The Flagpole

Princethorpe College is delighted and proud that its Head Girl and Upper Sixth Form student, Miriam Isaacs, has won the national finals of the Catenian Public Speaking Competition for Young People from Catholic schools.

The competition took place last weekend, Sunday 10 September, at the Manchester Conference Centre, and Miriam was one of 16 regional winners who travelled from all over the country to take part in this prestigious event.

Her win is an amazing achievement, standards were high and she was up against tough competition, but the judges stressed that it was a unanimous decision.  Miriam gave a four-minute presentation on the topic of ‘Should the law always be obeyed?’ – or as per Miriam’s speech, perhaps not always obeyed!

Chris Kerrigan, Head of English, who has been working with Miriam developing her public speaking skills, said, “I knew Miriam had acquitted herself well, but when you've heard the speech so often, it is difficult to gauge the impact on fresh listeners so we were delighted when they announced the result.  It was well received by the audience too as so many people came up to congratulate her afterwards.  All the competitors gave incredible performances so Miriam’s victory is something that we are really proud of.”

17-year-old Miriam, who is studying A-levels in History, French and English Literature and Language commented, “I felt very privileged to be able to take part in this competition at a national level and talking about the law and justice reminded me how lucky we are to be able to speak our mind in public. And of course, winning was the icing on the cake!”

Competitors were marked by the judges, Wendy Sutcliffe, Lord Alton of Liverpool and the Bishop of Salford, Reverend John Arnold, on a variety of criteria from content, delivery, elocution and appearance. Points were deducted for excessive use of notes and over or under running.

Ed Hester, Headmaster, said, “This is absolutely super news, the College has won the regional rounds before, but this is the first time we have had a national winner.  It is fantastic that Princethorpe students have the opportunity and confidence to take part in such a prestigious competition as public speaking is such a useful skill for later life.”

The Catenian Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet monthly in local units called Circles.  Their Public Speaking Competition is run annually and is open to all catholic schools.

Congratulations go to Princethorpe Sixth Former Oscar Kay who represented England at the 2017 School Games a few weeks ago!

It has been a busy summer for 17-year-old Oscar. A few days after the end of the Trinity Term, Oscar, alongside over 80 fellow Princethorpe pupils, headed to South Africa for the College's biennial sports tour.

If that wasn't enough, on his return in August, he was straight back into training at the England U17 Hockey Camp held at Bisham Abbey. Put through his paces with rigorous training and drills by three players from the GB Men’s Hockey team, Oscar landed himself a place on the England U17 squad who faced the GB Women’s team in a competitive training game. Pitted against several Olympic gold medallists, Oscar and his fellow U17 squad members were up against stiff opposition yet came out triumphant with a 2-1 win over the GB Women’s team.

Oscar’s performance at the England U17 training camp secured him a spot in one of the England Hockey squads competing at this year’s School Games, which were held at Loughborough University over four days from 31 August – 3 September.

The School Games sees each of the home nations come face-to-face across twelve team and individual sports ranging from Athletics to Hockey and Swimming to Wheelchair Basketball. There was some great talent on display and although his squad didn’t win, Oscar still had a fantastic time.

He comments, “School Games organised the event so we could experience what competing at Olympic level would be like. It was so realistic and the atmosphere was amazing.”

When asked for a top tip for anyone else who might like to follow in his footsteps, he added, “Stick to your sport. Make it your goal, focus on it and you’ll get there!”

What a summer of sport – congratulations Oscar!

If you’d like to know more about the 2017 School Games, please visit: http://schoolgamesfinals.org/

Every three years we take a photograph of the whole school and hang it in the corridor adjacent to the Chapel.  Recorded for posterity, the Princethorpe family, a moment in time and always remembered.

Of course the organisation of such a mass event requires military precision, exemplary behaviour and a prayer for fair weather. Thursday 7 September dawned bright and dry and the gathering of nearly 1000 souls, as pupils, teachers and support staff assembled, went smoothly.

Then right at the last moment the sun came out. Perfect, all smiles please – click, and we were done.  Another chapter in Princethorpe’s history.

The latest edition of the College's Admissions Update e-newsletter has been issued today, Friday 15 September. The issue is packed with news to give prospective parents and pupils a feel for College life, information on forthcoming events and helpful advice about the admissions process, particularly for those who are looking at entry in September 2018.

The newsletter reminds parents that this year our Entrance Exams for Years 7 to 10 admissions in September 2018 have moved to Saturday 11 November 2017 from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Early registration is advised.

This newsletter is issued twice a year to coincide with key admissions periods, the next edition will be published in spring 2018.

