A happy St Valentine's Day for next Thursday to all our readers; as is traditional our Sixth Formers will be spreading signs of love and friendship around the College on the day. 

Our College production of Little Shop of Horrors is in full-swing now after a fantastic opening night for the cast and crew on Thursday. We wish them well for their remaining shows and hope everyone has an enjoyable last week of term. 

Watch out for the next edition of the Flagpole on Friday 1 March.

Click here to email The Flagpole.

Preview

News

Message From The Headmaster - Online Parental Questionnaire

Further to the 11 January edition of the Flagpole please find below a link to our online Parental Questionnaire 2019. I would be very grateful if you could spend 15 minutes or so completing this, as it will provide valuable feedback which will help shape further development and improvements at the College. The deadline for responses is Monday 4 March 2019.

I will highlight the results from the survey as part of Princethorpe - A Vision for the Future, a presentation which will take place on Thursday 14 March at 7.30pm in the Clarkson theatre, which all those associated with the Foundation are most welcome to attend.

The presentation will outline the Foundation's vision for the next five to ten years, and provide more detailed information on the College's new Science Building and campus improvements, including an interactive walk through of the Science facility. I will also unveil the Foundation's new website and outline plans for a new, improved Foundation parent portal. There will be the opportunity for Q&As afterwards.

Refreshments will be served after the presentation in the Sixth Form Centre.

To complete the survey please click here.

To register your interest in attending Princethorpe - A Vision for the Future please click here.

 

 

Little Shop Of Horrors Will Leave You Ravenous For More

It's funny how love can grow!

Skid Row florist’s clerk Seymour Krelborn is too shy to declare his love for his co-worker Audrey – until a mysterious exotic plant brings him unexpected fame and fortune. There’s just one problem; the plant has ambitions of its own, and thrives on only one food – human blood.

Gleefully gruesome with awesome props, this tender love story has a fabulous sixties-style score that makes the deliciously campy, sci-fi spoof a 'monster' hit.

This year’s musical theatre production, Little Shop of Horrors, is produced and directed by Gil Cowlishaw, supported by Vicky Roberts, and performed with humour and panache by our wonderful troupe of Princethorpe players.

Over four performances this week, captivated audiences are being transported to a colourful world of larger than life characters as between bites, the carnivorous Audrey II brings the house down singing rhythm and blues.  What better way to combat the cold winter night!

Not for the faint hearted this classic, horror comedy rock musical will have you screaming with laughter and leave you ravenous for more.

There are still tickets available for tonight's performance (Friday 8 February - 7.00pm), the Saturday matinee is now fully booked, and just a few tickets remain for the Saturday evening performance (Saturday 9 February – 7.00pm).  Tickets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis to those who have not pre-booked and the cost will be added to next term's bill.  All performances take place in the Clarkson theatre.

A big 'break a leg' to all the cast and behind the scenes team for the last three performances!

View the gallery to get a sneak preview ....

View Gallery

Louisa Fielding To Become New Head Of Fisher

We are delighted to announce that Louisa Fielding is to become the new Head of Fisher House in September.

Louisa, who is a Sixth Form tutor and teacher of Economics and Business Studies, will take over the reins from Chris McCullough, who is leaving at the end of the Trinity term to become Deputy Head at the Kingsley School.

Louisa joined Princethorpe in September from Campion School in Northamptonshire, where she was Head of Sixth Form and taught Economics and Business. She had worked at Campion for twelve years, having held a number of other key positions including Head of Year 11 and Head of House.

In her spare time Louisa has two horses, is an active member of a local riding club and competes with British Dressage. She also enjoys visiting National Trust locations, dog walks and Tudor history.

Comments Ed Hester, "Louisa has only been at Princethorpe a short time, but she has a wealth of previous experience which she will be able to bring to bear. She impressed us all with her inspirational approach to pastoral care and will I am sure make the role her own in September."

Louisa added, "I have had such a warm welcome to Princethorpe and am looking forward to getting to know all the Fisher pupils over the coming months. I'm particularly excited about my first Princethorpe Sports Day and House Activities Day and seeing Fisher in action."

Higher Education and Apprenticeship Fair - Save The Date

Building on the success of last year's Careers Fair, the Careers Team have organised a Higher Education and Apprenticeship Fair for Thursday 28 March from 5.30pm to 8.30pm.

The fair, which is aimed at Year 10 to Sixth Form and their parents, aims to showcase a wide range of universities plus employers who offer degree and advanced apprentices.  To date some 25 universities including Bristol, Lougborough, Warwick and Leeds and twelve employers including Nestle, Deloitte and Accenture have confirmed they will attend.

In addition to stalls to visit, there will be a programme of talks during the evening.

Comments Jacqui Quinney, Head of Careers, "We would urge pupils and parents to attend and discover the wealth of opportunities that are available to them post 18."

Refreshments will be available during the evening.

Registrations will open and further information on the event will be available in the Flagpole on Friday 1 March.

 

New Foundation Website To Be Launched This Spring

Work is well underway on an exciting, new Foundation website which is due to launch this spring.

The new site has been carefully designed as five websites in one to perfectly showcase the Foundation and its four schools - Princethorpe College, Crescent School, Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery.

Melanie Butler, Assistant Head – Marketing, Admissions and Communications, comments, “This has been a major project, which we hope will be well received by the Foundation community and prospective families. It will look better, work faster and be easier to use than our current sites. We can’t wait to share it with everybody!”

The Foundation Marketing Team have developed the site in partnership with website company, e4education.

Keep an eye on the Foundation social media platforms for previews of the site and news of the launch date.

All Welcome At Mary O'Farrell Memorial Service

The Foundation is holding a special memorial service to celebrate the life of Mary O'Farrell, the Foundation's much loved former Chair of Trustees, on Friday 29 March 2019 at 6.00pm in the Princethorpe College Chapel.

