The Flagpole

After a few weeks of rain, we are happy to see the sun return, as well as predictions of improved weather. This half-term has flown by, and I trust all families are looking forward to the break. We have numerous tours and trips heading off and I know pupils and staff are getting excited. We are very proud of all the achievements and good things that have taken place over the past six weeks, and next half-term promises to be even more jam-packed. Wednesday was a very good snapshot as our Girls 1XI Hockey team beat Rugby School 4-2 to progress to the next round of their cup competition. The Boys 1XV Rugby team beat Southam College to progress to the next round of the national competition they are playing in, and we had four senior Netball teams all return victorious from Solihull School. Unfortunately, our Boys 1XI Football team lost to Myton School, but they beat Mill Hill 8-1 the previous week to progress in their cup competition. At the other end of the school, our Girls U13 Football team won the National ISA Football Competition, beating King’s High and Dixie Grammar on their way to lifting the trophy. All in all, our pupils are flourishing, not just on the sports field, and it has been an excellent start to the year.

I took some time a fortnight ago to visit the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart in Dublin, the religious order that founded Princethorpe College. My three days with Father McGee, Father Whelan and other members of the MSC was inspirational and informative. Better understanding the charism and vision of their religious order ensures we stay true to the original values and intentions of our founders. Having conversations around the value of each child attending the College and how we need to reach out and improve the world around us, I feel, gives us a different “spirit” as a school. I left Dublin very much feeling that “Ours is a Spirit of Family” that transcends just the buildings here at Princethorpe.

You would have received a separate letter from me, requesting you complete a questionnaire that covers various aspects of the College. From the start my mantra has been to talk to us – having an opportunity to listen to our parents is extremely valuable and I hope as many families as possible have time to send us their feedback. Can I also request you take some time and read the Campus Traffic Safety article in this Flagpole? Moving cars and distracted children create an environment where accidents happen very easily. Please familiarise yourself with our expectations and please make sure you follow them. The purpose is to be safe and to ensure smooth traffic flow. My colleagues will challenge parents who do not comply with expectations – please be kind and follow their instructions.

As part of our community service and charitable character, we are once again collecting items for the Shoe Box Appeal. There has been a good response, and the tower of packed shoe boxes is rising slowly. With only a week to go, can I urge you to send in any final items to help pack more boxes? Being able to give a little bit of joy to those who have very little is more important than ever within our society and the wider world.

I would like to finish this week with an anecdote. An email that every Headmaster dreads is one from a member of the public that normally arrives on a Monday morning and involves the behaviour of pupils outside of school. I received such an email this week and the subject line made me fear the worst. However, it was from a mother who witnessed a group of our girls look after a younger child on an amusement park ride over the weekend. The younger child’s mother asked our girls if they would take care of him, and they immediately agreed. The kindness, care, and welcome the girls showed him really had an impact – enough that she made a point to write to the school to pass on her appreciation. Unfortunately, society quickly points out when young people get it wrong as they sometimes do make mistakes. This incident confirmed that we, as a school and wider community, are on the right track. We must continue to hold “kindness and doing your best” in the highest regard, because when our pupils get it right, special moments such as these happen. 

With my very best wishes,

Grove du Toit
Headmaster

On Monday 7 October, Princethorpe College competed in the ISA National U13 Girls' Football Championships. The tournament took place at Dixie Grammar and featured 12 teams from across the country. On a beautiful sunny autumn day, Princethorpe’s Girls played exceptional football, were crowned champions and awarded the ISA National trophy.

The College took a squad of nine Year 8 and Year 7 girls, who worked fantastically well together and showed great team-spirit, determination and quality. Huge congratulations to Sophie, Ava, Emmeline, Jess, Leela, Jessica, Alice, Darcy G and Captain Darcy F!

The group stages started with a 0-0 draw against a strong King's High School side, who would go onto finish 3rd, that was followed by a 3-0 victory against Dixie Grammar School A. After a short break the team had a tough game against Hulme Grammar School, where Princethorpe eventually prevailed 1-0, thanks to a last-minute winner. This was followed by a 5-0 win against Birchfield School. The last group game, against St Joseph's College Ipswich, featured a come from behind win. After going 1-0 down, the girls battled back to take the game 2-1 and top the group on goal difference over King's High.

