Congratulations to all Years on a very good first two weeks of the new Academic Year. There has been a lovely calm and happy atmosphere around College and all the new pupils seem to have settled very well into their Vertical House Tutor Groups.

A week on Thursday we have our Open Morning taking place on Thursday 27 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm. A great opportunity to visit the school on a normal working day ahead of our Entrance Examinations on Saturday 10 November, Years 8 and 9 children will act as tour guides. Please encourage friends, neighbours and family to visit, all are welcome!

Also, you may have seen a flurry of activity on social media over the last week in the build up to the release of our new school film. Do read on in the Flagpole to find out more and view it now.

Watch out for the next edition of the Flagpole on Friday 28 September.

Click here to email The Flagpole.

Preview

News

Princethorpe College – What’s It All About? The Big Reveal

"Princethorpe College - What's It All About?" That’s the question followers of the College on social media have been seeing every day over the course of the last week.

The cryptic message along with a teaser video and photographs has repeatedly posed the question in a countdown to the big reveal today, Friday 14 September at 4.00pm, when the new College film will be premiered.

The film, produced by the Foundation Marketing Team and award-winning Affixxius Films, was shot over the Lent and Trinity Terms and aims to communicate the all-embracing nature of Princethorpe, the wealth of opportunities on offer and the individuals who make up our community. It also celebrates the College's beautiful setting.

The launch has been timed to coincide with the College's admissions for 2019 and the lead up to entrance exams in November.

Thanks to all the pupils and staff who helped and took part in the film - what stars you are!

Roll out the red carpet, grab your popcorn, sit back and view the film here. We'd love you to like and share it on social media, hope you enjoy it! #princethorpeandme

 

Costa Rica Proved An Amazing Central American Adventure

Over the summer, 70 Princethorpe pupils took part in an amazing adventure, a four-week life changing experience, which they will simply never forget.  The pupils travelled to Costa Rica with Camps International where they worked on community and conservation projects.  Immersed into a completely different culture, they lived and work alongside the local population.  They had no choice but to buckle down and get on with some serious grafting and in so doing they gained independence, learnt a lot about themselves and this diverse and fascinating Central American country.  It was for all a once in a lifetime trip.

Split into two groups the now Lower and Upper Sixth pupils followed similar itineraries at five different locations.  In the south of Costa Rica at Camp Terraba they worked on community projects that included improving sanitation and building a community kitchen.  One of the accompanying staff, Charlotte Verleure commented, “In just three days the students excavated an enormous pit 8m3 in size, the local community told us they had never seen anything like it.”  But the students also had time off to explore the area and enjoyed a riverboat ride to see the wetlands.  At Camp Guanacaste, in the heart of the protected Caňo Negro Forest Reserve, the pupils helped make beehives, painted park benches and played football with the local children.

At Camp Pacuare, on the Caribbean coast, it was very wet as it rained non-stop for days.  There, their work included environmental projects with beach cleans and work recording turtle hatchlings size and weight.  Then, all of the pupils also spent a day in Monteverde where they explored the local coffee, sugar and chocolate industries. They enjoyed taste testing the organic chocolate and helping to make sugar cane juice on their plantation tours. Finally, all the pupils took part in a PADI Open water Scuba Course at Camp Playa Panama on the Pacific coast and put their new skills to good use helping with the construction of an artificial reef in the ocean.

Trip Leader, Faye Roberts, commented, “All the pupils worked hard and I mean hard.  The projects were mostly tough manual labour but aside from the donkey-work there was time for fun.  Football at the community pitch, cooling off at the beach after a day of hard work or simply making friends with the local children at the park.  They enjoyed many bonfire nights at the different camps sharing sweets and resting after long days at work.  Our pupils gained so much from the trip, many visibly matured and we are so proud of them all.” 

Reflecting on their trip of a life time Fenton Woolf, Juliette Carter, Leah Dunkley and Ryan Warwick commented, “It’s a cliché but it was a once in a lifetime trip.  The work was physical, a lot harder than expected, but it was immensely rewarding to see the projects completed, to know that we had helped build a kitchen for the community and helped provide beehives so they could run their own honey business.  Our Spanish improved and we had fun teaching the children traditional English playground games.  Seeing the wildlife was incredible.  We would very much love to return to Costa Rica when are older.”