Click here to go to the Admissions Update newsletter.

If you have any queries relating to admissions please feel free to email the team at admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

As the banner at the bottom of the drive proclaims the College's annual Open Afternoon will take place on Sunday 24 September from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. All are welcome to visit the College and younger visitors are encouraged to participate in the many fun subject related activities around the various departments.

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

Helpers Information

Over the past few years numbers attending Open Afternoon have grown considerably and we find that we need more and more Princethorpe pupils to help out in various departments - which they do brilliantly.

The various Heads of Departments will have approached pupils direct for their assistance within departments.

Helpers who have requested lunch before Open Afternoon need to be at College for 12.00 noon (there is no charge), otherwise they need to be in school please by 1.30pm, in school uniform, and go directly to the department they are helping.

In order to avoid traffic congestion, we would ask that parents drop off their children by the bus bays at the top of the drive. Children can be collected at 5.15pm from the Pupils' Entrance in the playground.

Many thanks for everyone's help with Open Afternoon.

Princethorpe College is delighted to announce that it is one of only six secondary schools that have made it through to the shortlist for the School Library Association’s 2017 Inspiration Award.

The Award is designed to reward innovation and creativity, it is given to the school library space that shows inspiration and resourcefulness in its library design and use, or through the creative use of specific products or promotions. The judges are less concerned with how big the school library space is, but rather with what it has achieved with the available resources and the challenges it faces.

Back in May the College welcomed the SLA Inspiration Award National Judges, Dawn Woods and Geoff Dubber (pictured here with students), to inspect and evaluate its Sixth Form Learning Resource Centre.

Celia Scott, College Librarian, comments, “Much consideration went into the design and layout of the Sixth Form Learning Resource Centre at Princethorpe. Our aim was to create a place where young people would want to learn, and have the environment and resources to support them. We believe our dedicated Sixth Form Learning Resource facility makes a difference to the learning lives of our students and are delighted that the judges do too.”

The winning school will be chosen on Monday 2 October in an awards ceremony in Covent Garden, London.  All of the shortlisted schools will have the chance to showcase their school library designs before the final decision is made.

For further information please visit the school website. 

Huge congratulations to Princethorpe College Sixth Former, Alex O’Driscoll, who scooped a silver medal in the Table Tennis at the World Dwarf Games in Canada this summer.

A keen sportsman, seventeen-year-old Alex, who has been playing Table Tennis since he was eight years old, competed in the Open Classification category playing against competitors from countries across the world.

Alex played in four rounds of matches to qualify for the quarter finals, won through to the semis but then lost.  He took the bronze medal in the play-offs but was moved up to silver after a disqualification

Alex trains regularly on Saturdays and Monday evening with the Lillington Free Church Club in Bishop’s Tachbrook.

Alex commented, “It was an amazing experience, eye opening and life changing.  I met so many people I will remain friends with. The stand out moment for me was when I took part in the opening ceremony and they played the national anthem, I felt so proud.” 

The Great Britain team had around 80 athletes competing in the games and achieved an amazing medal haul of 202 medals from 25 sporting events, placing Great Britain second only to the USA in the rankings. The 2017 games were the largest in the history of the world games and took place in Guelph, Ontario in Canada.

It’s back to club matches now for Alex and training for the National Games which will take place next May, but he has his sights set on the next World Games in four years’ time and who knows maybe even a Gold medal. 

For the first time this summer a small group from Princethorpe College helped the charity HCPT take a group from Rushden, near Northampton, on a pilgrimage holiday to Hosanna House in Lourdes. HCPT is a charity that takes disabled and disadvantaged people on pilgrimage holidays to the Catholic shrine in the foothill of the Pyrenees, which is well known for welcoming the sick and handicapped. Lower Sixth pupils Sam Bromage-Eccles and Isabel Meade, along with recent school leaver Charlie Barnes, Rod Isaacs, Assistant Head of Sixth Form, and, teacher, Sarah Sellars joined the group of nearly 40 people from all Christian backgrounds and none. Some of the group had been to Lourdes more than half a dozen times before. Also forming part of the group were Joanne and Emma, accompanied by Carol and Charlie Bromley who help run the Granger’s Club for adults with learning difficulties in Willenhall where our Sixth Form students have volunteered on a Tuesday evening for many years.
 
