The Flagpole

Welcome to the first Flagpole of the 2018-19 academic year and a special welcome to all parents new to the school. As I write, we are just finishing three very productive staff training days; these allow us to both prepare for the year ahead and also to focus on how we can deliver the best possible education to all the children in our care.

Over the holidays we had well over a hundred pupils and staff safely return from the Costa Rica Expedition, the 202-mile Wales cycling tour and the spiritual retreat to Taizé. These were rewarding, enjoyable and in many cases life-changing experiences and I thank the staff who gave up their precious holiday time to support our pupils.

You will be aware that each year we steadily develop our campus and improve our facilities. Although we had no major construction projects this summer, we have had a major upgrading of our ICT infrastructure and refurbished many areas of the campus including the Art corridor which now looks wonderful.  In addition, we are also now in a position to request planning permission for our new Science laboratories; having had a “virtual tour” of this building last week I can assure you it will be a stunning addition to our campus and hugely benefit all our pupils’ learning.

Of course, towards the end of summer, the examination results loom large: this year was particularly nerve-wracking for both pupils and staff with so many new specifications, the phasing out of the modular A-levels and of course the new GCSE grading scheme with numbers 9 to 1 in most subjects. As I expect you will be aware by now, we are delighted with the results achieved by our pupils a few weeks ago both at A-level and GSCE. We strive hard to ensure that each member of the College’s community makes the most of their own talents. Princethorpe is certainly not an examination factory - when pupils leave, they do so with so much more than an examination certificate - but we do take great pride in trying to ensure that all our pupils achieve the very best possible academic results.

At A-level, we had seventeen high fliers who achieved three or more A* or A grades including Head Girl, Miriam Isaacs, Head Boy, Tim Duffy and the College’s highest achieving student James Fletcher, who will now go on to read Law at Trinity College, Oxford.

We were delighted that we have achieved our best ever haul of A* and A grades but also, more importantly, over 90% of our students have been accepted to study at their first choice university or on their chosen apprenticeship scheme, with the remainder also doing exceptionally well and securing their second choice. We wish all our leavers well for the next phase of their education and look forward to welcoming them back on Friday 16 November to the annual Prize Giving, which this year will be held at the Dallas Burston Polo Club.  I hope that many of you will be able to attend this special occasion – further details will be circulated in due course.

At GCSE, 43% of all entries were graded the coveted new 9, 8 or 7 grades (A* or A grades) and a stunning 39 of our Year 11 pupils achieved eight or more 9, 8, 7 or A* or A grades. Overall 92% of the grades pupils received were A*-C or 9-4 grades.

Many Princethorpe pupils achieved the new 9 grade with the highest individual results achieved by Caitlin McBride who achieved nine 9s, two A*s and an A grade and Sophie Mitchell who achieved nine 9s and two A* grades.

We are of course delighted with the exceptionally high number of top grades but are proud of all our pupils who have worked hard and done their very best.  Whilst academic results are important, we value their qualities of kindness, respect, determination and friendship.

As we look to the new academic year I thank, in advance, all parents for your support over the year ahead. At the first school assembly next week, I shall be talking about the importance of making a strong start and getting into good habits to ensure a successful year and will be talking about two things vital for the strong start: Sleep and Systems.

Sleep: As I am sure you are aware, getting a good night’s sleep is critical for the health and well-being of us all, but in particular teenagers. The evidence is that many are getting nowhere near the minimum of seven hours (eight is better) of proper regular sleep per night and that mobile phones and other electronic devices are quite often the main reason why. Of course this can have a hugely detriment effect on the child’s academic progress and social development.  I would urge all parents to discuss these issues with their children (from Year 7 right through to the Sixth Form) and do all you can to support healthy sleep routines at home.

Systems: a few years ago we changed our report grade of “Organisation” to “Systems”. The difference is subtle, but whilst some seem to have better “natural” organisational skills, everyone can develop their systems to ensure they can successfully cope with the rigours of day-to-day life at school. We do a lot of work on developing good strategies and systems at school, but again I would welcome all parents’ support in helping develop their children’s systems at home to support their busy school lives. 

If you would like any further help or advice on either sleep or systems, please do contact your son or daughter’s form tutor initially. Conversely, if you have any top tips that you have found work for your children on sleep or systems, please do send them to me and in the next Flagpole, I will share them (anonymously if you prefer…) with you all. 

Finally, I hope that you and your families have had a peaceful and happy summer and look forward to seeing you over the course of the year. 

With all best wishes

Ed Hester
Headmaster

Parents are advised that there may be traffic delays on the afternoon of Wednesday 5 September from 3.00pm due to Stage 4 of the Cycle Tour of Britain, which will be passing very close to the College. There will be a rolling closure of roads in the vicinity of the College from 3.00pm to 3.45pm although this time may vary. This will impact on buses and cars approaching the College and also on the flow of traffic away from the College after school.

For further information on the cycle route please see: http://www.tourofbritain.co.uk/stages/stage-four/

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

Princethorpe College is celebrating its best ever set of A-level results. 107 students sat A-level examinations this summer, over a third (34%) have been awarded A* or A grades, more than 80% have achieved A* to C grades.

Ed Hester, Headmaster said, “These students have worked so hard and we are incredibly proud of their achievements.”

Amongst the seventeen high fliers who achieved three or more A* or A grades were Head Girl, Miriam Isaacs, Head Boy, Tim Duffy, Ed Williamson who received his results on his 18th birthday and the College’s highest achieving student James Fletcher who will now go on to read Law at Trinity College, Oxford.

Ed Hester, continued, “We are thrilled that we have achieved our best ever haul of A*/A grades but also, more importantly, over 90% of our students have been accepted to study at their first choice university or on their chosen apprenticeship scheme, with the remainder also doing exceptionally well and securing their second choice. We have had another great year and today’s results show that the hard work of both students and staff has been richly rewarded. We are proud of their academic achievements, but these students have many other fine qualities: kindness, respect and a strong sense of right and wrong, which will be tremendously important for them as they move on to the next phase of their lives. We congratulate them all on their success and wish them the very best for the future”.

