The Flagpole

Last Monday 13 May 12 current Sixth Formers and 9 Old Princethorpians, were invited to Buckingham Palace in London to be presented with the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award.  They joined 3,500 young people in a special ceremony in glorious sunshine, in the gardens of the Palace. 

It will have taken over five years and 450 hours to have earned the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, progressing first through Bronze and then Silver until they finally achieved the challenging Gold.  Along the way they have volunteered, learned new skills, taken part in physical activity, and for the Gold undertaken a week long residential, as well as planning and completing self-sufficient expeditions.

In turn the 21 were presented with their awards by explorer and adventurer Andy Bartlet who urged them to be proud and to keep making life memorable.  After receiving their awards, the group then had the chance to meet and talk with Sophie, Countess of Wessex. 

Head of Outdoor Education, Will Bower, was very proud, commenting, “Completing your Gold Duke of Edinburgh takes real commitment and resolve, and the skills developed along the way benefit both the individual and their local community.  All of these young people showed dedication and perseverance and their final expedition to Buckingham Palace was a wonderful reward.”

Receiving their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award were:

Upper Sixth Formers

Imogen Blackhall
Meera Chauhan
Megan Harcourt
Alex Hutcheson
Eleanor Jennings
Megan Jones
Alexander Mackinnon
Aimee Sen-Gupta
Charlotte Silvester
Tom Warne
Christie Wukics
Tiarnan Wukics

Old Princethorpians

Georgina Bannister
Joseph Berry
Helen Busfield
Nathan Golsby-Taylor
Imogen Hornsby
Jessica Hornsby
Megan Lewis
James Tolcher
Edward Williamson

Huge congratulations to Princethorpe College Year 8 pupil, Molly McGrory who is Irish World Dancing Champion. 

Molly joined thousands of elite competitors from across the world who descended on Greensboro in North Carolina, USA for the sport's pre-eminent event, the annual Irish Dancing World Championships.  She stomped the floorboards and leapt into the air through a series of heats to get through to the final 50 and be acclaimed as the best in her age group in the world.

This was not the first time that Molly has entered the competition as she was also World Champion two years ago.  This time dancing in the 12-13 age group, she was competing against dancers from across Ireland, the USA and even as far afield as Australia. 

The competition took place from 14-21 April, and over a series of days each of the competitors initially performed two dances, the Hornpipe and the Reel, and were called back to perform their dances again, before the top 50 were called back for a third final performance, a set dance to their choice of music.

Molly’s Mum and Foundation Trustee, Mrs Caroline McGrory says, “It was an absolutely fabulous week and we are so incredibly proud of Molly.” 

Molly, who trains at the Turley Duggan Academy of Irish Dancing in Birmingham, has been dancing since she was three-years-old and practices four days a week.

Molly said, “It was amazing when they announced ‘and the World Champion is…’ my heart leapt as I heard my name.  I was so pleased to win; I train so hard, it takes so much dedication, so it really is fantastic to be World Champion again.”

Ed Hester, Headmaster at Princethorpe College said, “It takes talent and huge dedication to become a world champion. We encourage all our pupils to work hard and do their best, Molly has taken this to the highest level and we are delighted to hear about her success.”

Following its successful launch last summer, we are looking to get more OP Friendly Faces on board to widen the support network of OPs in universities across the country for the leavers of 2019.

OP Friendly Faces aims to link past pupils established at university with first year OP students. Providing a friendly, familiar face to meet up with over a coffee (compliments of the OPs) or having someone to call in their new uni town or city, does, we know, make for a smoother experience in those first few weeks away from home. 

We are hoping that many of those who were helped last year will be prepared to be a Friendly Face this year, and that many of those already signed up to help will also be prepared to continue. 

Laurence Chapman, who is finishing his first year at the University of Leicester studying Law and benefited from the initiative is keen to take up the challenge, he comments, "I was given an Old Princethorpian contact, Melissa Scott, who is now leaving the university. It was great to have a friendly face and she has been very helpful this year, so I would like to do the same for another Princethorpe student."

Comments OPs Secretary, Melanie Butler, " We have OP Friendly Faces in around 30 university towns and cities and would like to expand on that significantly this year and get more of our leavers matched up for the new academic year."

The Upper Sixth have been emailed with a link to enable them to sign up for OP Friendly Faces and to be added to our database to receive our termly OP e-newsletter.  The link can also be found here.

All leavers and their parents are automatically given free membership of the OP Association and are welcome at all of our events.

For more information call 01926 634284 or email oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

Year 10 and Year 9 pupils who are (or will be) studying Computer Science GCSE visited the National Museum of Computing at Bletchley Park on Thursday 9 May.

The museum traces the history of computing and includes working reconstructions of the Turing-Welchman Bombe that broke the Enigma code and Tommy Flowers' Colossus that broke the Lorenz cipher, used by Hitler to communicate messages with his High Command in World War II.  It charts the development of computing from these ultra-secret pioneering efforts through the large systems and mainframes of the 1950s, 60s and 70s, on to the rise of personal computing in the 1980s and up to the present day.

Head of Computer Science, Adam Depledge, explained, “Pupils have been learning about the history of computers in Computer Science lessons and so the opportunity to see original computers like the “WITCH” (Guinness World Record holder for oldest surviving computer!) was a real treat.”