The week-long visit was full of wonderful experiences – such as taking part in a beautiful candlelight rosary procession, Mass in the underground basilica that can seat 35,000 people, a trip to a local market, a coach ride over one of the high passes used in the Tour de France and an afternoon exploring a deep cavern. With half a dozen wheelchairs this proved quite tiring! Sadly, Lower Sixth Former, Esme Down was not able to join the group due to ill health, but the contemplative order of nuns we visited sent her back a rosary bracelet and gave us all a glimpse of the joy that can be present in those who dedicate their lives to God.
 
As one member of our group put it, "This was a really amazing and truly humbling experience. I will never forget it."
 
The College very much hopes that the links with HCPT can be strengthened and developed in future.
 
For more information on the work HCPT does please see http://www.hcpt.org.uk/

Over the summer of 2017 the College enjoyed a very successful 15 day sports tour to South Africa. Taking our largest squad ever, of some 88 pupils and 11 staff, and for the first time playing three sports, Rugby, Netball and Hockey, the tour travelled to Johannesburg and then on to Cape Town for a fortnight full of keenly contested matches and spectacular sight-seeing.

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

Away from the sports field, the tour offered participants the chance to broaden their horizons with sightseeing and educational experiences that included the history of South Africa with tours of Soweto and the Apartheid Museum and a visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated.  Pupils also had the opportunity to experience South Africa’s vibrant culture at Lesedi village and get up close and personal with the wildlife in game drives at Pilanesberg Game Reserve.  The tour party also enjoyed the spectacular scenery of Table Mountain in Cape Town and the most southern tip of Africa at Cape Point.

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

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

For more information and photos please click here.

Are you a bit of an adrenaline junkie who fancies jumping off a cliff 15 metres into the sea?  Or do you like to make a difference supporting a charity or project that improves people’s lives?  Well that’s what some of our Sixth Form students have been doing this summer as they enjoyed some very different experiences participating in the next stage of their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award – the Residential.

The Gold Residential, an extra element of the Gold Award, develops students’ skills.  For starters they have to organise it themselves and then they are expected to undertake it with new people, it’s all about building confidence and independence.

Over 160 pupils and Sixth Formers signed up to undertake one of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards last year.  Working towards Bronze, Silver and Gold they participated in a kaleidoscope of vibrant experiences as they completed their skill, knowledge, physical and expedition sections. They met new people, made a difference, challenged themselves, gained new skills and confidence and generally had a lot of fun. 

Head of Outdoor Education, Will Bower said, “We have a hugely successful Duke of Edinburgh programme here at Princethorpe.  The 14 Gold students are making excellent progress.  I think we will definitely have a few visits to the palace next year. The initiative develops so many different skills essential for life.  I would really encourage all of our pupils to participate; you will get so much out of it.”    

To read more about some of this summer's residentials please click here.

Sunday 24 September 2017 - 2.00pm - 5.00pm

The annual College Open Afternoon takes place on Sunday 24 September from 2.00pm - 5.00pm. All are welcome to visit the College and for our younger visitors there will be many fun subject related activities organised by the departments.

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

As usual we'll be looking for existing pupils to help out around school, talking to visitors and taking part in activities in the various departments.

Please do spread the word, everyone is most welcome.

Monday 25 September - 7.00pm

What a piece of work is a man

There are 92 naturally occurring elements in the Periodic Table but how many of them would you need to make a human? The chemical formula for a human has some surprising inclusions and the recipe to make a fully functioning person is carefully balanced. The next science Matters talk looks at some interesting facts about the elements that make us what we are.

The talk is to be given by Dr Kathryn Harkup who has become a regular and very popular contributor to Science Matters events.

You can hear all about the ‘Chemistry of the human body’ on Monday 25 September at 7.00pm in the Sixth Form Lecture Theatre. There will be refreshments and a chance to talk with the Kathryn Harkup after the talk.

All parents and pupils are welcome. This is a free event but to help us cater efficiently please reserve places with Lisa Gardner by clicking here no later than Wednesday 20 September.

Gill Smith
Head of Science

Monday 25 to Friday 29 September

Tuesday 26 September is the official European Day of Languages. Created in 2001, it's aim is to encourage language learning across Europe and here at Princethorpe pupils are invited to join the Modern Foreign Language Department in celebrating this annual event from Monday 25 to Friday 29 September. There will be a number of different activites taking place around school:

• A special menu in the Refectory

• Two house competitions; a T-shirt design competition on Friday 22 and Monday 25 September over lunchtime and a trivia quiz in the Refectory on Friday 29 September

• Spanish, French and German screenings on Tuesday 26, Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 September

• A photo booth every break-time through the week

Studying a language can be life changing and we'll be showing pupils a video which explains how, in their assembly.