Mary joined the Foundation’s Governing Body in 2000 and held the role of Chair of Trustees for eight years until 2016, continuing to serve as trustee until her death. A former primary Headteacher with many years’ experience, Mary played an integral part in the Foundation's growing success, overseeing the merger with Abbotsford in 2010 and with the Crescent in 2016.

Comments Ed Hester, Head of the Foundation "Mary very sadly died in September last year and is sorely missed by us all. She was a remarkable woman in so many ways and with her passing the Foundation lost a true and valued friend. She was an exceptional Chair of Trustees, known for her wise counsel, collaborative approach and sense of humour, all of which she brought to bear in her role. She had an implicit understanding of education, teaching and learning and this, combined with her unique personal touch with fellow trustees, staff and children, had an immeasurable impact on the Foundation over the years.

He continues, "We hope this Memorial Service, which we have organised with her husband John, will give the many people whose lives she touched a chance to come together and celebrate her wonderful life."

The service will be followed by refreshments in the Sixth Form Centre. All are most welcome.

If you would like to attend the Memorial Service please click here to RSVP by Friday 15 March.

 

Physicists Explore The Fundamentals In Geneva

Princethorpe College Sixth Form physicists, travelled to Switzerland last Friday 1 February for a two-day trip exploring all things particle related.  It was the College’s third visit to Geneva and CERN; one of the world’s largest and most respected centres for scientific research.

Upper Sixth Physics student, Beth Elliott, reflected on the experience,“CERN was really impressive. The facilities there, including the anti-matter factory, the antiproton decelerator and the compact muon solenoid detector were unique. To be in the same laboratory as the world’s leading scientists who are constantly fielding new discoveries was exciting. We saw the first ever server that was made at CERN to trial the World Wide Web as well as other scientific instruments used to store data and explore the basic constituents of matter.”

Students met physicist Arnau Gonzalo, from Warwick University, and enjoyed a guided tour of the CERN laboratory, in addition to time in their excellent, Microcosm and Universe of Particles permanent exhibitions.

It wasn’t all work for the party of twenty as they also had the chance to explore Geneva with a city walk and a boat cruise, albeit in freezing conditions. 

Trip leader, Physics teacher, Mrs Sophie Rose judged the trip to have been a resounding success.  “It was an excellent trip to one of the most fascinating laboratories open to the public in the whole world. CERN hosts 10,000 physicists trying to unlock the secrets of the universe and their work with complex scientific instruments such as the Hadron Collider is revolutionising our understanding of the universe.  It was fascinating and inspirational to hear a physicist speak with passion about the work that goes on at CERN.”   

View Gallery

Princethorpe Supporters Break The £100,000 Barrier!

The Development Office was thrilled to receive another regular donation last week pushing the total amount raised to date to over £100,000.

This fabulous total, is made up of regular gifts, one-off donations, and of course, the all-important Gift Aid, which can add a sizeable 25% to any gift.

Our supporters have delighted the Development Office, particularly as many of those who have been helped by the school in the past, have chosen to ‘give back’ to the College in order to assist others. Princethorpe is not a wealthy school, and unlike many others, does not have an endowment fund to rely on. Instead, Princethorpe carefully manages fee income alongside charitable gifts, to facilitate our bursaries and building programmes. We are so grateful therefore, when our friends help us to widen access to the College, to include those who would not otherwise be able to afford full school fees. Additionally, such support helps us to plan for new facilities which take teaching and learning to new heights.

Very shortly, we shall be launching an exciting capital campaign for Science, and hope that through a ‘Menu of Giving’ we will be able to offer every single member of the Princethorpe community a chance to join our fundraising plans. More news will follow shortly, and you are all invited to attend an information evening entitled Princethorpe – A Vision for the Future on Thursday 14 March. Click here to read the main article and RSVP for the evening.

A huge thank you to all our supporters who have helped us achieve this milestone. We welcome all donations, and if you would like to join the growing number of those who already help, please contact Rachel or Alex at makingadifference@princethorpe.co.uk

Hannah Owens Appointed Warwickshire Young Poet Laureate

Lower Sixth Former Hannah Owens has been appointed young poet laureate for Warwickshire.  The 17-year-old will take on the post for the next year.

Hannah was selected from a shortlist of five poets after a challenging but amazing day of workshops, interviews and performances.

The selection day started with a performance workshop hosted by Midlands based poet, Fergus McGonigal.  He was full of helpful hints on how to make the most of your performance and even performed some of his own unique work.  Next came a panel interview with questions on why poetry was important and what the candidates hope to do in the role. The day concluded with each applicant performing two poems; one themed on Warwickshire and another of their choice; to a small audience of parents, friends, local dignitaries from the county, including the Deputy Mayor of Rugby and the MP for Rugby, as well as staff from Warwickshire Libraries.

Hannah will now undertake a year of performances, which will include attending events throughout the county, starting with the Arts Council meeting in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Warwickshire Libraries conference.  Her work will also include running workshops with young people and even organising a blog. 

Hannah will also get the chance to work with a mentor, a graduate English student, to develop her writing skills.

Hannah commented, “The selection day was incredible and very inspiring - the result was completely unexpected.  It is a wonderful opportunity and I can’t wait to get started.  I would like to thank my English teacher, Mr Kerrigan, for the help he gave me in preparing.  I am looking forward to the year and I would very much like to work with younger pupils here at Princethorpe to help get them involved in poetry.”

You can read more about Hannah’s new role and the work she will be doing in the next edition of the Pinnacle, which will be published this spring.

Sixth Formers Explore National Galleries

On Wednesday 16 January, 22 Sixth Form Art and Photography students went on an A-level trip to London to explore the National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery.

