Thornton College
Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire · MK17 0HJ
Thornton College is an award-winning independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3–19 in Milton Keynes, with a Catholic foundation and a distinctive commitment to being non-selective and inclusive. The school emphasises a creative, future-focused curriculum where pastoral care and broad co-curricular opportunity enable each pupil to develop confidence and agency. Its ethos centres on girls thriving within a supportive, ambitious community that values both academic rigour and individual flourishing.
- →Non-selective entry policy creates an inclusive, mixed-ability community without the pressure of competitive entrance exams
- →Strong pastoral care and boarding provision, with boarding options from age 11 onwards
- →Broad, creative curriculum with emphasis on individual development rather than examination league tables alone
- →All-through provision (ages 3–19) allowing continuity of care and community
Who thrives here
Girls who benefit from a nurturing, non-pressurised environment where pastoral support and individual flourishing are prioritised alongside academic progress. Pupils who thrive in single-sex education and those seeking boarding flexibility.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Convent of Jesus and Mary, Thornton
Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
MK17 0HJ
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Thornton College?
Day fees at Thornton College are approximately £16,500 per year (2025/26). Boarding fees are higher.
How do you get into Thornton College?
Thornton College admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Thornton College's exam results?
At Thornton College, 31.3% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 47% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Thornton College a boarding school?
Thornton College offers boarding as well as day places.
What is Thornton College's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Thornton College “Excellent” (2022).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Inclusive, non-selective approach removes pressure and creates diverse, supportive community
✓Strong pastoral care and emotional wellbeing support, particularly valued by boarding families
✓Creative, broad curriculum that encourages confidence and individual flourishing
✓Welcoming Catholic ethos without dogmatism; open community feel
Common concerns
!Not yet inspected by Ofsted, so no external validation of quality; parents must rely on school reputation and direct visits
!Smaller sixth form intake may limit subject choice compared to larger independent schools
!Limited transparency on academic outcomes and university destinations publicly available