Here at Princethorpe we want to promote the rich linguistic and cultural diversity of Europe and show pupils the importance of language learning in order to increase intercultural understanding.

If you have any queries, please feel free to contact me at charlotteverleure@princethorpe.co.uk 

Charlotte Verleure
French Teacher and Language Assistant 

Friday 29 September 7.00pm – 9.00pm

Parents of pupils new to the school this year are invited to the Headmaster's Quiz, which will take place in the College Dining Room.  Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis.  Tickets for the Parents’ Quiz, including a curry supper, are £10 per head.

The PTA will be running a bar and my quiz will hopefully not be too testing! 

It should be a very enjoyable evening for all and enable you to meet a number of other parents new to the College, as well as some staff and members of the PTA.  

If you would like to reserve your place, and to enable us to plan our catering, please click here to complete and submit a brief form by 9.00am, Monday 25 September.

Year 7 Social

At the same time, there will also be a Year 7 Social organised by the Parent Teacher Association and school prefects in the Sixth Form Centre.  This is a fun evening for our newest pupils, at which there will be a disco and a ‘chill out’ area.

Tickets for the Year 7 Social are free of charge but you do need to reserve a place; to do so, please click here.  We recommend children bring approx £3 pocket money with them to purchase drinks and treats. Children should have eaten their evening meal before attending. 

Children can attend the Year 7 Social without their parents attending the Quiz, however parents are required to sign them in and sign them out. Drop off is at 7.00pm and collection no later than 9.00pm.

I very much hope you are able to attend and I look forward to meeting you on Friday 29 September; if you have any queries please call 01926 634200 or email, vanessarooney@princethorpe.co.uk

Ed Hester
Headmaster

Thursday 5 October - 10.00am to 3.00pm

Crackley Hall, Princethorpe's junior school and nursery in Kenilworth, is opening its doors for an Open Day on Thursday 5 October from 10.00am to 3.00pm.

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

If you can't make the Open Day but would like to look around the school, please call our Admissions Secretary, Mrs Angela Barnard on 01926 514444 and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors on most days.

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

Friday 6 October - 10.00am to 3.00pm

The Crescent School, the Foundation's junior school for 4 to 11 year olds in Bilton, Rugby, is opening its doors for an Open Day on Friday 6 October from 10.00am to 3.00pm.

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

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

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

Thursday 12 October - 12.15pm

On behalf of Benet House, it is my pleasure to invite you to our first House Eucharist which takes place on Thursday 12 October in the College Chapel (please note the change from the published calendar date).

The service will be a celebration of our House community and will begin at 12.15pm.  If you are able to join us, I would recommend you aim to arrive at midday to be seated in the Chapel before the arrival of the pupils. There will be signage to indicate where to park on the day.

We would be delighted if you could also stay at College after the service to join us for lunch. So that we can cater efficiently, please reserve places with Jennifer Vaughan by clicking here no later than Friday 29 September.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Ms Lisa Challinor
Head of House - Benet

Monday 18 September 2017

At Princethorpe College, we are committed to supporting our students in all aspects of their education and development and this year we have complemented our excellent da Vinci Programme and Princethorpe Diploma with a new initiative. At the start of the academic year, students were introduced to the five key principles of a GCSE and A-level Mindset:

• Vision
• Effort
• Systems
• Practice
• Attitude

These key principles will be the focus of a number of tutor sessions, whereby pupils will have the opportunity to develop and explore them further.

On Monday 18 September, Princethorpe College will be delivering a number of character education sessions to our Year 10 and 11 pupils, as well as to our Lower Sixth Form students.  These sessions will be hosted by Martin Griffin who has worked with more than sixty schools to develop effective character education systems. He is also the co-author of The A Level Mindset (Crown House, 2016.) and The GCSE Mindset (Crown House, 2017) During these sessions, Martin will explore the key principles of having a positive and proactive learning mindset and share tools and strategies for effective coaching and intervention with staff and pupils.

Martin will also be hosting a session for all Year 10, 11 and Lower Sixth Form parents in the evening, from 6.00pm until 7.00pm, aimed at equipping parents with practical ideas and strategies to support their children throughout their GCSE and A-level courses.  Refreshments will be served following the session.  If you wish to attend, please complete the form here.

We look forward to seeing you at the event. If you have any questions regarding the new programme, please feel free to contact me or Mrs Helen Pascoe-Williams.

Mrs Fionnuala Schofield
Life Skills and CPD Co-ordinator

If there have been any changes to your child’s medical health during the summer holidays, please do email them to me so that I can keep our records up to date.