The semi-final was a very tight affair against Scarisbrook Hall School, which finished 0-0. In the penalty shootout, Darcy G scored first for Princethorpe, followed by a great save from Sophie, in goal, from Scarisbrook's first penalty. Alice then scored, as did Scarisbrook from their second, meaning Jess had the chance to win with the third penalty. She confidently stepped up and placed a great shot into the bottom right corner to send Princethorpe through to the final.

The final, against Dixie Grammar B, was another tense affair. Princethorpe went 2-0 up after great goals from Jessica and Jess, before, with just two-minutes to go, Dixie Grammar pulled one back from a deflected shot. However, Princethorpe defended resolutely to the end, winning the final 2-1.

The team were then delighted to be presented with their medals and trophy by former Premier League striker Jermaine Beckford.

Jess top scored on the day with six goals, with Jessica, Alice and Darcy G all contributing to the scorelines. Sophie was excellent in goal, giving the team confidence from the back and making some great saves, while Darcy F, Emmeline and Ava all showed great positioning and quality in the defence. Jess, Jessica and Leela provided excellent footwork, passing and work rate in midfield, while Darcy G and Alice worked tirelessly and showed excellent quality in attack.

As well as their excellence on the field, the girls conducted themselves brilliantly off the pitch showing sportsmanship and team spirit and representing the College with aplomb.

A huge well done to them all!

Year 11 parents and prospective families, looking to join Princethorpe College's Sixth Form, can tune into the latest episodes of Princethorpe College Admissions podcast, A Pathway to Princethorpe, to hear all about life at Sixth Form and useful tips and hints on how to navigate your child’s journey into Sixth Form.

In the latest episode (10), our Registrar, Catherine Rogers, and Assistant Registrar, Georgia Newborough, sit down with the Head of Sixth Form, Mr Ben Collie, to talk about Sixth Form life.

Also, don’t forget to go back and listen to last week’s episode (9) all about the admissions process into Sixth Form.

Tune in on, Spotify, YouTube or Amazon Music

Year 7 were lucky with the weather when they enjoyed a wonderful three-day programme at Whitemoor Lakes Outdoor Residential Centre last weekend.

Pupils took part in an itinerary that included fencing, climbing, high ropes, zip wire, gladiator, canoeing, buggy building and problem solving. In groups they rotated around the different activities, working together to complete the challenges they were set. In the evenings they enjoyed team games and a fabulous Saturday night disco. On the Sunday morning Father Alan Whelan MSC joined the group and led a service reflecting on the importance of kindness and doing your best. It was a fabulous weekend with plenty of old-fashioned fun.

There were lots of opportunities for pupils to develop their team working skills and the activities all encouraged pupils to show initiative, resilience and social awareness. Over the weekend Year 7 took on all the challenges with determination and enthusiasm making for a memorable three days.

Deputy Head (Pastoral), Beth Sharpe said, “This was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 7 pupils to bond together as a year group. They had an amazing time and were really supportive of one another. I know they have come back into school with new friends and better able to work together as a team.”

Well done to everyone and a big thank you to all the staff who supported the trip.

You can see pictures from their visit here.

Princethorpe hosted the first round of the English Schools Cross Country Cup on Monday 7 October, welcoming runners from 11 Warwickshire schools. The College teams all ran well, and we were incredibly proud of stellar performances.

The highlight of the day was the Junior Boys team, who raced their way to 1st place overall with a dominant display of teamwork and determination. In the Intermediate Boys category, Will Smith led the charge with a brilliant 2nd-place finish, helping the team secure an impressive 2nd place overall. The Intermediate Girls also delivered a standout moment, with Issey Clearey claiming 2nd place in her race. Our Senior Boys put up a powerful performance to earn 2nd place, with Ben Smith and Felix Batty both finishing in the top three. The Senior Girls rounded off a strong day for our school, taking 3rd place overall, thanks to Lily Hunter’s determined effort in 4th.

Congratulations to all our athletes for their passion, hard work, and fantastic results. You’ve made our school proud with your incredible achievements at this prestigious event!

