Serving the Thringstone community since 1844
Thringstone Primary School has been at the heart of the village since 1967. Our story, however, begins much earlier, with education in Thringstone dating back to 1844.
For more than 180 years, education has played an important role in village life. Today, we are proud to continue that tradition.
Early beginnings
The first school in Thringstone was established in 1844 through the efforts of Rev. Francis Merewether, who recognised the need for education in a growing village shaped by the coal mining industry.
Built on Main Street, the school quickly became an important part of the community, providing education for local children at a time when opportunities were changing for families across the village.
The original building still stands today, with the stone inscription above the entrance reading:
"South Thringstone National School. Fear God, Honour the King. A.D. 1844."
A new school for a growing village
By the 1960s, a new school was needed to meet the needs of an expanding community.
In October 1967, Thringstone County Primary School opened on its current site on Hensons Lane. The official opening took place on 30 October 1967 and was led by Alice Bacon, Minister of State for Education and Science.
On opening day, children walked together from the old school to the new building, marking a memorable moment in the village's history.
At the time, the new school was described as "ultra modern". Its open-plan design, spacious central hall and extensive grounds reflected an ambitious vision for education and created a very different learning environment from the original school.
Designed for up to 280 children, the building included purpose-built learning spaces and a distinctive bubbled glass sculpture in the assembly hall, symbolising the innovation of the time.
Growing with the community
Since opening, the school has continued to evolve alongside the village.
Highlights include:
- Ongoing improvements to classrooms and learning spaces.
- The opening of Little Acorns Pre-School in 2019, strengthening early education.
- The addition of our Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) in 2019, expanding opportunities for sport and physical activity.
In recent years, the school has strengthened its connection with the National Forest. Our tree logo represents growth, strength and belonging, reflecting both our environment and our ambition for every child.
Today, our classes are named after British birds, celebrating the wildlife that surrounds our school and encouraging children to develop an appreciation of the natural world. Our house teams remain Oak, Birch, Willow and Ash, reflecting our National Forest setting and giving every child a strong sense of belonging and pride within our school community.
These developments reflect our commitment to providing the very best learning environment while remaining proud of our local heritage.
Our school today
While much has changed since 1844, our commitment to children and our community remains the same.
Many families have a long-standing connection with Thringstone Primary School, with parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents having attended. That shared history creates a strong sense of pride and belonging which continues to shape our school today.
Looking ahead
We are proud of our past, but our focus is firmly on the future.
As our school continues to grow and develop, we remain committed to providing the very best education for the children and families we serve, building on over 180 years of history while preparing today's children for tomorrow's opportunities.
Serving the Thringstone community since 1844