After the trip Alexis Draper commented, “The National Portrait Gallery was my favourite, especially the Taylor Wessing exhibition. It was eye-catching because each photograph had a beautiful deeper meaning.  As you walked in you were faced with the first and second prizes, they were both intriguing, then walking on through the Gallery I was mesmerised by two photographs of children, one a survivor of Grenfell and the other who witnessed the Manchester Arena bombing, the crystal clear images caught my eye, but their link to horrific events made me feel an emotional attachment to the photographs and that is why I was so captivated by the gallery." 

She continued, “The exhibition has inspired my coursework as I have recognised that I love portrait photography and especially the idea of looking deeper into a photograph from what meets the eye.”

Dominic Turner-Burr reflected, “I was overwhelmed by the amount of amazing art and photography works by different people from different backgrounds and meanings.  Many were inspirational including Rinko Kawauchi’s work with time and growing older, and Kurtiss Aaron Lloyd’s work with the Charanpreet Singh Lall when he made history in June 2018 by becoming the first Sikh Coldstream Guardsman to wear a turban during the Trooping the Colour ceremony.  If I had to sum up the trip in three words it would be; Inspiring, Creative and Amazing!”

Head of Art, Paul Hubball added, “It was a really productive day out for the students, they enjoyed three uninterrupted hours in the galleries. It was both stimulating and inspiring and will be useful preparation for their A-level exam.”    

Events

OPs Leamington Pub Meet

Friday 1 March 2019 - 6.30pm to 10.30pm

The OPs annual Leamington Pub Meet takes place at the Royal Pug pub on Regent Street.

We will be meeting in the upstairs Function Room which has its own bar. The OPs Commitee will be laying on a delicious hot and cold buffet, so do let us know by emailing oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk if you are able to attend so we can cater for you.

Partners and friends are most welcome. We look forward to seeing you there! 

GCSE Drama Evening

Monday 4 March 2019 - 6.00pm

We warmly welcome you to an informal evening of scripted and devised work from KS4 Drama pupils.

Our Year 11s are busy in the throes of preparing their two extracts for their GCSE exam and Year 10 will be presenting their original pieces.

Please come and support them as they would love to hear your feedback.

Please note that this evening is recommended for 14+ as there are themes and language of strong content.

Tickets are not required for this event, but to help us cater efficiently please reserve places by clicking here no later than Thursday 28 February.

Aileen Cefaleillo and Vicky Roberts
Joint Heads of Drama

Parents' Reading Group

Wednesday 6 March 2019 - 7.30pm

Our February read was The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows.  The book offers a good mix of both comic and tragic themes, with a love story thrown is as well.  The background to the German occupation of Guernsey had clearly been carefully researched with the hard lives and deprivations of the Todt workers depicted quite graphically.  We were interested to see that there is certainly more to the novel than the film.

Our next meeting will be on Wednesday 6 March in the Library at 7.30pm.  We have opted for non-fiction this time and will be discussing The Wild Places by Robert Macfarlane, a very engaging writer who celebrates the wildness that remains in our over-populated islands.  The book comes highly recommended and we look forward to some no-fiction for a change.  We always welcome new readers so please join us whether or not you have read this book, either to share your own reading enthusiasms with us or to get a few recommendations for future reads.

Chris Kerrigan
Head of English

House University Challenge - Parents' Edition

Friday 8 March 2019 - 7.30pm to 10.00pm

Please note this is an amendment to the previously advertised date of 22 March.

Tickets for the quiz, including a fish and chip supper followed by an infamous Princethorpe Cookie, are £7.50 per head.  The PTA will be running a raffle and a paying bar on the night and the quiz will be hosted by our very own quizmaster Mr Ed Hester.

It will be an enjoyable evening for all and an opportunity to test your wits with any points awarded on the night going towards the final tally for your child’s House.

You are welcome to put together your own House team, but this is not essential as they can be created on the night.

To purchase/reserve tickets please click here to complete the form and return to the Student Hub for the attention of Anne O’Rourke, PTA Treasurer, via your child, by Friday 1 March in order to enable us to plan our catering.  

Whilst tickets must be reserved in advance for catering purposes, payment can be made on the night or by sending cash or cheques (payable to Princethorpe College PTA) into school for the attention of Anne O'Rourke, PTA Treasurer. 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Crackley Hall And Little Crackers Nursery Spring Open Morning

Spring Open Morning
Saturday 10 March 2019 - 10.30am to 12.30pm

Crackley Hall and Little Crackers, Princethorpe's junior school and nursery in Kenilworth, is opening its doors for a Spring Open Morning on Saturday 9 March from 10.30am to 12.30pm. 

This is a great chance to look around the school and nursery at the weekend and to chat to staff and pupils. Junior 5 and 6 pupils will act as tour guides and there will be music and sport activities on display. Light refreshments will be available.

Registrations are now being taken for Nursery, Reception and Year 3 for September 2019 admissions, limited places are available in other Years. The nursery is open 51 weeks a year and is carefully structured for two-year olds, three-year olds and pre-school.

All are welcome to look round the school, and to meet staff and pupils. No need to book.

Please email Mrs Jenny Vaughan, Admissions Secretary at jennyvaughan@crackleyhall.co.uk or call her on 01926 514410 for more information on the Open Morning and admissions process.

For more information visit www.crackleyhall.co.uk.

