The Flagpole

On Saturday 9 September we were delighted to welcome to the College some of the ‘old girls’ from St Mary’s Priory, the school on the site before Princethorpe College was founded. The group are known to us as ‘Very Special Old Princethorpians (VSOPs).

The informal get-together, allowed for plenty of time to chat, reminisce and to look around the College and see how it has changed over the last sixty or seventy years.

The day started with coffee and pastries, and plenty of time to catch up with old friends and make new acquaintances. The Development Office had set up a fascinating display of memorabilia, and our VSOPs took great delight in browsing through it all. They also enjoyed recording their memories of St Mary’s Priory, in a special audio recording booth, adding their fascinating spoken history to the Foundation’s archives.

We were overwhelmed by the warmth and regard the VSOPs showed the College, and it was lovely to spend time with the ‘old girls’, hearing of their school days here. For us, it was a further opportunity to cement friendships and to learn more about the history of the place which we all love so much.

At coffee time we heard from VSOP Sr Monica Lewis who shared her calling with the group speaking of her life in a Benedictine community in Germany. We then made time for a quick group photograph, then after a delicious buffet lunch we hosted a Zoom call to allow the more distant VSOPs including Sr Mary Bernard to join in the reunion.

Headmaster, Grove du Toit, popped in to welcome the VSOPs back to Princethorpe before Foundation Assistant Head, Alex Darkes, took our guests on a tour of the College, taking in the latest addition to the College’s facilities, the new Science Centre, as well as the original chapel, now a library, and ending in the church for a short service given by Father Teddy O’Brien, MSC, with the organ played by organist Tim Campain. Following the service, our guests were treated to afternoon tea, and a final chance to look at the archives, speak with current members of staff and exchange farewells.

Designed to stretch and test students in Chemistry, the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge takes sixth formers significantly beyond the syllabus and encourages them to think about science in the way they would at university. 

This summer, our Lower Sixth chemists took part in this well-respected Challenge. They prepared themselves for the competition by attending a weekly Cambridge Chemistry Challenge co-curricular club to develop their critical problem-solving skills, creative thinking, and to test their knowledge in real-world situations. 

All the students who took part were awarded certificates. Special mentions go to Joseph Newborough who was awarded a Gold certificate and Amy Hogg and Rahul Samra who both received Silver certificates. Congratulations also go to Emma Sarkies, Carys Nicolle, Radley Evans, Lola Ashley, Guy Dawkins and Arjay Tejura who were awarded Copper, Merit and Participation certificates. All our College chemists faced tough national competition and we congratulate them on the great resilience they demonstrated.

Princethorpe’s Sixth Form students put their culinary skills under the spotlight when they took on the annual House Ready Steady Cook challenge.

Always a popular event, held at the start of the academic year, this year's competition took place at lunchtime on Thursday 14 September. Teams of four Sixth Formers donned their aprons and lined up to prepare a student staple in the Food Technology suite.

The teams were presented with a set of ingredients and challenged to produce a risotto in just 20 minutes. What’s more they had to cook, clean and tidy their workstation before presenting their dish. There were knives chopping, spoons stirring and pans sizzling as the House teams went to work. Onlookers encouraged from the side as the judges, led by Headmaster Mr du Toit, surveyed the proceedings.

The finished plates of food were lined up along the table and, under the watchful eyes of the competitors and their supporters, the judges carefully taste-tested the dishes. The results were close with just a few points separating all. This year first place went to Austin, closely followed by More and then Benet and Fisher.

Huge thanks to all of the competitors for their enthusiastic efforts, to our judges who braved the tasting and to the House teams for organising and supporting the event.

Huge thanks to OP and current parent Ian Vincent, who works at Jaguar Land Rover, for helping the College to procure this super display of an electronic drive unit from a Jaguar I-Pace as a scientific artefact for the College’s new Science Centre.

Depicting the motor, gearbox, transmission, battery and inverter, that turns DC into AC, along with assisting with the regenerative braking system, it’s an absolutely fantastic piece that showcases leading edge sustainability technology and is just perfect to act as inspiration for Princethorpe’s young scientists and engineers.

A Jaguar I-Pace Electric Powertrain, sourced by current parent Stefan Fuchss, will also go on display in the entrance to the Science Centre as part of the College’s commitment to providing the very best learning environment, one that nurtures young minds and fosters a deep appreciation and passion for science.