As well as learning about the invention of the cipher breaking machines and seeing the oldest working computer in the world, pupils learned how a mechanical calculator worked and explored early programming languages. They also toured the museum with all its artefacts to see how, in such a relatively short time since the Second World War, technology has progressed.

The trip also included a trip down memory lane exploring early computer games in the retro gaming room of PC and Console games.

The pupils found the museum fascinating, Joe Glover commented, “It was interesting to see how computers and gaming has evolved over time.”  Tom Knight added, “I really enjoyed the trip and am looking forward to Computer Science lessons next year.”  Joshua Apaya said, “It was an amazing trip, I saw a lot of things that I am sure that I won’t forget any time soon.  We were introduced to the Turing Test, which blew my mind to say the least. Finally we coded and created our own games which was one of my favourite parts!”  Alex Allison, added, “I learnt about the programming language used by the early machines and how different it is compared to our current languages like Python and C++.”

Mr Depledge continued, “It was clear the museum really brought the topic alive for the pupils and the opportunity to play some classic games was a real highlight for everyone too!”

Crackley Hall’s Junior 4 pupils and Crescent School’s Class IV enjoyed a half-day music technology workshop hosted by Princethorpe College on Thursday 9 May.  The workshop was run by Director of Music, Gil Cowlishaw, ably assisted by Music Teacher, Alison Wakeley, and took place in the College’s dedicated Music Technology suite. The children were introduced to computer music production concepts such as sequencing and arrangement and then encouraged to experiment.  Using the technology software Band Lab, the children enjoyed creating music in a completely new way. Starting with drum machine patterns and loops and adding texture through the addition of bass, keyboard and even vocal lines the children each created their own unique piece.

After a short break and a Princethorpe cookie, the children moved on to explore the concept of harmony.  This time using online song writing software Hookpad, the children built a pattern of major and minor chords and overlaid their own melodies.  Finally, the children listened to their music in a variety of music styles including rock, pop, jazz and even reggae.

The Year 4s clearly enjoyed the workshop and exploring music in a new way and everyone was able to save their Band Lab creations on a memory stick to take home to share with their families.

Mr Cowlishaw, commented, “We had lots of fun in our music technology taster, the children were all fantastic to work with and created some amazing pieces.  The online software we used can be found at www.hooktheory.com if anyone wants to carry on creating.”

A-level French students enjoyed a language practical with a difference when they took to the kitchens on Friday 3 May.  The extra after-school session had them testing both their language and culinary skills as Miss Verleure challenged them to make two traditional French recipes.

Under the watchful eyes of Food and Nutrition Teacher, Jacqui Scott, the girls worked in pairs, carefully following the step-by-step instructions which were in French.  The girls made the classic thin crispy French biscuits, Langues de Chat and the ever-popular rich, creamy Mousse Au Chocolat.

French Teacher, Miss Verleure, said, “The girls have had lots of fun putting their French skills to the test. Langues de Chat translates as cat’s tongues, a reference to the long, thin shape of the biscuit. Whereas mousse is the French word for ‘foam’, referring to the light consistency of Mousse au Chocolat which is made from foamy whipped egg whites.  Our French cookery session went brilliantly and the end results were délicieux!”

Sixth Formers were given an insight into the world of social media when they were visited by Old Princethorpian, Nico McKenzie.

Nico returned to Princethorpe on Thursday 2 May to recount his experiences since leaving the College in 2011.  His talk was thought-provoking and at time humorous as he shared the highs and lows of being a social media influencer, a career path he never foresaw, and the effect of social media on mental health today.

After A-levels Nico went on to study Geography at Newcastle University, followed by a Masters in International Business Management before setting up his own company.  He talked to students about the many different social media platforms and the increasing importance of digital marketing.  He explained how he became interested in social media at university and how this developed into a role as a ‘social media influencer’ and the work his company now does for celebrity and corporate customers.

Nico shared statistics on social media usage and showed examples of fake social media posts.  He talked about the benefits of his work, the free trips and products, but also about the isolation and loneliness inherent in social media.  He reminded students to always be careful with their settings and permissions and stressed how important it is, if you are feeling isolated, to just talk to other people.  He finished his talk with a list of dos and don’ts to help students get the most out of social media.

Thank you Nico for giving Princethorpe’s students an insightful look at the minefield of social media. 

An intrepid band of Princethorpe College staff, parents and former pupils are to take on an epic challenge over the May half term holiday when they cycle 110 miles between the French towns of Saumur and Amboise in the Loire Valley, in aid of Mary's Meals.

This is the second Cycling Pilgrimage undertaken by the College, the last being part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2017. The 20 cyclists and their supporters will travel to France by coach and cycle 110 miles over two days, with a rest day in between in the beautiful chateau town of Azay-le-Rideau.

Comments, Headmaster, Ed Hester, “110 miles in two days is no mean feat and all the pilgrims deserve to be encouraged. Many of the cycling pilgrims are taking part for a second time and we are expecting once again for there to be fantastic camaraderie on the trip. With pilgrims aged from under 20 to in their 70s this really epitomises Princethorpe’s spirit of family.” 

