Learning Support Assistant

Thames is a thriving mainstream school of 200 pupils founded in 2000 for pupils aged 11-18, currently with a two stream entry. In February 2022 the school moved to a brand new eco-friendly purpose-built building adjacent to Clapham Junction Station that has been designed to provide the perfect environment for learning. Classrooms are accessed from exterior walkways bringing light, connection and fresh air to every part of the building. Classroom layouts have been strategically designed to enhance our ability to maintain our outstanding commitment to the ethos and culture. The move enabled the school to expand to three stream entry with a sixth form being added in September 2023 and an eventual roll of around 300. The school was judged Excellent in all categories by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in its Educational Quality Inspection in April 2022.

We teach pupils of a broad range of abilities: highly academic pupils alongside some with mild specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia and dyspraxia. Many parents choose Thames for its strong and caring Christian ethos. Fees are competitive when compared with other London day schools and the school is committed to discounting a significant number of places to aid affordability. The inclusivity of abilities, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds enables pupils to thrive in a setting that reflects the diverse and dynamic make up of London.

Thames offers a wide array of co-curricular opportunities, external competitions and activities, including the Duke of Edinburgh Award and our award-winning trip to Tanzania. These allow students to think outside of the box, try something new and keep their options open. PE lessons take place in our hall, while Falcon Park and Caius House are used for afternoon sport and matches. Regular sports fixtures take place after school and on Saturdays in a variety of sports including football, netball, badminton, athletics and rugby.

Facilities include specialist science laboratories, art, design technology, STEM and textiles studios, a food technology room, computer science room, theatrical performance space, music, dance/drama studios and library. Dual dedicated internet circuits along with a state of the art Cisco WiFi system provide seamless integration for staff and pupil Chromebooks. 65” touch screens in each classroom room create endless possibilities for creative teaching.Our Christian ethos is relational and pupils thrive due to proactive pastoral care and excellent relationships between staff and pupils. Progress and achievement are prized across the ability spectrum. Working collaboratively is fundamental to each pupil’s success and we value the support of our parents. Whilst many pupils come from Christian homes, other faiths are welcomed and represented.

The staff team comprises excellent teachers who are passionate about their subjects and whose warmth fosters enthusiasm in the pupils. High quality teaching and small classes enable the teachers to build a rapport with each individual, nurture their talents and inspire them to achieve.

As a result pupils excel in a wide range of subjects from the traditionally academic to the creative arts and technology. Pupils typically perform at least a grade higher than those of the same ability in an average school. Over the past three years 47% of GCSE grades have been 9-7 and 90% of grades 9-4. Pupils’ academic success reflects their personal growth and means that they had no difficulty gaining places at their first choice of sixth form, often at top independent and grammar schools. The creative arts are particularly valued with many pupils continuing these subjects at sixth form.

However we are passionate about far more than academics and enjoy seeing young people understand their value, learn to honour and encourage others and contribute to the wider school community.