Princethorpe College is once again celebrating excellent GCSE results. From a cohort of 154 pupils 43% of all entries were graded the coveted new 9, 8 or 7 grades (A* or A grades) and 39 of its Year 11 pupils achieved eight or more 9, 8, 7 or A* or A grades.

Many Princethorpe pupils nailed the new 9 grade with the best individual results achieved by Caitlin McBride who achieved nine 9s, two A*s and an A grade and Sophie Mitchell who achieved nine 9s and two A* grades.

Princethorpe pupils performed well in all the core subjects but the College is again delighted to receive its best ever English results with this year 64% of pupils achieving 9, 8 or 7 grades. Overall 92% of the grades pupils received were A*-C or 9-4 grades.

Given the rarity of the new 9 grade, and the new more demanding GCSE courses, Princethorpe’s pupils have really excelled themselves: the College also had 11 pupils achieve a grade 9 in Art and its Scientists secured no less than 41 grade 9s.

Headmaster, Ed Hester said, “I would like to congratulate all of our Year 11 pupils. I am delighted with the excellent results they have achieved across the board; it is a privilege to be amongst so many happy pupils this morning and marvellous to be able to celebrate such success. We are of course delighted with the exceptionally high number of top grades but are proud of all our pupils who have worked hard and done their very best. Whilst their results are important, this year group have also demonstrated many fine qualities worth celebrating, such as kindness, respect, determination and friendship.”

He continued, “All credit goes to our pupils and staff for their commitment and hard work. The College goes from strength to strength and we look forward to welcoming the vast majority of this cohort back into our successful Sixth Form for the next stage of their education.”

Princethorpe College is welcoming plenty of new faces this Michaelmas Term, as in addition to its new pupils the school also has a number of new staff members.

Pictured here on their Induction Day the new staff include two Assistant Heads, three Heads of Department, seven teachers, three teaching assistants and a member of support staff.

Together they bring a wealth of new experience to the school and we extend a warm welcome to them all.

Joining the College at the start of the term are:

Andy Compton – Foundation Assistant Head - Director of Digital Strategy

Liz Pyne – Assistant Head - Teaching and Learning

Emma Cooper – Head of Science and Chemistry

Jen Law – Head of Girls' Games

Tomi Owens – Head of Mathematics

Nicola Borman – Teacher of English

Louisa Fielding – Teacher of Economics and Business

Loretta Jones – Teacher of Law

Miranda Porter – Teacher of Design and Technology

Francesca Wright – Teacher of Science

Callum Ford – Teaching Assistant

Ben Haden – Teaching Assistant

Luke Tallis – Teaching Assistant

Claire Lloyd – Recruitment Co-ordinator

Starting later this term to provide maternity cover are:

Rachel Beasley – Teacher of Mathematics

Anna Fennell-McLoughlin – Teacher of MFL

With just ten weeks to go the countdown to the College's Entrance Exams for admission in September 2019 has begun. This year the exams for Year 7 to 10 entry will take place on Saturday 10 November from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Our friendly Admissions Team has been kept busy over the summer accepting registrations from prospective parents.  The deadline for registrations is ideally Friday 5 October, to enable the seeking of references from junior schools.

There are plenty of opportunities for prospective pupils and their parents to visit the College before the Entrance Exams, including our Open Morning on Thursday 27 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm, when pupil tour guides will be available to show visitors around the school.

The College will also be hosting Taster Days for children in Years 6, 7 and 8 (as of September 2018).  For more information please contact the Admissions Team on 01926 634262.

Comments Melanie Butler, Assistant Head, Marketing, Admissions and Communications, "Parents and pupils will still have plenty of time to prepare and opportunities to visit the College in the run up to the exams.  The results will be out at the end of November, making for an exam-free Christmas holiday, which has got to be good news."

If you have any queries relating to admissions please feel free to email the Registrars at admissions@princethorpe.co.uk or call them on 01926 634201.

In July eleven pupils and two staff travelled to Taizé, an extraordinary Christian community made up of Catholics and Protestants, situated in a small village in the Bergerac region of the south of France. The community was founded in 1940 by a Swiss Protestant, Roger Schütz (Brother Roger) who wanted to live a simple life of prayer and to offer a haven for the many refugees fleeing Germany at the time. From the start, the community that grew around him (which now numbers 100 brothers) was characterised by the search for peace and reconciliation in the human family.

During the 10-day trip, the Princethorpe pilgrims camped and experienced community life with around 2,000 other young people from across Europe and beyond.  Three times a day they gathered with the brothers in the church to sing and reflect in silence. They also took part in discussion workshops with young people of their own age and had plenty of free time for socialising too. 

Reflecting on the trip, Y11’s Hannah Bryer, commented, “One of the most memorable moments for me was when we met our Bible discussion group and made many new friends, some of whom I am still in touch with.  It was interesting to find out about other countries and their cultures and realise how different they are.”  She continued, “Another memorable experience was when we served food at lunch. It was great fun as you got to meet so many people, as well as having a laugh with the people you were serving with.”

Trip leader, Rod Isaacs, explained, “No one who has been to Taizé comes back unchanged.  Whether they see themselves as religious or not, they leave with a deeper appreciation of what a Christian community can offer. I think they also discover in themselves a new spirit of generosity. They get a sense of joy in being with so many young people from other cultures and countries. It’s a truly inspirational place.”

Over the summer holidays, Princethorpe College’s Cycling Club undertook the 202-mile Coast-to-Coast Challenge that runs from the bottom to the top of Wales.  This infamous route, known as the Lon Las Cymru, is one that really tests a cyclist’s mettle.

On the seven-day trip, eleven pupils and four staff pedalled from Chepstow Castle in the south, up through the Gospel Pass and Hay-on-Wye, into the Black and the Cambrian Mountains, then up into Snowdonia, passing through Machynlleth, Dolgellau and on past Harlech and Criccieth Castles to finish at one of the loveliest towns in North Wales, Caernarfon.  Along the way, Princethorpe’s tourers cycled up through the highest pass in Wales, undertook one of the steepest ascents in the National Cycle Network and enjoyed some of Wales’ most picturesque views.

