Kirsty Blencowe, Head of School
Welcome
Ian Bartle, Executive Head
Kirsty Blencowe, Head of School
Welcome to Thornford Church of England Primary. Part of Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust (SAST), we are a small rural school set in beautiful grounds in the picturesque village of Thornford. We have the advantage of spacious grounds including a forest school area, an extensive playing field, playground and a spiritual garden.
We have strong links with the local church, St. Mary Magdalene and our golden thread: Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself, is used to promote positive attitudes and relationships amongst our pupils. From their first day in Reception, our children are nurtured in a safe, happy learning environment. A growth mindset and resilience are encouraged and there is provision for the children’s individual needs so that pupils can achieve their potential. They are well-prepared socially and academically for the next stage of their education by our dedicated staff.
All the staff have a shared ethos about child-centred education, working together to develop the whole child, encouraging lively enquiring minds; the ability to question and argue rationally; apply themselves and therefore learn, effectively. We teach the children to become responsible, caring individuals, who respect the values of others. Furthermore, we foster a positive attitude towards the local and global community; developing in the children a sense of their place within it.
We have the added bonus of a school kitchen with three wonderful staff who prepare and cook from scratch, delicious, nutritious meals for our pupils.
I am proud to say that Thornford was inspected in November 2024 and we received outstanding for behaviour and attitudes and outstanding for personal development alongside good for leadership and management, curriculum and the early years. Our SIAMS church schools inspection was in March 2025. The inspector remarked how ‘respect and kindness are indeed the hallmarks of our school’s work’. In particular, she saw how our golden thread of ‘Treat others as you would like to be treated’, draws the school community together. It is wonderful to see our students embody our school values daily, creating a nurturing environment for everyone. We understand the importance of a close partnership between home and school, based on honesty, confidence and trust. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our school.