I hope you have had a good summer break.

Paula Greig
Senior Matron

paulagreig@princethorpe.co.uk

The careers team are keen to involve parents as much as possible in assisting with the decisions your children will be making when choosing a career and their next step. As such, I will be passing on information that might be useful to you.

Please see the articles below for information regarding the following:

• EY (Ernst & Young Global Limited) Careers Advice for Parents
• The University of London University Taster Course Programme
• A Star Future (Studying Abroad)
• The Institute and Faculty of Actuaries

Jacqui Quinney
Head of Careers and UCAS Coordinator

The international professional services company, EY, provides many opportunities for both graduates and school leavers and have just launched a section of their website to help parents understand the new and changing world of work. 

Find out more at ukcareers.ey.com/parents where you can also register your interest for you and your child to attend their first-of-its-kind careers workshop, the EY Parentaship. 

The Taster Course Programme provides Lower Sixth Form students with a taste of what life at a university in London is like. Through your chosen taster course you will experience the different teaching methods used by university academics and gain an insight into the additional facilities available, whilst meeting students from across the UK.

All their taster courses are free to attend and you can choose a course from a variety of subjects taking place at the numerous participating universities. Courses range from voice and drama, to medicine and nursing, to computing and business. To learn more please click here.

Are you interested in studying abroad?  

A Star Future has been providing impartial information about opportunities for British students to pursue international higher education since 2006.  Their website details over 3,800 courses taught in English at universities across Europe, America, Australia and Asia.

Are you looking for the latest graduate and school opportunities?

The Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA) have released their latest graduate and school leaver positions and advice.

What can you find?
• Graduate positions
• Work experience opportunities
• Internships
• Apprenticeships
• School leaver positions
• International student positions

There is something for everyone - click here for further information.

The careers team are putting into place a much expanded programme of careers provision for all pupils and students throughout the school.

We are starting this term with the aim of offering all Year 11 pupils a careers interview in preparation for making their post-16 choices. These have commenced this week and will hopefully be completed shortly after the October half term break.

In these interviews we will be using the careers package 'Kudos' to assist pupils with ideas and decisions about their futures.

If you have a son or daughter in Year 11, please encourage them to talk to you about this and share their ideas both before and after the interviews.

If you have any queries about these interviews please don't hesitate to get in touch with me. You can email me by clicking here or telephone the Careers Office on 01926 634200x352.

Thursday 12 October 2017

We would like to invite parents and Old Princethorpians to take part in our annual Interview Skills Day for our Upper Sixth students on Thursday 12 October 2017 at Princethorpe College.

Our Sixth Form students are now considering their options of university, apprenticeships or other career paths and we know it is very likely that they will be interviewed for their chosen courses or careers in the near future. From September our students will be able to begin applications, and make important decisions, and we hope our practice interview day in October will help them in this.

Our parents and Old Princethorpians, with experience and expertise in so many areas, play an essential part in this process.

The day begins just after 9.00am, when our volunteer interviewers will gather in the Sixth Form atrium for a briefing about the interviews ahead. The interviews themselves usually last until lunchtime although some lucky volunteers do find they have interviews in the afternoon too! Lunch is a pleasant occasion, allowing us the opportunity to chat and reflect upon the morning's proceedings.

We are keen to hear from anyone who can offer expertise in a range of disciplines such as:

• Marketing/Management/Business
• Accountancy
• History
• Mechanical Engineering
• Music
• Biological Sciences
• Psychology
• Philosophy
• Medicine
• Physics
• English/Journalism
• Sports Science/PE
• Maths
• Speech Therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Classics
• Sociology
• ICT

or anyone who is experienced in coaching interview techniques. However, all offers of help are gratefully received for all or just part of the day.

If you think you might be able to help, please can you reply by clicking here and completing the short form.

I will, of course, let you know whether we would like your help as soon as I know which disciplines/areas of expertise are required. I will then get in touch with you with more detailed information nearer the time. Meanwhile, the attached PDF document here will give you an idea of the structure of the day.

Thanking you in advance.

18-19 November 2017

The National Healthcare Weekend on 18 and 19 November is taking place in London, Cardiff, Birmingham, Nottingham and Lancaster.

Over 30 conferences on different specialties on the same day! Eight hundred healthcare professionals from across the United Kingdom will be volunteering to present and network pupils who are interested in:

• Medicine
• Veterinary Medicine
• Nursing & Midwifery
• Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Biomedical Sciences
• Psychology

These conferences provide a valuable opportunity for pupils to network with a variety of healthcare professions, learn about work experience opportunities and how to make a successful application.