The cyclists will once again be raising money for the College's chosen charity, Mary's Meals and have set a target of £2,000, enough to feed 143 children at Makalunga Primary School in Malawi for a year. 

If you would like to support them please go to their fundraising page here.

Follow their journey on Twitter - @PC_Pilgrimage

Click here to access the thirty-first issue of the Old Princethorpian which was published on Friday 10 May.

This issue includes the latest Foundation and College news plus plenty of news and updates from OPs across the decades.

If you are an OP or know an OP who would like to share their news or pictures with us for the next issue due out in mid October please email oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk by the end of September.

If you would like to be added to the distribution list please email Old Princethorpians' Secretary Melanie Butler.

On Saturday 11 May Princethorpe College hosted its popular annual ‘Say Hello to Hockey’ taster session.  52 Year 4 and 5 pupils, from surrounding primary schools, enjoyed a fun introduction to this exciting field game.

Rotating through four different training drills, the children learned about the key skills of dribbling, passing, tackling and shooting. They quickly got to grips with the fast-paced sport.

Everyone worked hard so mid-morning that they were treated to one of Princethorpe’s legendary cookies.  The children then took part in a mini-tournament in front of a crowd of enthusiastic parents, it was great to see their new hockey skills being used so effectively.

Princethorpe College PE Teacher, Hannah Carminati, was impressed at how well the children took to the sport commenting, “Some of the children were nervous at the beginning, having never been to Princethorpe or ever held a hockey stick before. To see how they blossomed on the Astro was fantastic. Everyone was working together and chatting like old friends by the end of the morning.  They progressed enormously and the standard of hockey played in the mini-tournament was really very good.”

A big thank you to all the staff and Sixth Formers who gave up their morning to run the event.

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.

Saturday 25 May – Sunday 26 May 2019

The Sixteenth Princethorpe-Kingsley Wigley Group National Schools’ Two Day Event takes place for the fifth year running on the magnificent Princethorpe estate.

The 80cm class continues again, as well as Novice 90cm and Open 100cm classes. Once again, the event includes Independent Schools' Association Classes. Show Jumping and Dressage take place on the Saturday with Roads and Tracks, Steeplechase and Cross Country on the Sunday.

Please use the link to find booking forms.

We do hope you can come along and enjoy a wonderful weekend of equestrian events.

Wednesday 5 June 2019 - 6.30pm to 8.30pm

The College's Summer Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 5 June from 6.30pm - 8.30pm. This is an informal opportunity for prospective families to look around the college and to meet members of staff and pupils.

There will be activities in each department for children to participate in, and the Headmaster will also address visitors in the Chapel during the evening. Light refreshments are available.

There is no need to book.

For further information please contact the Registrar, Mrs Vanessa Rooney, on 01926 634201 or email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

Saturday 8 June - 3.30pm to 7.00pm

The College is looking forward to welcoming back the Sudden Impulse Theatre Company in June for an outdoor performance of William Shakespeare's play, The Taming of the Shrew.

A father has no problem finding a suitor for his youngest daughter, Bianca, in fact there are three of them fighting for her affections. First he must find a husband for his eldest daughter Katherina, a fierce, wild shrew who strikes fear and terror into most men. The three love rivals join forces to find a man who can tackle Katherina and clear the path to their love. Along comes Petruchio who is looking for a wealthy wife, and claims to be able to tame any woman. Of course it is not that easy in this hilarious Shakespeare comedy.

The performance is open to the public and will take place on the Sixth Form Lawn from 3.30pm to 7.00pm

So bring a picnic and, if last year’s performances are anything to go by, enjoy some perfect summer entertainment.

Tickets are available now from the link here and are priced at £12 or £10 for concessions.

Tuesday 11 June 2019 - 6.00pm

The Drama Department invite you to The Idiot's Guide to Haunting at 6.00pm-7.30pm in the Clarkson theatre on Tuesday 11 June. 

This a short Key Stage 3 performance adapted and directed by our Performance Arts Leaders Fern Boston and Jennifer Brown.

There are no tickets required for this event but if you could please advise of your attendance here so we can cater for refreshments we would be most grateful.

Aileen Cefaliello and Vicky Roberts
Joint Heads of Drama

Wednesday 12 June 2019 - 7.30pm

Our book for May was A Spark of Light by Jodi Picoult.  This is a surprisingly topical book in view of what is happening in America at present and deals with the issue of abortion from many different angles.  There were rather mixed reviews from Princethorpe readers and some found limitations in the quality of the writing, but it certainly generated some interesting discussion. All agreed the book offers an unbiased and balanced exploration of a highly emotive topic within the confines of a gripping narrative with some surprising twists and turns. 

As ever, we have something very different for next time – a crime novel.  We are reading City of Sinners by A A Dhand which has been well reviewed and comes recommended by those who have tried it.  We’ll be meeting at 7.30pm in the library on Wednesday 12 June.  We hope this book might have broad appeal so please join us if you have an interest in crime fiction. We are a welcoming group and are always keen to hear of other readers’ interests and enthusiasms.

