The Flagpole

At the start of a new academic year - may I begin by welcoming all pupils and parents of the Princethorpe community back. I hope your holidays were restful, filled with family time and memory making moments. At school, we have been busy getting ready and we are very much looking forward to Monday when we see all pupils and staff return.

There have been several exciting things happening during July and August, even though school was closed. A very successful South Africa Sports Tour returned safely, and the feedback again shows how big an impact this co-curricular highlight has on our pupils. They came back with excellent sport results and a wider awareness of the world having experienced a vastly different country and culture compared to what they normally see. Mr Cassell and Mr McCollin deserve special mention for all their organisation, as well as all the staff who gave their time to accompany the trip – thank you. The wheels are already in motion to plan for the next tour.

A-level and GCSE results were published in August and Princethorpe is extremely proud of our pupils. At A-level we achieved a 71% A* - B rate, while 45% of all GCSE grades were 7 - 9. We had a 100% pass rate in both cohorts. These headlines show we are academically strong and that our pupils do really well. For example, just under 90% of all A-level candidates were accepted into their first-choice university. However, numbers do not tell the individual stories of success. The well-rounded young people who leave us are so much more than their grades and that is our biggest achievement. They are kind, compassionate, independent, and they have a strong moral compass. There will be an opportunity at Prize Giving in November to celebrate them and we look forward to hearing how they are getting on with their endeavours.

Our Estates Team have been working away, ensuring the College is ready for the start of term. Our new Science Centre is amazing, and I invite you all to come and have a look when there is an opportunity later this term. There is a real feeling of “wow” when you first walk in and the impact this will have on the experience of our pupils is genuinely exciting. This has opened space in the main building where we have created new teaching rooms, a Textiles room, a Design Technology room, and a Performing Arts space. We have also uncovered the missing station of the cross that was hidden behind a blackboard for many years. As soon as it is restored, we will share some pictures. Add in two new Netball courts and a new staff room, and I hope you understand why we are raring to go. Pupils will be returning to a campus of the highest standard.

In my last letter, I said goodbye to colleagues who were moving on from Princethorpe. It is now my pleasure to welcome a number of new teachers and support staff joining the College. They have been in for several induction days, and we are looking forward to the expertise and enthusiasm they will bring. They are strong classroom practitioners and excellent in their subject areas.

Joining the College teaching staff are:

Steve Carter – Teacher of Computer Science

Joanna Evans – Teacher of English

Heather Foulerton – Teacher of Spanish

Adelaide Fretwell – Head of History and Politics

Thomas Gleghorn – Head of Academic PE

Victoria Howell – Teacher of Girls’ Games and PE

Kate Ingram – Teacher of Spanish

Kati Nelson – Teacher in charge of Textiles

Catherine Morrish – Teacher of Textiles

Lydia Petrucci – Teacher of English

Marianne Tallis – Teacher of RS

Carly Walton – Head of Girls’ Games

Joining as trainee teachers are:

Ewan Lawson – Trainee Teacher in PE

Lucy Roberts – Trainee Teacher in Mathematics

Dawid Stasiak – Trainee Teacher in Physics

Joining the College support staff are:

Milton Bartholomew – IT Engineer

Aimee Brookes – Graduate Teaching Assistant

Naomi Chard – Learning Support Assistant

Lilli Draper – Graduate Teaching Assistant

Rebecca Gonon – Learning Support Assistant

Emma Harcourt – Student Support Officer

Natalie Hardy – Sports Graduate Teaching Assistant

Daniel Hogg – IT Engineer (Casual)

Marie Holt – Assistant Registrar

Sam Ingles – Groundsman

Katie Strange – Receptionist

We are placing a real emphasis on Teaching and Learning this year. We have spent a large part of INSET looking at our approach to what happens in the classroom, and it is something we want to build on. In no way does this imply Teaching and Learning is a weakness at Princethorpe – on the contrary, our last ISI (Independent School Inspectorate) inspection in October highlighted it as outstanding. However, this is an area we want to shine a spotlight on, so don’t be surprised if your child comes home discussing what has happened in their lessons. Please ask them about their classroom experiences. As part of this focus, we need your support. To ensure the most productive learning environment, we need the “easy wins” to be spot on. Your child will notice clear and consistent enforcement of standards and expectations to ensure their learning is as good as it can be. I have asked staff to keep expectations high and this may lead to more sanctions until our pupils have found their feet and the rhythm of the new school year. We will reward in equal measure to embed good habits. Please remind your child about the importance of things they have control over when it comes to their learning experience – punctuality, equipment, behaviour for learning, and homework. All of these should never be a concern and will allow my colleagues to focus all their attention on their classroom craft. We will highlight this message to all pupils, reinforcement of this at home would be appreciated.

I would also like to remind you about the uniform guidelines and expectations that were circulated last term. As per my previous letter, incorrect unform will be addressed from day one, and again, your support in getting this right is very important. Do not hesitate to follow the guidelines, even if your child claims all his or her friends are not. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact your child’s tutor.

The first half-term is extremely busy, and I encourage you to read The Flagpole and the Termly Calendar at your leisure to make sure you start on the front foot. Some of the upcoming highlights include the Old Princethorpians versus College Sports Day taking place tomorrow, Open Afternoon, the Year 7 Whitmore Lakes Trip, the Science Centre Official Opening, our Sixth Form Open Evening, and the normal busy programme of sports fixtures. There is never a quiet moment at Princethorpe and I am certain this term will not disappoint.