Registration is £25 for pupils on the Saturday conferences and there is an optional UCAS lecture available on Sunday for each specialty.  Please note that these events are likely to fill up quickly!

Pupils can register on the Medic Mentor website and find out more about events here.

All proceeds from the weekend will be used to support UK's healthcare students with scholarships, elective bursaries, free training and educational initiatives.

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

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

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

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

Children’s Shoe Boxes

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

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

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

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

Homecare Family Shoe Boxes

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

All items may be left in the Chaplaincy G13 and the Chaplaincy Prefects will supervise the sorting and packing of the boxes.

Mary Benham
Chaplaincy Co-ordinator

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

The money can be current or out of date, British or foreign; anything is welcome! Click here and watch the video to see how cash4coins works. This is what you can donate:

• All foreign coins and banknotes
• Current UK coins and banknotes
• Any old British and Irish money
• Even obsolete currency! 

Please send in money in a strong envelope labelled ‘Rod Isaacs - cash4coins'. This can be handed in at the staff room or left in the collection box outside my office (Room F30).

Many thanks

Rod Isaacs
Assistant Head of Sixth Form

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

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

Curriculum PE Lessons:

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

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

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

GCSE and A-level Practical lessons:

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

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

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

Games Lessons – Boys:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Games Lessons – Girls:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Only Princethorpe sports kit can be worn for sports lessons.

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

Thursday 21 September 2017
Sixth Form Centre Dining Room - 7.00pm

The PTA extend a warm welcome to all, and hope you will to join us for cheese and wine at the PTA AGM.

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

There will be an opportunity to meet other parents, those who are new to the PTA and existing members. There will also be an opportunity to take a tour of the newly refurbished Theatre.

We have a number of parents who are involved in the PTA and although you may wish to join us on the committee – we also very much welcome parents who may be able to spare an hour supporting the fairs or welcoming visitors to the schools on Open Days. It really is an excellent way to get involved with school life, as you can offer as little or as much of your time as you feel is possible.

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

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

We hope you will be able to join us on the night and very much look forward to meeting you. All parents are welcome - there is no need to book, however, for catering numbers it would be helpful if you could indicate your interest in this event by clicking here. 

Princethorpe PTA

Physics drop-in sessions this term will be held on a Wednesday after school in G22 as apposed to on a Tuesday as published in the calendar.

If you have any queries regarding the sessions please contact me at gillsmith@princethorpe.co.uk

Gill Smith 
Head of Science

Tuesday 19 September 7.00pm - 8.00pm in the Theatre

On Tuesday 19 September 7.00pm - 8.00pm in the Theatre there will be a presentation detailing information for parents of pupils interested in enrolling in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

Parents of Year 9 pupils are particularly welcome as we hope to recruit the whole year group to complete their bronze this year.   

Here is a reminder of the eligibility criteria:

Will Bower
Head of Outdoor Education

We would love to hear from any parents or Old Princethorpians who could offer practical help in running an Enrichment class for the Lower Sixth during the Lent Term or Trinity Terms 2018. 

Anything from Public Speaking to a Running Group, Creative Design Courses to Pub Quizzes, in fact any skill or activity that might interest, inform or stretch the minds of young people!

If you have a hobby or a skill which you would like to share with a small group of Sixth Formers each Friday afternoon from 14:55 - 15:45, then we would be delighted to hear from you.

The Lent Term sessions begin on Friday 12 January and run until Friday 16 March 2018.  There would be nine weekly sessions in total (subject to course take up) with six in the first half term and three in the second half term. The Trinity Term sessions begin on 20 April and run until 29 June 2018 with five sessions in the first half term and three in the second half term.

Please contact Becky Underhill, Sixth Form Administrator with any ideas or offers at: beckyunderhill@princethorpe.co.uk

Rod Isaacs
Assistant Head of Sixth Form

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

A list of all the Co-curricular activites can be found at the front of the Michaelmas 2017 Termly Calendar which you will have received by post during the summer.  Alternatively, click here to view an electronic version which can also be found on the Princethorpe College website in the section titled 'Outside Class'.

All sport and music Co-curricular activities will start on Monday 4 September, all other activities and clubs will start on Monday 11 September.

I hope that you have all had a great break over the summer and look forward to seeing you back and welcoming our new pupils on Monday 4 September.

