Business Details
Thornhill Primary School: Empowering Children Through Excellence in Education
Thornhill Primary School stands as a leading educational institution in Dunstable and Houghton Regis, dedicated to delivering high-quality primary education. Established to serve the growing community, we operate across two purpose-built sites: Grove Road for Early Years and Key Stage 1 pupils, and Silver Birch for Key Stage 2 students. Our curriculum emphasizes sustainability, diversity, and arts enrichment, fostering holistic development.With a team of experienced educators, we maintain a strong focus on academic excellence while nurturing individual talents. Recognised as a 'Good' school by Ofsted, we prioritise creating a safe, inclusive environment where every child thrives. Our commitment to community partnerships ensures parents play an active role in their child's educational journey.
Services
Primary Education
Arts Enriched Curriculum
Eco Education Programme
Music Opportunities
SEND Support
Highlights and features
- We are a top-performing primary school in Dunstable and Houghton Regis
- Our dual-site campus provides age-appropriate learning environments
- Arts-enriched curriculum develops creativity and critical thinking
- Active Eco Warriors programme promotes environmental stewardship
- Recognised as 'Good' by Ofsted for educational quality and leadership
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted GOOD
Services
Primary Education
We deliver comprehensive primary education for children aged 4-11 across two purpose-built campuses. Our curriculum follows national standards while incorporating unique arts and sustainability elements. Qualified teachers create engaging lesson plans that develop core academic skills alongside creative thinking. Both sites feature specialist facilities including music rooms and outdoor learning spaces.
Arts Enriched Curriculum
Our distinctive arts programme integrates creative expression across all subjects. Students participate in regular music sessions, visual arts projects, and drama activities. This approach develops imagination, cultural awareness, and cross-disciplinary thinking. The Silver Birch campus houses dedicated art and music studios for enhanced creative learning opportunities.
Eco Education Programme
The Eco Warriors initiative teaches sustainability through practical activities. Children maintain kitchen gardens, manage recycling programmes, and participate in conservation projects. This hands-on approach develops environmental responsibility while connecting science learning to real-world applications. The school grounds feature eco-friendly designs and outdoor classrooms.
Music Opportunities
We provide comprehensive music education from Early Years through Key Stage 2. Students access instrumental lessons, choir participation, and performance opportunities. The curriculum develops musical theory, instrument skills, and appreciation for diverse genres. Specialist music rooms at Silver Birch campus support advanced learning and creative exploration.
SEND Support
Our dedicated SENDCo provides tailored support for children with special educational needs and disabilities. Individualised learning plans, specialist resources, and targeted interventions ensure all students access the curriculum. We maintain close partnerships with external agencies and provide regular progress monitoring to support each child's unique development needs.
People
Mrs B Waite
Headteacher
Mrs Waite leads Thornhill Primary School with a vision for inclusive, sustainable education. She oversees curriculum development and staff training across both campuses, ensuring consistent high standards. With extensive leadership experience, she champions community partnerships and innovative teaching practices that benefit all pupils.
Mr C Gunning
Deputy Headteacher
Mr Gunning manages academic achievement and pupil progress across key stages. He coordinates teacher development programmes and implements school improvement strategies. His focus on data-driven instruction helps maintain Thornhill's position as a top-performing primary school in the region.
Miss L Phillips
SENDCo / Inclusion Lead
Miss Phillips oversees special educational needs provision and medical support across both sites. She develops individualised learning plans, coordinates multi-agency support, and ensures accessibility for all pupils. Her expertise in inclusive education helps Thornhill maintain its commitment to every child's success.
Mrs D Bond
Parent Support and Safeguarding Lead
Mrs Bond coordinates family support services and safeguarding procedures. She provides pastoral care, facilitates parenting workshops, and ensures child protection policies are rigorously followed. Her approach builds strong home-school partnerships that enhance pupil wellbeing and academic success.
Mrs A Taylor
Senior School Business Manager
Mrs Taylor oversees financial operations and administrative functions across both campuses. She manages school resources efficiently, ensuring infrastructure and staffing support Thornhill's educational mission. Her leadership maintains the school's strong operational foundation.
Questions
What makes Thornhill Primary School unique?
Our dual-site campus model provides age-appropriate learning environments with specialist facilities. The curriculum combines academic excellence with arts enrichment and environmental education, creating a distinctive educational experience.
How does the school support pupil wellbeing?
We have dedicated pastoral staff, an active Eco Warriors programme, and structured social skills development. Our small class sizes and individualised support ensure every child receives appropriate attention.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We offer music lessons, choir participation, sports clubs, and creative arts workshops. Both campuses have specialist facilities including music rooms and outdoor learning spaces for enhanced extracurricular opportunities.
How does the school involve parents?
We maintain regular communication through ClassDojo, host family workshops, and encourage parental involvement in school activities. Parents receive termly progress reports and can schedule meetings with teachers at any time.
What special educational needs provision exists?
Our dedicated SENDCo provides tailored support with individualised learning plans, specialist resources, and targeted interventions. We work closely with external agencies to ensure comprehensive support for all pupils with additional needs.
How does the school ensure safety?
We maintain strict safeguarding procedures, secure campus access, and regular safety drills. All staff receive safeguarding training, and we have clear protocols for attendance monitoring and child protection concerns.