Finally, I would like to state again the importance of communication between home and school. It is essential that we know when we can do better and how to best support your child. The message I gave to staff was one of talking to each other, not about one another. This must apply to the relationship between you and us also. Sharing frustrations on a WhatsApp group will not see them resolved and over time a little thing might become a real issue. We pride ourselves on the good relationships we have with parents and at the heart of that is honest, open, two-way communication.

I look forward to meeting more parents on the touchlines and at other events – do come and say hello please. May this term be successful, and the start to a good year.

With my very best wishes

Grove du Toit
Headmaster

The College’s new Science Centre was officially handed over to the school today ready for teaching to commence as we start the new academic year. The fabulous new teaching and learning facilities include 1,800sqm of floor space with ten state-of-the-art laboratories, dedicated prep rooms, brilliant break out and study spaces, and brand new staff bases.

The building’s location at the top of The Lime Walk places it central to the College’s campus providing a truly inspirational environment that will inspire generations of Princethorpe pupils and staff for years to come.

The 18-month build was completed on time by Trendgrey Construction Limited, who are based in nearby Stockton. Working in partnership with the Foundation they have delivered an exceptional educational facility.

Over the last few weeks, the Estates teams and Science staff have been working round the clock to move in while outside the final landscaping of the site was being completed.

Today, Foundation Bursar, Eddie Tolcher, and Foundation Assistant Head and Project Manager, Alex Darkes, met with Trendgrey MD, Nick Henderson, Trendgrey Site Agent, Kevin Wynne, Trendgrey Quantity Surveyor, John Yates, Tony Pugh, and Elisa Canet, from AT Architects and Steve Joyce, from Ainsleys and Partners, to complete the formalities of the handover.

Plans are now well underway for the official opening of the new building which will take place on Friday 22 September.

It’s fantastic that the Foundation’s vision for science has become reality. It is all very exciting for us here at Princethorpe.

Princethorpe College is celebrating another year of excellent exam results.

112 students sat A-level and BTEC examinations and completed the Extended Project Qualification this summer. In one of our strongest years to date, 70% of all grades were A*- B, with more than a third being A*- A. Impressively, 17 high-flyers achieved three or more A* or A grades.

At GCSE Princethorpe pupils also performed well, from a cohort of 159 pupils, 42% of all entries were the coveted 9, 8 or 7 grades, with 16 pupils achieving all 9, 8 or 7 grades.

Grove du Toit, Headmaster, commented, "We are delighted with the excellent results that our Sixth Form students and Year 11 pupils have achieved against a backdrop of unprecedented challenges over the last few years. Their results reflect their hard work and perseverance, all credit goes to our pupils and staff for their commitment, collaboration and hard work."

He continued, "We are proud of their academic achievements, but all these pupils 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 well-deserved success."

Princethorpe has a new Admissions Team gearing up to help families who are interested in entry to the College for September 2024 and beyond.

Catherine Rogers is our new Registrar, having been promoted to the role in July. Catherine will be a familiar face to many families, she has been a longstanding member of the Admissions Team and has a wealth of knowledge and experience of the Princethorpe admissions cycle. Joining her is new Assistant Registrar, Marie Holt, who is no stranger to the Foundation either, having previously worked as a receptionist at Crackley Hall School.

The friendly pair have plenty in common, not least their shared public service backgrounds; Catherine was a midwife in the NHS for 18 years and Marie a Warwickshire police officer for 25 years, with their calm, unflappable natures they are both well equipped to cope with the busy period ahead.

The last week has seen the duo dealing with new Lower Sixth joiners post GCSE Results Day, preparations for Year 7 Activity Day and of course arrangements to ensure a smooth start to term for the next generation of Princethorpians.

Comments Catherine, “We are really looking forward to our first Open Event together, which promises to be an exciting one as we will be welcoming visitors into the brand, new state-of-the-art Science Centre at our Open Afternoon on Sunday 17 September.”

To get in touch with Catherine and Marie, email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk or call 01926 634201/297, they will be happy to help.

With just ten weeks to go, the countdown to the College's Entrance Exams for admission in September 2024 has begun. This year the exams for Year 7 to 10 entry will take place on Saturday 11 November from 9.00am to 4.00pm.

Our friendly Admissions Team have been kept busy over the summer accepting registrations from prospective parents. The deadline for registration is Friday 29 September, to enable the processing of applications and seeking of references from junior schools.

There are still plenty of opportunities for prospective pupils and their parents to visit the College before the Entrance Exams, including our Open Afternoon on Sunday 17 September from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Our Open Afternoon will allow prospective families to look around the school, join in with department activities and hear from our Headmaster, Grove du Toit. 

Our Year 6 Taster Days are also a great way for prospective pupils to really experience Princethorpe. Our Taster Days typically involve four lessons, a question and answer session with some of our current pupils and the chance to talk to the Headmaster, Mr du Toit.

We have three sessions available on Tuesday 12 September, Wednesday 20 September and Tuesday 26 September for those who are in Year 6 and have not had the chance to attend a previous Taster Day.

All our events are by appointment. To book your place click here

If you have any queries relating to admissions please feel free to email the Admissions Team, Catherine Rogers, Registrar and Marie Holt, Assistant Registrar, at admissions@princethorpe.co.uk or call them on 01926 634201/297.

The Princethorpe Foundation was delighted to welcome Dr Mo Glackin, General Secretary of the Catholic Independent Schools’ Conference to Princethorpe College on Wednesday 30 August. Dr Glackin joined staff in celebrating the first Foundation Mass of the school year before delivering a training session on governance in catholic schools for the Foundation’s Trustees.

