Designing school around curiosity: Summer reflections from ThriveNow
How inclusive, inquiry-led learning and small cohorts will make school feel like home
Hello friends,
This summer, whilst watching my daughter explain gravity to her younger brother using homemade parachutes in our garden, I was reminded why we started ThriveNow. Children are natural scientists, storytellers, and problem-solvers, yet too many schools still ask them to sit silently in rows, memorising facts they'll forget by Christmas.
What summer reflection revealed
Our break wasn't just about family time (though quality moments with loved ones proved invaluable). We spent time analysing feedback from our pilot after-school programmes, reviewing research on neurodivergent learning styles, and asking ourselves hard questions: Are we truly serving every child? What would education look like if we designed it around children's natural curiosity rather than ‘it’s just always been done this way’?
The answers reinforced our conviction that inclusive education isn't just morally right, it's transformative. When we teach to real humans with all their complex learning needs simultaneously, all children benefit. When we value diverse perspectives, creativity flourishes.
From reflection to action: what we're building
For newcomers to our blog, welcome! ThriveNow is developing an alternative school rooted in four evidence-based pillars:
Our 4 pillars in education – inclusive community, inquiry pedagogy, transdisciplinary curriculum, and formative assessment
Who we are and why we care – Read here
Our growing collaborations – See here
How to register an expression of interest for your child to attend the school here
What's coming
In action: Our after-school programmes continue this autumn with expanded spaces. Children aged 7-11 can explore project-based learning in our D&T Tuesdays. Our Rise and Thrive club is empowering girls aged 10–14 to know themselves, use their voice & lead with heart.
New year expansion: More programmes will launch in the new year. We're building a school experience that feels like home: where families are welcomed, young voices are cherished, and curiosity is celebrated.
Ongoing development: We're continuing to develop our partnerships. Stay tuned for updates in the coming weeks.
Your next step
If you're intrigued by education that works with children's natural learning styles rather than against them, register your interest here for our September 2026 intake. Spaces are limited as we maintain small cohorts.
For ongoing inspiration and behind-the-scenes insights, join our growing Facebook or Instagram communities, find me on LinkedIn or email me directly: kimberley@thrive-now.org
Looking ahead
This academic year marks our transition from dreaming to doing. We're building something unprecedented in our region: a school that genuinely serves every child's potential rather than sorting them into predetermined boxes.
The children deserve nothing less than our very best efforts to create learning environments where they can thrive authentically. We’re excited for the journey ahead, and thrilled to have you with us.
With determination and hope,
Kimberley and Arunjay.
Ps: At ThriveNow we are absolutely committed to building a school where curiosity, belonging and real-world learning come first. As we prepare for a September 2026 intake that honours every child’s way of learning, if you want schools that nurture scientists, storytellers and problem-solvers, not just test-takers, join us on this journey. Please reach out to volunteer your time. All hands are welcome, and we are specifically looking for help with marketing and fundraising.