On Thursday 3 October, Princethorpe’s pupils enjoyed celebrating National Poetry Day. Our fantastic English department and College Library encouraged everyone to get involved, with themed activities in lessons that allowed pupils to express themselves in rhyme and verse. Pictured are Miss Petrucci’s Year 7 English class reading and performing poetry and Mrs Pascoe-Williams' Year 8s comparing and contrasting poems about London, by the romantic poets Wordsworth and Blake. The Library team promoted poetry too with a poetry reading on Instagram and a big display of poetry books for pupils to choose from. Poetry can unlock imaginations and help children to be creative and, here at Princethorpe, on National Poetry Day, pupils had a little bit of poetry fun.

Princethorpe College sent a team of four enthusiastic young sailors to the ISA National Regatta at Draycote Water this week. 

Year 10, Jasper Nicholls, Year 9, Jai Dhaliwal, and Year 8, William Shaw, competed in the Main Fleet event while Year 8, Alex Mullhall, took on the challenge of the Rookie class. All of Princethorpe's pupils were competitive, with much jostling for position in very close races. Sailing conditions were ideal, a nice dry day with a steady 10-12 knots breeze from the north. Princethorpe's team took it all in their stride and everyone had great fun.

Congratulations to William Shaw, who claimed Bronze in the Main Fleet. Jasper finished 9th and Jai was 12th, while in his event Alex was 7th. 

Well done to them all, it is great to have sailing as a sport to the College’s competition schedule.

Peter Kay from DCA Design International Ltd visited to College on Thursday 10 October to talk to our Lower Sixth Product Design students.

Peter shared his incredible product design career journey before giving the students an overview of the history of DCA International and some of the iconic projects they have worked on.

He then moved on to talk about the process of product design, using the double diamond model, and talked the students through the product design stages using the example of a toothbrush. He shared how the design team work together to develop new and innovative products.

Many thanks to Peter for taking the time to talk to our students and for providing a fascinating insight into the world of product design.

Last weekend, the Lower Sixth enjoyed a fabulous few days on their residential. Due to the number of students in the Lower Sixth this year, they were based across two separate sites; The Towers in the heart of Snowdonia National Park and Sealyham which is on the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast.

Their three-day trip, from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 October, offered the students the chance to develop leadership and initiative skills, build personal resilience and gave them the opportunity to bond together as a group.

The Lower Sixth Formers took part in a variety of outward-bound activities including kayaking, rock climbing, high ropes, coasteering, surfing, archery, orienteering and team building challenges

Everyone had lots of fun and has come back to school having made new friendships and discovered inner strengths. It was a great start to their time in the Sixth Form.

Thinking of becoming a teacher? Then why not consider training at Princethorpe College.

Whether you are a new graduate or contemplating a career change, we have opportunities available across the subjects but particularly for those with a degree relating to STEAM.

Through our association with the Lion Alliance, we offer a year’s training as part of the School Led Route, leading to Qualified Teacher Status. Placements would be at Princethorpe and also at other schools within the Lion Alliance. Our training via the Lion Alliance is supported by Warwick University.

Teacher training at Princethorpe is a popular and successful scheme, we have trained over 50 teachers with our programme now in its sixth year.

Bursaries from the government of between £10,000 and £28,000 are available to support those training in Chemistry, Computing, Maths, Physics, Languages, Geography, Biology, Design Technology, Art and Design, English, Music and Religious Studies.

Our Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning, Dr Liz Pyne is happy to offer advice about the different routes into teaching and what Princethorpe can offer you. Please email: lizpyne@princethorpe.co.uk

Further information about the Lion Alliance can be found here: www.thelionalliance.co.uk

Information about Getting into Teaching and possible bursaries can be found here: getintoteaching.education.gov.uk

Princethorpe College pupils and staff marked World Porridge Day this week by raising money for the Scottish charity Mary’s Meals. Championed by our Sixth Formers, pupils participated in a posse of Scottish and porridge fundraising fun.

At break time pupils were invited to dig deep and purchase a traditional Scottish breakfast, a pot of porridge, with a selection of luxurious toppings.

Then at lunchtime, the Scottish theme continued out in the Orchard where the brave participated in the annual Welly Wanging Challenge. Organised by House, there were plenty of contenders lined up ready to enthusiastically fling, hurl, chuck and toss the wellies down the field. Douglas Bray delivered a whopping welly throw of 31.5m for Benet House, More’s best throw was by Ollie Farquharson at 32m, Sam Divers hurled his welly a super 34.1m for Fisher, but the best welly wang of the day was from Austin’s Joel Nicoll who managed a magnificent 37.8m.