We're excited to announce a significant development in our school's new Science Centre – the naming of a Chemistry laboratory as The Bruce Townsend Laboratory. This designation serves as a tribute to Bruce Townsend, a prominent figure in the field of Chemical Engineering, and a former parent who now has a grandson at Princethorpe College.

Born on 25 July 1929, Bruce Townsend was among the pioneering students who pursued Chemical Engineering at University College London during the 1950s.

Bruce's professional journey aligned with the transformation of Courtaulds, a company originally rooted in silk spinning in the 18th Century. Under his guidance, Courtaulds evolved into a global leader in man-made fibers by blending chemicals with wood pulp fibre. Notably, Bruce played a pivotal role in establishing wood pulp mills in Swaziland, involving intricate negotiations with tribal leaders to secure necessary resources.

Advancing in his career, Bruce assumed the role of Chief Executive of Research at Courtaulds, positioning him at the forefront of scientific innovation. His commitment to exploration led to groundbreaking discoveries, including Alginate – a revolutionary substance combining chemicals with sea kelp, transforming wound dressings and patient care.

Bruce's contributions were acknowledged with the Queen's Awards for Export and Technology in 1989, highlighting the vital role of Chemical Engineers in addressing global challenges related to water, energy, food, and well-being.

Believing in the importance of nurturing the next generation of scientists, Bruce's infectious enthusiasm and charisma left a lasting impact on all who crossed his path. The Bruce Townsend Lab is a testament to his legacy, providing an advanced platform for hands-on experiments, research, and collaborative learning, nurturing a passion for science among our students.

By attaching Bruce Townsend's name to this laboratory, we honour his lasting impact on Chemical Engineering and his unwavering belief in the power of scientific exploration. This lab embodies our commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering a deep appreciation for science.

The naming of The Bruce Townsend Lab signifies more than just recognition – it represents our school's dedication to providing pupils with the tools they need to excel in the scientific realm. We move forward with Bruce's legacy as an inspiration, fuelling our aspirations for a brighter scientific future.

On Tuesday 29 August, 27 runners from Princethorpe College (with the support of seven further staff) took on a 100km relay run in aid of Mary’s Meals.

Starting from the top of Cleeve Hill, in Cheltenham, and following the Cotswold and Centenary Ways, their route took them through Winchcombe, Stanway, Broadway and on towards Chipping Campden, then Ilmington, Whatcote and Ratley before reaching Burton Dassett, on to Itchington Holt, Ufton and Hunningham and finally to the finish line at Princethorpe College. Split into 12km sections, staff ran in small groups running one, two or for the most dedicated of runners four parts of the 100km course. 

The challenge was in honour of fundraising legend and Mary’s Meals supporter, Rod Isaacs, who is moving on to a new role outside the Foundation. It was a thank you for his extraordinary dedication and commitment to organising adventures for students that raise money for good causes, and it kick started the fundraising for Mary’s Meals for this school year.

It was an epic fundraising event with the team completing the relay run in a fabulous 11 hours and 57 minutes (that's an average 12kmph), despite the rain soaking everyone in the final sections of the day. OPs Tom and Will Crowfoot both ran over 50km while Rod Isaacs completed 36km.

So far the run has raised £1,580 but please do consider supporting the runners by donating to their JustGiving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/princethorpe-marysmeals23-24

Huge congratulations to everyone involved but a special thank you must go to the organiser, Head of Outdoor Education and Teacher of PE and Games, Will Bower.

Friday 1 September was an exciting and important day for Year 7 pupils who are joining Princethorpe College this academic year.

For this latest generation of Princethorpians, our Year 7 Activity Day was all about helping Year 7 settle into their new school, allowing them to meet their new classmates, familiarise themselves with the layout of the school and get a feel for some of the lessons they can expect. It was also a great opportunity to generally ask questions, allay any fears and ease their transition to secondary school.

Our incoming Year 7s arrived looking excited and a little bit nervous. During their action-packed day pupils participated in fun team building activities including a scavenger hunt, took part in Technology lessons, a Year 7 Chorus rehearsal with Mr Cowlishaw and enjoyed an afternoon Games lesson.

During the day we saw plenty of smiling faces and it was clear that everyone was making new friends. It was a flying start to secondary school – a huge well done to Year 7!

At the start of the summer holidays the College enjoyed a successful 16-day sports tour to South Africa. Taking our largest squad ever, of some 123 pupils and 16 staff, playing four sports, Rugby, Football, Netball and Hockey, the tour travelled to Johannesburg and then on to Cape Town, Pretoria and Pilanesberg for a fortnight full of keenly contested matches and spectacular sight-seeing.

During the tour the Rugby, Football, Netball and boys’ and girls’ Hockey teams participated in five full days of good spirited and competitive training and matches against school and club teams. Our South African hosts were so hospitable, and the training and matches were great experiences for all, with valuable lessons learnt both on and off the field.

Away from the sports field, the tour offered participants the chance to broaden their horizons with sightseeing and educational experiences that included the history of South Africa with tours of Soweto and the Apartheid Museum and a visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated. Pupils also took part in an eye-opening tour of Cape Town’s oldest back township and get up close and personal with the wildlife in game drives at Pilanesberg Game Reserve. The tour party all enjoyed the spectacular scenery of Table Mountain in Cape Town and the charming costal town of Hout Bay.

Lee Cassell, Director of Sport, and leader of the tour, said, “South Africa is a truly stunning country, passionate and fiercely competitive in their sport. We have had an excellent trip and played some inspiring matches and I know that our Princethorpe pupils will have returned home with a truly wonderful set of memories.”

