1933

The Croft School was founded in Stratford-upon-Avon by Miss M. G. Phillips (later Mrs Dingley), its first non-teaching principal. Within four years, the school grew to 80 pupils, and Phillips became the town’s second woman Mayor and a Justice of the Peace.

1939

During World War II, The Croft supported the war effort through fire marshal training, National Savings fundraising, and campaigns such as Weapons Week and Wings for Victory, while Miss Phillips cared for 33 boarding girls during rationing.

1944

The Croft educated girls up to 18 and boys to 7, but after the 1944 Education Act the buildings were unsuitable for higher examinations. The school then focused on preparing pupils for 11-plus entrance exams.

1960s

Miss Porter, from Norfolk, taught games, gym, geography, art, and needlework, supporting Miss Phillips alongside Miss Thompson. As Miss Phillips stepped back after marriage, Miss Porter hoped to slow down, but it was only when she became ill that The Croft was put up for sale.

1964–1980

The Rev. Gordon and Mrs Eileen Whitmore introduced new initiatives, including Friday afternoon clubs, which are still enjoyed to this day. The Young Explorers, a group dedicated to outdoor adventure, was formed by Mrs Diana Jaggard. Mrs Whitmore also designed the school shield.

Did you know? The shield features a “C” for The Croft over Stratford-upon-Avon, symbolising the school’s connection to the town and its community spirit.

Later, with Mr Barry Cooper as Head, the Whitmores prepared for the future, but following his and Rev. Whitmore’s resignations, Mrs Whitmore put The Croft up for sale.

1981

The Thornton family bought The Croft, fulfilling Tim Thornton’s dream. Tim, then Headmaster of Dean Close Junior School, and his wife Lyndall moved their three boys into the attic rooms of the Regency building in The Old Town. With a passion for enriching environments and opportunities, Tim almost doubled the pupil numbers in three years and the school soon outgrew its buildings.

1984

The Thorntons bought a 30-acre farm outside Stratford-upon-Avon, providing open spaces for the children. The Pre-prep area was built to move the younger pupils from the Old Town to the new site on the hill, while the tractor shed and corn store were converted into the art room and gym. A conservation area was created, giving children the chance to understand and respect nature. The family fondly recalls the farmhouse layout, with onion fields becoming rugby pitches and the sitting room now serving as the library.

1990

Mrs Lorna Wolfe became Headmistress, guiding the school into a new era.

1991

The Clock Tower was established after an agricultural firm moved off the premises, becoming a landmark of the school and completing the transformation of the farm buildings for school use.

2001

Dr Patricia Thompson succeeded as Headmistress. By this time, Tim Thornton had created a truly magical environment, with spaces such as the train room and geology room inspiring children to learn and thrive. His passion and spirit continue to guide the school’s teaching today.

2007

Mundell Court was built on the former kitchen garden and tennis court, creating a concert venue and a dedicated STEM department, enhancing both the arts and sciences for pupils.

2013–present

Mr Marcus Cook was appointed Headmaster, carrying the school’s legacy into the 21st century while preserving its longstanding traditions. He continues to lead the school today.