Benet House Eucharist - Reminder

Thursday 14 March 2019 - 12.15pm

On behalf of Benet House, it is my pleasure to invite you to our House Eucharist, which takes place on Thursday 14 March 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 completing the form here no later than Tuesday 12 March 2019.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Ms Lisa Challinor
Head of House – Benet

Benet House Eucharist

Thursday 14 March 2019 - 12.15pm

On behalf of Benet House, it is my pleasure to invite you to our House Eucharist, which takes place on Thursday 14 March 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 completing the form here no later than Tuesday 12 March 2019.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Ms Lisa Challinor
Head of House – Benet

Princethorpe - A Vision For The Future Evening

Thursday 14 March 2019 - 7.30pm

Foundation parents, staff, past pupils and friends are all cordially invited to attend Princethorpe - A Vision For The Future, a presentation by Ed Hester, Head of the Foundation on Thursday 14 March at 7.30pm in the College's Clarkson theatre.

The presentation will outline the Foundation's vision for the next five to ten years, and provide more detailed information on the College's new Science Building and campus improvements, including an interactive walk through of the Science facility.  Mr Hester will also feedback highlights from the College's parental questionnaire, unveil the Foundation's new website and outline plans for a new, improved Foundation parent portal. There will be the opportunity for Q&As afterwards.

Refreshments will be served after the presentation in the Sixth Form Centre.

The event is aimed at adults, although pupils are welcome to attend if accompanied by an adult.

Please click on this link to let us know if you would like to attend by Monday 4 March 2019.

Arts Society Lent and Trinity Term Programmes

Letters to Mother - Tuesday 19 March 2019

Former Princethorpe Deputy-Head, Margaret Louise O’Keeffe, returns by popular request, to present an illustrated talk Letters to Mother on Tuesday 19 March 2019 at 7.30pm.

As Mothering Sunday falls on the last day of March this year, it seemed a fitting tribute to mothers to reflect on their sacrifice during the First World War. Some mothers lost all their sons in the conflict; all mothers were affected by what their beloved sons had endured.

For many soldiers dying in hospital or on the battlefields, their last words concerned their mothers. Men relied on supportive letters from their families and found solace in memories of maternal love, warmth and protection as they faced the horrors of industrialised warfare.

In their letters home, they usually presented a positive image of life on active service to avoid causing anxiety. Poignantly, before a major battle when the chances of survival were slim, many wrote touching farewell notes expressing gratitude and love.

This illustrated talk will focus on eleven people whose letters provide a moving insight into the enduring power and comfort of love. 

Please click here for a booking form.

Sir Henry Rider Haggard (1856-1925) - Tuesday 21 May 2019

On Tuesday 21 May at 7.30pm former Princethorpe Foundation Archivist, Dr Nick Baker, returns to present another illustrated talk Sir Henry Rider Haggard: Storyteller, Politician and Country Gentleman.

Sir Henry Rider Haggard was only one of many extraordinary Victorians who straddled many different lives. Inspired by his first-hand experiences of Africa, he went on to become one of the most prolific writers of all time, specialising in ‘Lost World’ literature. Works such as King Solomon’s Mines and She communicated stories of lost civilisations in far off lands, and brought much needed escapism to a reading public. He did not limit himself to tales set in Africa, but also wrote about the Vikings in Iceland. Many of these stories have since been transformed into successful films. Who can forget Ursula Andress as ‘She who must be obeyed’ in the Hammer film of the same name? Haggard did more than simply feed the popular imagination. He was deeply concerned with the countryside, especially the farming communities in Norfolk, and argued for a more serious approach to Britain’s agriculture as the clouds of the First World War appeared on the horizon.

This illustrated talk will examine Haggard’s early life in Africa, and loves lost, to show how they shaped his literary output. We will also consider his close friendships with other notable individuals, such as Rudyard Kipling. A display of first editions and signed material will also be on display.

Please click here for booking form.

Organ Recital - Tuesday 2 July 2019 

Once again on Tuesday 2 July 2019 at 7.30pm in the Chapel Tim Campain will play a wide variety of pieces from various genres on the renowned Princethorpe Binns’ organ of 1901. This year promises a special programme to mark twenty-five years of the popular Hugh Page Memorial Organ Recitals.

Please click here for a booking form. 

Tickets - £5.00 for each of the events including refreshments. All Foundation pupils free of charge.

 

View Gallery

College Spring Open Afternoon

Sunday 24 March 2019 - 2.00pm to 5.00pm

The College will be holding a Spring Open Afternoon on Sunday 24 March 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.

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

For more information on admissions and entry to the College in 2020 please visit our website or speak to the Admissions Team on 01926 634201/634262.

Author Visit - Frank Cottrell Boyce

Tuesday 2 April 2019

We are very pleased indeed to have a very popular writer Frank Cottrell Boyce visiting the school on 2 April.  We are linking up with the Stratford Literary Festival to facilitate this visit and he will be speaking to all Year 7 on that occasion about his work.

In preparation for this visit, I’d like to encourage your children to read one of his books, which are usually very much enjoyed by this age group.  My suggestion would be Sputnik’s Guide to Life on Earth although there are many other titles which might go down well and which are available in the school library.  These include Million, Cosmic, Framed, Astounding Broccoli Boy and Desirable.

I certainly hope that the children will get a lot out of this visit, particularly if they have been able to enjoy some of Frank Cottrell Boyce’s writing in advance.

Chris Kerrigan
Head of English

Academic

Public Exams 2019 - Reminder

 Summer 2019

The College specific exam timetable for Summer 2019 is available by clicking here. The exam board and specification we follow for each subject at GCSE and A-level can be found by selecting the appropriate

Entries for these exams will be made during the month of January and individual timetables issued to candidates before the February half-term holiday together with a copy of the Exams Information booklet. In the New Year the Public Exams section of the pupil and parent portals will be made unavailable until all entries have been confirmed.

For any public exam related queries please email: examinations@princethorpe.co.uk

Shellagh Dodds
Examinations Officer

Year 10 Full Reports - Reminder

Reports for Year 10 will be posted out today, Friday 8 February 2019. They will also be available to view on the Pupil and Parent Portals.

