Message From The Headmaster
The first signs of spring have arrived, and Princethorpe in the sunshine remains a fantastic sight. Last week I spoke to two Upper Sixth girls holding hands as they were walking into school. Upon enquiry, they said it was for emotional support as they had both lost their battles with their alarm clocks that morning – I am certain we can all relate. However, with half term not too far away, we are turning our attention to some very exciting events over the next couple of weeks.
The Sixth Form scholarship process begins in all earnest now and the great field of candidates in all areas is testimony to the good work we do lower down the College. The assessments for non-academic scholarships (Art, Drama, Music, Sport, etc.) is scheduled for the week commencing 5 February. Academic scholarship interviews for internal candidates will take place after half term.
We very much consider Princethorpe to be a journey from Year 7 to Upper Sixth and we are passionate about assisting our Year 11 pupils’ transition into our Sixth Form. In some cases, other destinations may be more suitable or relevant to families, but we hope that the majority will continue their studies with us. Another aspect to Sixth Form is the number of external candidates who join us, this always adds a new dimension to friendships and classroom and co-curricular life. It is therefore really encouraging that we have had almost 50 applications from external candidates who are considering us for their Sixth Form studies.
I was away at an HMC conference for two days this week and next week sees me attending the Catholic Independent Schools’ Conference – networking at these events always leaves me encouraged knowing that we are doing the right thing for our pupils and community. A prospective parent called some of our Sixth Form tour guides “passionate about their school”, and we cannot ask for a better reference.
Other highlights this half-term include our U15A Rugby team reaching the quarter finals of the Bowl competition; visits to London, CERN, and North Yorkshire; a Warwickshire Schools Cross Country meet; Netball and Boys Hockey kicking off; strong results for our Foundation Maths GCSE cohort; and a lovely Burns Night dinner in aid of Malawi where £1,500 was raised. Special mention must go to Freddie Hadley in Lower Sixth who did an excellent job at manging the auction – with one item he started the bidding at £35 and ended up at £85 using only £1 and £2 increments!
Finally, I have met with several parents who have reached out to me during the past couple of weeks. It was informative and good to hear their perspectives and to pass on feedback to relevant colleagues. May this long continue and I would encourage you again to get in touch if there is something we can do to better support your child. As I have said to staff on many occasions, it is much better talking to each other as this is the best way to move forward.
With best wishes
Grove du Toit
Headmaster