These experiences could of course never happen without the commitment of College staff and our grateful thanks go to Faye Roberts, Karen Bannister, Toby Harper-Lawrence, Gavin Rooney, Jan Ryalls, Charlotte Verleure and Will Uglow who accompanied the pupils on their adventure.

View Gallery

Countdown To Entrance Exams For 2019 Entry Underway

With just eight weeks to go the countdown to the College's Entrance Exams for admission in September 2019 has well and truly begun. This year the exams for Year 7 to 10 entry will take place on Saturday 10 November from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Our friendly Admissions Team has been kept busy over the summer accepting registrations from prospective parents.  The deadline for registrations is ideally Friday 5 October, to enable the seeking of references from junior schools.

There are still plenty of opportunities for prospective pupils and their parents to visit the College before the Entrance Exams, including our Open Morning on Thursday 27 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm, when Year 8 and 9 pupil tour guides will be available to show visitors around the school.

The College is also hosting Taster Days for children in Years 6, 7 and 8 (as of September 2018).  For more information please contact the Admissions Team on 01926 634262.

Comments Melanie Butler, Assistant Head, Marketing, Admissions and Communications, "Parents and pupils will still have plenty of time to prepare and opportunities to visit the College in the run up to the exams.  The results will be out at the end of November, making for an exam-free Christmas holiday, which has got to be good news."

If you have any queries relating to admissions please feel free to email the Registrars at admissions@princethorpe.co.uk or call them on 01926 634201.

Admissions Newsletter For September 2019 Entry Published

The latest edition of the College's Admissions Update e-newsletter has just been published. This 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 2019.

The newsletter reminds parents that this year our Entrance Exams for Years 7 to 10 admissions in September 2019 are on Saturday 10 November 2018 from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Early registration is advised.

The newsletter is issued twice a year to coincide with key admissions periods, the next edition will be published in Spring 2019.

Click here to go to the Admissions Update newsletter.

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

Tom Lomas Joins The Cast Of Matilda The Musical

Huge congratulations to Princethorpe College Year 8 pupil, Tom who joined the touring cast of Matilda the Musical at the end of August. Tom has already been on stage in performances at the Birmingham Hippodrome and will go with the production when it moves to Manchester Palace Theatre later this month.

Working in one of the three teams of young performers we are sure Tom will be having a great time at the infamous Crunchem Hall.

For more information and to see the official cast announcement please click here.

Heritage Day A Great Success

On Sunday 9 September Princethorpe College took part in the annual Heritage Open Days festival which every autumn offers the general public an annual opportunity to explore England’s history, culture and places of interest for free.

Well over 100 visitors enjoyed a guided tour around the College conducted by Assistant Head, Alex Darkes and Archivist, Janette Ratcliffe. The tours took visitors around the most historic parts of the building along Lower Pugin into the Library, down to the Round House, back along the Cloisters to the Chapel and then for refreshments in the Sixth Form Centre.

College Archivist, Janette Ratcliffe, commented, “We were really busy, with people queuing up for tours from 2.00pm, and there was a nice mix of visitors from near and far and young and old.  Some were able to share fascinating facts of their own.  One family told us how they came to own part of Nun’s Wood adjacent to the College, which was exchanged for a taxi!  Another commented on the brickwork at the College and how, because it was expensive, it had fallen out of favour long before the Priory was built.”

She added, “We were delighted to meet everyone and to share the fascinating history of St Mary's Priory.”

Heritage Open Days run until Sunday 16 September, so there is still a chance to visit more hidden places around the local area visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk to find out more.

John Miller - Tick Tock Repairs A Clock

We were delighted to invite former member of staff, John Miller, into school to assess the clock that sits on the Front Office mantle shelf. We are pinning our hopes on John repairing it for us.

Since John's retirement from Princethorpe he is very busy, not only repairing clocks of various shapes and sizes, but also volunteering at the Northampton and Lamport Railway.

We are very pleased that John is still in touch with the College especially when he is so helpful with anything horological!