Ben Collie commented, “Congratulations to our Sixth Form students for organising the fundraising on World Porridge Day. Their hard work in planning and executing this engaging event is commendable. It showcases their ability to organise and lead but also reflects their commitment to making a positive impact in their community and beyond. Their initiative and generosity are a testament to their character and a source of pride for us all. Keep up the excellent work and continue making a difference in the world!”

You can find out more about Princethorpe’s ongoing fundraising for Mary's Meals or make a donation here.

A team from Bilton Church of England Primary School, in Rugby, took first place in this year’s Princethorpe College Year 5 Maths Challenge. While teams from Paddox Primary School came second and Milverton Primary School were third.

Organised by Princethorpe’s Deputy Head - Academic, Michael Spencer, and Head of Maths, Sharon McBride, this year’s Maths Challenge included a series of engaging and stretching maths activities for primary school pupils.

The Maths Challenge took place on Monday 7 October when Princethorpe College welcomed 54 pairs of enthusiastic and talented Year 5 mathematicians from 29 local schools. After a welcome from College Headmaster, Grove du Toit, the pupils took on a series of puzzles against the clock. In five eight-minute rounds they tackled Tangrams, the 24 Game, Shape Arithmetic, Number Detectives and Matchstick Puzzles. Ably supported and marked by a team of Princethorpe Year 8 pupils, the competition stretched and challenged the youngsters with mathematical activities that required both reasoning skills and mathematical knowledge. The challenge was engaging and fun for all who took part.

The winning teams all received mathematical prizes presented by Deputy Head, Michael Spencer, and everyone who participated received a certificate and a legendary Princethorpe cookie.

Comments, Sharon McBride, Head of Maths, “The College was delighted to host this event and provide local schools with the opportunity to put their pupils’ maths skills to the test. It proved to be an exciting morning of mathematical fun and we were really impressed by all the children, well done to everyone who took part.”

Princethorpe College’s Year 7 Science Family Challenge took place on Wednesday 2 October. We welcomed 26 family teams (pupil and parent) to the Science Centre to take part in a range of hands-on practical science activities, competing against other pairs to win the coveted Science Family Challenge trophy.

Sixth Form students Ollie, Louise, Ben, Alex, Roxy and Isla organised the starter activity based on safety in the lab (the first Year 7 topic) along with some tricky multiple-choice questions on general science. The teams then watched exciting demonstrations involving fire, explosions and tricks of the mind, before tackling some challenging tasks across the fields of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. They had to apply practical skills and answer challenging questions to earn points. 'Alkal-I- Like Science', 'Comical Flasks', 'H2Woe' and the 'Newton Ninjas' were just some of the teams that scored the extra two points available for the best team names.

At the end of the evening the top three teams were separated by just half a point, with 'The Reactors' and 'Pyrotechnicians' coming in joint second place, with an impressive 36 points, while the winning team 'Excellent Edisons' secured victory with an amazing 36.5 points. Congratulations to Year 7, Freya Harvey, and her dad, who took home the the 2024 Year 7 Science Family Challenge Trophy (made in-house by our very own DT Technician).

Do look out for the Princethorpe College Science Christmas Lecture on Tuesday 10 December 2024 from 6.00pm to 7.30pm. Hosted by the Lower Sixth STEAM ambassadors, it promises to be a festive evening with prizes, refreshments and music, the chance to be part of amazing science demonstrations and to test your knowledge of science in our interactive quiz. Look out for the link to book free tickets in future editions of the Flagpole and on social media soon.

On Friday 27 September, the Old Princethorpians' London Meet took place at The Clachan on Kingly Street, a unique city centre pub with a rich history, tucked just behind the iconic Liberty's.

For this well-established annual OP event, it was a bumper turnout comprising an enthusiastic and diverse crowd of over 40 OPs from across the decades. In fact, every decade from the 1970s to the 2020s was represented, with the Class of 2018 being the specific year group with the largest number of OP representatives.

Guests were greeted warmly by the Princethorpe contingent, which included OPs Secretary Melanie Butler, Alumni Relations and Development Officer Caroline Spencer, Foundation Bursar Eddie Tolcher and Assistant Head Neil McCollin. Former longstanding and much-loved teacher and Assistant Head, Alex Darkes, was also in attendance, and the whole team enjoyed catching up and reminiscing with the OPs. As ever, it was a delight to see the OPs enjoying each other’s company, networking and swapping stories.