We are most grateful to Ian, and also to Princethorpe parents, Oliver Boakes and Stefan Fuchss, and to Nikola Uminska, all from JLR, for their support in arranging for the College to have these wonderful display items.

Ian visited the College to assemble the unit ready to be displayed and is pictured here with Sixth Form prefects, Amy Hogg, Chris Lock and Joseph Newborough.

Many congratulations to Year 11, Freddie Knott, who is the U18 European Mounted Games Champion after winning the individual title at the IMGA European Championships in August.

Riding against competitors from across Europe, in this fast, furious and challenging sport, Freddie made his way through four days of intense competition to reach the final on his fabulous pony Elle.

Mounted Games is an equestrian event involving speed, accuracy and agility and takes years of training for both pony and rider. Freddie was one of two English riders who made it through to the final and after a demanding and thrilling competition, he claimed the coveted title of Individual U18 European Champion.

It’s an incredible achievement, the result of many years of hard work and hours of blood, sweat and tears on the training ground. Freddie’s focus, calmness and exceptional horsemanship ultimately making the difference on the day.

An amazing effort, a huge well done from us all here at Princethorpe to Freddie.

Congratulations to Year 9 William Harvey who reached the quarter finals in the Fred Perry Tennis Championships at The Brentham Club in Ealing last weekend. The competition is a youth tennis tournament for up-and-coming national level tennis players held at the home club of Fred Perry.

William worked his way through one of three regional qualifiers to be one of six players to join the top 10 players from over 300 entrants in the main draw of the championships. Over the weekend, in what was an amazing experience for him, William saw off the older number 3 seed who is ranked 30th in the UK to make it through the final eight and enjoyed a coaching session with Wimbledon head coach Dan Bloxham.

William has had a busy summer of tennis, placing in numerous events. He won the Charnwood Grade 4 U14 singles as well as the Stourbridge U14 Summer Open Grade 3 singles and doubles, despite starting unseeded. He came second in the Warwickshire County championship Grade 3 singles and doubles, narrowly missing out in the singles final in a tie break and finished third in the Warwickshire County Grade 3 U16 competition. He also enjoyed a weeklong tennis camp in Spain where he was kept busy playing for five hours a day on clay courts in 37˚ heat.

Going forward, over the next year, William is looking to enter UTR (Universal Tennis Rating) ranking tournaments and as well as working hard on his tactical, technical and physical tennis he will also be developing his strategic mental abilities to ensure he continues to progress.

William has had an amazing summer of tennis, working with determination to make the most of every opportunity and we are all delighted to congratulate him on his success.

Princethorpe College was delighted to take part in the 2023 Heritage Open Days festival on Sunday 10 September. England's largest community led festival of history and culture, Heritage Open Day, runs annually celebrating local history by giving access to thousands of places usually closed to the public.

The College has taken part in the festival for many years and on the day welcomed over 50 visitors through its doors. They came from near and far, including local neighbours as well as parents of pupils and those interested in local history. All were made welcome and enjoyed a fascinating tour that took in Pugin’s magnificent Chapel, the Cloisters, Nuns’ Cells, Library (formerly a church) and the unique Roundhouse.

Foundation Assistant Head Alex Darkes and former staff member and new OP Loretta Curtis acted as tour leaders sharing wonderful insights into the history of the magnificent building and the amazing people that made it the place it is today.

A huge thank you to all who kindly organised and supported this super community event.

The College community gathered in the Sports Hall on Thursday 7 September to celebrate a Eucharist to mark the start of the academic year. Led by Father Alan Whelan MSC, pupils and staff were introduced to the new Chaplaincy school theme for the year of ‘Resilience’.

The service began with the school singing the College hymn, Here I Am Lord. Then Father Alan spoke to pupils explaining how important resilience is and how we all need the ability to withstand adversity and to bounce back from difficulties. Pupils considered how they could be resilient, recording their individual thoughts on a card.

Together as a community, pupils and staff prayed for the school, for our families and for all those in the world who need our hopes. During the service pupils and staff received the sacrament or a blessing. It was wonderful to come together as a community at the start of the school year and to have the opportunity to reflect and pray.

Our thanks go to Father Alan for leading us in the service.

It was amazing to have the OPs vs College Sports Day back in full swing and to see so many familiar faces on Saturday 2 September. This popular annual fixture traditionally kicks off the College’s sporting calendar for the year ahead.

Many of the OPs playing this year had just recently returned from the summer South Africa Sports Tour and it was great to see them catching up with pupils.