Chris Kerrigan
Head of English

Thursday 20 June from 6.00pm to 8.30pm and Sunday 23 June from 2.00pm to 4.30pm

A celebration of our pupils GCSE and A-level Art, Photography and Design work will take place in the College's Sixth Form Centre on Thursday 20 June from 6.00pm to 8.30pm and on Sunday 23 June from 2.00pm to 4.30pm.

A range of design and technology projects, from resistant materials to textiles, will be showcased alongside the stunning art and photography work the College is renowned for.

Comments, Paul Hubball, Head of Art, "This is a great opportunity to share our pupils' fantastic creativity with a wider audience and to welcome more art and design lovers to Princethorpe."

Added Head of Design and Technology, Paul Scopes, "We look forward to welcoming all the exam pupils and their families from across Design, Art and Photography to enjoy the fruit of their labours."

All are welcome. On Thursday evening admission is free, on the Sunday admission will be £2 per car including entry to the College's Summer Fete and Motoring Festival. Light refreshments will be served.

Friday 21 June 2019 at 11.15am in the Chapel followed by a buffet lunch on the Sixth Form Centre lawn at 12.30pm

Invitations to this event were posted to Year 11 parents on Friday 3 May 2019.

The 'RSVP link' has been emailed to parents and can also be assessed by clicking here.  RSVPs are due by Friday 31 May.

An extract from the letter can be found below.

Carmel Hopkins
PA to the Headmaster

Extract from the letter posted to all Year 11 parents:

There will be a Thanksgiving Service on Friday 21 June 2019 at 11.15am in the Chapel followed by a buffet lunch on the Sixth Form Centre lawn at 12.30pm for all Year 11 pupils.   

This is a beautiful occasion and parents are warmly invited to both the service and to lunch.  If you would like to attend, and to enable seating and catering arrangements, I would be very grateful if you would rsvp by Friday 31 May using the link which will be sent to you shortly by email. 

This will be a special day for the pupils.  They come into school wearing suits\smart clothing following the Sixth Form dress code.  Pupils need to arrive in school at the normal time on this day ie 8.40am and will be free to leave school after the buffet lunch, from 2.00pm

21 - 22 June 2019 

The Autism Show is the national event for people with autism, for parents and families of people with autism as well as professionals – including families who want to find out more before diagnosis who will have lots of questions.

It is a reasonably priced and dynamic event and this year conveniently it is local to us. There is a wide programme of seminars in three theatres that you can book including lots of talks by people with autism themselves that are often hugely inspiring.

For further information or to book tickets please click here.

Lorna Prestage
Learning Support

Sunday 23 June 2019 from 2.00pm to 4.30pm

As the College gallops into Trinity term the PTA focus our attentions on the highlight of summer – the PTA Summer Fête and Annual Motoring Festival.

There will be the usual array of stalls including our school supported charity stalls; countless fun games and activities; and live music. We'll be firing up the BBQ and for those of you who find days like this thirsty work we'll be providing an array of drinks in the refreshment tent.

We are always seeking new supporters for this event so if you could help us out for an hour at the fête, or at future events, please do contact us at pta@princethorpe.co.uk or via Twitter @PrincethorpePTA.

We are once again running the popular ‘Pre-loved Uniform Stall’ and if you have any uniform which is no longer required this can be given in at the Student Hub.  School blazers, ties, skirts, jumpers, PE kits and PE bags are always welcomed, with proceeds of this stall going directly back to the PTA and the pupils of the College.

If you wonder what the PTA does with the money they raise take a look at Twitter for photographs of the projects we have supported in the past few years, including the refurbishment of the school Quad.

Should you have any ideas or queries regarding the fête or the PTA, please contact us at the above email address.

Many thanks
Princethorpe PTA

Sunday 23 June from 2.00pm to 4.30pm 

The Motoring Festival always coincides with the College Summer Fête, which takes place on the last Sunday in June. This year's event is on Sunday 23 June 2019.

The Festival is open to anyone keen to bring any sort of classic, vintage, veteran or interesting vehicle along for the afternoon. There will be rally plaques for all pre-booked vehicles and awards for self-judged competitions.

The Festival is preceded by an informal morning road run of about 30 miles through the Warwickshire countryside. Vehicles taking part in the run need to arrive at Princethorpe for 11.00am. There is no charge for classic vehicles entering the festival or taking part in the road run.

Barbecued food is available for a nominal charge on return to Princethorpe at lunchtime, or feel free to bring a picnic.

The Summer Fête takes place in the Orchard between 2.00pm and 4.30pm, unless the weather is inclement when we will retire indoors.  There will be lots of entertainment both for children and adults alike including a large inflatable slide for the kids, BBQ, refreshments, bar, pupils’ stalls, over 30 external stalls, a raffle and many, many more exciting things for all the family to enjoy.

On-line registration for the 2019 event is open now! Please use the link - click here

Further details from Alex Darkes on 01926 634207 or email alexdarkes@princethorpe.co.uk

Tuesday 25 June 2019 at 7.00pm

RSVP date: by Friday 7 June  

Parents of Upper Sixth students should by now have received a letter of invitation to this event, followed by an 'RSVP link' via email.  If you are yet to reply, you can also access the link by clicking here. 

An extract from the letter can be found below.