The evening unfolded happily in the upstairs room of this bustling pub, with Welcome Drinks provided courtesy of the OP Committee, and the friendly Clachan staff laying out a tasty buffet during the evening, much appreciated by all. You can find more photos from the evening on Princethorpe Connect.

We are always looking for suggestions for our next London Meet venue, so if you can suggest a good pub with a function room, in a good location, please email oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

Our next OPs Pub Meet is the Local Meet, taking place on Friday 7 March 2025 at The Micro Pug on Clemens Street, Leamington Spa, so if you are an OP and would like to attend, you can register your interest on our Events page here. We'd love to see you there.

The latest issue of The Old Princethorpian, the Princethorpe Foundation’s termly e-newsletter for past pupils, staff and parents, old and new, is out now!

Visit: www.oldprincethorpian.co.uk to have a read.

The newsletter aims to keep our alumni in touch with each other and news, developments and events across the Foundation. It includes the latest Foundation and College news, and plenty of news and updates from OPs across the decades.

If you have any comments on the e-newsletter or news to please do get in touch, email us at oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

The next events in the OP calendar include our Prize Giving Drinks Reception for last year's Upper Sixth on Friday 22 November and the College PTA Christmas Fair on Sunday 1 December.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Thursday 14 November - Clarkson Theatre

The House Talent Showcase is back for another year, showcasing an array of wonderful talents from Princethorpe pupils and students. Auditions are underway, and the House Captains are busy preparing their own exciting act, to be revealed on the night. Don’t miss out on what is sure to be an incredible evening of talent! The Talent Showcase is one of the biggest nights of the House year, with 1,000 house points at stake for the winner.

Tickets are free via My School Portal, linked here, with an optional charitable donation on the night. Refreshments will be available to purchase.

Wednesday 16 October 2024 - 6.30pm to 9.00pm

Year 11 pupils and their parents will have now received a reminder email including links to the Sixth Form Admissions Booklet and programme for the evening. Hard copies will be available on the evening. We recommend you refer to this prior to your visit to help you choose which departments to visit on the evening.

The evening will focus on the Route to Sixth Form for 2025 including key dates, milestones and scholarships, specific A-level and BTEC subject information and advice provided by the Heads of Departments, together with information on outstanding pastoral care provided and the vast array of sporting, co-curricular, leadership and service opportunities available.

The evening will include brief talks by Grove du Toit, the Headmaster, Ben Collie, Head of Sixth Form, Michael Spencer, Deputy Head - Academic and current Sixth Formers. There will also be the opportunity to speak to the Sixth Form Team in the Sixth Form Centre. In addition, all of the A-level and BTEC departments will be open for you to visit, with short presentations, course details and the opportunity to talk to staff and current students.

External candidates should register via this link and if you have any questions please do contact the Admissions Team via email at admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

Friday 22 November, 7.00pm - Butterworth Hall, University Of Warwick

We are looking forward to welcoming guests to our annual Prize Giving Ceremony - save the date for Friday 22 November. Letters to Prize Winners have been sent by post today and all other invitations will be emailed out next week.

Additional tickets will be available and information about this will be in the next issue of The Flagpole on Friday 8 November.

Sunday 1 December 2024 - 2.00pm to 4.30pm

The popular PTA Christmas Fair will take place this year on Sunday 1 December 2024.

It promises to be a fun, festive event for all ages so please make sure to save the date. 

Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 December 2024

Our popular Christmas Wreath Making Evenings are back this year, with two dates to look forward to! 

The evenings will take place on Wednesday 4 December and Thursday 5 December 2024. All of the materials needed to make your beautiful wreath will be included in the cost, plus refreshments. Proceeds will go towards South Africa Sports Tour. 

It is open to all Princethorpe parents, staff and friends. More details and a link for booking will be available soon.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Saturday 29 March 2025

Pupils and parents in Year 10 to Sixth Form are asked to save the date for next year's Career Insights event. 

The event takes over from our successful bi-ennial Careers Fair, with a slightly different format. Attendees will be able to pick four careers-related sessions as well as attend a Keynote Speech over the course of the morning.