 

 

 

Events

Heritage Open Days At St Anne's Catholic Church, Wappenbury, CV33 9DW

Thursday 13 September 2018 - Sunday 16 September 2018

The recently refurbished and re-ordered church at St Anne's, Wappenbury, CV33 9DW will be open on the following days:

Thursday 13 September - Saturday 15 September 9.00am - 5.00pm

Sunday 16 September 9.30am - 5.00pm
(light refreshments, 9.30am - 1.00pm)

The original chapel was built circa 1734 and the new chapel of St Anne's was built in the 1800s.

BBC Coventry and Warwickshire radio visited St Anne's last Sunday, 9 September, as part of their Golden Treasure programme. The presenter is given clues and the listeners phone in to the programme to answer the clue. The roving reporter navigates her way around the area to find the answer and location to the clue.

Once the reporter arrives at the venue are given a task to complete. Loretta Curtis, our Development Assistant, who is the Parish Secretary, was on hand to talk to the reporter live and give her the challenge, read out the next clue and send the reporter on her way.

It was lovely to be chosen by the BBC for this programme and gave St Anne's the highlight it deserves -  please do come and see this little Warwickshire treasure - it is only five minutes drive from the College. 

A regular Mass is celebrated at 8.30am each Sunday by Fr Teddy O'Brien MSC

Please visit the website which will give you a flavour of what to expect - click here

 

 

 

View Gallery

Headmaster's Quiz And PTA Social For New Parents And Pupils - Reminder

Friday 21 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, Tuesday 18 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 21 September; if you have any queries please email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk or call 01926 634201

Ed Hester
Headmaster

VSOP Reunion Saturday 22 September 2018

Saturday 22 September 2018 - 10.30am to 5.15pm

Those who are familiar with the history of Princethorpe College, will know that from the middle of the nineteenth century until 1966, the campus was home to the Benedictine nuns of St Mary’s Priory which also ran a small boarding school for about eighty girls. Many of the Very Special Old Princethorpians (VSOPs) are still in touch with the school and some have very strong links either because their parents or close relatives attended the priory school or children subsequently attended Princethorpe College.

Princethorpe College hosts a VSOP reunion every two years and the next takes place on Saturday 22 September 2018. This is primarily an opportunity for the old girls from St Mary’s Priory to get together, catch up and reminisce, though there is an outline structure to the day which includes lunch, a look at the archives, a tour and an afternoon Mass. As in previous years, the day will be very informal and you are free to opt in or out of any of the activities which are planned.

The timetable for the day will be as follows:

10.30am – 11.00am         Tea and coffee available
(walk around the grounds if you arrive earlier)

11.00am – 12.30pm         Meet old friends and reminisce

12.30pm – 2.00pm           Buffet (seated) lunch
(please let us know if you have special dietary requirements)

2.00pm – 3.30pm             Time to explore
(there will also be an optional guided tour and there is a lift to the first floor)

Historical records will be available to view in the Library. If you have anything of interest please do bring it along to share.

3.30pm – 4.15pm             Mass in Our Lady of the Angels' Church
                                       celebrated by Fr Teddy O’Brien MSC

4.15pm – 5.15pm             Tea and departure

There will be no charge for the re-union.

For those keen to attend, please get in touch with Loretta Curtis 01926 634200 xtn 326 or lorettacurtis@princethorpe.co.uk by Monday 17 September at the very latest.

These are always fascinating days and we always learn new stories and facts about our beloved Princethorpe.

 

View Gallery

The MFL Department Celebrates The European Day Of Languages

Monday 24 to Friday 28 September 2018

Wednesday 26 September 2018 is the official European Day of Languages. Created in 2001, its 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 24 to Friday 28 September. There will be a number of different activities taking place around school:

  • A special prayer booklet for tutor time
  • House competitions; a trivia quiz in the Refectory on Wednesday 26 September – Come and show your language knowledge and maybe win a joker prize!
  • Spanish, French and German screenings on Monday 24, Tuesday 25 and Thursday 27 September
  • A photo booth every break-time through the week

Studying a language can be life changing and this year's assembly will be answering the question "Does the language we speak shape the way we think?"

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 on charlotteverleure@princethorpe.co.uk.

Charlotte Verleure
Teacher of French and Language Assistant


Year 6 Taster Days, Open Morning And Entrance Examinations Day For September 2019 Entry - Reminder

Thursday 27 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm

The College Open Morning will take place on Thursday 27 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm. This is a chance to look around the school on a normal working day, prior to Entrance Examinations Day on Saturday 10 November 2018.  Year 8 and 9 pupils will act as tour guides and light refreshments will be available.

