Return to flip book view
Message Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 1
Welcome to Thornhill College A warm welcome to Thornhill College which has been educating young ladies in Derry City and beyond since 1932 We enjoy the advantage of an excellent location on a spacious site with state of the art facilities Thornhill College is a safe and inspiring place to learn where children are respected their talents nurtured and they thrive Adults and children work towards this goal together As a UNICEF Rights Respecting School we are a community where children s rights are learned taught practiced respected protected and promoted We are a college renowned for academic excellence and want to promote the holistic development of all our pupils from Year 8 until the threshold of young adulthood This involves fulfilling their emotional social physical and spiritual needs which are met by a highly qualified and dedicated staff Our Mercy Ethos permeates all aspects of life where a welcoming inclusive and nurturing environment will provide a multitude of opportunities to enable your daughters to be the very best they can be and realise their true potential As a listening school we value the partnership we have with parents as we aspire to facilitate the best learning experience for each child as they embark on their seven year journey with us We are a community which recognises the uniqueness and individuality of each pupil in our care and will actively promote their many gifts and talents The welfare of every girl is paramount to everything we do as we want every pupil to be happy and to develop meaningful relationships Promoting emotional resilience and well being will equip pupils with skills for life so that their aspirations for their future can be a vision that becomes one day a reality We are very proud of our school and our pupils and look forward to showcasing what Thornhill College has to offer when you visit on our Open Day on Saturday 11th January Ms Sharon Mallett Principal 2 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 3
4 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Making the Right Choice We understand that choosing the right school for your child is such an important decision and one that takes much thought and deliberation So why should you consider Thornhill College We are proud to say that we offer excellent teaching outstanding achievements and fabulous facilities Pupils and staff work together in an environment which is conducive to enjoyable relevant learning and which equips our students for the modern world Our school aims to educate girls to live confidently become women of vision hope and compassion whilst maximising their individual learning potential We place an emphasis on the attainment of high academic standards alongside seeking to establish clear moral and spiritual guidelines for all our students Our commitments to you The care and welfare of all central to our planning A continued focus on academic excellence Clear and regular communication to help parents carers stay informed and connected High expectations from all for all Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 5
Summer School We host a two day Summer School packed full of lively and engaging activities that allow the girls to get to know each other in an informal setting and atmosphere This is deliberately scheduled for the end of August so that when our new Year 8 students don their uniform and commence their lessons for the first time they are already familiar with the school and each other Some of the activities the girls can look forward to include crafting a treasure hunt cookery ceili dancing drama an interactive science show and art to name just a few 6 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Year 8 Class Buddies Our Year 8 Class Buddies will be on hand to welcome and offer support to your child as they begin the first day in their new school These same buddies will assist each form class during their first few weeks at Thornhill College by accompanying them to their classes to the canteen lunchrooms and to the buses carpark at the end of the school day until they are confident enough to do these on their own So there is no need to worry about getting lost being late or missing the bus as there is always someone there to guide our Year 8 girls Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 7
8 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Making the Transition In Thornhill College we endeavour to make the transition from primary to secondary level education as smooth as possible for both parents carers and children alike Our induction programme has been designed to be an enjoyable and informative experience for all and to ensure that every student settles into their new school with ease Our induction programme consists of A Parent Carer Information Session A Year 8 Summer Scheme An Induction Day at the start of the school term Class Buddies to support each form class Ongoing Support Parent Carer Information Session Parents carers you will be invited to attend a Year 8 Information Session in May before your child starts at Thornhill College This session will provide you with essential information about how we can work together on the next stage of your child s educational journey Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 9