Carmel Hopkins
PA to the Headmaster

Extract from the letter posted to all Upper Sixth parents and students:

You are warmly invited to the Upper Sixth Thanksgiving Eucharist and Buffet Supper on Tuesday 25 June 2019. 

The evening starts at 7.00pm with a celebration Eucharist in the College Chapel, after which we shall all adjourn to the Sixth Form Centre for a buffet supper. The dress code is smart jacket and tie for men and equivalent for ladies. This will, I’m sure, be a very enjoyable and beautiful occasion; it is a celebration of all that this Upper Sixth group and their parents have contributed to the Princethorpe community over the years. I very much hope you will all be able to come.

To enable seating and catering arrangements, I would be very grateful if you would rsvp by Friday 7 June using the link which will be sent to you shortly by email, indicating whether or not you will be able to join us for this evening and how many people will be in your party.

Sunday 22 September 2019 2.00pm - 4.00pm

Built in 1832, St Mary's Priory was one of the first Catholic buildings in England after the reformation. Come for a tour of the magnificent building and learn all about its history, including the amazing women that made it the place it is today.

From 1833 until 1966, St Mary's Priory was home to a congregation of Benedictine nuns who ran a boarding school for girls. This community sold the priory in 1966 and a new school was established by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, who had previously run a boys' school in Leamington Spa. Princethorpe College is now a fully co-educational Catholic independent day school.

Our archive team will be conducting free tours of the College on Sunday 9 September from 2.00pm - 4.00pm. Areas open include Pugin’s magnificent chapel, the cloisters, nuns’ cells, library (former church) and roundhouse.

No booking is required; just turn up and join the next available tour. Entrance is via the glazed link off the North Car Park.

Admission is free and there is complimentary tea and coffee available. We would be delighted to see you!

Week Commencing Monday 20 May 2019 - Years 7, 8, 9, 10 and Lower Sixth

The normal teaching timetable for Years 7-10 and the Lower Sixth for next week has been suspended in order for the exams to run. All pupils have received an individualised exam timetable which will show exactly when each exam will take place. Pupils with access arrangements have been advised of any specific arrangements. Exams will be conducted as closely as possible to full exam regulations so pupils can start to get used to how they work.  Please note that there has been a late change to the Year 10 exam timetable - Year 10 pupils have been emailed directly about this change.

Lower Sixth students are expected to be in school throughout the week; they will be able to revise silently in the Sixth Form Atrium in periods when they do not have exams. The results of these exams will play an important part in deciding on the predicted grades that the school will use on UCAS and other applications but they will of course be considered in the full context of a student’s progress and trajectory.

All Year 7-10 pupils have slots throughout the week when they can revise silently for papers later that day or later in the week.  They should therefore make sure they have with them each day the relevant materials they wish to revise from.  It is also a good idea to have a private reading book with them.

All pupils in Years 7-10 will be assigned to a specific room (their exam base) and they will take all the exams in that base for the whole week. This will hopefully make the process as simple as possible for them.  This room information is located on their timetable.

Games lessons will continue as normal for all year groups throughout the week.

I wish all the pupils the very best of luck and we look forward to sharing with you how your child has done in our Exam Reports in June. If you have any questions about Exams Week, do please contact us.

Dr Michael Reddish
Deputy Head - Academic

Reports for Year 9 and Lower Sixth will be posted out on Friday 21 June 2019.  They will also be available to view on the Parent Portal.

Dr Michael Reddish
Deputy Head - Academic
 

Thursday 13 June 2019

The Year 10 Parents’ Evening takes place on Thursday 13 June from 6.00pm to 8.30pm in the Sixth Form Centre.

We will continue with the new system introduced successfully last year and offer the option of a two course supper for you and your family, at a cost of £2.00 per head, and served across three sittings, 5.30pm to 6.00pm, 6.00pm to 6.30pm and 6.30pm to 7.00pm. Supper will be served in the Refectory.

We will also provide two supervised areas where siblings can wait whilst you and your son or daughter meet with the teaching staff. There will be a film screening in one room and for those looking for a quieter environment a second area will be provided where they can relax or study.

To help us with the smooth running of Parents’ Evening and so that we can cater efficiently we would be grateful if everyone who would like to book for supper could complete the RSVP Form by clicking here no later than 10.00am on Friday, 7 June.

Please make sure to arrive by 7.30pm at the latest. Parents arriving later than that may not be able to see all the relevant teachers before the event closes at 8.30pm.

Here is some additional information that you may find helpful:

• Parking will be available on the school playground.
• Please enter the Sixth Form Centre building through the Sixth Form entrance only.
• Please ensure you sign in and collect your name badge from the reception desk before entering the Sixth Form Centre.
• There is no appointment system. You should allow approximately five minutes per teacher – a timer will sound every five minutes to assist with keeping discussions within this timeframe – please do organise a further meeting if you feel you need a longer discussion.
• Plan strategically – decide which teachers you really need or want to see and target them first. We suggest you have a list of your child’s teachers and subjects - can be found on the Parent Portal.
• On leaving the building please sign out at the reception desk.

We look forward to seeing you.