We still have a few places left on Taster Days for children currently in Year 6 on the following dates:

  • Wednesday 19 September and
  • Tuesday 2 October

Children looking at Year 7 or 8 entry for September 2019 can also attend a Taster Day on Tuesday 2 October. To register your interest in a Year 6 Taster Day click here and to register your interest in the Year 7/8 Taster Day click here.

Those wishing to register for Entrance Examinations should do so by the deadline of Friday 5 October to facilitate the gathering of references from junior schools. Registration forms are available from the Registrar, Mrs Vanessa Rooney on 01926 634201 or email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

Entrance Examinations for Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 will take place on Saturday 10 November 2018 from 9.30am to 3.30pm. More information is available on our website, click here.

Crescent School 70th Anniversary Open Afternoon

Saturday 29 September 2018 2.00pm – 4.00pm

2018 is a big year for the Crescent School as they mark a double anniversary. This year the school celebrates both its 70th birthday and the 30th anniversary since they moved to their Bawnmore Road home.

To mark the Platinum Anniversary and celebrate their rich history, Crescent School is holding a series of events over the Michaelmas Term. These events will provide the opportunity for Old Crescentians (pupils, parents, staff and governors) to meet with each other, and members of our current community including our new Headmaster, Joe Thackway, and to see the school today.

The first event is an Open House on Saturday 29 September, the school is opening its doors from 2.00pm to 4.00pm and welcoming the Crescent community past and present back into school. The Bilton Silver Band, which includes many Old Crescentians, will be performing at 2pm and the School Choir will sing at 3pm. The classrooms will all be open and visitors will be able to explore the school site. Refreshments will be available.

All are most welcome to go along and participate in the fun.

For more information please see www.crescentschool.co.uk 

Crescent School 70th Anniversary Dinner Dance - Extra Tickets

2018 is a big year for the Crescent School as they mark a double anniversary. This year the school celebrates both its 70th birthday and the 30th anniversary since they moved to their Bawnmore Road home.

We are pleased to share news that 20 more tickets have been released for the Platinum Anniversary Dinner Dance on Saturday 29 September at Princethorpe College.

A lovely sociable occasion to share with friends over a delicious 3-course meal, with live music and dancing. The dress code for the evening will be black tie and equivalent for ladies.

Tickets will cost £40 per head. These are now available on a first come, first served basis.

Please click here for tickets.

Confirmation will be made by email within 24 hours, you will also have opportunity to say who you would like to sit with for the evening.

Sarah Lowe
Crescent School 

Crackley Hall Open Day

Tuesday 2 October 2018 - 10.00am to 3.00pm

Crackley Hall, Princethorpe's junior school and nursery in Kenilworth, is opening its doors for an Open Day on Tuesday 2 October 2018 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.

We have places available in Nursery, Junior 1, 2 and 4 and will be recruiting for places in Reception 2019.  Please speak to our Admissions Secretary, Mrs Jenny Vaughan for availability in other years.

If you can't make the Open Day but would like to look around the school, please call our Admissions Secretary, Mrs Jenny Vaughan on 01926 514410 or email admissions@crackleyhall.co.uk and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors on most days.

For more information visit www.crackleyhall.co.uk

 

Crescent School Open Day

Friday 5 October 2018 - 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 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.

We have a limited number of places available and are now accepting registrations for admission to Reception in September 2019.

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 or email admissions@crescentschool.co.uk and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors on most days.

For more information visit www.crescentschool.co.uk

 

World Porridge Day

Princethorpe College will be supporting World Porridge Day on Wednesday 10 October, in aid of the Scottish charity Mary’s Meals. The fundraising fun will be championed by Sixth Form students and Assistant Head of Sixth Form, Mr Rod Isaacs, who will be organising a posse of Scottish and porridge themed activities for pupils to get involved in.

At break-time instead of buying their usual mid-morning snack, pupils will be able to purchase a traditional Scottish breakfast, a pot of porridge, from the College refectory. Then at lunchtime, for a small donation, the brave will be able participate in the William Wallace Welly Wanging Challenge. For the honour of their house and no doubt some delicious highland treat, they can attempt to break the College record which currently stands at a whopping 33m.