Rights Respecting School We are a Rights Respecting School which celebrates diversity fosters a sense of belonging and actively involves students families and staff in decision making Together we create a supportive and connected environment that promotes the mental health and well being of students through education prevention and early intervention efforts 10 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
A Caring School In Thornhill College we are committed to providing outstanding Pastoral Care The welfare of each girl is central to everything we do Placing considerable importance on the well being of our pupils is fully integrated into our daily routines taught curriculum and extra curricular activities It permeates all aspects of school life and is the responsibility of every member of staff We believe that when our girls feel safe and cared for they will achieve their full potential Therefore the emotional health and well being of all is promoted and we collaborate closely with parents carers to ensure this We strive to provide a system of wraparound care and so each form class is cared for daily by their Form Teacher Head of Year Head of School and Senior Leadership Team We teach our girls that every adult is there to support them they can reach out knowing they will be listened to and they are valued Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 11
A Parent s View 12 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
It was a very proud moment seeing my twin girls in their uniform for the first time not only for me and their daddy but also for them As we took that obligatory first day at school photograph at the front door I could see the pride in their faces their hard work had paid off they were officially Thornhill Girls I remember the excitement when the girls received their welcome postcard from the school it was a lovely gesture and it signified the communication between the school and family was going to be a positive one Everyday the girls come home talking about the different things that they have learnt that day they speak with excitement about their classes and their new subjects such as Technology and Design Home Economics and ICT On some occasions we are even treated to some conversational Spanish or a tune on the recorder which is brilliant When listening to the girls talk what has become very apparent is the balance that the school encourages with regards to academic achievement emotional health and extra curricular activities For parents with their first child transferring to big school it can be an anxious time Thornhill College staff were prompt in providing all the information that we needed to make the transition as smooth as possible The school communicates using the app to ensure that busy parents do not miss important messages The girls have settled in so well and I feel that this was aided by the summer scheme that they attended at the end of August It helped them familiarise themselves with the school and ease any worries that they may have had about getting lost etc The girls have thrown themselves into life at big school by getting involved in some of the many extra curricular clubs either at lunch time or after school For me as a parent this speaks volumes about how well they have settled in and how much that they are enjoying school Choosing the right school for your child can be very overwhelming My advice to parents as they embark on this chapter is to visit the open days talk to the students and the teachers and get a feel for things Thornhill College has a lovely calming atmosphere in a beautiful building with modern facilities I can already see a growth in confidence in the girls their ability to prepare their school bags navigate their way around the school and plan their homework has me in awe This is a testament to the support that they are getting from the staff I know that we as a family are incredibly happy and content with our decision to send the girls here They both feel safe and nurtured and we have no doubt that with the continued support of the amazing staff they will continue to thrive Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 13
14 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
A day in the life of a Year 8 girl Hello my name is Molly and I am a Year 8 student in Thornhill College I have only been here a few weeks but I have thoroughly enjoyed the beginning of my journey so far So what does a typical day look like for a Year 8 student in our school Each morning I look forward to walking to school with one of my best friends With our bags on our backs and smiles on our faces we make our way up the avenue past the towering red dancing girls sculpture down the meandering corridors to meet the rest of my friends old and new Each morning we re excited to go to the canteen and we re also welcomed by the freshly baked smell of croissants It s impossible to resist them We enjoy a catch up before the bell rings to announce the beginning of school Miss Dooher our form teacher always makes sure we re prepared for the day ahead and gives out important announcements Of course she always makes sure we say our school prayer too a local charity However you do have to be fast as they sell out quickly I enjoy the spare time at lunch because there s lots to do I usually play Gaelic with my friends or spend some time in the library or one of the lunch time clubs I d really recommend that you get involved in the extra curricular activities because it s a way to make new friends from other classes I m delighted to be in the Year 8 Netball team and take piano lessons on a Monday So as I said get