Dr Michael Reddish
Deputy Head - Academic

Year 9 Parents’ GCSE Options Information Evening - Update

Thursday 14 February 2019

Following on from the Year 9 Parents' Evening this Tuesday, the Year 9 Parents' GCSE Options Information Evening will be held on Thursday 14 February, at 7.00pm in the Chapel. The evening comprises a series of short presentations on the options process followed by an opportunity for parents to meet with subject staff.

The purpose of the GCSE Options Information Evening is to provide parents with sufficient information regarding the options process so that they can help their son or daughter decide their GCSE options.

After half term, on Tuesday 5 March 2019, the Year 9 and 10 Academic Review Evening will then provide you the opportunity to meet with your child's tutor and discuss the next steps.

Dr Michael Reddish
Deputy Head - Academic

 

Year 11 And Upper Sixth Mock Week

Monday 25 February - Tuesday 5 March 2019

Year 11 pupils have their second week of GCSE mock exams immediately on their return to school after February half term. These commence on Monday 25 February and will be completed on Friday 1 March. 

As previously communicated to Upper Sixth parents, Upper Sixth students will have an extended period for their A-level mock exams, commencing on Monday 25 February and completing by lunchtime on Tuesday 5 March. 

Year 11 pupils and Upper Sixth students have already been given personalised timetables for checking for the period of the mock examinations and they will be emailed a final timetable in due course.

I would like to wish all Year 11 and Upper Sixth the very best of luck in their mocks.

Dr Michael Reddish
Deputy Head - Academic

 

Pastoral

Year 11 Yearbook

We are starting work on the production of our Class of 2019 Yearbook.  It is a beautiful keepsake and is received at the final Thanksgiving Service held for Year 11 in the summer.  It has pages for signatures which makes it into a lovely book to keep.  Each pupil has their own half page where they document their best times here at Princethorpe and where they hope to be in the future.  Details of how to order the Yearbook will be published in future newsletters.

Please also be reminded that the Year 11 Prom will be held on Monday 24 June at Coombe Abbey; more details to come nearer the time. 

Beth Sharpe
Deputy Head - Pastoral 

Non-Uniform/Blue Day - Reminder

Friday 15 February 2019

Friday 15 February 2019 is a non-uniform day. Participation is not compulsory, but pupils are asked to contribute £2.00 if they choose to wear non-uniform clothes. The criteria for what is acceptable as non-uniform is clearly set out in the homework diary.

It is a Blue Day for our Sixth Formers who are supporting the ‘Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride’, a charity that raises money for men’s mental health and prostate cancer

The College is also supporting Father Hudson’s Care and CAFOD.

Father Hudson’s Care is the Social Care Agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Birmingham. Their aim is to offer help and support to people in need and improve their quality of life. Each year, during Lent, Father Hudson’s care, run an appeal known as ‘The Good Shepherd Appeal’ to help raise vital money to support their work. All Catholic schools within the Archdiocese are invited to take part. CAFOD, is the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development and we are supporting their Lenten appeal to help families living in remote areas of Bangladesh.

Mary Benham
Chaplaincy Co-ordinator

Inhalers - Reminder

If your child carries an inhaler, please can it be labelled with their name so that it can be returned easily should it get misplaced.

Paula Greig
Senior Matron

Sixth Form

Sixth Form Service - Reminder

Sixth Form parents are invited to join their children for the Sixth Form Service in the Chapel on Thursday 14 February from 12.10pm - 1.05pm. We very much look forward to seeing some of you there.

Ben Collie
Head of Sixth Form

 

Universities and Careers

An ICAEW Chartered Accountant Event March 2019

If you are interrested in becoming an ICAEW Chartered Accountant there is an event on 19 March, in Birmingham, which may interrest you.

Why attend?

It is an opporunity to discover how a career in chartered accountancy is more than you’d imagine.

You’ll hear expert advice from ICAEW’s Student Recruitment team, trainee and qualified chartered accountants, and both local and national employers, helping you to deepen your understanding about chartered accountancy. Find out about the opportunities available locally and gain first hand insight into the career and how to succeed in the recruitment process.

You’ll also hear about the different routes available to those wishing to become a chartered accountant, whether that’s starting straight from school; through school leaver and apprenticeship programmes, or after university as a graduate. 

Location  Birmingham City Football Club 
              St. Andrew's Stadium
              Birmingham 
              B9 4RL 

Date      19 March 2019
Time      6.30pm to 8.30pm 

Click here for more information.

 

 

 

 

University And Careers Resources

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 article below for information regarding the following:

National Healthcare Weekend For Students In Years 10, 11 and 12.

Doctors, dentists and vets will be on hand to provide invaluable insight and to network with students.

Day 1: Insight into Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary

14 unique talks for each specialty looking at experiences from A-Levels, throughout university and leading to life as a fully qualified professional.

Day 2: Medicine only UCAS Lectures

A full day of lectures covering work experience, personal statements, interview techniques, etc. led by their team of doctors.

Date:  2-3 March 2019 Birmingham

Registration starts at £25 (students from low-income backgrounds can attend for free). All proceeds are used to support healthcare students with scholarships, elective bursaries, free training and educational initiatives. 

Students can register and find out more information here.

Warwickshire Police Cadets

Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police Cadets is a volunteer scheme for young people. 

The aim of the scheme is to support Warwickshire Police's strategy of engagement with young people throughout the force area.

It is aimed at young people who wish to be part of a one year programme that offers an opportunity to gain a practical understanding of policing and develop their spirit of adventure and good citizenship

In September 2019 they will be expanding the scheme and will effectively double the number of Police Cadets.

Cadets support local policing priorities through volunteering, working with partner agencies and positive participation in their communities. They take part in a variety of activities including self-defence training, marching, fitness, team building, role playing and Outdoor events.