Dr Michael Reddish
Deputy Head - Academic

Monday 17 June - 6.00pm to 8.30pm

Parents will be given the opportunity to book electronically a slot with their child’s tutor for an Academic Review Meeting.  Parents will also be able to attend a series of workshops on how best to support their child whilst at Princethorpe.  A letter will be sent out to parents next week with more information and booking details.

Dr Michael Reddish
Deputy Head - Academic

Pupils and parents in year 8 and 9 are reminded that the following textbooks need to be returned to their teacher by Friday, 21 June 2019:

Year 8 - 'Smart Science' textbook

Year 9 - CGP revision guide

If a textbook has been lost a charge will be made for this book. 

Emma Cooper
Head of Science

Pupils and parents are reminded that the Textbook Return Forms, which are available to download here are due to be completed and returned by Wednesday 26 June 2019.

Books should be handed to a member of staff from the relevant department with staff signing the form to confirm receipt of the correct number of books.

If a textbook has been lost, ‘LOST’ should be entered in the staff signature column on the Return Form and a charge will be made for this book. When all subjects are complete, pupils should take the form to their Head of House to sign off. Any incomplete or unreturned forms will result a charge for unreturned books.

Please note that our Upper Sixth students must return their parking fobs to the School Shop once exams are finished so that we can apply the £10 credit to the leaver's bill.

Nicola Browne
Foundation Shop Manager

Monday 1 July - 6.00pm to 8.00pm

All Lower Sixth students and their families are invited to join the Sixth Form team for a summer BBQ. A time to be able to socialise, relax, have some fun and raise money for Mary's Meals.

The BBQ will be held outside the Sixth Form Centre from 6.00pm until 8.00pm and tickets will cost £12 per parent/Lower Sixth student and £6 for children under twelve, children under 5 go free. The cost of the ticket will include food, a drink on arrival (prosecco for the adults, a soft drink for everyone else), live music, ice cream and games. There will be a paying bar available too.

We hope you will be able to join us for our parent/student summer social. Please click here to book your place before Monday 3 June.

Ben Collie
Head of Sixth Form

Students and parents are reminded that the Textbook Return Forms, which are available to download here, are due to be completed and returned by Friday 21 June 2019.

Books should be handed to a member of staff from the relevant department with staff signing the form to confirm receipt of the correct number of books.

If a textbook has been lost, ‘LOST’ should be entered in the staff signature column on the Return Form and a charge will be made for this book. When all subjects are complete, students should take the form to the Head of Sixth Form to sign off. Any incomplete or unreturned forms will result a charge for unreturned books.

This event will take place on Tuesday 18 June from 6.00pm until 8.00pm. It will follow on from the Year 10 Taster Day and is for pupils and parents to attend together. It will start at 6.00pm, following on from the barbeque, and finish at approximately 8.00pm.

There will be a carousel of four sessions, and you will be given personalised timetables for the evening upon your arrival.

1. Why go to university, Loughborough University

2. Degree apprenticeships, Warwick University

3. Tips on researching career and university opportunities, Jacqui Quinney, Head of Careers

4. Q&A with Ben Collie, Head of Sixth Form (an opportunity to ask questions about any aspect of Sixth Form, careers or what happens after GCSEs).

Jacqui Quinney
Head of Careers

Suitable for students aged 14+, the Medic Insight Day is a one-day course designed to give ambitious pre-medical students a taste of life as a doctor.

The new and improved course teaches students about what it is like to be a doctor within an NHS hospital in a clear, insightful way. From taking a patient history, to suturing an injury, students will adopt the role of a doctor as they engage and communicate with live-simulated patients.

All of the Medic Insight Days are completed in training centres within NHS hospitals in London, and will be taught by experienced, world-class doctors.

They are running an exclusive summer rate of only £99 per student on the following dates:

Wednesday 17 July
Wednesday 31 July

To secure a place click on this link and use the code SUMMER99MID.

Jacqui Quinney
Head of Careers

Frontier, the society for environmental exploration are offering work shadowing days, taking place during the Trinity Half Term 2019.

The dates are: 

29 May 2019
30 May 2019

These days provide a great opportunity for students with an interest in environmental conservation, international development, journalism or volunteer travel to get a taste for what a career working for an NGO in this industry would be like, and they are aimed at A-level students.  

The successful students will work with a relevant department at Frontier including UK Operations, Overseas Operations and Research, Media and Marketing and Events & Outreach.

To apply for a place, students should visit the website where full instructions and an application form are available. 

Jacqui Quinney
Head of Careers

UCAS.com has a wealth of information to help you make sense of the application process, as well as a monthly parents’ newsletter. Sign up here for all the latest information.

Also, if you’re confused about what loans are available for students and how much you’ll be expected to pay then visit this link at MoneySavingExpert.com for advice.

Jacqui Quinney
Head of Careers

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

Congratulations to Year 10 pupil, Ben Scares, who took the bronze medal at the Independent School Association’s National Triathlon after a super performance in a gruelling race.

It was an early start for our triathletes competing in the ISA Nationals at Lucton School, in Herefordshire, on Thursday 2 May.  Triathlon is an increasingly popular multi-discipline sport involving a swim, followed by a bike ride and then a run. Princethorpe College’s iron-men and iron-women were competing in the TriStars 2, TriStars 3 and the Youth categories.