involved I can t believe how quickly I have settled into my new school and how quickly those nerves I had at the start have disappeared My advice to you is don t worry and just concentrate on enjoying your last few months of primary school before you too make the jump I hope we will see you in Thornhill College in September Molly 8C I find French is always good fun with Madame Shanks as she has come up with some really interesting and engaging ways to get us involved in the learning of the language I love Technology and Design because it s so new and something I d never done before As a special treat in science class for all our fantastic work we re actually making slime so it s been really exciting It s great when break time comes round and you discover there s a bun sale to raise funds for Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 15
16 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
An Inclusive School Thornhill College strives to achieve a fully inclusive learning environment to allow all our pupils to reach their true potential We have a holistic approach to learning to ensure each pupil has access to the full curriculum and facilities We understand that each pupil is unique and our Learning Support Team work tirelessly to adopt a personalised approach to support students in a wide variety of settings We understand the importance of working closely with pupils staff and parents carers to provide additional support when needed In Thornhill College our teachers are trained in inclusive practices which are embedded in all aspects of teaching and learning so that students are included enthused and engaged The learning experience is further enhanced through our tailored Learning Support lessons which provide an opportunity for Key Stage 3 pupils to develop their Literacy and Numeracy skills Our Learning Support room serves as a sanctuary for pupils fostering a secure and nurturing environment where students can explore grow and overcome challenges Within its walls a sense of belonging flourishes allowing individuals to express themselves without judgment The Learning Support team provide tailored assistance building the confidence and resilience of each pupil Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 17
Meeting Every Child s Needs What being a teaching assistant in Thornhill College means to me is playing a crucial role in supporting pupils and providing them with any additional help and encouragement they may need This can be incredibly rewarding as I get to see them grow and succeed It also allows me to build a strong relationship with both pupils and staff and of course parents carers all of which establishes a positive and shared learning environment for our young people The role is so varied and no two days are the same as no two children are the same Not only do I work with a wide age range of pupils from 11 to 18 but I also support pupils with a diverse and varied range of needs One of the most rewarding parts of the role is being able to work and support the pupils as they transition from their primary school education into post primary and seeing them grow and 18 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
progress over the years and move on to various levels of further education with confidence and belief in themselves I strive to always listen to my pupil s voice and take on board what they have to say and how they are feeling Thornhill College is about instilling confidence and belief in all of our pupils and as a teaching assistant this has become part of something I do every day Any pupil who attends Thornhill College can be certain that as a school we will strive to ensure that their needs are met Each child is encouraged and supported to overcome the challenges and barriers they may face along the way However you can be assured that this will be done with care and compassion Mrs Orla Mc Dermott Teaching Assistant Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 19
20 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Living the Mercy Tradition As a Catholic school we understand that parental preference for Thornhill College implies a commitment to the school s Christian ethos and to the Religious Education programme delivered However we wholeheartedly welcome pupils from other faith traditions and will make the necessary arrangements to accommodate a child s faith commitment Grounded in the Mercy tradition of education we see religious faith and practice as something which is an integral part of the whole school experience of our students and we aim to foster and promote faith development throughout the entire curriculum and school community Our lived Mercy Ethos is also exemplified through the faith based programmes Pupils are given opportunities to take an active role in the Ambassador of St Paul Award Pope John Paul II Award and the Year 13 Mercy Group These opportunities uphold our unique history inspired by Catherine McCauley the founder of the Sisters of Mercy The Mercy Moments Awards are awarded monthly to pupils demonstrating and living out our Mercy Values of Compassion Respect Integrity Justice Hope and Joy Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 21