Minor teething problems such as the inevitable saddle sores and punctures did not dent the cheerful spirit of the group, who embraced all they encountered with enthusiasm and resilience.

Staying in comfortable Youth Hostels along the way there was plenty of recovery time for the boys and they even managed to watch one of England's World Cup matches on the big screen at the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth.

Trip leader, Will Bower, commented on the camaraderie of the boys, “What was most impressive was the bonding between the pack. With boys from across different year groups it was great to see how well they got on, how they helped and encouraged one another during some of our longer days when we were riding well over 40 miles.”

For all of the tourers the sense of pride and achievement as they approached Caernarfon was palpable.  Princethorpe’s 2018 Cycling Challenge was a super summer adventure that made memories and muscles that will surely last a lifetime.

With thanks to the accompanying members of staff: Will Bower, Cyp Vella, Daniel White and Debs Brookes.

We have great pleasure in unveiling the OPs' events calendar for the forthcoming academic year.

By popular demand this year the programme of events has expanded to include more former parents events and the reintroduction of the Princethorpe Open at Stoneleigh Deer Park Golf Club, which will be open to OPs, current and former parents, staff and friends of the College.

The popular London and Leamington meets return with a spring pub meet in Leamington at the Royal Pug on Friday 1 March and an early summer gathering in London at the Bull Dog Bar, The Clarence, Whitehall on Friday 17 May.

The OPs' Summer Supper, a favourite event in the calendar, will take place on Friday 28 June 2019, this time celebrating the leavers of 1969, 1979, 1989, 1999 and 2009, although leavers of other years are also most welcome.

All OPs, past parents and staff are welcome to participate in any or all of the events. Click here to download the calendar or visit the Old Princethorpians section at www.princethorpe.co.uk for more information on Old Princethorpians.

Saturday 1 September 2018 - 10.45pm to 6.00pm

It looks like we are once again going to be blessed with lovely weather for the 8th annual Old Princethorpians' Sports Day (and 10th John Shinkwin Trophy Match) on Saturday 1 September. 

We are planning to repeat last year's successful format with a relaxing day that mixes sporting matches with music, a BBQ, ice cream van and a bar.

As in previous years points will be accumulated throughout the day, with the Alex Wallis Memorial Shield being awarded to the victors at the end of the main programme.

As a finale to the day the OPs XV will be taking on local club, Harbury RFC.

Format of day:

10.45am to 12.00pm Football OPs vs Staff

12.00pm to 1.00pm Hockey Princethorpe College 1st XI Girls vs OPs XI (x 2)

1.15pm to 2.15pm Hockey Princethorpe College 1st XI Boys vs OPs XI (x 2)

1.30pm to 2.30pm Netball Princethorpe College 1st VII Girls vs OPs VII (x 2)

2.30pm to 3.45pm Rugby - John Shinkwin Trophy - Princethorpe College 1st XV Boys vs OPs XV (leavers of 2017 and 2016)

3.45pm to 5.00pm Rugby - OPs XV vs Harbury RFC

5.30pm - After Match Awards

Please come along and support all the teams!

Thursday 6 September 2018 - Sunday 16 September 2018

The recently refurbished and re-ordered church at St Anne's, Wappenbury, CV33 9DW will be open on the following dates:

Thursday 6 September - Saturday 8 September 9.00am - 5.00pm
Sunday 9 September 9.30am - 5.00pm
(light refreshments, 9.30am - 1.00pm)

Thursday 13 September - Saturday 15 September 9.00am - 5.00pm
Sunday 16 September 9.30am - 5.00pm
(light refreshments, 9.30am - 1.00pm)

The original chapel was built circa 1734 and the new chapel of St Anne's was built in the 1800s.

Please do come and see this little Warwickshire treasure - it is only five minutes drive from the College. 

A regular Mass is celebrated at 8.30am each Sunday by Fr Teddy O'Brien MSC

Visit the website, which is currently under construction, but will give you a flavour of what to expect - click here

Sunday 9 September 2018 2.00pm - 4.00pm

Built in 1832, St Mary's Priory was one of the first Catholic buildings in England after the reformation. Come for a tour of the magnificent building and learn all about its history, including the amazing women that made it the place it is today.

From 1833 until 1966, St Mary's Priory was home to a congregation of Benedictine nuns who ran a boarding school for girls. This community sold the priory in 1966 and a new school was established by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, who had previously run a boys' school in Leamington Spa. Princethorpe College is now a fully co-educational Catholic independent day school.

Our archive team will be conducting free tours of the College on Sunday 9 September from 2.00pm - 4.00pm. Areas open include Pugin’s magnificent chapel, the cloisters, nuns’ cells, library (former church) and roundhouse.

No booking is required; just turn up and join the next available tour. Entrance is via the glazed link off the North Car Park.

Admission is free and there is complimentary tea and coffee available. We would be delighted to see you!

Wednesday 12 September 2018 at 7.30pm

We will be having our first meeting of the Parents’ Reading Group in the library at 7.30pm on Wednesday 12 September. On this occasion we will be talking about Conclave by Robert Harris and The Island by Victoria Hislop, two very different novels which members have been reading over the summer. We hope to welcome new members this year so please come along whether or not you have had an opportunity to read these books.

We are a friendly group of readers who are happy to try anything new so please join us if you would like some fresh suggestions for your own reading or if you have reading interest you would be able to share with the group. If you are unsure where to go, just let me know you are coming and I’ll be happy to meet and greet. Come alone or bring a friend.

Chris Kerrigan
Head of English

Saturday 22 September 2018 - 10.30am to 5.15pm

Those who are familiar with the history of Princethorpe College, will know that from the middle of the nineteenth century until 1966, the campus was home to the Benedictine nuns of St Mary’s Priory which also ran a small boarding school for about eighty girls. Many of the Very Special Old Princethorpians (VSOPs) are still in touch with the school and some have very strong links either because their parents or close relatives attended the priory school or children subsequently attended Princethorpe College.