All of the money raised on the day will be used to support a feeding programme at Makalanga Primary School in Malawi.

Austin House Eucharist

Thursday 11 October 2018 - 12.15pm

On behalf of Austin House, it is my pleasure to invite you to our House Eucharist which takes place on Thursday 11 October in the College Chapel.

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 by clicking here no later than Wednesday 10 October 2018.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Mr Kenny Owen
Head of House – Austin

Pastoral

Changes In Medical Health Over The Summer - Reminder

Medical centre staff would like to welcome pupils back after the summer holidays and hope both parents and pupils enjoyed a lovely break. 

If the medical needs of your son/daughter have changed over the holiday please do let us know so we can support them whilst they are at school.

Email PCMatrons@princethorpe.co.uk or Tel 01926 634214.

Paula Greig
Senior Matron

 

Preparation for Confirmation 2018 - 2019

Wednesday 3 October 2018

The preparation for confirmation course begins on Wednesday 3 October at 6.30pm.

Rev. Father Alan Whelan will celebrate the Eucharist for pupils, parents and guardians; followed by a short introduction to the course. Please bring a copy of the candidates Baptismal Certificate. This confidential document is required for verification of Baptism and will be handed back immediately.

I look forward to welcoming you.

If you have not already registered and would like to attend, please complete the  enrolment form.

Mary Benham
Chaplaincy Co-ordinator

Universities and Careers

History Of Art Taster Courses

The Courtauld Institute of Art is running a History of Art taster course on Wednesday 3 October 2018, 1.30pm - 5.30pm and again on Monday 12 November 2018, 12.00pm - 4.00pm.

This taster course is open to all Sixth Form students or anyone considering starting their undergraduate studies in September 2019 or 2020.

During this taster course, you will get a great insight into what life will be like studying History of Art at The Courtauld Institute of Art, London. They have a world-leading faculty, some of whom you will meet on the day. They will talk to you about what life is like here studying at The Courtauld, and will also deliver a taster lecture, so you will be able to experience it for yourself.

USA College Day

Friday 28 - Saturday 29 September 2018

Meet 150+ universities at the largest US university fair in Europe.

This free event provides students and parents with the unique opportunity to meet representatives from over 150 American universities and educational service providers in London. USA College Day is the largest US university fair in Europe.

UK University Choices

Our Lower Sixth students are currently busy deciding upon their plans for when they leave Princethorpe. Many are considering university and are using Unifrog to help them decide which institutions might suit them best. It might be worth looking at this link too for student reviews of different aspects of university life such as quality of the accommodation, nightlife, clubs and societies etc., link here

Parents and carers might like to look at the UCAS website Parents area where there is lots of useful information to help you support your sons and daughters. You can sign up to receive a regular parents newsletter to make sure you stay ahead with what needs to be done and when - link here.

 

National Healthcare Careers Weekend And Partnering With Medic Mentor

Hundreds of healthcare professionals from across the UK will be volunteering to present and network with your students who are interested in:

·  Medicine

·  Veterinary Medicine

·  Dentistry

at our National Healthcare Weekends on the 10 and 11 November in Birmingham, 17 and 18 November in Exeter and 24 and 25 November in London

 Students can register on the Medic Mentor website, medicmentor.org and find out more about the events here.

Degree Apprenticeship Options

Is your son or daughter in the Sixth Form and interested in securing a degree apprenticeship after A-levels? An impressive digital profile is becoming more important in this competitive field so read the article here to find out about how this can be done.

Finance, Economics And Legal Profession Careers

Prospects London Ambitions offers Year 11–13 students the unique opportunity to gain insights into career areas that are traditionally hard to access.

The programmes aim to provide students with the opportunity to learn first hand about careers, gaining practical experience to improve their chance of university selection and interview. 