22 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Recognising Rewarding Excellence In Thornhill College we strive to model positive behaviours and build strong relationships We encourage students to demonstrate the highest standards of respect co operation and organisation in both their behaviours and academic work To that end we are fully committed to recognising and rewarding their motivation efforts and achievements Across each Key Stage a structured reward system is in place and embraced by pupils and staff alike All pupils can gain positive reward points for a wide range of categories including excellent work significant progress charitable endeavours contribution to our school community courtesy and kindness In turn these are also communicated to parents carers daily via our SIMS App so that pupils receive the recognition they deserve in real time We believe that rewarding students not only boosts their confidence and self worth but serves as a powerful motivator encouraging them to engage actively in their studies and strive for better outcomes Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 23
24 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Staying Connected Communication between pupils parents carers and staff is an integral part of our school practice and we do this in several ways The Daybook All pupils will use the individual daybook to record homework and ensure that there are clear lines of communication between home and school The daybook will be regularly monitored by form teachers and parents carers are required to sign it weekly Monthly Newsletter Each month a vibrant and informative newsletter is shared with pupils parents carers and staff It is used to showcase the wonderful talents and work of our whole school community whilst also celebrating the outstanding achievements of individual pupils and groups Thornhill College App SIMS App is used as another method to communicate with pupils and parents carers Information and notices are posted regularly via the app to keep everyone up to date with all areas of school life Pupil progress reports which are communicated at various stages throughout the academic year can also be accessed through the app Parent Teacher Meetings We recognise that parents carers play an active role in their child s education and welcome the opportunity to meet personally with parents carers to discuss their child s progress There will be a designated meeting for each year group throughout the course of the academic year Social Media We use the platforms X and Instagram to keep our school community informed about events and to acknowledge the regular achievements and successes of our young people Many departments and pastoral areas also have their own accounts to share the outstanding work that pupils are engaging in Thornhill College Website Our recently updated website stores a wealth of important information all in one place You ll be able to access the school calendar school policies bus route information our online stationery shop etc Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 25
Outcomes Pupils continue to achieve very high outcomes in public examinations at key stage 4 and post 16 ETI 26 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Curriculum Across all Key Stages Art Design Citizenship Drama Employability English French Geography History Home Economics ICT Irish Spanish Mathematics Music Personal Development Social Education Physical Education Religious Education Science Technology Design Art Design Technology Further Maths Development and Biology Double Triple Geography Social Education 4 Business Award Science Health Social Physical Communication Drama Care Education Systems English History Physics Careers Language Irish Religious Programme English Learning for Education Chemistry Literature Life and Work Spanish Child Food and Maths Statistics Development Nutrition Music Technology and Digital French Personal Design Applied Health Social Care Single and Double Award Applied Life Health Sciences Double Award Art Design Biology Digital Technology Professional Business Services Careers Programme Chemistry Performing Arts English Literature Enrichment Geography Government Politics History French Irish Spanish Mathematics Music Physical Education Physics Psychology Religious Education Statistics BTEC Travel Tourism BTEC Children s Play Learning and Development Other subjects can also be accessed through the Foyle Learning Community Further information about curriculum provision is available from the school on request Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 27
28 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Our Wellbeing Curriculum Our school actively promotes positive mental health by fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where well being is prioritised This is done through our lived school ethos preventative curriculum and comprehensive pastoral programmes In the busy school day and curriculum we thought it was important to prioritise wellbeing and so our Year 8 girls have the space and opportunity to focus on a range of skills strategies and techniques to assist them in their everyday lives Our bespoke weekly Mindful Moments Session is a timetabled lesson which will increase our students mental social and physical wellbeing equipping them with the tools to navigate life s challenges We are delighted that our dedicated and tireless efforts to this important area have been recognised and rewarded with the Aware NI Investors in Mental Health Gold Award 2024 Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 29