Comments, Jacqui Quinney, Head of Careers, "We have ambitious plans for next year's event, we have listened to feedback and are focusing on the insight sessions with hopefully more speakers and careers and professions represented than ever before.

She continues, "It is a really valuable opportunity for our students and we would encourage all Year 10 and Sixth Form to put the date in their diaries, more information will be revealed in the New Year!"

• Evaluate your priorities for each subject
• This is based on two hours work on each weekday of the half term
• Complete homework set
• Complete any outstanding work
• Sort out your Teams folders/OneNote into good order

You want to come back from half term refreshed but up to date. 

Good luck and enjoy the break.

Dr Liz Pyne
Assistant Head - Teaching and Learning

Monday 11 November 2024 - 11.00am 

On Monday 11 November at 11.00am the Princethorpe College community will gather together to silently reflect on the bravery and the selfless sacrifice made by so many of our country's service men and women.

This service will take place outside on the playground, so please can pupils ensure they bring a coat to school with them that day if the weather is cold. 

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

I would be grateful if you could remind your child that their sports bag must be placed into their locker until it is required. Every pupil in school has been issued with a locker in their year group zone. 

Unattended sports bags can pose a fire hazard, particularly in the event we need to evacuate the school, highlighted in our recent fire drill practices, and sports bags should not be left anywhere else around the school site.

From Monday 14 October 2024, if a pupil's sport bag is not safely stored in their issued locker they will receive an LLC sanction, as was introduced last academic year. 

Should a pupil need a key, or to report an issue with their locker, they must inform the Pupil Hub who will resolve any problems for them.

Can I make you all aware this will be enforced from next week, so please discuss this over the weekend with our pupils.

Thank you for your continued support. 

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

Progress Reports for the Lower Sixth will be published on Friday 8 November, and will be available to view on My School Portal.  

Michael Spencer
Deputy Head - Academic

Sixth Form Update - Michaelmas Term

As the Head of Sixth Form, it is with immense pride that I share with you the exceptional dedication and enthusiasm our Sixth form students have shown over the past couple of months when participating in numerous community events. Their commitment not only reflects their personal growth but also underscores the values we strive to instil within our school community.

Lower Sixth Trip - Friday 4 October 2024

The Lower Sixth Trip was an exciting and exhilarating weekend that offered our students the opportunity to bond and develop essential life skills. The trip included various team-building exercises and outdoor adventures that challenged and motivated our students to work together and support one another.

Grangers - Tuesday 8 October 2024

A number of our students participated in Grangers, an event aimed at fostering community spirit through volunteer work. The students' contributions to the event this week were greatly appreciated and demonstrated their commitment to making a positive impact. The feedback we received after was full of thanks and praise to all those involved in making it a wonderful evening.

World Porridge Day - Thursday 10 October 2024

This was a particularly eventful day, with our students engaging in both Welly Wanging and World Porridge Day activities. Welly Wanging, a fun and competitive event, brought out the best in our students as they enjoyed a lunchtime full of friendly rivalry and laughter. They also joined in the global celebration of World Porridge Day, raising awareness and funds for a good cause while enjoying delicious porridge together.

Building Stronger Communities

The involvement of our Sixth formers in community events has had a ripple effect, fostering stronger connections between our school and the wider community. Their actions have not only benefited the recipients of their efforts but have also helped to build a sense of unity and shared purpose within our student body. It is heartening to see them understand that they are part of something larger than themselves.

Sixth Form Open Evening - Wednesday 16 October 2024 - 6.30pm to 9.00pm

Our Sixth Form Open Evening is a significant event for prospective students and their families. It provides an insight into the academic and extracurricular opportunities available. Current students and staff will be on hand to assist visitors, answer questions and share their experiences.

Lower Sixth Social - Friday 18 October 2024 - 7.00pm to 10.00pm

We believe that a strong sense of community is vital for our students' well-being and success. The Lower Sixth Social event is designed to foster this sense of community as students get to enjoy an evening of fun activities, entertainment and the chance to unwind and socialize in a relaxed environment. It is also a great way to build friendships and integrate into the Sixth form community.

Pink Day - Friday 18 October 2024

On Pink Day, students and staff are encouraged to wear pink to support breast cancer awareness. It's a powerful way for our school community to show solidarity and raise awareness for an important cause.