Our thanks go to all of the staff involved in putting together and running such an impressive trip. We look forward to the experiences translating into positive results on the pitches over the coming season.

There was much excitement at the start of the summer holidays here at Princethorpe College when we welcomed the BBC back to Princethorpe for the filming of the third series of The Sister Boniface Mysteries, the Father Brown spin off that features Lorna Watson as Sister Boniface, a brilliant Vespa driving, crime solving Catholic nun.

According to UKTV this latest series includes the story of a famous organist murdered mid tune in the Chapel (we wonder where that might be) as well as story lines of mysterious kidnappings and stolen precious jewels.

It was fantastic to see the College taken back in time but quite surreal to come round the corner and find yourself confronted by members of the cast dressed as nuns.

We can’t wait to see the new episodes and will keep you posted on when the new series will air.

We have great pleasure in unveiling the OPs' events calendar for 2023-2024.

This year's calendar features some of our regular favourites including the OPs vs College Sports Day this Saturday 2 September and the popular London Meet on Friday 29 September at The Riverside, a trendy Thames side venue.

Our spring meet returns to Leamington this time at The Fox and Vivian on Friday 8 March and the annual Summer Supper Reunion takes place at the College on Friday 28 June, celebrating the leavers of 1974, 1984, 1994, 2004 and 2014, 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. Visit Princethorpe Connect, our online alumni community, to register and book on events.

We're looking forward to another fabulous year of events!

Saturday 2 September 2023

We are gearing up for the 12th annual Old Princethorpians vs College Sports Day (and 14th John Shinkwin Trophy Match) this Saturday 2 September 2023. 

We day will repeat our previous format with a relaxing day that mixes sporting matches with music, a complimentary BBQ and ice cream van and a subsidised bar.

As before points will be accumulated throughout the day, with the Alex Wallis Memorial Shield being awarded to the victors at the end of the day.

Format of day:

• 10.15am to 11.30am Football OPs vs Staff
• 11.30am to 12.30pm Hockey Princethorpe College Mixed Team vs OPs XI
• 12.30pm to 1.30pm Netball Princethorpe College 1st VII Girls vs OPs VII
• 1.45pm to 3.15pm Rugby - John Shinkwin Trophy - Princethorpe College 1st XV Boys vs OPs XV (leavers of 2023 and 2022)
• 3.30pm - After Match Awards by the BBQ

Spectators are most welcome to come along and support all the teams.

Sunday 10 September 2023 - 2.00pm to 4.00pm

This September Princethorpe College is once again participating in the Heritage Open Day festival.

Dating from 1832, St Mary's Priory was one of the first Catholic buildings constructed in England after the Reformation and until 1966 it was home to a congregation of Benedictine nuns. The Priory was then purchased by The Missionaries of the Sacred Heart who established Princethorpe College. Today Princethorpe is a fully co-educational Catholic independent day school.

As part of the Heritage Open Day festival Princethorpe’s archive team will be conducting free tours of the College on Sunday 10 September from 2.00pm to 4.00pm where they will share the history of the magnificent building and the amazing people that made it the place it is today.

Tours will start at 2.00pm, 2.30pm and 3.00pm. Areas open include Pugin’s magnificent Chapel, the Cloisters, Nuns’ Cells, Library (formerly a Church) and the unique Roundhouse. Admission is free and refreshments are available.

Monday 11 September - 6.30pm to 7.30pm

The College's Admissions Team will be holding a Virtual Parents' Q & A session on Monday 11 September from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

The event will be a live streamed Q & A session with Grove du Toit (Headmaster), Michael Spencer (Deputy Head - Academic) and Catherine Rogers (Registrar).

This is a chance for parents interested in Year 7 to 10 entry to the College in September 2024 to ask our Admissions Team questions relating to the admissions process and Entrance Examinations Day in an informal forum before the registration deadline of Friday 29 September.

If you would like to attend please click on this link where you will also be able to submit any questions in advance.

Wednesday 13 September 2023 - 7.00pm

It is with a fond goodbye to Chris Kerrigan, I take leadership of the Parents' Book Club. As an English teacher, literature is obviously a central part of my daily life but also in my personal life literature has been a huge part of my, and my family's experiences. One of my earliest memories was walking to my local, and it was local in those days, library to take out books on horses. 

The first session for this year will be on Wednesday 13 September in the library at 7.00pm. The first book on the agenda will be Trespasses by Louise Kennedy, an Irish writer who is building up a great reputation for herself. This book takes us back to the troubles in Northern Ireland in the 1970s and is written with great sensitivity.

We hope to recruit some new readers, so please do come and join us. There’s no commitment to attending every session, but you’ll certainly be guaranteed a warm welcome from a wonderful body of parents and friends. I am also hoping that we can develop an online link so those of you who want to share some musings but cannot join us are able to. 

I certainly look forward to seeing old friends and making new ones too. 

Friday 15 September 7.00pm – 9.00pm

We are delighted to invite parents of new pupils  to our Quiz and Curry Evening, which will take place in the Refectory on Friday 15 September from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. Tickets for the Parents’ Quiz are available on a first come, first served basis, including the curry supper, and are £10 per head. Payment for tickets will be charged to the Lent Term school fees.

The PTA will be running a pay bar and Mr du Toit’s quiz will hopefully not be too testing! 

It should be a very enjoyable evening for all and enable you to meet and socialise with fellow parents, as well as some staff and members of the PTA.  

If you would like to reserve your place, and to enable us to plan our catering, please click here to complete and submit a brief form by 9.00am, Friday 8 September.