Cadets can gain an insight into police life through talks by guest speakers from different departments and agencies and by taking part in local community policing events.

Police cadets are a family where discipline, friendship and team work are all important.

If you become a police cadet, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that as a young person you are making a difference to your community and developing yourself for any future career.

In return they ask you to commit to attend the weekly meetings and to give 15 hours of voluntary work per quarter.

Meetings will take place every Thursday from 6.00pm - 9.00pm at the following locations:

Leamington Spa
Nuneaton

To apply to be a Warwickshire Police Cadet you must live in Warwickshire and be aged 13 to 16 on 1 September 2019.

Click on the link here to find out more.

Year 11 Work Experience Placements - Reminder

Work Experience Placements at Princethorpe College, as part of our Careers programme, take place at the end of Year 11.  We believe that all pupils can gain immeasurable benefits from their placements; not only can a good placement teach a pupil a lot about an area of work that he or she may be interested in, but it can also develop communication skills, self-confidence, initiative and teamwork.

Many thanks to all Year 11 parents for helping your son/daughter to find a work placement. These can be done at any time after the last GCSE exams, at any point in the summer holidays to fit in with family plans. We normally expect at least one week, although historically we have had many undertake more than this, often in more than one placement. Such experience is invaluable for considering a future career path, getting used to the world of work, and for references.

So that I can complete the necessary paperwork, possible references and so on, I'd be grateful if you could you let me know the company name and contact details, for the placement(s) you have arranged either by return of the slip attached to the letter sent to you in June, or by email to me at miketaylor@princethorpe.co.uk.

If you need a hard copy of the original letter, please could you ask your son or daughter to ask me for one at school.

Mike Taylor
Work Experience Co-ordinator

Charity

Sixth Form Blue Day - Raising Funds For Men's Mental Health and Prostate Cancer

Friday 15 February 2019

The last day of the half term sees the return of our annual ‘Blue Day’.  Blue Day is a day run by the Sixth Form in order to raise money for charity.  This year, the charity they are supporting is called ‘Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride’, a charity with which Dr Carrington-Howell is involved that raises money for men’s mental health and prostate cancer. 

The Sixth Form will be adorned in blue fancy dress, whilst the rest of the school is invited to come in non-school uniform in return for a £2 charity donation.  Pupils are reminded to bring in some spare change if they would like to make a purchase from the cake sale in the Sixth Form centre at break time and in order to view the eagerly anticipated lunchtime netball match between the netball girls and the rugby boys.

Mr Cyprian Vella
Assistant Head of Sixth Form

 

House

More Crowned House University Challenge Champions

More have been crowned this year’s champions of House University Challenge, just stealing the trophy from rivals Austin in a closely fought final.

Princethorpe’s competition is based on the long running, popular TV quiz show but in the College’s University Challenge, teams are also required to have representatives from each year group. 

After the first two rounds of the competition More and Austin topped the leader-board with two wins a piece, having proved their expertise in subjects such as science and nature, music and popular culture and food and drink.

Quizmaster for the final was our very own Jeremy Paxman, Deputy Head - Academic, Dr Michael Reddish, asking the infamous starter for 10 and follow up bonus questions.

Overseeing the whole event, the troublesome buzzers and keeping on top of all the scores was House Activities Leader, Jess Newborough.

In a nail-biting lunchtime match first Austin and then More edged into the lead.  With just the final question on quotations left to go the teams were only five points apart.  More were quickest to buzz in and answered correctly claiming the last few points and overall victory, a reversal of fortunes from last year.

Playing for More in the final were Year 7, Jacob Iley, Year 8, Joseph Newborough, Year 10, Mathura Elamurugan, Year 11, Rowan Tankard and Upper Sixth Former, Phoebe Tankard.

After the event Mrs Newborough could barely contain herself as she commented, “That was one of the most exciting University Challenge competitions the College has ever had.  It was so close, both teams have been brilliant and that match could have gone either way.  Thank you to all of the pupils who have participated in this year’s competition.  It is very different on stage to when you are in the audience or watching at home”.

Thanks also to the staff who have helped support the competition.

The final results were as follows:

More – 1st Place

Austin – 2nd Place

Fisher – 3rd Place

Benet – 4th Place

View Gallery

Benet Wins St Hildegard House Award For Academic Endeavour And Attainment

Benet House is this year’s recipient of the St Hildegard House Award for Academic Endeavour and Attainment, an award that celebrates the effort and attainment of pupils in each and every class across the school.

Taking its name from St Hildegard von Bingen, a visionary Benedictine nun who was declared a ‘Doctor of the Church’ by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012, the St Hildegard award is presented annually to the House that receives the greatest number of Endeavour and Teacher Awards.

Director of Studies, Dr Michael Reddish, commented, “The school places the commitment to be kind and do your best at the forefront of all it does and acknowledges and celebrates these values in a whole host of ways, including systems of merits and rewards.  Twice a year, in the Trinity Term and the Michaelmas Term, we present Endeavour Awards and Teacher Awards to recognise pupil academic effort, attitude and attainment.”

In the last year 1,862 Endeavour and Teachers Awards have been presented to pupils and in the whole school assembly on Monday 28 January Dr Reddish revealed the final House totals.  Michaelmas top award winning pupil, Year 7, Jack Dando, who himself received nine awards, was invited forward to receive the trophy on behalf of Benet House.

Dr Reddish added, “This year we had a number of pupils who won multiple awards, but every award contributes equally to the overall House totals.  The final results were very close with just 24 points between 1st and 3rd place.  I hope that spurs all our pupils on to greater endeavour and achievement.”

A list of the top Michaelmas 2018 award winners is attached here.

