Six years later, the success of the kindergarten and the strong demand for London day schools of quality encouraged David Thomas to give up his job with an American bank and to join his wife in founding a school for older children. Joanna and David sold their family home, moved with their three children into a two bedroom basement flat and, with the proceeds, took a short-term let on a building in Cadogan Gardens. After just three weeks and some intensive decorating, the first Thomas’s prep school opened its doors to eleven pupils and two teachers.
From the outset, Joanna and David were determined to create a school environment that achieved three key aims: high academic standards, an emphasis on the arts and plenty of sport, reflecting both their personal and professional interests.