On selecting the school:
‘We were looking for a school that is focused on the girls rather than their own ratings. Thornton interviewed us and assessed our situation rather than simply testing pure academic ability through an entrance exam. We had enough stresses moving countries without exams!’
On admissions
‘We are so glad that we chose Thornton College Catholic girl’s school for [our daughter sic] . During the application process, we felt that the admissions team and Dr Shaw were excellent in they welcomed us and made us feel at home.’
On settling in and pastoral care
‘The boarding staff were very careful to help our younger child settle, giving her flexibility to contact us in a stressful first week and using her sister to support her. By week two she was fully immersed in the boarding experience.’
‘Thornton has provided a wonderful environment for [our girls sic] the support we have received has been outstanding. As a military family, coping with frequent separations due to deployments can be incredibly challenging, particularly for children. The staff at Thornton have been exceptionally understanding and proactive in helping my daughters manage separation anxiety. Their compassionate approach and tailored pastoral care have made a significant difference, ensuring my girls feel safe, supported and valued, even during the most difficult times.’
‘[Our daughter sic] will not stop talking about school when she is at home, we are so proud to see how her confidence continues to grow.’
On Community:
‘…the strong sense of community at Thornton is something I truly value. Both day and boarding pupils are encouraged to develop resilience, confidence and independence, all while feeling part of a nurturing and inclusive environment.’
On teaching:
‘Our older daughter had to catch up with UK teaching part way through year 10, teachers supported her and she got 9 good GCSEs to get her to A-levels this year.’
‘Thornton’s ability to provide personalised support for one of my daughters following her SEN diagnosis has been exemplary. The school’s dedication to creating an inclusive learning environment and offering the necessary resources has allowed her to thrive academically and socially, giving us peace of mind knowing she is in such capable hands.’
On boarding staff:
‘The boarding staff encourage the girls to chat to them and are always flexible if we need to take a child out for an evening event. They run a sensible electronic device policy that allows access but controls screen use at bedtime, by age, leading to girls whose phones never go to bed with them at home.’
‘The boarding staff are amazing, and all the staff have been welcoming, helpful and child focused. We believe that our daughter will continue to thrive in her academic journey at Thornton College.’
On opportunities:
‘Our daughters have experienced UK and overseas travel, DofE, charity events, debating, performances and sports matches. Our younger daughter has embraced weekly boarding as a way of life.’
‘The wide range of extracurricular opportunities, combined with a focus on academic excellence, has enabled my daughters to flourish both in and out of the classroom.’
On Food:
‘The communal eating in a modern dining environment with access to good food with plenty of choice seems to be a daily highlight for our daughters. The cafe is an added treat!’
On organisation:
‘The school is well organised, information flows well and plans are thorough. The contrast with other schools that we have experienced in communication and thorough planning is extreme.’
On billing:
‘For CEA invoice and proof of payment requirements are very specific, the finance team have provided bespoke versions of both to meet the information requirements on MOD timelines.’
Thoughts….
‘I cannot thank Thornton enough for their ongoing commitment to supporting military families like ours. Their understanding of the unique challenges we face and their willingness to go above and beyond is a testament to the caring ethos of the school.’
‘For us, Thornton College provided our girls with an incredible and immediate sense of community and belonging which is so important as they are frequently uprooted and moved ….. We really appreciate the high values and standards shared by their friends and teachers as well as the positive influence they receive daily. Our girls have loved the variety of classes, clubs and opportunities (DofE, music, drama) provided by the school and as parents we have enjoyed watching them blossom both academically and socially.’