Against a competitive field of elite athletes in the senior race, the Youth category, Ben swam 400 metres, cycled 8.4 kilometres and then ran 3 kilometres. He completed the course in a super-fast time of 39 minutes and 4 seconds finishing just behind the leader in third place.

In the TriStars 3 competition, the triathletes completed a 300-metre swim, 6 km on the bike and a 2.4 km run. In the girls’ competition, Year 7, Kaena Wasley had an excellent race and finished in 9th place in 37:56 with, Year 8, Julia Loftus 17th in 43:12. Best-placed boy was, Year 7, Ethan Capelett who was 21st in 36:55 followed by, Year 7, Ben Smith who finished 23rd in 37:59.

Competitors in the TriStar 2 event completed a 200-metre indoor swim, 3.6 km on the bike and then a 1.8 km run. First home for Princethorpe was, Year 7, Kate Pomerleau who came 21st in 27 minutes 24 seconds. Best-placed boy was, Year 7, Ollie Farquharson, who came 16th in a time of 24:02, followed by, Year7, Oscar Reynolds, who came 25th in 25:16.  Year 7s, Ed Twyman finished in 27:35, Lachlan Greig in 29:29 and Jacob Iley in 32:48.

A huge well done to all of the participants, but especially to Ben on your bronze medal, the competition was friendly but fast and fierce and you all recorded excellent times.

From after the half term break, our current Year 10 pupils are permitted to wear our senior sports kit which is coveted by our pupils as it sets them apart from the rest of the school, the range includes:

Boys

Senior Training Top £25.00

Senior Hoodie £38.00 (must not be worn for contact sports i.e. Rugby)

Senior Socks £8.00

Girls

Senior Girls Games Top £30.00

Senior Hoodie £38.00

Senior Socks £8.00

Tracksuit Bottoms £30.00 (Limited number available)

Please note that all pupils are expected to wear Princethorpe crested sports kit for Wednesday afternoon Games.  All senior boys need the top and socks for fixtures.  Senior girls must have the senior top and hoodie for all fixtures with the additon of socks for hockey matches.

Orders may be place from now until Thursday 23 May with the School Shop and will be initialled during the half term break.  All purchases must have written permission from home either by a note in the school planner, a text, email or verbally from parents.

We carry a full range of sizes in the School Shop for pupils to try on.

Neil McCollin
Foundation Director of Sport

Congratulations to Year 8 pupils, Finn Osborn and Alexander Hammond who have been selected to play for the ISFA (Independent Schools Football Association) U13 representative team in a match against the Welsh Schools at Bisham Abbey this Sunday 19 May.  The boys are two of only 18 players selected for the team from the 140 players that took part in the recent ISFA U13 Regional Representative Festival in Shrewsbury.  Their selection means that they also qualify for the ISFA training camps that will take place over the summer holidays. 

Goalkeeper Finn also plays for West Bromwich Albion Academy and was in action over the Easter holidays in two exciting international competitions when his team took part in St Kevin’s Boys International U14 Tournament in Dublin and then the Premier League U13 International Tournament in Loughborough.  Finn was up against Youth teams from international clubs such as Athletic Bilbao, Bayern Munich and PSV Eindhoven as well as top Premier League clubs that included Manchester City and Chelsea.

Good luck this weekend boys!

Congratulations to Princethorpe College Year 9 pupil, Libby Chapman, who has qualified for the National School Equestrian Games Eventing Championships that will be held at Lybrook Farm in the Cotswolds in October.

Libby competed in the 90cm class in the Schools Equestrian Games One Day Event Qualifier at Swalcliffe Park Equestrian complex, in Oxfordshire on Sunday 5 May on her new horse Barum Peter Pan.  Against a competitive field of 39 other riders, Libby scored 27.3 in the dressage and then jumped clear in both the cross-country and show jumping, inside the time, to finish in first place.

Libby said, “I had a really good day, Barum Peter Pan was brilliant and I was delighted to win.  I am really looking forward to the Nationals.”

Libby will also be representing Princethorpe later this month in the Sixteenth Princethorpe-Kingsley Wigley Group National Schools’ Two Day Event that takes place at the College on 25 and 26 May. Spectators are most welcome to come along and support the competitors. 

Princethorpe College pupils James Robinson (Year 8) and Ben Hardy (Year 9) played for Warwickshire U14 Boys in the Midlands County Hockey Championships on Sunday 5 May.  Playing in the end of season tournament were teams representing eight counties. In a dominant display, the Warwickshire boys won all their games to go through to the semi-finals where they beat the Black Country 3-1.  The boys' team then progressed onto the finals where they beat Staffordshire 3-0 to become Midlands Regional Champions. Their team only conceded one goal throughout the entire competition.

On the day Princethorpe's  girls were just as successful too.  Grace Thomas (Year 9), Lara Tripp-Smith (Year 9), Molly Harper (Year 9), Evie Phillips (Year 9) and Tilly Houghton (Year 8) made up a large part of the Warwickshire U14 Girls team.  They also took on teams from eight counties and won through to take the Regional title too!  They are pictured here with Year 8 Sophie Gray who was selected for the squad but due to injury didn't play on the day. 

Congratulations to you all, we were delighted to hear of your success!