Princethorpe College hosts a VSOP reunion every two years and the next takes place on Saturday 22 September 2018. This is primarily an opportunity for the old girls from St Mary’s Priory to get together, catch up and reminisce, though there is an outline structure to the day which includes lunch, a look at the archives, a tour and an afternoon Mass. As in previous years, the day will be very informal and you are free to opt in or out of any of the activities which are planned.

The timetable for the day will be as follows:

10.30am – 11.00am         Tea and coffee available
(walk around the grounds if you arrive earlier)

11.00am – 12.30pm         Meet old friends and reminisce

12.30pm – 2.00pm           Buffet (seated) lunch
(please let us know if you have special dietary requirements)

2.00pm – 3.30pm             Time to explore
(there will also be an optional guided tour and there is a lift to the first floor).

Historical records will be available to view in the Library. If you have anything of interest please do bring it along to share.

3.30pm – 4.15pm             Mass in Our Lady of the Angels' Church
                                       celebrated by Fr Teddy O’Brien MSC

4.15pm – 5.15pm             Tea and departure

There will be no charge for the re-union.

For those keen to attend, please get in touch with Loretta Curtis 01926 634200 xtn 326 or lorettacurtis@princethorpe.co.uk and confirm by Monday 10 September at the latest.

These are always fascinating days and we always learn new stories and facts about our beloved Princethorpe.

Thursday 27 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm

The College Open Morning will take place on Thursday 27 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm. This is a chance to look around the school on a normal working day, prior to Entrance Examinations Day on Saturday 10 November 2018.  Year 8 and 9 pupils will act as tour guides and light refreshments will be available.

Taster Days for children who will be in Year 6 in September are available on the following dates:

• Tuesday 11 September
• Thursday 13 September
• Wednesday 19 September and
• Tuesday 2 October

Children looking at Year 7 or 8 entry for September 2019 can also attend a Taster Day on Tuesday 2 October. To register your interest in a Year 6 Taster Day click here and to register your interest in the Year 7/8 Taster Day click here.

Those wishing to register for Entrance Examinations should do so by the deadline of Friday 5 October to facilitate the gathering of references from junior schools. Registration forms are available from the Registrar, Mrs Vanessa Rooney on 01926 634201 or email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

Entrance Examinations for Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 will take place on Saturday 10 November 2018 from 9.30am to 3.30pm. More information is available on our website, click here.

Tuesday 2 October 2018 - 10.00am to 3.00pm

Crackley Hall, Princethorpe's junior school and nursery in Kenilworth, is opening its doors for an Open Day on Tuesday 2 October 2018 from 10.00am to 3.00pm.

This is an opportunity to look around the school and to meet staff and pupils on a normal working day. All are welcome, no need to book.

We have places available in Nursery, Junior 1, 2 and 4 and will be recruiting for places in Reception 2019.  Please speak to our Admissions Secretary, Mrs Jenny Vaughan for availability in other years.

If you can't make the Open Day but would like to look around the school, please call our Admissions Secretary, Mrs Jenny Vaughan on 01926 514410 or email admissions@crackleyhall.co.uk and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors on most days.

For more information visit http://www.crackleyhall.co.uk/

Friday 5 October 2018 - 10.00am to 3.00pm

The Crescent School, the Foundation's junior school for 4 to 11 year olds in Bilton, Rugby, is opening its doors for an Open Day on Friday 5 October from 10.00am to 3.00pm.

This is an opportunity to look around the school and to meet staff and pupils on a normal working day. All are welcome, no need to book.

We have a limited number of places available and are now accepting registrations for admission to Reception in September 2019.

If you can't make the Open Day but would like to visit the school, please call our Registrar, Mrs Helen Morley on 01788 521595 or email admissions@crescentschool.co.uk and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors on most days.

For more information visit http://www.crescentschool.co.uk/

Following the distribution of exam results the period for making enquiries about results continues until 5pm on Wednesday 19 September. The options still available are a review of marking and/or requesting a copy of the exam script. If Edexcel is the exam board it is still possible to request a copy of the script before deciding whether to request a review of marking, the other exam boards will not provide a copy script before the deadline for requesting a review.

Anyone considering a review who needs a breakdown of individual paper marks, or who needs to know if they are close to a grade boundary, can ask me or the head of the relevant department.

To apply for any post-results service please complete the form enclosed in your results envelope, or a copy can be downloaded here. Please note that all fees are per candidate, per component/paper/unit. If the exam taken had more than one written paper pupils must make clear which paper they wished to have reviewed.

If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Shellagh Dodds
Examinations and Assessments Officer

Please be aware that individual portrait photographs will take place on Monday 3 September for all of Years 7, 10 and 12 and pupils new to Princethorpe College. 

Mrs Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

Following the end of the summer holidays when the 10.15am Mass was celebrated at St Anne's, Wappenbury, the regular Sunday Mass, that is celebrated every week in the College Chapel, will resume on Sunday 2 September at 10.15am.

The St Anne's Parish Diary, which also incorporates relevant events at Princethorpe College, can be viewed at stanneswappenbury.wordpress.com

All welcome - Fr Teddy O'Brien MSC looks forward to meeting you.

Medical centre staff would like to welcome pupils back after the summer holidays and hope both parents and pupils enjoyed a lovely break

If the medical needs of your son/daughter have changed over the holiday please do let us know so we can support them whilst they are at school.

Email PCMatrons@princethorpe.co.uk or Tel 01926 634214.

Paula Greig
Senior Matron

We would like to remind Sixth Form students that high standards of personal appearance and presentation are expected of them at all times. Our Sixth Formers are the main ambassadors of the College and role models for the lower school pupils.

Please click here to download a copy of the dress code. If you are in any doubt as to the suitability of items you purchase during the summer, please retain receipts and consult myself, Mr Vella or Mrs Allen before you wear them.