Year 7 Social

At the same time, there will also be a Year 7 Disco organised by the PTA, staff and school prefects in the Sixth Form Centre. 

Tickets for the Year 7 Disco are free of charge, but you do need to reserve a place; to do so, please follow the link above. Children can attend the Year 7 Disco without their parents attending the Quiz, however parents are required to sign them in and sign them out. Drop off is at 7.00pm and collection no later than 9.00pm.

We recommend children bring approximately £3 pocket money with them to purchase drinks and treats. Children should have eaten their evening meal before attending. 

We very much hope you are able to attend and we look forward to seeing you on Friday 15 September.

Sunday 17 September 2023 - 2.00pm to 5.00pm

Princethorpe will be holding its annual Open Afternoon on Sunday 17 September from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. All are welcome to visit the College and for younger visitors, there will be many fun subject related activities organised by the departments.

The Headmaster will address visitors in the Chapel during the afternoon and refreshments will be available. 

To book your place please click here.

Year 6 Taster Days - Tuesday 12, Wednesday 20 and Tuesday 26 September

Our Year 6 Taster Days are aimed at Year 6 pupils who wish to join the College in September 2024 and who have not already attended a Year 5 Taster Day. 

Taster Days are available on:

• Tuesday 12 September 2023
• Wednesday 20 September 2023
• Tuesday 26 September 2023

Taster Days typically involve lessons, a question and answer session with some of our current pupils and a chance to talk to the Headmaster, Mr du Toit. They run from 9.30am to 3.00pm. Snacks and lunch are provided and there is no charge for the day.

To book your place click here.

Thursday 28 September 2023 - 6.30pm to 8.00pm

Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery in Kenilworth, are hosting a dedicated Nursery and Reception Open Evening on Thursday 28 September from 6.30pm.

This Open Evening is aimed at prospective families wishing to join Little Crackers Nursery or Reception in September 2024 and beyond. 

This is a perfect opportunity to see the Nursery and Reception classrooms, as well as the opportunity to talk to key members of staff who will be teaching and supporting your child.  

To book your place please click here. 

The Early Bird Deadline for Reception registrations for 2024 entry is Friday 20 October 2023.

If you can't make the Open Evening but would like to look around the school, you can now book a personal tour here or call our Registrar, Mrs Jenny Vaughan on 01926 514410 or email admissions@crackleyhall.co.uk and come on a day to suit you.

For more information visit www.crackleyhall.co.uk

Friday 29 September 2023 - 6.00pm to 10.30pm

Our popular OPs London Meet moves this September to the trendy Thames-side pub, The Riverside, Hamilton House, 5 Saint George's Wharf, SW8 2LE on Friday 29 September from 6.00pm to 10.30pm.

Described as Vauxhall's hidden gem, the The Riverside offers panoramic views of the London Eye and Battersea Power Station along with delicious food and drink and is just a short walk from Vauxhall Underground Station.

As ever the Old Princethorpians Committee will be laying on some delicious, complimentary food and of course a welcome drink or two for all those attending.

Our London Meets are always very popular, sociable affairs, with OPs from across the generations mixing and networking happily together.
 
If you would like to attend please RSVP via the registration button on Princethorpe Connect by Friday 22 September 2023.

We’re really looking forward to seeing everyone and catching up!

Tuesday 3 October 2023, 7.00pm to 8.00pm

The Crescent School, in Bilton, Rugby, is opening its doors for a dedicated Reception Open Evening on Tuesday 3 October 2023 from 7.00pm.

This Open Evening is aimed at prospective families wishing to join Reception in September 2024 and beyond.

The evening will have presentations highlighting key admissions information as well as what school life is like in Reception. There will also be opportunities to look around the school and visit the Reception classrooms, as well as speak to key members of staff. Joe Thackway, Headmaster, will also be available to answer any of your questions you may have about the school.  

To book your place please click here.

The Early Bird Deadline for Reception registrations for 2024 entry is Friday 20 October 2023.

If you can't make the Open Evening but would like to visit the school, you can now book a personal tour here, or please call our Registrar, Mrs Helen Morley on 01788 521595 or email admissions@crescentschool.co.uk and come on a day to suit you.

For more information visit www.crescentschool.co.uk

Friday 13 October - 7.00pm to 10.00pm

Princethorpe College invites parents and alumni working in the creative industries to join us for an exciting networking event. Featuring a keynote address by Marc Marot, a Princethorpe College alumnus who has left an indelible mark on the music industry, the evening promises to be an exciting oportunity to make connections, find inspiration, and gain insights. Whether you are a creative professional, entrepreneur, artist, or enthusiast, this gathering is designed with you in mind.

Our networking event takes place at Princethorpe College on Friday 13 October from 7.00pm to 10.00pm. After welcome drinks and introdcutions, OP Marc Marot will share his experiences in managing iconic artists, shaping record labels, and staying ahead of industry shifts. From his early days at Our Price Records to his influential role as President at Island Records, Marc's journey exemplifies innovation, resilience, and substantial contributions to the world of music.

Following the keynote address a buffet supper will be served and there will be plenty of time to network. The evening is free of charge, and we encourage you to extend the invitation to relevant friends and colleagues who would benefit from this exceptional networking opportunity.

Don't miss this chance to connect with like-minded individuals, gain valuable insights, and foster new opportunities within the creative industries. 

You can find out more and register for Princethorpe's Creative Industries Networking Event here.

