After initial success, the school's reputation declined until William Mowbray took over as headmaster in 1859.

In the early part of last century Thorndon was the largest school in the city, and housed the Teachers Training College for a while.

In spite of its small foot print the school enjoys good facilities, with two grassed playing fields and a sealed netball/basketball court.

In 1992 the Board of Trustees had an Adventure Playground built with locally raised funds and this has further enhanced the facilities.

The hall was reroofed in 2010 with assistance from The Wellington City Council Heritage Fund.