Please pay close attention to the sanctions which will be incurred if you do not adhere to the dress code.

Ben Collie
Head of Sixth Form

Have you been away for your summer holidays? Maybe you have some left over foreign currency? Maybe there are a few old coins or notes lurking in the back of a drawer, a pocket or a handbag? Why not round them up and put them to good use? All donations would be gratefully received and all money raised will support the work of Youth SVP in the UK of which our Youth SVP group is a part. Click here to discover what the SVP organisation is about and how your donation can help.

The money can be current or out of date, British or foreign; anything is welcome! We already have 8kg, but we need more!!

Click here and watch the video to see how cash4coins works. This is what you can donate:

All foreign coins and banknotes
Current UK coins and banknotes
Any old British and Irish money
Even obsolete currency!
Please send in money in a strong envelope labelled ‘Rod Isaacs - Cash4Coins’.

Many thanks

Rod Isaacs
Assistant Head of Sixth Form

The Chaplaincy is again supporting our St Anne's Parish Shoe Box Appeal, to provide gifts for children who would not otherwise receive a Christmas present. This year the boxes are being distributed by Teams4U. 

Each shoebox will be given to a vulnerable child, or family, through schools, nurseries, hospitals and orphanages.

The aim of T4U is that each box is given in relationship with the local community as part of a long-term commitment to these children. This includes financing pre-school programmes to support their education and development.

We are encouraging everyone to bring one item to help fill the boxes.

Children’s Shoe Boxes

What these children need most are educational and hygiene supplies, e.g.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush/comb
• Facecloth and soap
• Stationery/pens/pencils/paper

Please also include a few small gifts, e.g.

• A soft toy, ball, game, puzzle, stickers, balloons
• Gloves/hats/scarves

Homecare Family Shoe Boxes

• Cooking utensils (no knives), candles, hairbrush plastic utensils (plates, bowls, cutlery)
• Soap, small Christmas decorations, small decorative items, small saucepans
• T-towels (preferably quite decorative), plastic containers, washing line pegs
• Washing up cloths

All items may be left in G12a or at the Student Hub. The Chaplaincy Prefects will supervise the sorting and packing of the boxes between Friday 7 September and Wednesday 17 October 2018.

Mary Benham
Chaplaincy Co-ordinator

Princethorpe’s policy is to endorse various sporting governing bodies in their guidelines surrounding the use of dental protection. All pupils will require a mouthguard to take part in hockey or rugby at the school throughout the school year.  

TITAN will be catering for all pupils wishing to purchase a dental-fit mouthguard and will be visiting the school on Friday 7 September 2018 between 3.45pm and 5.30pm  to supervise impressions for all those who require a guard for the new school year.

All TITAN mouthguards are provided at a cost of £44.99 with replacement/spare guards at a reduced cost of £35. This cost is vastly reduced from most dental practices and includes: 

• Impression supervised by a member of the TITAN team 
• Finished guards manufactured to achieve the highest level of protection available 
• Pupil’s name embedded
• Free boil + bite mouthguard for use in sporting fixtures during turnaround time
• Free delivery to pupils homes 

TITAN suggest that orders should be placed in advance of the pre-order deadline date of Thursday, 7 September. For those wishing to attend the session there is a £5 price increase on all guards ordered after this date. 

Details of how to place your order can be found here. For full pricing detail and further updates please visit the TITAN website.

TITAN can take orders on the day of fitting, but this usually delays the delivery of the mouthguard and complicates their admin processes. 

If you require any further information or have any questions, please contact me at peterbucknall@princethorpe.co.uk.

Peter Bucknall
Head of Rugby

Firstly, please may I express my thanks to those of you who have booked your tickets, and your number of seats are guaranteed.  We have 22 remaining seats available for the Wasps v Leinster European Cup match on Sunday 20 January 2019 at £125.60 (£88 plus VAT and a £20 donation to the South Africa Tour Fund) instead of the published retail price of £150 (£125 plus VAT).

This is the Jaguar Suite which has the following:

Three course chef's table

Pre match talk from a top Wasps player

Matchday programme

Tea and coffee

Access to Directors box seating around the halfway line

There is not a complimentary bar, but all usual drinks can be purchased separately.  It is also hoped to add some extras on at the stadium, but these cannot be guaranteed at this time.

Transport will be provided by coach from Princethorpe, and we have agreed to organise the coach so the cost of that will be paid for by attendees at their rate.

Discount should be available for season ticket holders in the usual way and this can be looked at as required, but we do already have a substantial discount.

It is also hoped to arrange a special talk from top hockey, netball and rugby players past or present in The Clarkson theatre which will be available to all students including those not going to the Ricoh.  There may be a charge for non Rugby attendees.  This would take place before the coach departs for the Ricoh.

Payment will be required by the end of this half term.

To book your seats, please could you email pcwaspsfundraiser@btinternet.com with the following details:

Name of parent

Your contact email address

Whether your son or daughter is due to be on the trip to South Africa

Number of seats you would be interested in taking up

Thank you for your continued support and we hope you will join us for this first South Africa Fundraiser.

Neil McCollin
Foundation Director of Sport

Welcome to the new academic year here at Princethorpe, and we are looking forward to all the exciting fixtures ahead and seeing some great sport being played.

Just as a reminder, below is the PE and Games kit required and as always, we value your support and commitment to our team and our school.

Curriculum PE Lessons:

Boys - black sports shorts, white socks, white polo shirt or House polo shirt;

Girls - black skort, white socks, white polo shirt or House polo shirt;

In cold weather black tracksuit bottoms, black sports fleeces and/or Princethorpe sports jackets may be worn.

GCSE and A-level Practical Lessons:

Boys - black sports shorts, white socks, red academic polo shirt; 

Girls - black skort, white socks, red academic polo shirt;

In cold weather black tracksuit bottoms, black sports fleeces and/or Princethorpe sports jackets may be worn.