Tuesday 31 October 2023 - 7.30pm

Those who love a murder mystery and are interested in Princethorpe related history, may like to attend Stoneleigh History Society's Talk, The Kilsby Tunnel Murder Mystery 1906, on Tuesday 31 October.

Returning to school at Princethorpe, St Mary's Priory pupil, Lillie Roachaid, the young daughter of a French aristocrat is found dead in Kilsby Tunnel. Is it suicide, a terrible accident, or the work of the Railway Ripper?

The talk takes place in Stoneleigh Village Hall and will be given by Paul Waddoups. Non-members £3, to include refreshments.

Stoneleigh History Society

Following the distribution of exam results, the period for making enquiries about results continues until 5.00pm, on Thursday 28 September. The options still available are a review of marking and/or requesting a copy of the exam script. 

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 wish to have reviewed.

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

Congratulations to last year's Year 9 Latin pupils on your superb results!

For current Year 9 pupils, co-curricular Latin lessons begin next week on Tuesday's or Wednesday's 4.00pm-5.45pm, in G42. Please come to register on your preferred date.

Pupils will be able to see their new timetable for the academic year in My School Portal from the morning of Saturday 2 September. They should bring in appropriate books and equipment for Monday’s lessons from Period three onwards. Year 7 pupils do not require any books, but those timetabled to have PE should bring their kit.

When arriving at school on Monday pupils should go to their tutor room for the beginning of Period one.

Thursday 21 September - 6.00pm to 8.30pm

We would like to invite all parents of Year 11 pupils to a 360 Review Evening with their child’s Form Tutor. This will include a 15 minute face-to-face appointment to discuss key priorities for the coming year. Senior staff will also share an overview of Year 11 and advice to support preparations for the forthcoming mock examinations.

Booking details will be issued the week before this event.

Michael Spencer
Deputy Head - Academic

From September 1, I'm delighted to announce there will be a change to the da Vinci Awards. There will now be two additional awards: a Mastery Award, worth three merits, and a Creative Award, also worth three merits. The full da Vinci Award, which is for exceptional work - showing Mastery of the subject skills, Creativity and Time Commitment -  will now be worth five merits. Further information and advice will be given when term has started. There will now be more opportunities for pupils to achieve one of the da Vinci Awards. As previously, da Vinci merits are awarded for exceptional work and the pupils with the most da Vinci Merits in a year will be awarded the da Vinci shield at Prize Giving.

Please see the link here for the equipment pupils will be expected to have for the start of term.

Kind Regards

Dr Liz Pyne
Assistant Head - Teaching and Learning

A warm welcome back to school after the summer break, I hope you have had an enjoyable time.

Can I please remind parents to read and fully appraise themselves of the information in the Information Booklet for Parents and Pupils that was sent out to you in readiness for the start of the new school year. A copy can also be found here.

In particular, the uniform updates and changes which have been made to the school uniform requirements, as these will be enforced from our first day back. If we do have any concerns with a pupil's uniform we will contact you directly to resolve any arising matters.

Thank you for your continued support. 

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

Medical Centre staff are looking forward to seeing everyone back at school after the summer break.

Can we ask that if there have been any changes to a pupil’s health over the summer please let us know so that we can fully support our pupils in school.

If you do have any concerns or queries please contact pcmatrons@princethorpe.co.uk.

Many thanks

Mrs Paula Greig
Senior Matron 

Please be aware that individual portrait photographs will take place on Monday 4 September for all of Years 7, 10, 11 and 12 and pupils new to Princethorpe College. Biometric fingerprinting will also take place for pupils new to Princethorpe College to enable them to use the cashless catering service.

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

Gracious God, I return to my studies refreshed and rested after my summer holidays. Thank you for the time with my family and friends; the time to get to know them better and appreciate their love; the time to experience new adventures; the time just to chill out and enjoy myself.  Over the coming months in this new academic year, give me enthusiasm in my learning, courage and curiosity when new subject and topics are being taught and patience with myself when things go wrong. In my interaction with others may I appreciate their uniqueness and respect their opinions.  

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.

Ben Collie
Head of Sixth Form

Welcome back to all our Sixth Form students after the summer, and a particular warm welcome to the new Lower Sixth. We enjoyed meeting you all at the Induction Day today.

Car parking permits

For any queries please email me at bencollie@princethorpe.co.uk and I will reply to you as promptly as possible.

UCAS and Careers

Any questions about UCAS or careers related advice please contact Mrs Quinney directly by email at jacquiquinney@princethorpe.co.uk.

Lower Sixth Reminders

Lower Sixth ALIS and 360 Review Meeting (The Limes and Sports Hall)

Wednesday 27 September from 6.00pm - 8.30pm

Lower Sixth Trip to Adventure Sports, Warwick

Saturday 7 October further details will be emailed home in due course.

Upper Sixth Reminders

Upper Sixth UCAS and 360 Review Meeting (The Limes and Sports Hall)

Thursday 5 October from 6.00pm - 8.30pm

With best wishes for a successful Michaelmas Term.

Ben Collie 
Head of Sixth Form 

Welcome to the start of a new school year. We thought we would take this opportunity to remind you of what we do and where we can be found. Our office is in F43 on Lower Pugin, and Kerry Low and I welcome visits from students and staff with queries and questions. 

Here is reminder of what we aim to do.

For pupils

For all year groups we can talk about pupils' choices and options for subjects and careers. We offer each pupil a one-to-one guidance interview in Year 10 and Year 11 and again in Lower Sixth. Pupils are also welcome to pop into F43 at lunch, tutor or breaktime for further help. We also contribute to the careers curriculum that runs from Year 7 to Upper Sixth in PHSE and provide information for all the choices the pupils will need to make at the appropriate time.