The Staff Football Team started the morning in good spirits but the younger OPs team took control late in the second half to gain a close victory.

Next up was the first ever mixed hockey game and it was fabulous to see full teams playing in the spirt of the game with the more experienced OPs taking the victory while the College pupils got some valuable game time in before their season starts.

Moving on to Netball, the College's team secured their first victory of the day with an outstanding performance against an experienced OPs team, the win showed that this team could be set for success this year.

The OPs v College 1st XV John Shinkwin Trophy match produced an entertaining match with a strong OPs team made up from leavers from 2022 and 2023 taking the victory. The young College team showed promise for what could be a good season ahead.

The results of the matches were as follows:

• Football – Staff 3 v OPs 5
• Netball – College 40 v OPs 13
• Mixed Hockey – College 3 v OPs 6
• Rugby – College 17 v OPs 41

At the After Match Awards, the OPs proudly raised both the Alex Wallis Memorial Shield and the John Shinkwin Cup.

Lee Cassell, Foundation Director of Sport, commented, "It was fantastic to see so many OPs returning to play in some very competitive games against our College teams. It showed the true spirt of the Princethorpe community and gave staff, pupils, OPs and parents the opportunity to watch entertaining matches over the course of the day and all while enjoying some fabulous food."

"A huge well done to all those who played and made the day so special. I look forward to seeing them all again next year on Saturday 31 August 2024 for the next OPs vs College Sports Day."

Thanks to all the players, supporters, organisers and caterers for making the day such a lovely, relaxed affair and to BTEC Music student Noah Kemp, Year 9 Jasper Nicholls and OP Bowen Kent for performing live during the day.

Find more photos from the day on Princethorpe Connect. 

Here at Princethorpe we are delighted to announce three new roles which are going to continue to develop and enhance teaching and learning for our pupils.

Julia Lindsay has taken on the new role of Challenge Curriculum Co-ordinator and has responsibility for developing and implementing a creative and inclusive Challenge Curriculum that affords all students the opportunity to develop their academic and creative talents. The primary focus will be the da Vinci Programme and running the EPQ level 1 and Level 2 for our younger scholars in Year 8 and Year 9. In addition, Mrs Lindsay will be promoting interdisciplinary thinking across all subjects to create dynamic and engaging experiences for our pupils. Please do look out for guest speakers who will be coming into school to enrich the curriculum and for the wider opportunities to enrich pupils’ development.

Jo Evans is taking the helm as our new Whole School Language for Learning Lead and VESPA Co-ordinator. Mrs Evans has responsibility for promoting and developing literacy, oracy and study skills across the curriculum. Many of our pupils already understand the importance of these skills to academic progress, but as a college we want to develop a community in which pupils are excited and enthused by literature by holding promotional events and competitions throughout the year. Alongside this, we will be seeking to develop our work about VESPA study skills. 

Sarah Duran has taken on the very relevant role as Digital Learning Leader and has the responsibility of supporting teachers using technology in the classroom. Via the use of laptops, teachers now have many opportunities to make learning more engaging and relevant for the pupils. Sarah will collaborate with our teachers to make sure they know how to use Microsoft tools like Teams and OneNote to enhance the learning experience. She will also make sure our teachers stay up to date with technological advancements such as AI so that our students receive the best education possible in an ever-changing digital world.

Friday 29 September 2023

Those wishing to register for Entrance Examinations should do so by the deadline of Friday 29 September please to allow for the processing of the application and to facilitate the gathering of confidential references from junior schools.

More information on the admissions process can be found in the recently published Admissions Update newsletter here or on the Foundation website here.

You can register for the Entrance Examinations by filling out our online registration form here. Or download a copy of the registration form here.

Entrance Examinations for Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 will take place on Saturday 11 November 2023 from 9.00am to 4.00pm. More information is available in our 2024 Admissions and Entrance Examinations Booklet available on our website, click here.

Year 6 Taster Days - 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:

• 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.

Places are limited, to book your place click here.

Friday 22 September - 4.15pm to 6.00pm

With the opening of Princethorpe’s fantastic new Science Centre this term, the College is delighted to host an after school 'Open House' event aimed at donors, parents, Old Princethorpians and our neighbours in Princethorpe village.

The event will run from 4.15pm to 6.00pm and is an informal opportunity to drop in, tour the new building and see the state-of-the-art new facilities.