Games Lessons – Boys:

Rugby - black rugby shorts, red and black rugby shirts, Princethorpe black socks, football/rugby boots, gum shield;

Hockey - black sports shorts, white polo shirt, black socks, trainers or astro-turf trainers, gum shield, shin pads;

Football - black sports shorts, red and black rugby shirts, Princethorpe black socks, football boots, shin pads;

Athletics - black sports shorts, white polo shirt, House polo shirt, white socks, black sports fleece;

Cricket - black sports shorts or cricket trousers, white polo shirt or Princethorpe cricket shirt, Princethorpe cricket pullover;

In cold weather black tracksuit bottoms, black sports fleeces and/or Princethorpe sports jackets may be worn.

Games Lessons – Girls:

Netball - black skort, white polo shirt, white socks;

Hockey - black skort, white polo shirt, Princethorpe black socks, trainers or astro-turf trainers, gum shield, shin pads;

Tennis - black skort or white skort (only team players,) white socks, white polo shirt;

Athletics - black skort, white polo shirt, white socks;

Cricket or Rounders - black skort, white polo shirt, white socks;

In cold weather black tracksuit bottoms, black sports fleeces and/or Princethorpe sports jackets may be worn;

In any PE or Games lesson if you wear base layers or “skinz” then they must be black in colour. No jewellery or watches are to be worn and long hair must be tied up.

Only Princethorpe sports kit can be worn for sports lessons.

All kit must be clearly labelled and valuables must be placed in the valuables box at the start of each lesson.

Tuesday 18 September 2018 - 7.00pm
Sixth Form Centre Dining Room 

The PTA extend a warm welcome to all new and current parents, and invite you to join us for cheese and wine at the PTA AGM.

The AGM is a great opportunity to find out what the PTA does for the school, and how you could help us by supporting activities such as Open Days, Christmas and Summer Fairs. It really is an excellent way to get involved with school life, and you can offer as little or as much of your time as you feel is possible.

You'll be able to chat to other parents who are involved in the PTA either as commitee members or supporters who give whatever spare time they can at the Christmas Fayre and Summer Fete or welcoming visitors to the schools on Open Days. 

Our main aim is to provide the ‘extras’ for the school which are very much appreciated by pupils and staff alike; we support events such as Activities Week and one of our largest donations recently has been to improve the area of the school known as Switzerland.

If you have any queries please contact us on pta@princethorpe.co.uk. 

We hope you will be able to join us on the night and very much look forward to meeting you.

Princethorpe PTA

Pre-Audition Meeting Monday 10 September 2018

Pupils from Years 7 to U6 are invited to get involved in any one of the disciplines of theatre making - we are looking for actors, dancers, costume and prop makers, technical and stage management crew to work in The Clarkson.

There will be an initial meeting on Monday 10 September between 4.00pm - 5.30pm and a sign-up sheet to register your interest. Auditions will be held in The Clarkson on Monday 17 September between 4.00pm - 6.00pm with any mop-ups during the following lunch times.

You can get more information from the Drama Department VLE/Drama notice board and get ahead by learning script extracts.

Prepare to shine with fine lights for a Little Shop of Horrors!

Mrs Cefaliello
Head of Drama

Thank you for the applications for individual music lessons received to date; tuition will commence during the second week of term from Monday 10 September. The instrumental teachers will contact you in the next few days to confirm the day/time/room of the first lesson. Lessons are charged at £17.50 per half hour individual lesson. Please can all parents return the invoice payment and the ‘new pupils’ Teacher/Parent contract and Privacy Statement to the teacher by the first lesson date at the very latest.

I would appreciate it if you would encourage some practise at home before the initial lesson and ask your child to bring along a piece of music to play to their teacher (this helps establish positive relationships between pupil and teacher as the pupil is ‘in charge’ of their own learning and lessons can then progress from such a meeting of minds). All musical instruments must be clearly named on both the case (try a strong suitcase label or dog tag) and instrument, if possible, and then stored safely either in the pupil’s locker or music store cupboard in the morning. Sheet music should be kept flat in a music bag; these are available to purchase from the school shop. Instruments must not be left around school at any time.

If you have not yet arranged music lessons and are interested in individual tuition for your son/daughter then please can you contact me either by email at felicitycoulson@princethorpe.co.uk or by direct phone line on 01926 634268.

Felicity Coulson
Peripatetic Music Coordinator

I would like to take this opportunity to remind you, particularly those new to Princethorpe College, about the wide variety of Co-curricular activities and clubs that are on offer during lunch time and after school.  Not only is it a good way to try new activities but it is also a great way to make new friends.

A list of all the Co-curricular activites can be found at the front of the Michaelmas 2018 Termly Calendar which you will have received by post during the summer.  Alternatively, click here to view an electronic version which can also be found on the Princethorpe College website in the section titled 'Outside Class'.

All sport and music Co-curricular activities will start on Monday 3 September, all other activities and clubs will start on Monday 10 September.

I hope that you have all had a great break over the summer and look forward to seeing you back and welcoming our new pupils on Monday 3 September.

Greg Hunter
Assistant Head - Co-Curricular

Monday 17 September 2018

All Year 11 parents are invited to attend the Sicily trip information evening on Monday 17 September in the Sixth Form Lecture Theatre, 7.00pm - 8.00pm.

Rayburn Tours will go through the planned itinerary and will answer any questions you may have. The Geography team will also be present. Light refreshments will be provided.

Anne Allen
Assistant Head of Sixth Form

Tuesday 25 September - 6.00pm - The Chapel

Just to inform parents that the Parents' Information Evening for the Year 7 Pioneer Trip has changed from Thursday 20 September to Tuesday 25 September at 6.00pm in the Chapel.  We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

12 April to 19 April 2019

I hope that your son/daughter is looking forward to the ski trip next Easter. Although it may seem like it is a long way off at present, there are some important dates coming up that I would like to draw your attention to. Please do make a note of these dates in your diaries, the dates will also appear in the termly calendars;

Thursday 15 November 2018 - First Parent Meeting
6.00pm - 7.00pm in the Clarkson Theatre

Preliminary information with important forms that need to be completed and returned will be given out. A representative from ‘Snow Union’, a ski clothing and hire company will give a presentation on required ski kit. It is expected that a representative parent attends and students are also welcome.