For parents

Parents can contact the careers team with any queries via email and one of us will get in touch. 

Jacqui Quinney   
Head of Careers

This academic year your child will be taking part in an extensive sports programme which will include sports which require the pupils to wear a gumshield.  

To support this, we have invited OPRO to come into school to fit and create custom made mouthguards. They will be visiting on Thursday 7 September from 12.30pm – 2.30pm. On that day, the OPRO dental team will take impressions of all pupils who want to be fitted and the finished mouthguards will then be delivered to your home address or school approximately 7 working days later. 

OPRO mouth guards start at £40.99 and they offer a number of benefits with their service: 

• buy one mouthguard and get a second mouthguard for half price; 
• your child will receive a complimentary Snap-Fit mouthguard at the dental visit so they have something to use whilst they wait for their Custom mouthguard to be delivered; 
• each mouthguard comes with a dental warranty which covers up to £22,500; 
• Your child’s name and the school name will be included on the mouthguard and case; 
• OPRO store all of the models in case a replacement is required; 
• All mouthguards carry the CE mark; 
• Our exclusive school design mouthguards are priced at £45.99 and can be found at the following link: SchoolClub - OPRO (oproschools.com)

If you have any questions about the products or OPRO’s service please contact their customer care team directly on 01442 430690 or email info@oprogroup.com. 

Once all the bookings have been confirmed, we will inform you or the time slot that your child will be having their fitting. 

It is not compulsory for the pupils to have a custom made mouth guard to participate in sport. You are welcome to purchase one from other avenues such as from your own dentist, the school shop or any sports shop. This facility with OPRO is just to make the process easier for families at the College.  

If you have any questions about Princethorpe sport for next year, please feel free to get in contact via email at leecassell@princethorpe.co.uk.  

Lee Cassell
Foundation Director of Sport

A warm welcome to the Michaelmas Term programme of Physical Education and Games at Princethorpe College. 

Our PE and Games Department have created a helpful guide for pupils and parents ahead of the Michaelmas Term 2023 which includes further information about: 

• Team coaches and how you may contact them
• Instructions on how to access the Sports homepage and teamsheets
• Information about fixtures, including selection and cancellations
• Sports kit expectations
• Postcodes for away fixtures 

Please click the link here to view the guide. 

If you have any questions, please direct them to your son/daughter's team coach or email myself, Lee Cassell (Foundation Director of Sport).

Lee Cassell 
Foundation Director of Sport 

The Elite Sports Programme now has two different groups that the pupils can be part of, the Elite Sports Performer and Elite Sports Pathway.   

Pupils in Year 8 or Year 9 and above who think that they have progressed and developed in their sport since last year can now apply to be part of the Elite Sports Programme. 

Attached here is a presentation with more information and we would ask that parents complete the form here if you would like your child to be considered for the Elite Sports Programme. 

Please can you submit the form by Wednesday 13 September. Pupils who have shown that they are meeting the performance standard for the programme will then be invited to be part of the one of the programmes. Teams will be the main method of communication between staff and pupils.  

If you have any further questions please email me at leecassell@princethorpe.co.uk 

Lee Cassell 
Foundation Director of Sport 

Thursday 14 September 2023
Sixth Form Centre Dining Room - 7.00pm

The PTA extend a warm welcome to all, and hope you will be able to join us for cheese and wine at the PTA AGM on Thursday 14 September at 7.00pm.

The AGM will give new and current parents an opportunity to find out what the PTA does for the school, and how you could help us by supporting activities such as Open Days and the Christmas Fair and Summer Fête.

There will be an opportunity to meet other parents, those who are new to the PTA and existing members. We have a number of parents who are involved in the PTA to differing degrees. As well as welcoming those parents who may wish to join us on the committee – we also very much welcome parents who may be able to spare an hour supporting the fairs or welcoming visitors to the school on Open Days. 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.

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 school Trips, House Activities Day, Proms; extra-curricular clubs eg. Planet Princethorpe, Vex IQ, Archery, as well as equipment for Sports, Music and Library departments.

If you are interested and would like to discuss what is involved in being on the PTA please feel free contact the Committee at 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

Please continue to prioritise signing off your volunteering, physical and skill sections. Many have already completed their award in full. Guidance can be found on a DofE Completion email sent to you and your parents, the advice documents are also available on MySchoolPortal.

Lunchtime drop-in clinics start next week, day and location tbc. I will aim to hold the Certificate Presentation Evening in February 2023. However, the final deadline for completion for those aiming to move from bronze to silver is October half term, for those stopping at bronze it is Christmas. 

Will Bower
Head of Outdoor Education - DofE Manager

Information for those interested in enrolling in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme this year will be distributed over the coming weeks. This will start with an opportunity for pupils to express an interest in tutor time. 

There will be an assembly for Year 9 pupils in advance of the recorded online Parents’ Information Presentation evening on Wednesday 20 September, 6.00pm - 7.00pm. Parents of Year 9 pupils are particularly welcome as we hope to recruit the whole year group to complete their bronze award this year.   

Following the Virtual Parents’ Evening enrolment, materials will be available on the Flagpole and MySchoolPortal.

Here is a reminder of the eligibility criteria: 

Award Stage   Age Requirement 
Bronze              Year 9 
Silver                Year 10 
Gold                 16 years old (must be in the Sixth Form) 

I look forward to welcoming pupils onto the scheme this year. 