Fabulous Facilities and Extra Curricular Activities In Thornhill College we are truly blessed to have such outstanding facilities to enhance the educational experience of our pupils Many of these are used as part of our extra curricular provision either during or after the school day Getting involved in activities either at lunchtime or after school is a wonderful way for pupils to meet new people enjoy an activity they are interested in or even take on a new challenge We have seen firsthand how engaging in extra curricular activities helps to build confidence and resilience whilst also fostering creativity teamwork and leadership skills A wide range of activities and clubs are available to students in Thornhill College and at the start of the academic year we encourage every Year 8 girl to take part in at least one of these 30 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 31
32 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Our School Canteen Sl inte Our cafeteria is open each morning serving a free breakfast of tea and toast for all students Students can also avail of the pre order service daily where they can order their lunch online before 9 30am This convenient service offers a full range of freshly made to order salads sandwiches and paninis We operate a cashless cafeteria system in Thornhill College The biometric fingerprint cashless system now incorporates ParentPay a remote payment facility allowing parents carers to make payments conveniently from home or on the go Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 33
Kyna McGuinness St Mary s University College Belfast BEd Post Primary Religious Studies Class of 2024 34 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
A Successful School We are extremely proud of the outstanding outcomes achieved in public examinations which are a result of the ethos of academic excellence which we foster and promote in Thornhill College Furthermore these successes are a testament to the hard work commitment and dedication of our students staff and the all important support and collaboration with parents carers We look forward to continuing and building on this tradition of excellence in the years to come GCSE Outcomes The percentage of pupils achieving 7 A C is 94 2 A Level Outcomes The percentage of pupils achieving 3 A C or equivalent is 92 6 Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 35
Looking to the Future Preparing for the Next Stage As I approach the next chapter in my life and finalise my university application I feel a deep sense of appreciation for the guidance and encouragement I have received to grow both academically and personally over the past seven years in Thornhill College My teachers have supported me in finding a balance between my academic studies and life outside of school whilst also enhancing my self confidence and emotional intelligence to succeed as a future dental student at Queens University Belfast Thornhill College is a community that continues to support and challenge their students to become the best versions of themselves creating well rounded young women ready to make their contribution to society It is a place where questions are encouraged talents are recognised and dreams supported Being at a school as special as Thornhill College has not only shaped me into the person I am today but has also provided me with lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging that I will take with me into the future I might be preparing to leave this part of my education behind and embrace the next stage but I do so filled with much happiness and gratitude to the school that got me there Ellie Halpin Year 14 Class of 2025 36 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 37
Life Beyond Thornhill College In Thornhill College we take immense pride in the wide array of career pathways our students follow when they leave us This year saw the Class of 2024 progressing into Higher Education Further Education Higher Level Apprenticeships HLA s or employment The vast majority of our students have taken places in third level education across Ireland the UK and Europe A number of the girls secured highly sought after places on Higher Level Apprenticeships earning while they learn This year one of our students is even pursuing her chosen pathway in Chiropractic at the Barcelona College of Chiropractic Wherever they go they are true ambassadors for Thornhill College We are always delighted to welcome our students back and see them flourish in their chosen pathways and careers Moving on Being a Thornhill College girl has shaped who I am and as I begin my studies in Business Management at the University of Manchester I know the values and lessons I gained there will stay with me wherever I go It wasn t just about the lessons in the classroom Thornhill gave me opportunities to develop lifelong skills from leadership to resilience The support and guidance from my teachers who genuinely cared and inspired me made all the difference They helped build my confidence pushing me to step outside my comfort zone and those experiences have shaped how I approach opportunities and challenges I face daily Sophia McGinnis University of Manchester BSc Management with Industrial Professional Experience Class of 2024 38 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 39
