Thorndale Foundation began in 1959 as a parent-led school for children with intellectual disability. Today, it supports more than 200 participants across Western Sydney.
This Thorndale Foundation history follows the milestones that shaped our organisation and the Werrington site we still call home.
How Thorndale Foundation Began in 1959
Thorndale started as a parent-based, not-for-profit organisation providing schooling for children with intellectual disability. That community-first approach still guides our work today.
The name honours Mrs Jean Thornley and Mr Jack Daly. Neither had a child with intellectual disability, but their wonderful work earned them this recognition.
Building a Home at Rance Road in the 1960s and 1970s
In 1963, Penrith Council donated land at Rance Road, Werrington. Construction began with funds raised by the local community, and the site still serves as our base today.
1974: A Training Hall at Rance Road
A hall built at Rance Road became a training centre. It has since evolved into our Australian Disability Enterprise, Thorndale Industries, which provides supported employment for people with intellectual disability.
1974: Orchard Hills Farm Purchased
Thorndale purchased a farm at Orchard Hills from the NSW Department of Main Roads. Three cottages were built there, each home to six residents.
From Cottages to Community Living: 1994 to 2012
Over these years, Thorndale shifted its strategy towards supporting adults and community based homes. Each milestone built on the one before.
1994: Farm Subdivided, Group Homes Purchased
The Orchard Hills farm was subdivided into five one acre lots and sold. The proceeds funded the purchase of group homes in the Penrith area.
2001: A Sharper Focus on Adults
Thorndale handed its playgroup services for children up to five years back to the State Government. The organisation chose to focus on supporting adults with disability.
2009: Targeted Support Begins
Thorndale began operating Targeted Support from the Thorndale Centre at Werrington. The service was combined with community participation activities for participants.
2012: Residents Move into the Community
In line with the State Government's move away from large residential centres, residents left the Orchard Hills cottages and moved into the community.
Preparing for the NDIS: The 2015 Redevelopment
In 2015, the Werrington site was redeveloped to its current state. It hosts our day program, Leisure, Living and Life Skills, and Thorndale Industries.
Group homes were also established in St Marys, Kingswood and Jamisontown. Together, these left Thorndale well positioned for the NDIS rollout, and today they form part of our SIL housing.
Thorndale Today: An NDIS Provider in Western Sydney
Thorndale now supports more than 200 participants and is recognised as a disability organisation of choice in Western Sydney. We are an NDIS registered provider.
Services We Provide Today
- Supported Independent Living (SIL) housing
- Supported employment through Thorndale Industries
- Day programs
- School Leavers Employment Support
- Thorndale Social group activities
Why Thorndale Foundation History Matters to Families
Our history shows a consistent commitment to the local community. Land and funds came from Penrith Council and local supporters, and that connection continues in every service we deliver.
Having adapted through policy shifts, from the move away from large residential centres to the NDIS, we keep participants at the centre of every decision.
For families, that means choosing a provider with deep local roots. Read real experiences on our participant stories page.
Get in Touch with Thorndale Foundation
Whether you are exploring SIL housing, supported employment or day programs, our team is ready to talk through your options and answer your questions.
Visit our Werrington site or contact Thorndale Foundation to discuss disability support in Western Sydney. We will help you plan the right next steps.
Ways to Connect
- Call us on (02) 9912 7800
- Email [email protected]
- Visit us at 47-49 Rance Road, Werrington NSW 2747
- Read real experiences on our participant stories page
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When was Thorndale Foundation founded?
Thorndale Foundation was founded in 1959 as a parent-based, not-for-profit organisation providing schooling for children with intellectual disability in Western Sydney.
2. Where is Thorndale Foundation located?
Our main site is at 47-49 Rance Road, Werrington NSW 2747. Group homes are located across Kingswood, St Marys, Cambridge Park and Jamisontown.
3. How many participants does Thorndale support?
Thorndale supports more than 200 participants across its housing, employment, day program and community services in Western Sydney, each with individual goals.
4. Is Thorndale Foundation a not-for-profit?
Yes. Thorndale Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation and registered charity with the ACNC, supporting people with disability across Western Sydney.
5. What services does Thorndale offer today?
Thorndale offers SIL housing, supported employment, day programs, School Leavers Employment Support, and NDIS social group activities, delivered from Werrington and nearby community homes.