Parking will be in the Playground or Orchard, visitors are asked not to arrive before 4.15pm so that the school traffic can leave the site. Light refreshments will be served.

If you are interested in joining us please complete the form here by Wednesday 20 September.

Saturday 23 September 2023 - 9.30am to 1.00pm

If your son or daughter is a budding Scientist who loves getting hands-on with experiments, then sign them up for our Year 6 Science Investigators' Workshop on Saturday 23 September. 

The College's new Science Centre is now open and the Science Department can't wait to share some of their favourite Chemistry, Physics and Biology practicals with our young visitors in their brand new science labs. 

Aimed at children who do not currently attend a Princethorpe Foundation School*, the morning will involve a variety of fun, practical Science sessions, assisted by our Sixth Form helpers. There will also be time for a break including the legendary Princethorpe cookie. The morning will round off with our investigators re-joining their parents for a complimentary buffet lunch in the Refectory. 

Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. 

To book your place click here. 

*Our Foundation Year 6 pupils have their own Science Themed Taster Morning scheduled for Thursday 28 September. 

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.

Crackley Hall has limited availability or waiting groups for other year groups, please speak to Mrs Vaughan for more details.

For more information visit www.crackleyhall.co.uk

Friday 29 September 2023 - 6.00pm to 10.30pm

There's just two weeks to go until our popular OPs London Meet on Friday 29 September. This year's event moves to the trendy Thames-side pub, The Riverside, and we've already got a healthy number of OPs signed up.

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.

Fancy joining us? Go to Princethorpe Connect by Monday 18 September 2023.

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

Friday 29 September 2023 - 7.00pm to 9.00pm

On Friday 29 September we will be hosting an Open Mic Night from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. This is an opportunity for pupils and teachers to perform some music, drama, comedy, poetry, or anything else you would like to share with others. Family and friends are also invited to just come and watch and support the various acts.

Refreshments will be available, and tickets are free, however if you would like to attend as either a performer or just to watch please book a ticket by following the link here.

Hopefully this will be a great evening, so please come along and support and enjoy a night full of talent.

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 classroom, as well as speak to key members of staff. Joe Thackway, Headmaster, will also be available to answer any 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

Tuesday 10 October 2023 - 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Science on the Hill is a free programme of events jointly organised by the School of Life Sciences and Warwick Medical School - two departments based at their Gibbet Hill campus. At each event academics, PhD students and researchers are invited to give short, fun, and informative talks around a theme. These events may be interest to some of our Princethorpe parents and students.

The next event, an evening on "Next Generation Sequencing", is taking place on Tuesday 12 October 2023, between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. DNA sequencing is having a radical impact on science, health care, and our understanding of life. How does DNA sequencing work? Where is this technology going? What are we able to learn? Does it change our understanding of the past? What does it hold for the future? Is it going to change our lives?

Please click on the link here for more information and to sign up to any of their free events. This is a wonderful opportunity for any of our pupils (and their parents). Booking is open now.

Light refreshments will be available and there will be plenty of activities and demonstrations in their IBRB building.

Wednesday 11 October 2023 - 7.00pm to 8.30pm

It was super to welcome some new readers into the Parent’s Book Club group this week, including myself, and see people returning to the group for another year of books to share and enjoy. The summer read was Trespasses by Louise Kennedy. It was a popular read amongst the group, set in the 70’s at the time of the troubles. A book that looks at how the decisions we make can have such a profound impact on our lives and the lives of others. We had a good debate about the idea of ‘love’ and what that means to Cushla. In all, we highly recommend.  

The next book we are reading stays in Northern Ireland and but centres on the life of a young girl who is surrounded by classmates who suddenly fall ill. 'An original and exciting work that's equal parts terrifying, hilarious and memorable' - The Sunday Times Ireland - called The Raptures by Jan Carson. We all agreed that with a review like this the novel has a lot to live up to. I can’t wait to see what this first autumn read has to offer. 

If you would like to join us next month, please do. We are a friendly bunch, and the discussion is light and cheery. You also get a coffee and a biscuit, what’s not to like.  

We look forward to seeing you.  

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 opportunity 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 17 October 2023 - 6.00pm to 7.30pm

Year 7 pupils and their parents are invited to compete in our annual 'Science Family Challenge'. 

Each team will carry out a range of hands-on science practical work, competing against other pairs to win the coveted Science Family Challenge trophy.

We can only accommodate one parent per pupil and a maximum of 36 teams, so sign up as soon as you can to avoid disappointment.