To My Younger Self My name is Aimee Grace Doherty and I am the current Head Girl of our wonderful and caring school I am delighted to welcome you all on this exciting journey into secondary education where you grow and develop into your own unique person as you become a Thornhill Girl Over the past six years I have been encouraged to reach my full potential whether it be academically or personally Our school offers an opportunity for each pupil to dream big and to be celebrated in their successes and achievements There is a sense of sisterhood and belonging like no other due to the mutual respect and kindness exhibited and experienced The friends I have made at Thornhill College are some of the most important people to me and I can tell you that these friendships are for life Many moments and events have stood out to me over the years but one of my favourites must be the trip to Italy with the school choir This was a golden opportunity for us as we got to compete at an international level and receive feedback and training from conductors from all over the world This was my first time visiting Italy and it certainly won t be the last Like you I m about to enter a new and exciting chapter in my life I plan to enrol in Queen s University and study Pharmacy so I can pursue my dream of being a hospital pharmacist I have Thornhill College to thank for making this dream possible Although I can t go to university and forget about my passion for piano I plan to complete my piano diploma in my final year at school which wouldn t have been possible without the school promoting our unique talents Students become a product of their environment and I can guarantee that if you become a Thornhill girl you will gain the same experience and fulfilment as I have I look back now to that little girl in Primary 7 and thank her for choosing Thornhill College I thank her for taking advantage of the opportunities that came her way I thank her for enjoying her time at school while also taking care of her studies I thank the school for shaping me into the person I am an accomplished and compassionate young woman ready for the next big step in my life I wish you all the very best of luck on this journey and I can t wait to welcome you all with open arms and open hearts as you too become proud Thornhill College girls Aimee Grace Doherty Class of 2025 40 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 41
Admissions Criteria for Entry September 2025 The Board of Governors has determined that admission to Thornhill College in 2025 will be by an Entrance Test SEAG Entrance Assessment In the event of the number of applicants being greater than the Admissions Number for the College applicants shall be selected in the order of priority set down below based on the information provided at the date of application The Board of Governors will NOT use a criterion the position of preference given to the College on the Transfer Application i e an applicant who has chosen Thornhill College in any position on the Transfer Application will be considered equally with those who have put the College first ADMISSIONS CRITERIA 2025 The outcomes results of the SEAG Schools Entrance Assessment Group Assessment will be ranked as follows BAND 1 BAND 2 BAND 3 BAND 4 BAND 5 and BAND 6 1 Applicants who have been awarded BAND 1 in the SEAG Entrance Assessment 2 Applicants who have been awarded BAND 2 in the SEAG Entrance Assessment 3 Applicants who have been awarded BAND 3 in the SEAG Entrance Assessment 4 Applicants who have been awarded BAND 4 in the SEAG Entrance Assessment 5 Applicants who have been awarded BAND 5 in the SEAG Entrance Assessment 6 Applicants who have been awarded BAND 6 in the SEAG Entrance Assessment 7 In the event of oversubscription of places and there are more applicants with a particular BAND than places remaining then any available places will be allocated by the application of the following subcriteria in the order of priority set down below i Applicants who at the date of application have a child of the family currently enrolled at the College or who will be in the coming year ii Applicants who at the date of their application are the eldest child of the family to be eligible to apply for admission to the College iii Applicants who at the date of application are a Child Looked After 8 8 In the event of oversubscription after the application of sub criteria 7 i iii applicants will be selected for admission on the basis of initial letter s of surname as entered on the pupil s birth certificate in the order set out below Z E Mc U O B T D M V Y S I G L J X W Mac C A H Q P N K R F This order was determined by random selection and witnessed by an independent adjudicator N B A FULL AND COMPREHENSIVE COPY OF THE COMPLETE THORNHILL COLLEGE YEAR 8 ADMISSIONS CRITERIA INCLUDING ADDITIONAL GUIDANCE NOTES IS AVAILABLE ON THE COLLEGE WEBSITE 42 Thornhill College Derry Girls Grammar School Prospectus 2025
School Prayer Lord I give you praise and thanks at the beginning of this new day for all the blessings I have received in my life Lead me to live fully in the present moment and enjoy all that is good around me Help me to live our school motto Thy Kingdom Come and because you are with me let me see you in all those I meet today I ask you to bless anyone in our community who is worried or in need of help Teach me to show your concern and care for others Our Lady of Mercy pray for us Amen Educating concerned informed adaptable members of the world community 43
THORNHILL COLLEGE 142 Culmore Road Derry BT48 8JF T 028 71355800 F 028 71353311 E info thornhill derry ni sch uk Principal Ms Sharon Mallett BSSc MSc MSc PGDFHE PQH Follow us ThornhillDerry 4444 Educating concernTedTh hoironnrfnhohirlimlllCeCdo lolaleldgegaeepDtDaebrerlreyrym GeGmiriblreslrsGsGoraframthmmemwaarorSrSlcdhchocooloml m PPurornsoipstpeycetcutus s22002245 44