Thornton College
11+ Admissions Guide 2026

Thornton College is an independent Catholic day and boarding school for girls, founded in 1917. It forms part of an international family of schools belonging to the Congregation of Jesus and Mary, a registered charity overseen by trustees and a governing body. The school welcomes pupils from Early Years through to sixth form, and offers boarding for girls aged 7 and above, with two boarding houses set within the school grounds, including the original manor house and a villa. The school aims to provide an environment where pupils respect and value others, seeing themselves as part of a wider community. Academic, physical and spiritual development are all encouraged, with a focus on helping each pupil discover her potential whilst growing in the knowledge and love of God. Pupils come from a range of backgrounds, and several boarders join from overseas. The school supports pupils with a variety of additional needs, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, pupils with English as an additional language, and those identified as particularly able or with special talents in areas such as sport, music and drama.