We can't wait to share our enthusiasm for science and give parents the opportunity to experience a taste of science education at Princethorpe College. 

If you have any questions, please get in touch via email at danlee@princethorpe.co.uk

Please sign-up via the link here.

Dan Lee
Head of Physics and STEAM co-ordinator

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.

As you will know, digital learning is a key tool at Princethorpe College, with Teams and Class Notebook used as the primary learning management system across all year groups. Teachers have been adding homework as assignments on Teams for the last two academic years, meaning pupils can see all of their homework assignments and deadlines in one simple view within Teams.

This year we are very pleased to be able to extend the opportunity to see homework assignments to parents, through an integration with My School Portal.

From Monday 18 September parents will be able to access key information about their children's homework assignments through a new ‘Homework’ page within the ‘My Children’ section. This page will show a list of all class Teams, and by clicking on the class you will be able to see key details of current assignments, including the date set, the due date and the instructions.

We hope that by providing this information through My School Portal parents will feel more able to support their children in ensuring that homework is completed on time and to a high standard.

However, it is important to remember that the responsibility to complete homework still very much lies with the pupils. Pupils can see all assignments in Teams, as well as deadlines in their Outlook calendar, and should make sure both that they complete the work set, whether online or on paper, and click the ‘Hand in’ button when complete. The ability for parents to see assignment details means that you can support this process and help ensure your child is organised and prepared.

We are excited to offer two new devices to our pupils through the Digital Device Scheme this year. Year 7 parents have already received communication regarding this scheme, but pupils in all year groups can take advantage of the scheme as necessary. 

• Rugged 12.2" display with reinforced hinges and sturdy design
• With a 360° hinge, this flexible convertible can be used in the tablet, tent, or stand mode
• Equipped with a light battery that will last up to 11.5 hours
• Including an integrated stylus and moisture-resistant protective cover
• 8GB of working memory and 128GB of storage

• Multi-functional 13.3" anti-reflection 2-in-1 touch display
• The strong and silent AMD Ryzen 5 processor provides efficient multitasking performance for optimal use in the classroom
• Up to 10 hours of battery life with Rapid Charging to 80% in one hour
• Including an integrated stylus and moisture-resistant protective cover
• 8GB of working memory and 256GB of storage

There are three finance options when using the scheme. The device and package can be purchased as either a one-off payment, or via monthly or yearly payments with the rental option.

The key points regarding the rental option are:

• One low monthly payment covers the rental of the device, the installation of school approved software, and ongoing service, support, and insurance
• At any point you can return the device to CTS/Easy4U, and they will return your deposit - you are not tied into a costly finance agreement
• As it is a rental scheme (not a lease agreement), there are no credit checks required
• At the end of the rental period (36 months) you either give the device back to CTS and they return your deposit, or you keep the device and CTS keep the deposit.

To purchase or rent the device, please simply click on the link below, enter the school code, select the relevant options, and complete the details and online payment. The full details of the scheme are attached here, with the link to the store also included in this document.

Easy4U Online Portal

School Code: PRC2023

1. Select the chosen device, and click either Rent or Purchase.

2. Check you are happy with the options. Click I’m going to order.

3. A charger is included with the device as standard. If you would like an additional USB-C charger you can add this by clicking Add Product.

4. Click Proceed securely to personal details

5. Create a parent/guardian account (and a student account if required) and click Payment. (Please note: if you have previously used the scheme to purchase a device, you will need to create a new account with a different username).

6. Complete the payment details to complete the purchase/rental. You will receive an email from Easy4U with details of your account and purchase/rental.

For those pupils in receipt of bursaries, there is support available to help meet the cost of the scheme. If your son/daughter accesses a bursary and you would like to take advantage of this support, please email feessupport@princethorpe.co.uk for more information. Please ensure you email Fees Support before purchasing through the portal. We will then get back to you regarding how to order.

Please note that for pupils in Year 7 the devices will be delivered and deployed all together in mid-October. As such, devices for Year 7 pupils must be ordered by Monday 25 September.

Devices for pupils in other year groups will be delivered to school approximately one week after the order date.

We continue to be very excited by the continued enhancement of the learning experience for our pupils through this scheme and the use of digital devices in the classroom.

Kind regards

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.

Appointments are now available to book on SchoolCloud.

Michael Spencer
Deputy Head - Academic

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

Can I ask that if you have any old uniform skirts that no longer fit your child could you kindly donate them to school please? We will be very grateful for your donations and can put them to good use.