The last week of the academic year (27 June - 3 July) is Activities Week.  Normal classes are suspended and a wide variety of activities are on offer.

• Thursday 27 June: Whole Year School Trips
• Friday 28 June and Monday 1 July: Pupils choose from a range of activities in school
• Tuesday 2 July: House Activities Day
• Wednesday 3 July: Last day of school 

All pupils in Years  7, 8, 9 and 10 should have now selected their activities online for Friday 28 June and Monday 1 July. They will recieve a copy of their personalised timetable in due course.

Please click here for an A-Z of activities and descriptions which shows the wide variety of sessions offered. Some activities attract a charge – this charge will be added to the school bill with parent consent. If you have any queries about Activities Week, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Greg Hunter
Assistant Head - Co-Curricular

I would like to take this opportunity to remind you 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 Trinity 2019 Termly Calendar which you will have received by post over Easter. Alternatively, click here to view an electronic version. 

Greg Hunter
Assistant Head - Co-Curricular

Thursday 23 May 2019 at 6.00pm 

We will be holding a Parents’ Information Evening on Thursday 23 May in the Chapel for all pupils taking part in the weekend away to the Whitemoor Lakes Activity centre taking place on Friday 14 June to Sunday 16 June.

5 June 2019

At this moment in time, pupils in Year 7 are looking at castles throughout the medieval period and their impact on the people that lived in and around them.  Currently, pupils are working towards completing a research project on a castle of their choice. In order to support this program of study, the History department have organised a trip to Warwick Castle on 5 June 2019. This is a fantastic opportunity to visit a local attraction that will help all pupils understand the significance of the structure and its impact upon life in medieval England. 

The intended areas of study are:

• The structure of the castle and how it was an effective defensive fortress;
• Life in Warwick Castle and how it can help us learn about life if medieval England;
• The role of Warwick Castle in the Wars of the Roses and its relevance to the story of King Richard III.

All Year 7 pupils are expected to go on the trip to the castle as it is a central part of the study of history this academic year. The cost of the trip will be £20 per pupil, which covers transport, admission and guided tours/activities. The coach will leave Princethorpe College at 8.45am and return for 3.45pm. An electronic consent form will be sent by email and the £20 cost will be added to the Trinity term bill.

Peter Bucknall
Head of History

As we are now in the summer term, we are looking forward to the Year 8 trip to the WW1 Battlefields. The expected departure time is 7.00am on 27 June 2019, returning at 8.00pm on 1 July 2019. Please note that the meet time for pupils will be 6.45am on 27 June.

In preparation for this, I would like to remind you of the Parents' Information Evening at 6.00pm on Wednesday 12 June. This meeting will be an opportunity for me to give you some more detailed information on the trip itself, the itinerary, accommodation, food and what the pupils need to bring with them. It will also be an opportunity for you to ask me some questions about the trip.

Between now and the 12 June, we need to confirm some information to the travel company. To do this, we would need a photograph or a scan of your child’s passport and EHIC card. This can be emailed directly to laurenprydderch@princethorpe.co.uk. If your child does not yet have an EHIC card, an application can be made online here.

Please note that the trip is covered by the school’s travel insurance policy.

Peter Bucknall 
Head of History

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

Please see below a list of current vacancies available across the Foundation:

• School Nurse
• Summer Estates Assistants
• Graduate Sports Coach
• Gardener/Groundsman
• Traffic Co-ordinator

Full details of the roles and how to apply are available via the following link: Join Us

Should you know anyone who might be interested in these posts, please do share this information with them.

Please note that bus travel is payable in advance.  The exceptions are, in cases of emergency or the cancellation of an afternoon club, when the emergency bus list must be signed.

Bus tickets are purchased from the School Shop and can be paid for in cash, by card or cheque.  If regular bus use is needed then the purchase of ten or more tickets can be added to the billing account. 

Failure to purchase tickets in advance of travel incurs an extra charge of £1 per ticket once the list has been signed on four occasions during any given term.

Bus passes must be carried at all times and shown when arriving at school and when going to the buses after school.  Replacement passes can be purchased from the School Shop and we will also automatically reissue passes if they are not shown on five occasions, with the cost of £5 being added to the billing account. 

Your help in keeping the buses to time is appreciated as they can be held up when pupils/students do not have passes or tickets.

Eddie Tolcher
Foundation Bursar

Please note that the School Shop will close on Friday 24 May and will re-open on Monday 3 June

Nicola Browne
Foundation Shop Manager

We are really fortunate to have two well stocked Libraries and we would like your help to keep it that way.

We are having a book amnesty and hope that you can dig out any long forgotten Library books that have not been returned, and let us have them back, with no questions asked.

We are particularly keen to have any A-level books returned.

You can place returned items into the labelled box positioned outside of the main Library or they can be handed directly to the Librarians Mrs Scott or Mrs O’Connor.

Thank you for your support with this.

Mrs Scott
College Librarian

Our catering team's new menus for this term can be found below, with a range of with a range of healthy meal options served in both the Refectory and Sixth Form Dining Room on a three-week rotation:

Trinity Term - Week 1 

Trinity Term - Week 2

Trinity Term - Week 3

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

Maureen Kennedy
Catering Manager