Sport

Calling All Horse Riders!

Princethorpe is looking for more riders to join the College's Equestrian Team.

If you own, or have access to, your own horse or pony there are school competitions you could participate in. Most abilities are catered for, from grassroots level right up to 1.10m show jumping, Intro to Medium dressage, One and Two Day Events and Arena Eventing, so there is something for everyone! The key ingredient is enthusiasm and a willingness to have a go!

We are having a meeting for pupils, parents and helpers after school on Tuesday 5 March at 4.15pm in the Sixth Form Lecture Theatre.

In previous years Princethorpe teams have had success at National Championships, as well as having a lot of fun along the way, so if you would like to find out more please come along!

If you can’t come, but would be keen to get involved please email alexdarkes@princethorpe.co.uk

View Gallery

Families Needed To Host Dutch Pupils

We are continuing with the process of organising the return visit of our Dutch hosts from October 2018. We are looking forward to reciprocating the fantastic experience which our pupils received during our four night experience with the players from Hopbel Hockey club. The return dates are from the evening of Saturday 27 April through to the morning of Wednesday 1 May.

The girls and boys (mainly girls) are a variety of ages, between 12 and 15.  This may be of interest if your child would like to attend the Holland visit in October 2019, however this invitation is open to all families and we appreciate all help offered.  In order to host, we are looking for families who can offer a bed to a pair (or more) of dutch visitors and are willing to entertain and involve them in your family life for the four nights. We will organise an itinerary of fixtures, activities during the school day and a BBQ for our guests with their host families on the final evening. We will let you know who the other host families are so that you can organize other events together if you wish. Transport to school will be through the normal way which your children comes to school (we will supply the bus tickets for the Dutch visitors) but they will need to be picked up after fixtures each day from College.

Due to requisite safeguarding checks, all adults within the household must hold a DBS certificate sent for by the Princethorpe Foundation, even if they currently have a DBS certificate from another employer or had a DBS for the exchange last year. If they have subscribed to the DBS Update Service, please do let us know. To allow plenty of time for the DBS certificates to be received before the tour, we strongly recommend that you book an appointment with our Recruitment Co-ordinators at recruitment@princethorpe.co.uk preferably during Half Term, 18 to 22 February 2019, to ensure we receive the DBS certificates back in plenty of time for the tour. It should only take 15 minutes per person to apply for the DBS certificates.  Alternative weekday appointments are also available and if you have any queries, please do contact Keren Andrews or Claire Lloyd on 01926 634269.  Please see the attached entitled ‘Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks’ for the documentation required. 

Once we know the host families we will start to ask more questions about your homes such as if you have pets, which bus route do you use in the mornings etc so that we can appropriately match host families and Dutch visitors. 

Many thanks for your continued support of Princethorpe sport and we hope that you can continue this by hosting some Dutch guests in April. 

Neil McCollin
Foundation Director of Sport

View Gallery

Co-Curricular

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 Lent 2019 Termly Calendar which you will have received by post over Christmas. Alternatively, click here to view an electronic version. 

Greg Hunter
Assistant Head - Co-Curricular

Duke Of Edinburgh’s Award 2017-18 Intake: Certificate Presentation Evening - Reminder

I am delighted to announce that the DofE Certificate Presentation Evening will take place on Thursday 7 March 2019 from 6.30pm - 8.30pm.  Our guest speaker will be adventurer Squash Falconer. 

Invitations will be sent out over the next few weeks to all who have completed everything on the eDofE website.  Those who attended the cycling and rock climbing trips in the summer will also be invited.

A number of those who took part in the scheme last year have yet to complete their award. Please follow the instructions provided in this guide to complete your sections and guarantee your invite to this exciting event.

Will Bower
Head of Outdoor Education, DofE Manager

View Gallery

Duke Of Edinburgh Flasks - Reminder

The much sought after Princethorpe DofE flasks are now on sale in the Uniform Shop for £12 each. Colours available are blue, red, black, khaki and pink. Pick one up to keep you warm on these cold winter mornings! 

Will Bower
Head of Outdoor Education, DofE Manager

 

 

Trips and Visits

Ski Trip Easter 2019 - Reminder

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.

Wednesday 13 March 2019
Ski Trip Practice to Ackers Adventure, Birmingham. 3.45pm - 8.30pm. Ski gloves, ski socks and warm waterproof clothing are required, as well as a packed tea. Places are still available, please contact me if you would like to give consent for this voluntary trip.

Friday 12 April
Ski Trip to Obertauern, Austria – meet at school at approx. 3.30pm.*

Friday 19 April 2019
Ski Trip to Obertauern, Austria - returns approx. 4.00pm.*

*Departure and return times are still to be confirmed.

Lockwoods Ski Shop in Leamington have kindly offered all students on the trip a 10% discount on all products. To take advantage of this offer, please print this voucher and show it at the till.

Please contact me if you have any questions regarding the trip.

Catherine Warne
Trip Co-ordinator

 

 

Big Bang Fair

Wednesday 13 March 2019

All Year 7 pupils are invited to join us on a voyage of discovery of virtual reality, medicine, marine biology, film and TV, space exploration, explosive chemistry, crime-solving, robots, computer coding, microscopic bugs, giant trucks and more at the annual Year 7 visit to the Big Bang Fair at the NEC, Birmingham on Wednesday 13 March 2019. 

The pupils get the opportunity to see how what they learn at schools is used by real people in real jobs. They will get the chance to hear from inspiring engineers and scientists from some of the UK’s biggest companies and find out about the opportunities available in science and engineering.

We will leave Princethorpe by coach at 9.00am and return to College by 3.30pm. Pupils are expected to wear full school uniform and to bring a packed lunch. There are refreshment stands and pupils are permitted to bring a small amount of money. The cost of the trip is £5.00 to cover the transportation costs and this will, should your child wish to come, be added to your bill (entry tickets are free).