Thank you.

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

Please rememeber that we are a nut aware school. We kindly ask that pupils do not bring anything to school containing nuts as part of their lunch or snacks. Allergic reactions can be extremely serious, so this is really important to make sure everyone in our community is kept safe.

Thank you for your continued support. 

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

Wednesday 27 September 2023 - 6.00pm to 8.30pm

As our new Lower Sixth students settle into life in Sixth Form, we would like to invite all parents to our Lower Sixth ALIS and 360 Review Meeting Evening, on Wednesday 27 September from 6.00pm to 8.30pm.

This will include a talk by Mr Spencer who will explain how we can use the results of recent ALIS tests to support our students to succeed. This will be followed by the opportunity for a personal meeting with your child’s tutor or member of the Sixth Form Team to discuss how your child is settling in to Sixth Form and how their individual ALIS predictions can inform their personal targets. The meetings will follow a very similar format to what would normally occur at our 360 Review Evenings lower down the school.

Thursday 5 October 2023 - 6.00pm to 8.30pm

We would like to invite all parents of Upper Sixth students to a 360 Review Evening with their child’s Form Tutor. This will include a 10 minute face-to-face appointment to discuss overall progress,  presentations from senior staff to support preparations for forthcoming mock examinations and the opportunity for Q&A about the UCAS process.

Booking details will be issued the week before this event.

Michael Spencer                           Ben Collie
Deputy Head - Academic             Head of Sixth Form

Thank you to everyone for a calm and successful start to the term. It has been a time of getting used to the routine and becoming familiar with new timetables. 

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

Ben Collie 
Head of Sixth Form 

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 ambassadors for 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 purchased during the summer, please retain receipts and consult myself, Mr Vella or Mrs Allen before you wear them.

Ben Collie
Head of Sixth Form

A reminder that all Work Experience correspondence should be sent to Jacqui Quinney, Head of Careers at jacquiquinney@princethorpe.co.uk.

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

Some degree courses require students to take an admissions test as part of their application. It will be stated in the entry requirements for the course and Sixth Form students can check with their tutor or a member of the Sixth Form Leadership Team. Registration for these tests is now open and must be completed by 29 September 2023. Late registrations are not accepted.

The BMAT and TMUA tests have a fee of £78. All other tests are free.

Tests take place in school during October and early November depending on the subject. More information can be found online at For test-takers | Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing

To be entered for a test please contact examinations@princethorpe.co.uk .

Thank you. 

Mary Benham
Chaplaincy Co-ordinator

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 me at leecassell@princethorpe.co.uk.

Lee Cassell
Foundation Director of Sport 

Please don’t forget that Princethorpe College PTA is registered with easyfundraising. So, even when we are not hosting fundraising events in school, we can still continue to raise free funds, at no extra cost to you.

When you shop via the easyfundraising website or app, with over 4,100 of your favourite retailers, including John Lewis and Partners, eBay, Amazon and many more, you will raise FREE donations for the school.  

If you’re not already registered, please visit our easyfundraising page here.

This will really make a difference to our school! Thank you for your support.

Our friendly PTA here at Princethorpe College are keen to welcome new members. 

By joining our PTA community, you are not committing to volunteer, but just to joining our community and if you do wish to volunteer you will receive emails when we require help to run our events.

For more information about the PTA and how to join please email PTAssociation@Princethorpe.co.uk

Princethorpe PTA

Please see below the dates that we will need to unfortunately cancel the sports clubs below due to whole school events taking place in the sports hall that evening:

Wednesday 27 September 2023 - Under 13 Badminton Club cancelled

Wednesday 11 October 2023 - Under 13 Badminton Club cancelled

Many apologies for the inconvenience. 

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 the DofE Completion email sent to you and your parents, the advice documents are also available on MySchoolPortal.

A lunchtime drop-in clinic takes place every Tuesday at 1.05pm in LG02.  The Certificate Presentation Evening takes place next year on Thursday 8 February 2024. 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

Welcome to the start of the new academic year. It has been fantastic to see so many pupils attending the after-school clubs so far this academic year.