Upper Sixth Mock Exams - from Monday 18 November 2024

As we move towards the end of term, our Upper Sixth students will be preparing for their mock exams. This period is crucial for our students as they assess their understanding and readiness for their final exams. We encourage all parents to support their children during this time, ensuring they have a balanced routine that includes study, rest, and relaxation.

Prize Giving at Warwick Arts Centre - Friday 22 November 2024

Following the mock exams, we are eagerly anticipating our Prize Giving ceremony at Warwick Arts Centre. This prestigious event will be an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students. Their hard work and dedication throughout the year will be recognized, and it promises to be a memorable occasion for all involved.

Ben Collie 
Head of Sixth Form

Tuesday 22 October, Thursday 19 and Friday 20 December 2024

Coventry Netball will be hosting Netball Performance Camps at Princethorpe in October Half Term and the Christmas Holidays. See graphic for details.

The camps are aimed at helping players improve their netball skills, whilst being coached to a high standard by Coventry Netball's very experienced coaching team. 

The coaching team includes England U23 Men's Netball coach Lesley Blair, who will be accompanied by former Saracens Mavericks player, now a current Birmingham Panthers player, Indya Masser. These days are filled with fun activities, tactical learning and in depth skill development.

The camp is available for players aged 7 to 16 and takes place at Princethorpe College on 22 October, and the 19 and 20 December. To book a place please contact community@coventryrugby.co.uk.

Any items of sports kit that require initialling during half term can be brought into the School Shop prior to Friday 18 October 2024 in a clearly named bag with a completed form attached.

If you do not have access to a printer a form may be collected from the School Shop in advance at break or lunch time. Please note all articles of clothing must be new or freshly laundered and dry, if they are to be sent to the embroiderers. This service is only available on items bought directly from the School Shop that have not been previously embroidered.

Initialling is not compulsory but is highly recommended to look professional, help reunite any lost items with the owner and is already included in the price. Initials can be a maximum of three letters and should not spell out a first name or nickname. 

Items will be ready for collection from the school shop when school re-opens on Monday 4 November 2024.

If you have any queries please contact the school shop on 01926 634272 or email uniform@princethorpe.co.uk

Barbara Bromwich
Foundation Shop Manager

Did you know you can support the Princethorpe PTA online?

Follow, like, and share our social media posts to help us reach a wider audience. The more people who are aware of our fundraising events, the greater impact we can make for the school community! Please see below the links to our social media pages:

Facebook: PTA Princethorpe

Instagram: @princethorpepta

X (Twitter): @PrincethorpePta

Thank you for all your support this academic year. 

Princethorpe PTA

Please don’t forget that Princethorpe College PTA is registered with easyfundraising. 

When you shop via the easyfundraising website or app, with over 4,100 of your favourite retailers, including John Lewis & 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.

Are you interested in joining the PTA Committee?

Comprising a dedicated group of volunteer parents and guardians of Princethorpe students, the committee orchestrates and assists in various school events, including the immensely popular Summer Fête and Christmas Fair, aimed at raising funds for projects within the school that enrich the student experience and foster a sense of community.

If you are interested in offering your support or wish to become more actively involved in event planning by joining the committee and attending meetings, please don't hesitate to email us at ptassociation@princethorpe.co.uk.

The Bebras Challenge introduces computational thinking to students worldwide. Princethorpe pupils will be practicing for the challenge for homework, during club time and during one lesson. Pupils will then take part in the UK Bebras Challenge during one of their scheduled Computer Science lessons during early November.

This well-respected challenge allows pupils to apply their computational thinking skills to solve a variety of logic problems against the clock. Last year Princethorpe pupils from Years 9 to Sixth Form were recognised with an award, with 30 pupils achieving a ‘Merit’ and a further 30 pupils achieving a ‘Distinction’. Our top 11 pupils placed in the top 10% nationally, resulting in an invitation to compete in the prestigious Oxford University Computing Challenge the following January. For the first time at Princethorpe, we shall be opening the Bebras Challenge to Year 8 pupils as well.

Pupils have been given an assignment on Teams to practice challenges on the below link. Further details beyond those on the link can be found on the Teams assignment.

Challenges - UK Bebras

Good luck Princethorpe Computer Scientists! 

It is always great to hear about our pupils' successes that take place outside of school; please do keep us updated if your son or daughter has won a competition, raised money for charity, is performing in a show or competing at a high level with a sporting team outside of school.

