In the early 1980s, English schooling in Brits was limited to Laerskool Brits, which offered education only up to Grade 7. Parents working in the burgeoning industrial area had few options—either send their children to Laerskool Brits or commute to English schools in Pretoria. It was in this landscape that two remarkable mothers from Hartebeespoort, Cara Heard and Rose Burnett, decided to change the course of local education.

Facing the challenge head-on, Cara and Rose tirelessly lobbied local government officials and MPs to approve and allocate land for a new English medium school. With no immediate government funding available for construction, they rallied support from local industrialists and concerned parents. Through their efforts, approximately R400,000 was raised—a considerable sum at the time.

With the funds secured, a prefabricated school was swiftly erected. What began as a simple structure was transformed into something extraordinary thanks to the efforts of community members. Rotarians contributed by planting lush greenery, while Mr. Nic Labuschagne curated stunning gardens that quickly became a hallmark of the school’s charm.

Thus, Thornhill Primary School was born—a testament to the power of community spirit and determination in providing quality English education in Brits.