Where: City of London

When: Finance & Economics - Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24 October 2018

          Legal Profession: Thursday 25 and Friday 26 October 2018

Time: Each day will start at either 9.00 or 9:30am and finish at either 4.30pm or 5.00pm 

Cost: £250.00 (including VAT) with lunch included each day 

Charity

Chaplaincy Shoe Box Appeal 2018 - Reminder

The Chaplaincy is again supporting our St Anne's 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 decorations, small decorative items, small saucepans
  • T-towels (preferably quite decorative), plastic containers, washing line pegs
  • Washing up cloths

All items may be left in G12a or at the Student Hub. The Chaplaincy Prefects will supervise the sorting and packing of the boxes between Friday 7 September and Wednesday 17 October 2018.

Mary Benham
Chaplaincy Co-ordinator

 

Cash4Coins

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! We already have 8kg, but we need more!!

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’.

Many thanks

Rod Isaacs
Assistant Head of Sixth Form

Sport

South Africa Fundraising Event With Wasps Rugby Hospitality - Reminder

Firstly, please may I express my thanks to those of you who have booked your tickets, and your number of seats are guaranteed.  We have 22 remaining seats available for the Wasps v Leinster European Cup match on Sunday 20 January 2019 at £125.60 (£88 plus VAT and a £20 donation to the South Africa Tour Fund) instead of the published retail price of £150 (£125 plus VAT).

This is at the Jaguar Suite which has the following:

Three course chef's table

Pre match talk from a top Wasps player

Matchday programme

Tea and coffee

Access to Directors box seating around the halfway line

There is not a complimentary bar, but all usual drinks can be purchased separately.  It is also hoped to add some extras on at the stadium, but these cannot be guaranteed at this time.

Transport will be provided by coach from Princethorpe, and we have agreed to organise the coach so the cost of that will be paid for by attendees at their rate.

Discount should be available for season ticket holders in the usual way and this can be looked at as required, but we do already have a substantial discount.

It is also hoped to arrange a special talk from top hockey, netball and rugby players past or present in the Clarkson theatre which will be available to all students including those not going to the Ricoh.  There may be a charge for non Rugby attendees.  This would take place before the coach departs for the Ricoh.

Payment will be required by the end of this half term.

To book your seats, please could you email pcwaspsfundraiser@btinternet.com with the following details:

Name of parent

Your contact email address

Whether your son or daughter is due to be on the trip to South Africa

Number of seats you would be interested in taking up

Thank you for your continued support and we hope you will join us for this first South Africa Fundraiser.

Neil McCollin
Foundation Director of Sport

PTA

PTA Extends A Warm Welcome To Their AGM - Reminder

Tuesday 18 September 2018 - 7.00pm
Sixth Form Centre Dining Room 

The PTA extend a warm welcome to all new and current parents, and invite you to join us for cheese and wine at the PTA AGM.

The AGM is a great 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. It really is an excellent way to get involved with school life, and you can offer as little or as much of your time as you feel is possible.

You'll be able to chat to other parents who are involved in the PTA either as commitee members or supporters who give whatever spare time they can at the Christmas Fayre and Summer Fete or welcoming visitors to the schools on Open Days. 

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 at pta@princethorpe.co.uk

We hope you will be able to join us on the night and very much look forward to meeting you.

Princethorpe PTA

Co-Curricular

Complete Your Duke Of Edinburgh Award 2017-18

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 having problems with any of these steps please come to the DofE Completion drop in sessions on a Tuesday or Wednesday lunchtime in the Limes computer rooms.

Will Bower
Head of Outdoor Education

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Co-Curricular Activities - Reminder

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 2018 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'.

 

Greg Hunter
Assistant Head - Co-Curricular

Duke Of Edinburgh Award 2018-19 – Parents Information Evening

Tuesday 18 September 7.00pm - 8:00pm

There will be a presentation detailing information for parents of pupils interested in enrolling in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme on Tuesday 18 September, 7.00pm - 8.00pm, in the Chapel.

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

Here is a reminder of the eligibility criteria:

 

Award Stage  Age Requirement
Bronze Year 9
Silver Year 10 and 11
Gold

16 years old

(must be in the Sixth Form)

 

Will Bower
Head of Outdoor Education

 

Trips and Visits

Year 11 Sicily Trip Parents Information Evening - Reminder

Monday 17 September 2018

All Year 11 parents are invited to attend the Sicily trip information evening on Monday 17 September in the Sixth Form Lecture Theatre, 7.00pm - 8.00pm.

Rayburn Tours will go through the planned itinerary and will answer any questions you may have. The Geography team will also be present. Light refreshments will be provided.