When I ran my first data report on the co-curricular programme and the take up of clubs over the first two weeks term, I saw that 67% of the pupil body from Year 7 to Upper Sixth have attended a co-curricular activity. This is a fantastic start, and I know that this will increase as pupils and their families get used to the organisation and logistics of the new academic year. Mr Bower is leading the way from a staff point of view by being involved in the most clubs, Dami Ajagunna (Year 8) is the leading pupil by being involved in 10 activities which include LAMDA, Climbing, Choir, Princethorpe Precious Plastics, A Monster Calls and Craft Club to name a few.

With so many clubs we know that pupils are having to alternate their attendance at clubs and make choices. Staff are very used to this and all I ask is that pupils communicate with the members of staff involved so that they can register pupils accordingly and support them as needed. Many thanks to Mr Parker, Mrs Rose and Mrs Lindsay who are now offering Level 2 Projects across three nights (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) to help the Wednesday night clash for Year 9 between Latin, Add Maths, String Orchestra and Girls' and Boys' Hockey. I am always asked for the most popular club - so far this year it is U12 Netball Club which has seen 53 pupils attend, putting the new courts to good use!

Please find the link here to the Co-curricular timetable. 

For sporting fixtures, please use www.princethorpesport.co.uk or MySchoolPortal to know when the fixtures are, their venues and whether pupils have been selected. The MySchoolPortal and College website calendar are the best ones to subscribe to if you want the most up to date information for our busy lives here at Princethorpe. 

Good luck this academic year and I hope that every pupil finds something in the Co-curricular plan to get involved with. I look forward to updating you with more highlights later in the term. 

Neil McCollin
Assistant Head - Co-Curricular

The recorded Parents’ Information Presentation will be available on MySchoolPortal on Wednesday, 20 September from 6.00pm. The Parent Information Booklet and enrolment form will be attached underneath the video. Parents of Year 9 pupils are particularly welcome as we hope to recruit the whole year group to complete their Bronze award this year.   

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. 

Tuesday 19 September 2023 6.15pm-7.00pm

The Year 8 and 9 South Coast Tour Parents' Information Evening will take place online at 6.15pm on Tuesday 19 September.

A link for the evening will be sent to parents of those pupils invited on the Tour on Monday 18 September.                              

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. 

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

For those parents who have had a child join the college for the first time this term, you should have received an email generated from Wisepay with instructions on how to set up your child’s cashless catering account.  The Wisepay system will only allow one email to be used for the account, so please check the inbox of both parents/guardians if applicable,  it is also worth checking your junk email.

If you have any questions or queries, please email cashless@princethorpe.co.uk confirming the pupil name, year group and the details of your enquiry.

During the first couple of weeks of a new academic year, there are often more queries than usual but we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Cashless team

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. 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 have been 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.

Please click here to view the Michaelmas Term 2023 menus. 

If you have any questions regarding the selection of food we have on offer here at Princethorpe College, especially if related to any allergies or specific food requirements, please feel free to email andrewwilliams@princethorpe.co.uk as we aim to cater for all needs.

Andrew Williams
Catering Manager

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 

To help families new to the school, and as a reminder for all, here are some top tips for navigating the College's e-newsletter, The Flagpole, on your mobile phone.

Each edition of The Flagpole has a general overview message followed by an index list of the news, events and other information, split into categories, with clickable title links.

• Click the title link of the article or event you are interested in.
• From here you can scroll through all the articles in this category.
• To get back to the top of a category quickly, use the arrow in the bottom right corner of your screen. Click this and you will jump to the top of the page nd see the category index.
• Select Newsletter Index, to return you to the main newsletter index listing all the categories and articles.
• To move between different editions of The Flagpole use the dark blue button with three white lines towards the top right of the newsletter. Click on the button and choose which edition of The Flagpole you would like to read.
• To find a topic quickly use the the search function with key words.

The Flagpole is one of the College's main communication tools and is always a good first place to look for information and news. Bookmarking https://flagpole.princethorpe.co.uk/ will allow you to get to the newsletter quickly.

Did you know that we are on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram? We use social media to share all that goes on, day in day out, in our super school. We post regularly to keep you up to date with school news and school life, and to share all the wonderful activities and amazing work our fantastic pupils do.

If you engage with social media, why not check out our pages and be sure to follow us so that you never miss a post.

Main Princethorpe College accounts:

https://www.instagram.com/theprincethorpefoundation/

https://www.facebook.com/princethorpecollege/

https://twitter.com/PrincethorpeCol/

Please see below our current vacancies: 

Princethorpe College

• Alumni Relations and Development Manager
• Examinations Invigilator

Crescent School

• Supply Teacher

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.