Thursday 20 December 2018 (during Christmas holiday)
Ski Trip Practice (1) to the Snowdome, Tamworth 

This is a voluntary two hour lesson with qualified instructors based on student ability on indoor snow. Skis, poles and helmets will be provided. Ski gloves, ski socks and warm clothing are required, as well as a packed lunch. I would recommend that absolute beginners attend at least one ski practice session. We will travel by coach from Princethorpe, leaving at 9.00am and returning at 3.00pm. Cost £40. Max number of students is 72. An Evolve email with further details and a consent form will be sent out shortly for parents to add names onto the trip.

Wednesday 6 March 2019 - Second Parent Meeting
6.00pm - 7.00pm in the Clarkson Theatre

Final trip details will be provided including confirmed departure and return times. A representative from ‘IBT’, our tour company, will give a presentation and be on hand to answer questions. It is expected that a representative parent attends and students are also welcome.

Wednesday 13 March 2019
Ski Trip Practice (2) to Ackers Adventure, Birmingham

This is a voluntary two hour lesson with qualified instructors based on student ability on a dry ski slope. Skis and poles will be provided. Ski gloves, ski socks and warm waterproof clothing are required, as well as a packed tea. I would recommend that absolute beginners attend at least one practice session. We will travel by coach from Princethorpe, leaving at 15.45pm and returning at 20.30pm. Cost £35. Max number of students is 40. An Evolve consent form will be sent by email nearer the time for parents to add students onto the trip.

Friday 12 April – Friday 19 April 2019 - Ski Trip to Obertauern, Austria

Departure and return times TBC (likely to be late afternoon on both days).

Please contact me regarding any queries at catherinewarne@princethorpe.co.uk.

Kind Regards

Catherine Warne

Parents and pupils aged 13 and over are encouraged to sign up for our Twitter news feed on the bus service using @PCBuses. We will use this to keep pupils and parents informed of anything that happens during the journeys to and from school.

Simply go to twitter.com/PCBuses. From here you can follow @PC Buses, if you have a twitter account, or if you do not regularly use twitter you can bookmark this link on your mobile or computer and check it whenever you need to.

The safety of pupils using the bus service is of paramount importance. We ask parents to talk to their children about how to keep safe going to and from the bus stop and ensure they know what to do if the bus doesn’t arrive. There is a briefing for pupils who use the bus service at the start of each academic year. The College’s risk assessment of the bus service is attached here and a copy is also on the Parent Portal.

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

The College takes the safety of pupils, staff and visitors very safely and we have taken various measures to minimise the risk of an accident involving a vehicle.  Please take care when driving on campus particularly at busy times such as the start and end of the business day.

The start of term is exceptionally busy and we recommend that new pupils use the bus service from the first day of term.  For busy times we usually have staff managing traffic on site and all drivers are asked to cooperate and to follow instructions.  Our aim is to make it safe and as easy as possible for everyone.

The College’s risk assessment on the management of traffic is available here.

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

It’s been all systems "go!" since the end of term for our Estates, Grounds and IT teams (not to mention the external contractors too) who have been busy making improvements across the school!

With enough activity to rival an episode of Challenge Anneka, just some of the work that has been carried out so far includes; stripping and redecorating various classrooms and corridors including a whole new fresh look for the Art Corridor, creating new meeting spaces, external building maintenance, refreshed WiFi, a Foundation single domain project and last but by no means least, the preparation and treatment of our wonderful grounds ahead of the new sporting season.

Scroll through the image gallery to see a snapshot of the work carried out over the summer. It’s looking great and we can’t wait to welcome our pupils back on Monday.

The school shop is open for pupils during both break and lunch time, every school day.   For parents wishing to visit the school shop, this can be done without an appointment between 3.30pm and 4.30pm, every school day.

Should you be unable to visit the shop during the above mentioned times and would like to make an appointment, please contact the Foundation Shop Manager, Miss Nicola Browne on 01926 634272 or via email on nicolabrowne@princethorpe.co.uk.

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

Required to start as soon as possible, we are recruiting a full-time Administrator\Receptionist to work all year round, within our busy reception area, the successful candidate will have good organisational skills; will be articulate, friendly, professional and well presented.

The position involves a mixture of administrative support, reception duties, and liaising with pupils and parents; the post holder will need to balance general duties with providing comprehensive administrative support to a mixture of staff, including some senior management.

Interested candidates should ideally have experience in a similar position and will have excellent communication, organisation and customer service skills; the ability to work under pressure and to deadlines in a fast-paced environment; will be articulate, friendly, professional and well presented. Strong IT skills, particularly in Microsoft Office, are essential.

The working hours are Monday to Friday 8.30am – 5.00pm, with an hour for lunch.

This is an excellent opportunity to join the fast growing Foundation that values its staff and offers a rewarding benefits package including discounted places for staff, a pension scheme, child care vouchers and a cycle to work scheme.

Application: To apply for this vacancy applicants must submit a Princethorpe College application form, together with a CV and covering letter detailing your personal qualities, experience and how you meet the person specification for the role. Applicants must ensure the application form is fully completed, including a detailed career history with specific dates.

Candidates are advised to apply immediately as applications will be reviewed as they are received and the closing date may be brought forward.

Further details and an application form are available from the College website www.princethorpe.co.uk/employment-opportunities

We are looking to recruit an IT Apprentice, at Level 3, to join the busy Foundation IT department, reporting to the Assistant Head (Director of Digital Strategy) and will be based in Princethorpe College with some duties at the Foundation feeder schools, Crackley Hall School in Kenilworth and Crescent School in Rugby. 

The candidate will be a member of the IT Service Desk team providing a front-line service to staff across all three schools and for pupils in the College.

