Thornleigh

Great community overall, caring and knowledgeable teachers! My daughter loves going to school!

I honestly do not know how this school has received such high ratings. I expected a school culture that prioritized equity, transparency, and student well-being, but that definitely hasn't aligned with what we've experienced.

Our daughter’s currently attend SPSG’s Upper School and have been enrolled since the 5th and 6th grade. From the first days when they made the choice to attend SPSG, they both been drawn to the warmth that exist between students and faculty and the sisterhood between the girls. We’ve marveled at the progression they’ve made as students and as people. They are secure in who they are, they laugh and enjoy their classmates and the relationships that have been developed with faculty are enviable. They truly trust the adults in that building - confiding in them through sobs when they didn’t make a sports team, and advocating for change when there’s an “injustice” like too many tests in one week. While the academics are rigorous, and they absolutely are, our girls seem to tackle each challenge with confidence. If I had it to do all over again, I’d easily choose SPSG. It’s a top choice for so many families and we’ve found such great family friendships in the St Paul’s community that we’re positive will extend beyond our girls' time at SPSG. We also love the shared spaces between the schools and the opportunities to interact with the boys at the boys school and with the youngest kids on campus (at the pre and lower school). It's truly and unique and special place.

Many teachers here are wonderful and run thoughtful, child-centered classrooms. However, the school does not seem equipped to support students who fall outside its narrow definition of success. I would not recommend it for children with learning differences, ADHD, or those who are gender nonconforming, as the school does not appear set up to meet their needs effectively.The Head of School’s behavior can feel demeaning and overly rigid. She often speaks down to parents and adheres so strictly to Montessori beliefs that the culture can feel dogmatic. Several strong teachers have been pushed out during her tenure, and there seems to be a lack of understanding of child development, differentiated learning, and research-based educational practice.This school may be a good fit if your child and family align closely with the Head of School’s very specific expectations for how children and parents should behave. If not, I would encourage families to look elsewhere for a school that uses more flexible, evidence-based educational approaches and treats students, parents, and teachers with greater respect and dignity.

Every teacher in that school should not know about my child, they do a lot of gossiping. The principle is lacks passion. I thought this school being a special education school would be different for my Heather, but it is no different then a special needs class within a typical school. The principle Beltran is very disconnected from the students, and could be doing a lot more to foster a better environment and opportunities and advocating on the children's behalf. Very disappointed in Ridge Ruxton.