups showcased their talents in a variety of ways. Many undertook Extended Project Qualifications (EPQ) and Higher Project Qualifications (HPQ), exploring topics as diverse as AI in healthcare and cultural identity in architecture.  

In the Prep School, Speak Week gave students the opportunity to present poetry, stories, and personal reflections with confidence and flair. Additionally, students excelled in their LAMDA examinations, demonstrating exceptional preparation and performance skills.  

Careers & Alumnae Inspiration 

Our Spotlight Careers Programme continued to thrive this term. One of the highlights was a visit from an alumna now starring in the West End’s Oliver, who inspired students by sharing her journey from Thornton to the stage. Careers Week was another major success, featuring speakers from a wide range of sectors including international development, publishing, aviation, and the police force. We were also proud to be featured in national education publications for our work on Prep Careers, celebrating the aspirations of our youngest students.  

Performing Arts & Esports 

The school’s production of Legally Blonde was a standout success, with students dazzling audiences with their talent and energy. Our Soloist Music Concert and Speech and Drama performances in Pre-Prep further highlighted the depth of artistic talent across the school.

Meanwhile, the Thornton UFOs Esports Team continued to shine, securing a friendly win against Newcastle High School for Girls and maintaining their momentum beyond the GSA League. 

Sporting Triumphs 

Thornton athletes had a phenomenal term filled with impressive achievements. Our netball teams across all age groups secured victories in both regional qualifiers and local tournaments. The U13 Indoor Cricket Team triumphed in their district competition and advanced to the county level. A standout individual performance came from a Year 3 gymnast who ranked 4th nationally, earning multiple medals in beam, floor, and conditioning. Additionally, our students participated in the Rotary Swimathon, collectively raising over £1,000 for charity.  

Student Leadership & Global Connections 

Newly appointed Sixth Form Leaders and House Captains led initiatives such as the 1980s-themed fundraiser, which brought the school together in support of the Air Ambulance and JM charities. Our Global Ambassadors also visited our JM sister school in Madrid, strengthening international ties and sharing their experiences through student-led media.  

As always, we are immensely proud of our students and grateful for the continued support of our alumnae community. We hope this newsletter has brought you a little closer to the heart of school life.

Wishing you a joyful Easter and a restful break.

With warmest regards,
Dr Louise Shaw
Head Teacher 

Dear Alumnae,

As the summer sun begins to warm our beautiful grounds, we are delighted to share the highlights of a truly vibrant Trinity Term 1. This half term has been a celebration of growth in every sense — from the curious minds of our youngest students to the confident voices of our Sixth Form leaders. Across classrooms, sports fields, theatres, and beyond, our students have embraced every opportunity with joy, courage, and ambition. 

Community Engagement & Charitable Initiatives 

Our community spirit has flourished this term. The Friends of Thornton have been instrumental in enriching school life — from donating woodwork equipment to EYFS to preparing for the much-anticipated Summer Fête and Dog Show. Thank you too to the Old Thorntonians Association for their support in hosting a heartwarming Alumnae Cream Tea, where past students reconnected and shared memories.

Our students have continued to show compassion and initiative. The Great Cereal Topple, led by Year 4, saw an impressive amount of cereal boxes donated to the Milton Keynes Food Bank, creating a spectacular domino display. Meanwhile, our House Captains’ 1980s-themed fundraiser raised nearly £600 for charity — a joyful day that united the whole school in colour, music, and generosity. 

Academic & Extracurricular Highlights 

Learning has taken many exciting forms this term. Students across year groups engaged in internal examinations, demonstrating focus and resilience. Our Key Stage three and Four explored anti-bullying themes in assemblies, while Year 9 Faith Ambassadors continued their international dialogue with peers at the Visitation Academy in St Louis, USA.

We welcomed inspiring visitors, including the Royal Navy, who led teamwork challenges, and Network Rail, who shared career insights with our Sixth Form. Thornton also joined the GSA pilot programme – the ‘Girls Research Association’ – giving Year 7 students the chance to co-author research with peers from other schools — a wonderful opportunity to develop critical thinking and collaboration.  

Student Achievements 

Our students have excelled across a wide range of disciplines this term. In the LAMDA examinations, an outstanding 96% of students achieved Distinction, reflecting their dedication and talent across all grades. A proud moment for the school came when a Year 13 student received her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award at Buckingham Palace, a testament to her perseverance and leadership. In equestrian sports, our students achieved remarkable success at the British Showjumping Winter Finals, earning podium finishes and securing national rankings.  

Prep students also shone in gymnastics, bringing home multiple medals from national competitions held at Lilleshall. On the athletics front, our track and field teams delivered strong performances in regional events.  

Performing Arts, Sports & Leadership 

Creativity and leadership have been on full display. The Prep Spring Music Concert and Years 1–4 assemblies showcased musical and dramatic talent, while the Year 5 & 6 production of “School of Pop” promises to be a highlight next half term.

Our Year 13 leavers were celebrated with a joyful week of themed outfits, a moving Leavers’ Mass, and a final BBQ and laser tag evening. Their leadership and warmth have left a lasting legacy and we wish them all the very best for the future.

Meanwhile, our Bronze Duke of Edinburgh participants completed their expedition with determination, and I have had the privilege of celebrating several successes with students over breakfast!   

This term has offered joyful glimpses of the future — in the confident voices of our youngest students, the thoughtful leadership of our Sixth Form, and the global connections that continue to grow. As one alumna recently said during our cream tea, “Thornton just has it.” While hard to define, that “it” — the warmth, the spirit, the sense of belonging — is felt by all who pass through our gates.

We thank you, our alumnae, for being part of that spirit.

With warmest regards,
Dr Louise Shaw
Head Teacher