The role would provide the successful candidate with an inside view of the workings and the organisation of a multisite network, implementation procedures of new hardware/software, including expansion and development of existing and new IT services. They will have responsibility for the first point of contact on the ICT helpdesk with all users.

Interested candidates will have good communication and organisational skills, as well as the ability to work on their own and as part of a team. They will be studying an IT related apprenticeship at level three or four. Likely courses are IT, Software and Telecoms Professionals, IT Application Specialist or Infrastructure Technician, although this list is not exhaustive.  Warwickshire College Group are the training service provider for the apprenticeship and additional training will be on day release at Warwickshire College.

An IT Apprenticeship will enable the successful candidate to gain hands on experience; they will be trained to provide support to users on various levels, from toner replacements, stock checks and Audio Visual setups, to supporting end users with any technical and software queries.

Candidates are welcome to discuss the apprenticeship courses in more detail with Emma Rogers, Worked-based Learning Manager, Warwickshire College Group on 01788 863230.

Single person accommodation on site may be available.

This is an excellent opportunity to join the fast growing Foundation that values its staff and offers a rewarding benefits package including discounted places for staff, a pension scheme, child care vouchers and a cycle to work scheme.

Application: To apply for this vacancy applicants must submit a Princethorpe College application form, together with a CV and covering letter detailing your personal qualities, experience and how you meet the person specification for the role. Applicants must ensure the application form is fully completed, including a detailed career history with specific dates.

Closing date: Monday 10 September at 9.00am, with interviews likely to be held on Thursday 13 September at Princethorpe College.

Further details and an application form are available from the College website www.princethorpe.co.uk/employment-opportunities

(Maternity cover: full-time and part-time considered)

Required for November 2018, after the Michaelmas half term break, a well-qualified graduate to teach Mathematics to KS3 and KS4 in a flourishing and successful department. Familiarity with Pearson’s IGCSE would be an additional recommendation, but is not essential.

Enthusiasm to become involved with the extra-curricular life of the school is essential. Candidates should be able to demonstrate success in the classroom and be effective team players. Full and part-time applications will be considered. 

This is an excellent opportunity to join the fast growing Foundation that values its staff and offers a rewarding benefits package.

Application: To apply for this vacancy applicants must submit a Princethorpe College application form, together with a CV and covering letter detailing your personal qualities, experience and how you meet the person specification for the role. Applicants must ensure the application form is fully completed, including a detailed career history with specific dates.

Closing date: Tuesday 11 September 2018 at 9.00am, with interviews likely to be held Friday 14 September.

Further details and an application form are available from the College website www.princethorpe.co.uk/employment-opportunities

Cyber-crime – please be vigilant

Parents are asked to be vigilant when reading emails relating to the payment of school fees and any other items to the Foundation.

We continue to receive reports regarding spam emails being sent to parents of independent schools asking them to pay future fees to a ‘new’ school bank account.

Please be advised there has been no change to the bank details of either Princethorpe College, Crackley Hall or Crescent and there is no intention to make any changes in the foreseeable future. Any electronic notification that appears to be from any of the Foundation schools changing these details may be fraudulent.

Our bank details are available on the Parent Bills, the Online Payment Portal and for Princethorpe in the Princethorpe College Information Booklet 2018 – 2019, and only those details should be used.

Please do not hesitate to contact me or my colleagues in the Bursary if you are have any doubts about the correct details or indeed if anything appears suspicious.

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

As we move into a new school year we have revised our menus, keeping some of the old favourites as well as bringing in some fresh new ideas. Here's a couple of the new recipes for anyone wishing  to try them at home.  

Our menus are checked and endorsed by Holroyd Howe’s Director of Nutrition and Food Development, Amy Roberts.

Maureen Kennedy
Catering Manager 

***************

Chana Masala

Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 35 minutes
Serves 6 - 8

Ingredients:

800g canned chickpeas or 720g jar giant chickpeas
3 onions, quartered
3 garlic cloves
5cm piece of ginger
2-3 green chillies, roughly chopped
1½ tbsp ghee
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp chilli powder (Kashmiri if possible)
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp garam masala
1 ½ tsp amchoor powder (optional)
3 medium tomatoes (around 300g), roughly chopped, or 400g can chopped tomatoes
1 lemon, juiced
½ small pack coriander leaves, to serve

Method:

1. Drain the chickpeas, add to a large pan with 400ml of water and season. Bring to the boil, then turn off the heat and set aside to allow the chickpea flavour to infuse the water.

2. Blitz the onions with the garlic, ginger and green chillies. Melt the ghee in a large saucepan, then add the onion mix with a pinch of salt and cook for 8-10 minutes, until softened.

3. Stir in the spices, and cook for 3 more minutes, adding a splash of the chickpea water to stop them sticking to the bottom of the pan. Add the tomatoes and another splash of water and cook for 5 mins, squishing the tomatoes with a spoon as they soften. Tip in the chickpeas, along with their cooking water. Cook for 10 minutes. Season well, add the lemon juice, and a splash of water if you like a looser curry. Scatter with the coriander, to serve.

Braised Pork in Sweet Soy Sauce

Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Serves 4

Ingredients:

2 lb pork loin
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp garlic and ginger paste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp sesame oil
1/2 cup soy sauce
4 tbsp sugar
1 1/2 cup water
1 tbsp chilli garlic sauce
2 green onions chopped (optional)

Method:

1. Cut the pork in about 1 inch pieces and saute in a pan with the vegetable oil for about 3 minutes, until pork is no longer pink.

2. In a medium bowl mix the rest of the ingredients. Pour over the pork and bring to a boil. You may think there's too much water, but it will reduce. Once it's boiling turn the heat down to low and let simmer for about 30 minutes or until there's only about 3 tbsp of sauce left.

3. Stir the pork in the sauce to make sure each piece is coated.

4. Serve with steamed rice.

Please click on the links below to access the Term Dates and Key Dates documents:

2018-19 (Two-page document)

2019-20 (Two-page document)