Anne Allen
Assistant Head of Sixth Form

Reminder - Year 7 Pioneer Trip - Parents' Information Evening - Change Of Date

Tuesday 25 September - 6.00pm - The Chapel

Just to inform parents that the Parents' Information Evening for the Year 7 Pioneer Trip has changed from Thursday 20 September to Tuesday 25 September at 6.00pm in the Chapel.  We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Ski Trip Easter 2019 - Reminder

12 April to 19 April 2019

I hope that your son/daughter is looking forward to the ski trip next Easter. Although it may seem like it is a long way off at present, there are some important dates coming up that I would like to draw your attention to. Please do make a note of these dates in your diaries, the dates will also appear in the termly calendars;

Thursday 15 November 2018 - First Parent Meeting
6.00pm - 7.00pm in the Clarkson Theatre

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 20 December 2018 (during Christmas holiday)
Ski Trip Practice (1) 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. Max number of students is 72. An Evolve email with further details and a consent form will be sent out shortly for parents to add names onto the trip.

Wednesday 6 March 2019 - Second Parent Meeting
6.00pm - 7.00pm in the Clarkson Theatre

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 13 March 2019
Ski Trip Practice (2) 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 3.45pm and returning at 8.30pm. Cost £35. The maximum 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.

Friday 12 April – Friday 19 April 2019
Ski Trip to Obertauern, Austria

Departure and return times TBC (likely to be late afternoon on both days).

Please contact me regarding any queries at catherinewarne@princethorpe.co.uk.

Kind Regards

Catherine Warne

Housekeeping

Job Vacancy - Teacher Of Mathematics

(Maternity cover: full-time and part-time considered)

Required for November 2018, after the Michaelmas half term break, a well-qualified graduate to teach Mathematics to KS3 and KS4 in a flourishing and successful department. Familiarity with Pearson’s IGCSE would be an additional recommendation, but is not essential.

Enthusiasm to become involved with the extra-curricular life of the school is essential. Candidates should be able to demonstrate success in the classroom and be effective team players. Full and part-time applications will be considered. 

This is an excellent opportunity to join the fast growing Foundation that values its staff and offers a rewarding benefits package.

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.

Candidates are advised to apply immediately as applications will be reviewed as they are received and the closing date may be brought forward.

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

Job Vacancy - IT Apprentice

We are looking to recruit an IT Apprentice, at Level 3, to join the busy Foundation IT department, reporting to the Assistant Head (Director of Digital Strategy) and will be based in Princethorpe College with some duties at the Foundation feeder schools, Crackley Hall School in Kenilworth and Crescent School in Rugby. 

The candidate will be a member of the IT Service Desk team providing a front-line service to staff across all three schools and for pupils in the College.

The role would provide the successful candidate with an inside view of the workings and the organisation of a multisite network, implementation procedures of new hardware/software, including expansion and development of existing and new IT services. They will have responsibility for the first point of contact on the ICT helpdesk with all users.

Interested candidates will have good communication and organisational skills, as well as the ability to work on their own and as part of a team. They will be studying an IT related apprenticeship at level three or four. Likely courses are IT, Software and Telecoms Professionals, IT Application Specialist or Infrastructure Technician, although this list is not exhaustive.  

An IT Apprenticeship will enable the successful candidate to gain hands on experience; they will be trained to provide support to users on various levels, from toner replacements, stock checks and Audio Visual setups, to supporting end users with any technical and software queries.

Single person accommodation on site may be available.

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 1 October at 9.00am.

Candidates are advised to apply immediately as applications will be reviewed as they are received and the closing date may be brought forward.

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

Catering - New For 2018-2019

As we start the new academic year, our catering team are proud to introduce their new and improved menus. All the menus offer a selection of healthy meal options and have been endorsed by Holroyd Howe’s nutritionist.

All options will be served in both the main dining room and Sixth Form on a three-week rotation. Each term the menus will be reviewed and updated. To see the Michaelmas term menus just use the link below:

Michaelmas Term Menu

Maureen Kennedy
Catering Manager

 

Car Parking Permits For Upper Sixth Form Drivers

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

 

 

 

 

 

School Shop Purchases

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

School Shop - Reminder

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