We would like to invite parents to submit this information to us via a nomination form by clicking here so we might celebrate these achievements in school too. The form will close on Monday 4 November, unless we reach full capacity beforehand. 

Neil McCollin
Assistant Head - Co-Curricular and Operations

Enrolment for Bronze, Silver and Gold awards has gone well over the last two weeks. Thank you to those who have signed up. The enrolment deadline is Friday 18 October 2024 in time for a meaningful start after half term.

The presentation, enrolment form, expedition dates and other useful information is now live on My School Portal under the Co-curriclular - Princethorpe page. Link here.

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. 

The new Duke of Edinburgh's staff team are currently undergoing their training and will be aiding last year's participants to sign off their awards over the coming weeks to ensure completion by the Christmas deadline.

For any Duke of Edinburgh's enquires please use the dedicated email dofe@princethorpe.co.uk with the subject DofE-B, S or G-Surname.

Educational and co-curricular visits have always been a major part of life at Princethorpe. These experiences for pupils enrich their lives, enhance their learning and develop their understanding and appreciation of the world around them. 

We would like to remind you of the provisional major trips plan as it currently stands (this does not include academic department day trips or Duke of Edinburgh's Award). Please click here to view the planned trips.

Please also ensure that you read the information about individual trips with care when they are released, in particular in relation to consent, cancellation and insurance. We will always keep the trip cost as low as possible. 

Neil McCollin
Assistant Head - Co-Curricular and Operations

We would like to remind parents of some useful contact details.

To report a pupil absence please do so 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.

Cyber-crime – please be extra vigilant

Parents are asked to be vigilant when reading emails relating to the payment of school fees and any other items to the Foundation. You can protect yourselves by only making payments to us in line with our normal, published methods. Any email offering a large discount on fees for the coming academic year if paid immediately is fraudulent.

There has been no change to the bank details of Princethorpe College, Crackley Hall or Crescent Schools and there is no intention to make any changes in the foreseeable future. Any electronic notification that appears to be from any of the Foundation schools changing these details may be fraudulent. Our bank details are available on the Parent Bills, the Online Payment Portal and in the Information Booklet for each school, and only those details should be used.

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

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

We have witnessed a number of drivers using mobile phones whilst driving on the site, including whilst driving across the playground. We have also seen an increase in general speeds in excess of the indicated limits. Please can we ask that all drivers respect everyone's safety and obey the laws of the road whilst driving on the college site.

Improving safety

• Adhere strictly to the speed limits and instructions given by College staff
• Never hold or use a mobile phone whilst driving
• Park in designated areas and never on double yellow lines
• Stop for pedestrians wishing to cross at designated crossing points
• Ensure that pupils only exit or enter cars when safely parked in designated areas
• Music should be kept to a minimum level
• Be patient, kind and courteous

• Pupils arriving to school at the normal time can be dropped off inside the turning circle, adjacent to the pupils’ entrance. Please note, this is for quick drop-offs only and you should leave promptly. Should you need more time or have to wait, you must use the main playground area instead.
• The main gate closes at 8.45am and re-opens at 3.20pm, the playground gate closes at 8.50am and re-opens at 3.30pm. Parents arriving within these periods are asked to park in the ‘Short Stay’ parking (yellow hatched area between Reception and the Roundhouse) and go to Reception or the Student Hub.
• If you are collecting your child at the end of the day, please avoid arriving before 3.00pm. If you are queueing, please keep yellow hatched areas by the main gates clear to enable our Estates Team or Emergency vehicles access.
• Sixth Form parking is available only to those issued with permits. A designated Sixth Form car park has been provided next to the sports field. Permit holders must park in their designated space as issued by Mr Collie.
• Should you require access to the Student Hub, please park in the Short Stay parking area next to Goods In and follow the sign to the Student Hub.

Polite Reminders

• Parking on site is very restricted. If you are wishing to attend the College to watch sport, please use visitor, short stay or overflow parking however, we cannot guarantee this will always be available.
• We encourage drivers to turn off their engines whilst waiting to reduce pollution.
• The whole site is non-smoking/vaping and dogs must be kept on leads.

Please see below our current vacancies:

Crackley Hall

• Assistant Head (Pastoral)
• Site Supervisor

Little Crackers

• Nursery Practitioner

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.