Thomas Estley Community College

I attended Thomas Estley Community College in the late 1990s, during the period when the school accommodated pupils from Years 7 through to 9.

My experience there was overwhelmingly positive in every respect. The standard of teaching was exceptional, and the breadth of subjects offered ensured a well-rounded education. The facilities were thoughtfully designed, with dedicated areas for different disciplines. I recall with particular fondness the pottery room, complete with an impressive kiln, and the woodwork department, which was equipped with advanced tools that, though initially intimidating, ultimately instilled in me a sense of confidence and practical ability that I still draw upon today.

During my time at the school, it underwent a period of major redevelopment. A number of new classrooms were built across the Maths, English, and Humanities departments, replacing the large open-plan teaching spaces that had previously existed. This was a remarkable improvement, as the new classrooms offered greater privacy, reduced distraction, and provided far more opportunity for one-to-one engagement with teachers. Before this redevelopment, it was common to hear instructions from three different teachers at once due to the close proximity of classes. The new facilities transformed the learning environment for the better.

The pastoral support I received was equally outstanding. At a time when my parents were navigating a difficult divorce, and life felt unsettled, the staff provided me with unwavering encouragement and stability. Their care and willingness to go above and beyond ensured that my education did not falter, and for that I remain deeply grateful.

Academically, the school enabled me to flourish. I achieved excellent grades, developed a strong sense of self-belief, and benefitted from the guidance of teachers whose influence endures to this day. One English teacher in particular left an indelible mark on my life. His passion for the subject, coupled with his ability to instil clarity in written expression and precision in punctuation, transformed my confidence as a writer. Achieving a grade B in English was a source of great pride at the time, but more importantly, the skills I acquired under his instruction have shaped my professional career. I am frequently commended for my written communication, and I attribute much of this to the foundation he provided.

Though I am unable to mention names, I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to that teacher, and indeed to the school as a whole, for the enduring impact on both my education and personal growth.

Since leaving, I have continued to see Thomas Estley grow and develop further. The school has undergone numerous extensions over the years, and our old playground is now home to a brand-new development that I have watched expand over time. Still living locally, it has been inspiring to witness how the school continues to evolve and invest in its facilities, ensuring future generations enjoy an even richer educational experience than my own.

wouldn’t send your children here. multiple teachers quit, multiple teachers were having affairs with other staff members. one teacher was arrested for taking photographs up girls skirts and had child pornography on his computer.

An amazing example of a school that used to not be that great, and as soon as it got a new fabulous Principal, the school has just got better and better ever since. An amazing school, that would suit nearly any child's needs, definitely recommend!