Greg Hunter
Assitant Head - Co-Curricular

Well done to everyone who completed their expedition last year.  We have signed off your expedition section on the edofe website.  If you wish to move on to the next level, you must have finished your award by October half term.  The following steps are required:

• Log onto eDofE account
• Submit your signed Assessor Reports for the physical, skills and volunteering sections and upload onto your account
• Submit each section for approval

If you are have problems with any of these steps please come to the DofE Completion drop in sessions on a Tuesday lunchtime in LG01.

Will Bower
Head of Outdoor Education

Please click here for the planned school trips in the coming years. This document will be updated each term, but it should allow you to make an informed decision when deciding on trips for your child to attend.  For any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Greg Hunter
Assistant Head - Co-curricular

28 September 2017 - 6.00pm in the Theatre

The sports department are holding an information evening for pupils, and their parents, interested in the 2017 South Coast Tour planned for October break. This evening aims to give students and parents an overview of the planned exchange, the nature of the experience, key dates and the application process.

We look forward to seeing you on the 28 September but please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Brookes or Mr McCollin should you require any additional information in the meantime.

Just a quick reminder about the future ski dates:

Thursday 2 November 2017

First Parent meeting 6.00pm -7.00pm Sixth Form Atrium

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

Thursday 4 January 2017

Ski Trip Practice to the Snowdome, Tamworth

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

Thursday 1 March 2018

Second Parent Meeting 6.00pm - 7.00pm Sixth Form Atrium

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

Wednesday 7 March 2018

Ski Trip Practice to Ackers Adventure, Birmingham

This is a voluntary two-hour lesson with qualified instructors based on student ability on a dry ski slope. Skis and poles will be provided. Ski gloves, ski socks and warm waterproof clothing are required, as well as a packed tea. I would recommend that absolute beginners attend at least one practice session. We will travel by coach from Princethorpe, leaving at 15.45pm and returning at 20.30pm. Cost £32. Max number of students is 40. An Evolve consent form will be sent by email nearer the time for parents to add students onto the trip.

Thurs 29 March – Thurs 5 April 2018 (Over Easter Weekend)

Ski Trip to Val di Fiemme, Italy 

Departure and return times are still to be confirmed but it is likely to be late afternoon on both days.

Wednesday 20 September at 6.00pm 

We will be holding a Parents’ Information Evening on Wednesday 20 September in the Chapel for all pupils taking part in the weekend away to the Pioneer Centre from Saturday 30 September to Monday 2 October 2017.

There a few outstanding code of conduct and dietary forms, please can parents send these in as soon as possible; forms can be downloaded using the link below: 

Dietary and Code of Conduct Forms

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral

During the forthcoming half term any items of sports kit can be brought into the school shop for initialling.

If you would like to take advantage of this free embroidery service, please drop your kit into the shop before 4.00pm on Friday 13 October 2017.  

All articles of clothing must be new or freshly laundered please.

Items will be ready for collection from the shop when school reopens on Monday 30 October 2017.

If you have any queries please contact Nicola Browne on 01926 634272 or email uniform@princethorpe.co.uk

Nicola Browne
Shop Manager

Required for January 2018 or earlier if possible, a well-qualified graduate to teach English to at least GCSE and the ability to teach to A-level would be an advantage, in a lively and enthusiastic department which has just moved into superb new purpose-built accommodation. There may be flexibility for either a full-time or a substantial part-time appointment. Willingness to become involved with the extra-curricular life of the school is also essential. Candidates should be able to demonstrate success in the classroom and be effective team players. 

NQTs are also welcome to apply; the College has a comprehensive induction programme leading to full QTS status. Single accommodation may be available. Princethorpe has its own pay scale which is above national scales. 

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

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

Closing date: Monday 18 September at 9.00am and interviews are likely to be held on Thursday 21 September, at Princethorpe.

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

Required from October 2017, an Administrator\Receptionist to work with the other School Office staff to provide the main contact point for all parents and visitors to The Crescent, and to assist in the successful administration of the school.

The successful candidate will promote the smooth running and efficiency of the school, maintaining the ethos of a caring Christian school. They will be required to work closely with all other members of the office team to ensure continuity of service throughout the week.

The usual working hours will be from 8.30am and 4.30pm (7 hours per day\35 hours per week) with an hour for lunch, for 38 weeks of the year, being term time only, plus INSET days and an additional two weeks of the year.

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

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

Closing date: Friday 29 September 2017 at 1.00pm, although candidates are advised to apply immediately.
Further details and an application form are available from the College website www.princethorpe.co.uk/employment-opportunities

Required to start as soon as possible, an After School Assistant to work as part of a team to provide after school care for children on three evenings per week, term time only from 3.45pm until 6.00pm each day. The exact days will be open to some negotiation with the applicant. They will support the smooth running of After Care and undertake duties in supervising homework as required.