Thank you for the applications for individual Music and LAMDA lessons received to date; tuition will commence during the second week of term from Monday 11 September. The teacher concerned will contact you in the next few days to confirm the day of the first lesson as well as the accompanying documents. Please can all parents return the invoice payment and the completed ‘pupils’ Teacher/Parent contract and Privacy Statement to the teacher by the first lesson date at the very latest. Please note that Lesson Timetables will be drawn up within College and I shall issue these to parents during next week.

Most peripatetic lessons will be taught in the Music and LAMDA teaching area on the Upper Pugin Corridor (on the top floor - above the Heads of House and Learning Support) with just a few remaining on the ground floor for logistical reasons.

On a musical note, I would appreciate it if you could 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 swiftly 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 storage shelves on Upper Pugin first thing in the morning.

Guitars and cellos are very vulnerable to accidents if placed in the Bus ‘hold’, I would recommend that guitars/cellos are brought to school in a hard shell or very padded case. These can be purchased either online or from a local music store and will be a sound investment. NB. Instruments must not be left around school at any time.

Should you require any further information then please can you contact me either by email at felicitycoulson@princethorpe.co.uk or by my direct phone line on 01926 634268.

Felicity Coulson
Peripatetic Music Co-ordinator

Tuesday 19 September - 6.15pm (Online)

More information regarding the Year 7 Trip to Whitemoor Lakes, which departs on Friday 6 October and returns on Sunday 8 October will be available at the Parents' Information Evening (online) on Tuesday 19 September at 6.15pm. 

We will email you a link to access this online event in advance of the meeting. This meeting will give parents and pupils an insight into activities and arrangments. This will be a fantastic weekend which will give our new Year 7s an opportunity to make new friends and have fun.

Parents will have received an email via Evolve asking for consent for this trip and a request for further information. Please could you send the information by Friday 8 September.

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

A reminder that those wishing to book a new single or return bus pass or ad hoc journeys should do so from our bus website here. To do so you will need to first set up an account. The site shows clear information on all bus routes, stops and fare information.

Bus passes are booked on an annual basis and are invoiced termly, starting with the Michaelmas Term fees. Payment must be made by the start of each term in order to guarantee the place.

Ad Hoc Journey Bookings
All ad hoc users must pre-book a seat to travel. A £10 penalty fare will be charged per journey for those who fail to do so. You are able to make multiple ad hoc journey bookings at the same time. All ad hoc journeys must be paid for at the time of booking using a debit or credit card.

Bus Passes
Swipe Cards will be issued to new bus pass users in school this week. For ease of use we have also issued all new and existing bus pass users with a digital wallet pass, similar to those used for plane and train travel, which they will be able to load onto their mobile phone. Bus users must swipe or scan on the bus in the morning and on and off the bus in the afternoon.

Safety
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.

Buses Customer Service
Vectare, our transport consultant handle the customer service for the buses on the College’s behalf, the Vectare team are very familiar with our bus routes and do this already for a number of schools with great success. They provide parents with support between 6.00am and 10.00pm, seven days a week. For any live operational matters (i.e. stood at a bus stop), please call Vectare on 0115 777 3185. For any matter that is not live, and operational, please use the contact form on the website, or contact them via email at princethorpe@vectare.co.uk.

Should you have any queries relating to any of the above information please do not hesitate to contact the team at Vectare and they will be more than happy to assist.

As we start the new term we would like to remind parents of some useful contact details.

To report a pupil absence please use the online absence form available on My School Portal.

For other enquiries please use the email addresses below:

Bus related queries - princethorpe@vectare.co.uk

School Shop - uniform@princethorpe.co.uk

Medical Centre - pcmatrons@princethorpe.co.uk

School fees -  accounts@princethorpe.co.uk

General enquiries - post@princethorpe.co.uk

Lost property - lostproperty@princethorpe.co.uk

Wisepay catering - cashless@princethorpe.co.uk

Email addresses for members of teaching staff can be found on My School Portal.

As a Foundation we take IT Security very seriously, for the benefit of all stakeholders including pupils, parents and staff. As we move into the new school year we wanted to remind you of our IT Security Incident Reporting Policy and highlight once more some key elements of this, in the unlikely case that you encounter anything that could constitute a possible security incident in your use of Foundation systems such as My School Portal, or receive any suspicious emails that pertain to be from the Foundation.

IT Security incidents are any incidents which may risk compromise of personal data, attempts to imitate Foundation IT Systems or unauthorised access to Foundation IT Systems. This could include incorrect communication of information, for example via email, information being available publicly, unauthorised access to Foundation IT Systems such as My School Portal through password cracking or sharing, or the theft/loss of portable media such as unencrypted USB drives or laptops.

Should you or your children become aware of any of the above incidents, or similar, please contact either servicedesk@princethorpe.co.uk or a member of staff at the school attended by your child/children. The Incident Management Procedure will then be initiated.

Pupils will also be informed of the need to tell a member of staff, such as their tutor or teacher if they suspect any IT security incident such as those above, and staff are also made aware of this.

Of course, we hope this will never be necessary, but felt it important to inform you of the correct procedure if you do encounter any IT Security Incidents relating to Foundation systems. 

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar 

Please find below the updated Term Dates for  2023-24 and 2024-25.

2023 -2024 (two page document) - revised Open Morning and Christmas Fair dates

2024-2025 (two page document)

Please see below our current vacancies: 

Princethorpe College

• Commercial Enterprises Manager
• Alumni Relations and Development Manager
• Learning Support Assistant
• Estates Weekend Supervisor

Full details and how to apply are available via the following link: Join Us

Should you know anyone who might be interested in this post, please do share this information with them.