If you have any queries or concerns regarding this trip, please email me at joannesmith@princethorpe.co.uk

Joanne Smith
Teacher of Science

Year 8 - Whitemoor Lakes Trip - Reminder

Friday 14 June 2019 – Sunday 16 June 2019

The Year 8 trip to Whitemoor Lakes in Staffordshire will take place from Friday 14 June to Sunday 16 June, for an action packed weekend of activities, team building and adventure! We will be departing school at lunchtime on Friday 14 June and returning to school at approximately 4.00pm on Sunday 16 June. 

All Year 8 parents should have received an email regarding this trip which asks for permission for your child to attend and important information on what you need to do to secure your child's place. Please could you ensure you have either accepted or declined consent for your child to attend this trip and paid the deposit by Thursday 14 February.

There have been a few issues concerning the consent form itself which we believe are now resolved, however, if you do experience any problems, please contact Katie Boon or Caroline Houghton on 01926 634216.

Paperwork will be sent out after half term to those pupils who are attending this trip, so please look out for this.  Furthermore, please note that a Parents' Information Evening will be held on Thursday 23 May at 6.00pm in the Chapel. 

Major School Trips - Update

Please see 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

Housekeeping

Job Vacancy – Examinations And Assessment Administrator

We are currently recruiting for a part time administrator, reporting to the Examinations and Assessment Manager. This administration role is to work in the school’s exams office supporting the Exams and Assessments Manager. The key responsibilities of the office are the administration of public exams, processing exam results and organising the distribution of certificates as well as managing the preparation of and generating our pupil reports.

The successful candidate will have excellent organisational skills, a flexible approach to work and the ability to manage a varied workload.  He or she will be friendly, professional and unflappable and able to communicate clearly with all members of the Princethorpe community including staff, pupils and Old Princethorpians.

Interested candidates will have experience in an administrative role, ideally in the education industry. They will need excellent communication skills, both oral and written, and a proven ability to work under pressure and to deadlines.  Strong IT skills, particularly in Microsoft Excel, are essential.  Familiarity with databases would be a recommendation. Applicants must have achieved Grade C or above in both English and Maths GCSE. 

Hours of work: Generally working 12 hours a week, term time only, the actual working pattern can be agreed by negotiation, but we anticipate the working hours would be as follows: 

  • 12 hours per week (9.00am-1.00pm, Monday, Wednesday and Friday) for 30 weeks of the year during term time
  • This would increase to 25 hours per week (8.30am – 2.00pm, Monday to Friday, with half an hours’ unpaid lunch) for 6 weeks in May and June during the main examination season
  • 10 hours per week for the two results weeks (2 x 5 hour days, Wednesday and Thursday in mid-late August)
  • 10 hours additional to cover Prize Giving and Open Afternoon

Total being 540 hours per year. There will be occasional work required outside normal working hours, for instance Prize Giving, Open Events and Entrance Exams; these extra hours will be paid and agreed in advance.

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 their personal qualities, experience and how they 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 11 February 2019 at 9.00am and interviews are likely to be held on Thursday 14 February at Princethorpe College.

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

Job Vacancy – Head Of Physics

Required ideally for September 2019 a dynamic, innovative and well-qualified graduate to lead Physics in this flourishing school and work alongside the Head of Science to move the science department forward with their vision.

Candidates should have strong leadership and management skills, be visionary in their approach, have a proven track record of success in the classroom and be effective team workers. An enthusiasm to become involved with the extra-curricular life of the school is essential.

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 their personal qualities, experience and how they 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 25 February 2019 at 9.00am and interviews are likely to be held on Thursday 28 January, at Princethorpe.

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

Bus Passes And Tickets - Reminder

Please can we remind pupils and students that if you are in possession of a bus pass for your travel to or from school then this must be carried at all times and shown when alighting the bus at Princethorpe in the mornings and before boarding the bus in the evening.

For occasional bus use, tickets must be purchased in advance of travel from the School Shop.  Tickets can be paid for in cash, by card or cheque or, if purchasing ten or more tickets at time, they can be added to their account.

Failure to carry passes or have bus tickets in advance of travel can cause delays in getting pupils into school in a morning and could delay buses being able to leave at night.

We have an ‘Emergency bus list’ for pupils that have unexpectedly had to travel by bus.  Please note that using the emergency bus list on more than four occasions in any term incurs a £1 administration charge per journey.

Nicola Browne
Foundation Shop Manager

School Shop Opening Hours Reminder

Please note that the School Shop will be closed from 4.30pm on Friday 15 February 2019 until 10.30am on Monday 25 February 2019.  Please contact Nicola Browne on 01926 634272 or at uniform@princethorpe.co.uk with any uniform or bus ticket requirements prior to Friday 15 February.

Nicola Browne
Foundation Shop Manager

Notice Requirement For Buses - Reminder

Please note that half a term's notice is required if a pupil no longer needs to use the bus service provided by the school.  This is particularly relevant for pupils in Year 11 and Upper Sixth who have exams in the Trinity term and for members of Upper Sixth who pass their driving test.  For example, we need to be advised in writing before the start of the Trinity term if the bus service is not required after half term in May.  Parents wishing to give notice should write to Barbara Bromwich in the Bursary or email buses@princethorpe.co.uk.

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

 

Catering - Lent Term

Our catering team's new menus proved popular last term, with a range of healthy meal options served in both the Refectory and Sixth Form Dining Room on a three-week rotation.

These menus will continue to be served until February half term, with the addition of weekly specials such as a noodle bar, rice bar and nachos bar with a choice of meat and vegetarian toppings. 

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

Maureen Kennedy
Catering Manager