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

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

Closing date: Tuesday 19 September 2017, at 1.00pm, although candidates are advised to apply immediately. 

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

Required to start as soon as possible, a Lunchtime Supervisor, on a temporary basis to work as part of a team, to provide care for children during lunchtime. The working hours are from 11.45am to 1.45pm, working 10 hours per week, term time only. Other work, of a similar nature may be available during the school day or after school.

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

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

Closing date: Wednesday 20 September 2017, at 1.00pm, although candidates are advised to apply immediately. 

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

The Examination Office welcomes Annabelle to the department. Having previously worked as a Civil Servant for the Department of Work and Pensions and more recently at The Kinsley School, Annabelle comes with a wealth of administrative experience.

Annabelle has three children; her son is in year 10 and she is married to an Old Princethorpian, so she knows she will settle well into Princethorpe life. All of Annabelle’s children are sporty, so she spends her weekends travelling to matches and lending support.

For those customers with a sweet tooth who want a healthier option, this week we’ll be offering a tasty dessert from our "half measures" range. They are all made with less sugar so everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. Here's our recipe - why not try this at home for all the family to enjoy.

Berry and Coconut Tray Bake

Ingredients

• 250g self-raising flour
• 25g oats
• 180g of soft brown sugar
• 200g butter
• 100g desiccated coconut
• 2 eggs
• 250g fruits of the forest

 Method

• Heat the oven to 180°/160° fan/Gas mark 4.
• Tip  the flour, oats and sugar into a bowl.
• Rub the butter into the flour mixture using your fingertips until only small pea-size pieces remain.
• Stir through the coconut, and reserve a cup of the mixture to finish later.
• Stir the eggs into the bowl of mixture, then spread it over the bottom of a lined 31 x 21cm square baking tin.
• Smooth the surface with the back of a spoon, then scatter over the fruits of the forest.
• Scatter over the reserved cup mixture and bake for 1 hour until golden brown and cooked through.
• Leave to cool, then remove from tin and cut into squares. 

Maureen Kennedy
Catering Manager

Under our parking permits scheme, students from Upper Sixth can gain agreement to drive into school.

In order for a parking permit and a barrier access fob to be issued, students are asked to provide the following; a £30.00 administration fee, signed contract, a copy of their driving licence and current insurance policy together with consent from their parents and Head of Sixth Form.  These forms can be found on the VLE and are also available from the School Shop.

Written permission is required from both families, if lifts are being given.

Parking places are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.

Students are not permitted to drive to or park at school until permission has been granted.

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

We offer bus passes in several different options to allow pupils the most flexible options for travel to and from school.  

All information with regards to routes, booking forms and associated costs can be found in the Information Booklet for Parents and Pupils or on the Princethorpe website under 'Getting to School' https://www.princethorpe.co.uk/daily-life/getting-to-school

If you wish to apply for a bus pass then please complete the travel questionnaire which can be found via the attached link and return to Mrs Barbara Bromwich via email at buses@princethorpe.co.uk or post to Mrs Bromwich at Princethorpe College.

Bus passes should be shown for every journey, failure to produce a pass on five occasions will lead to a replacement pass being automatically issued at a cost of £5, which will be added to the school fee account.

If your preference is to purchase bus tickets (which must be purchased in advance of travel) then these can be purchased from the School Shop. Please contact Nicola Browne on either 01926 634272 or via email at nicolabrowne@princethorpe.co.uk to order tickets for collection by pupils during the school day.

For ease, tickets of 10 or more can be added to the school fee account.

An additional charge for travelling without a ticket will be applied as follows:

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

We would like to remind parents about parking at school when dropping off or collecting pupils.

All pupils arriving and leaving school at the normal time must be dropped off and picked up in the playground area adjacent to the pupils’ entrance and tennis courts. This is the only designated area for parents at the beginning and end of the school day.  Please do not drop off pupils at the end of the drive or in the bus bay. 

The playground is closed to traffic from 9.00am to 3.30pm. Parents arriving within this time period are asked to park in a visitor’s parking space and go to reception or the student hub.

For the safety of all pupils, parents are asked not to drive from the playground to the Sixth Form centre.

Mrs Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head, Pastoral

Please click on the links below to access the Term Dates:

2017-18 (Two-page document)

2018-19

If a pupil would like to purchase an item from the shop, we do require written permission from home.

All purchases can be paid by cash, debit/credit card or alternatively the item can be added to the pupils fee account.

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

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

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

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar