Welcome to Princethorpe College's Admissions Update e-newsletter.  Filled full of information and news, it gives you a feel for College life, tells you about forthcoming events which are open to prospective pupils and their families and has plenty of helpful advice about the admissions process, particularly for those who are looking at entry in September 2020.

This newsletter is issued twice a year to coincide with key admissions periods, the next edition will be published in Spring 2020.

We hope you find the newsletter of interest, if you have any feedback, comments or queries please feel free to email the team at admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

Preview

News

Countdown To Entrance Exams For 2020 Entry Begins

With just nine weeks to go the countdown to the College's Entrance Exams for admission in September 2020 has begun. This year the exams for Year 7 to 10 entry will take place on Saturday 9 November from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Our friendly Admissions Team has been kept busy over the summer accepting registrations from prospective parents. The deadline for registrations is Friday 4 October, to enable the seeking of references from junior schools.

There are plenty of opportunities for prospective pupils and their parents to visit the College before the Entrance Exams, including pupil Taster Days and our College Open Morning on Thursday 26 September, from 10.30am to 12.30pm, when pupil tour guides will be available to show visitors around the school.

The Admissions Team are also holding a Year 6 Parents' Q and A session on Monday 16 September from 6.30pm to 7.30pm to answer any admissions and entrance examinations related questions in an informal forum.

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

More information on admission is available from the College website here.

Registrations forms are available in our prospectus packs or you can download a registration form here.

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

 

 

Another Year Of Excellent Results For Princethorpe’s A-level And GCSE Pupils

Princethorpe College is celebrating another year of excellent exam results.

This summer 30% of all A-level grades were A* or A and over three-quarters of grades were C or better; at GCSE the College celebrated its best ever GCSE results with 48% of all entries graded 9, 8 or 7 (A* or A) and 36 pupils achieving eight or more 9, 8 and 7 grades (A* or A).

Ed Hester, Headmaster, said, “Our students have worked so hard and we are incredibly proud of their achievements.”

A-level summary:

  • 94 candidates
  • 17 students achieved 3 or more A* or A grades
  • 30% A* and A
  • 75% grade C or better

Ed Hester continued, "We were particularly pleased that in addition to their A-levels, this year over half the Upper Sixth cohort completed the extended project qualification, which is so highly respected by universities and employers alike. It was also lovely to receive amazing feedback from the A-level Art moderators who were bowled over by the quality of the artwork by all our six A* A-level art students.”

At GCSE Princethorpe pupils performed well in all the core subjects, but the College is again delighted with its English results - this year 62% of pupils achieved 9, 8 or 7 grades. 

GCSE summary:  

  • 127 candidates
  • 48% of all grades 9-7 
  • 96% of grades 9-4 or better

There were many exceptional personal achievements, with stand-out performances at GCSE from Grace McGrory, James Gallagher, Lauren Mason, Alex Rejali and Prajeet Prabakaran, who all achieved an outstanding eleven or more grade 9s.

Headmaster, Ed Hester, continued, “All credit goes to our pupils and staff for their commitment and hard work.  Our 2019 A-level and GCSE results are very strong indicators that the school’s academic achievements across the ability range continue to go from strength to strength."

View Gallery

Science At The Forefront Of Princethorpe’s Vision For The Future

Princethorpe is putting Science at the forefront of its vision for the future with plans for a new state-of-the-art Science building. Planning for the two-storey, £8 million building, which will see Biology, Chemistry and Physics sited together in one dedicated location, has now been approved and construction will start on the project within the next two to three years.

This is the latest in a programme of capital investment in the infrastructure of the College, including recent projects such as the refurbishment of the Clarkson Theatre and the Roundhouse for the Performing Arts, the Limes Building for Modern Foreign Languages, English and ICT and restoration of the wooded lake area known as Switzerland for outdoor education.

At just over 1,600 sq metres, the building will provide contemporary, spacious and well-equipped accommodation for the three Sciences including ten new laboratories, preparation areas, staff bases and toilets.

Comments, Headmaster, Ed Hester, “In a demanding world, where scientific progress is essential across the spheres of discovery, development and innovation, we need to provide the very best facilities for teaching and learning to stimulate the intellect, ambition and creativity of our pupils. This tremendous new building will enable us to do just that.”

The main entrance of the new block will face the Lime Walk and the side of the building will abut the existing Limes Building at the top of the North Lawn. The two buildings will be connected on both floors creating free flow for pupils and staff between them. The area in front of the new building will be attractively landscaped with a central square feature.

The project will also enable the College to redevelop and cluster other departments, providing permanent homes for Economics, Business Studies, Geography and Classics and dedicated laboratory areas for Academic PE. Plans are also afoot to provide additional catering and seated dining facilities. This last major phase of the upgrading of the school’s accommodation will benefit all of the College’s 900 plus pupils.

The project has been designed in collaboration with Leamington-based AT Architects.

New And Improved Bus Services For September 2019

The College has introduced changes to its bus services from September 2019 to improve the service and encourage more families to use the buses.

Currently around half of the school’s population use the private bus service which brings pupils into the College from a wide surrounding area, extending as far afield as Nuneaton and Coventry to the north, Lutterworth and Daventry to the east, Stratford-upon-Avon and Banbury to the south and Solihull to the west.

The headline changes include:

  • New sibling discounts for return and single passes – 10% discount for second children and 50% discount for third or more children

  • A brand new bus service - the S12 from Henley-in-Arden to Claverdon with stops in new areas of Warwick and Leamington

  • The S7 route effectively splitting with some stops being covered by the new S12 and new stops being added in south Leamington and Radford Semele

Comments Eddie Tolcher, Foundation Bursar, “We have looked long and hard at the service we provide, researched where current and potential pupils live and listened to parental feedback.

“Our aim is to provide as comprehensive and convenient service as we can, at a reasonable price. By introducing sibling discounts, we hope more families will choose to stay on the bus, which will save time for parents and have less of an impact on the environment and traffic on site, particularly in the morning.”

To explore our school bus services and to find the nearest stop to your home, use the interactive map on the Getting to School page on our website here. Alternatively download our Bus Briefing (September 2019)

The College is continuing to look at further changes to the service, including tracking of buses and further route improvements.

South African Senior Sports Tour Full Of Keenly Contested Matches And Superb Sightseeing

Over the summer of 2019 the College enjoyed a very successful 14 day sports tour to South Africa. Taking our largest squad ever, of some 94 pupils and 11 staff, and for the first time including football into the playing schedule of boys’ hockey, girls’ hockey, netball and rugby.  The tour travelled to Cape Town and then on to Johannesburg and Pretoria for a fortnight full of keenly contested matches and superb sight-seeing.

During the tour the rugby, netball, football and girls’ hockey teams participated in six full days of good spirited and competitive training and matches against school and club teams. The boys’ hockey team entered the Cape Town International Hockey festival playing schools from the UK as well as top South African teams – an amazing experience.  Our South African hosts were so hospitable and the training and matches were great experiences for all, with valuable lessons learnt both on and off the field.

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

Neil McCollin, Acting Assistant Head (Co-Curricular), said, “South Africa is a truly stunning country, passionate and fiercely competitive in their sport. We had an excellent trip and played some inspiring matches and I know that our Princethorpe pupils returned home with a truly wonderful set of memories. The behaviour, engagement and camaraderie of the Princethorpe pupils was first class and I know that this is going to set them up for competitive sporting fixtures this season, but more importantly they will get even more out of their Sixth Form experience as a result of their time away together.”

Huge thanks go to all of the staff involved for their time and passion in putting together and running such an impressive trip.  We were also incredibly fortunate to have some amazing sponsors for the tour and we can not thank enough for their trust and support.

We look forward to the experiences translating into positive results on the pitches over the coming season.

View Gallery

Another Exceptional Summer Art, Photography And Design Show

This College’s Summer Art, Photography and Design Show showcased the superb work of GCSE and A-level pupils. The Sixth Form Centre and Lecture Theatre were transformed into an eclectic exhibition space, the light and airy atrium helping to showcase the work at its best.  The exhibition one of 131 venues across Coventry and Warwickshire taking part in Warwickshire Open Studios 2019.

Those who know the College will be familiar with its formidable reputation for quality Art and Design. The walls of the College are adorned with exceptional examples and the work at this year’s show was no exception with striking portraiture and photography sitting alongside technically complex product design. Visitors were audibly impressed with what they saw, stopping to stare in wonder, exclaiming over the ingenuity and talent and enjoying the fine collection of work.

Our congratulations go to all our GCSE and A-level pupils for producing such a worthy show.  The standard was incredible and it is clear the examiners thought so too with excellent feedback from the moderators and no less than six of our A-level artists awarded an A* on results day.

 

Seven Medals For Princethorpe At The ISA National Athletics Championships

Princethorpe celebrated after bringing home a haul of seven medals from the Independent Schools Association’s (ISA) National Track and Field Athletics Championships.

The Nationals took place on Wednesday 19 June at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham on a thankfully dry day.  Princethorpe took a team of 17 athletes to the event; the pupils had all qualified for the Nationals at the Regional Championships earlier in the season. For all of the athletes it was an excellent opportunity to compete against some high calibre opposition.  In total, there were 700 pupils from 151 independent schools competing at this pre-eminent event.

Princethorpe’s medal haul included three Gold Medals.  Year 7 Kate Pomerleau finished first in the 1500m in a fantastic time of 5 minutes 30.82 seconds, Year 10 Molly Minshull took Gold in the 800m in a super time of 2 minutes 24.31 seconds and Year 9 Ben Hardy set a new national record in the 200m sprint in a supersonic time of 23.51 seconds.

Claiming a Silver Medal were Year 7, Sage Westbury who ran the 70m Hurdles in a time of 13.39 seconds and five pupils who competed in the Midlands relay teams. Ollie Farquharson ran for the Midlands in the Year 7 Boys 4 x 100m relay helping them finish in second place in a time of 55.36 seconds.  Then four Princethorpe Year 9 Girls, Eve Farquharson, Jess Mackenzie, Evie Phillips and Molly Wincott-Thomas, represented the Midlands in the Year 8/9  4 x 100m relay claiming the Silver Medal in a stunning time of 53.55 seconds.

Year 9, Ed Sharpe took the medal tally to seven when he won a Bronze in the 80m Hurdles in a time of 13.18 seconds.  He just missed out on a second medal with his jump of 1.50m which placed him 4th in the High Jump.  Evie Phillips also finished 4th in the 75m Hurdles as did Mollie Wincott-Thomas in the 100m sprint.

Teacher Peter Bucknall, who accompanied the athletes to the Nationals, commented, “A huge well done to all of our athletes for an excellent performance.  Our athletes responded so well to the competition they faced.  Their tenacity, determination, good humour and genuine camaraderie made for a real feel good experience for the whole team, not just those who came home with medals.”

21 Princethorpians Presented With Duke Of Edinburgh Gold Awards At Buckingham Palace

Back in May 21 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 pupils 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 will 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.”

Year 7 Fascinated By Famous Author Frank Cottrell-Boyce

On International Children’s Book Day, Tuesday 2 April, and as part of Stratford Literary Festival’s Schools Week, Princethorpe College was delighted to welcome into school award-winning author and screenwriter, Frank Cottrell-Boyce.

Frank’s first children’s book, Millions, won the CILIP Carnegie Medal, and was made into a film by Danny Boyle.  His latest book Runaway Robot has just been published and his book Sputnik’s Guide to Life on Earth is being made into a film by DreamWorks. Frank was the official scriptwriter for the Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Olympics and is also a judge for BBC Radio 2’s 500 Words, a short-story writing competition for children aged five to 13 years.

During a magical afternoon, Frank spoke to Year 7 pupils, discussing the inspiration behind his books, such as Millions, Cosmic and The Astounding Broccoli Boy.  He shared stories from his childhood, read excerpts from his favourite books and answered a host of questions from an enthusiastic audience. He explained how the shared experience of a book can make you feel better, how stories can transport you and how he likes writing comedy because he likes to make people laugh.

Frank Cottrell-Boyce was clearly delighted with his appreciative audience and after his talk happily signed copies of his books for the children.

School Librarian, Celia Scott, commented, “We were honoured to have Frank visit Princethorpe, he was so engaging, Year 7 were mesmerised by his stories and bursting with questions.  Our thanks go to both Frank and to the Stratford Literary Festival who organised Frank’s visit as part of their special Schools Week.”

College 1st VII Girls Crowned National ISA Netball Champions

Princethorpe College's 1st VII Girls were crowned champions at the prestigious Independent School Association’s National Netball Tournament, the College U14 Girls placed second to take the silver medal and the U16 Girls finished fifth to take the Bowl.

The championships took place back in the Spring at the excellent facilities of Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate in York against tough competition, the best young netball players from independent schools across the country.

The U18 Girls were undefeated in their initial round robin, winning convincingly.  Their play offs proved thrilling, nail-biting affairs with the girls playing with commitment and composure and their vigilance and adaptability ensuring they claimed two excellent victories, a 6-11 win against Queen Ethelburga's and a 5-10 win versus Leighton Park.  Undefeated all day they finished top of the leader board and were crowned as champions overall.

PE Teacher, Hannah Carminati was delighted, commenting, “There were some very closely fought games particularly with Queen Ethelburga’s, but the girls only got better as the day went on and when they had to replay Leighton and Queen Ethelburga’s, in the play-offs, they just stormed ahead!”

The U14 Girls had just as good a day and a second place finish earned them the silver medal.

The U16s also played well. After the round robin they faced King Alfred’s in the play offs where a good win secured fifth place and the bowl.

Miss Carminati continued, “A super huge well done to all the squad.  It was a lovely weekend away and a very successful day with medals all round for the girls.  What a fantastic achievement.”

Pinnacle And Minnacle Showcase Extraordinary Work

The Pinnacle showcases excellent and extraordinary work.  

The latest edition showcases ability and flair across many subjects and year groups, including an award winning poet and a number of Princethorpe's budding sports stars.  It also includes some superb examples of Modern Foreign Languages work and there is also coverage of the wonderful GCSE and A-level Art and Photography, which appeared in our Summer Art, Photography and Design Show.

A double-sized Minnacle is included too, with equally impressive work by Crackley Hall pupils from Nursery to Junior 6 and Crescent pupils from Reception to Class VI. It's wonderful to showcase their talents too!!

Click here if you would like to download a copy of The Pinnacle and here if you would like to see The Minnacle.

Events

Taster Days - Year 6 and Years 7, 8 and 9

Year 6 Taster Days

During September and early October the College is holding taster days for children currently in Year 6 (children born between 1 September 2008 and 31 August 2009), who are interested in admission to the College in September 2020.

These days involve a number of classroom sessions, a tour of the school, lunch and other activities such as a question and answer session with current pupils. The days run from 9.30am to 3.00pm.

Taster day places are available on Tuesday 10 September, Thursday 12 September, Wednesday 18 September and Tuesday 1 October.

To book your child's place please complete a booking and consent form, for a copy please click here.

Years 7, 8 and 9 Taster Days

The College is also holding taster days for current Year 7, 8 and 9 pupils who are interested in admission to the College into Year 8, 9 or 10 in September 2020.  

The Year 7, 8 and 9 taster days will take place on Tuesday 1 October.

To book your child's place please complete a booking and consent form, for a copy please click here.

Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. 

For more information please contact Helen Morgan on 01926 634262 or email helenmorgan@princethorpe.co.uk

Heritage Open Day At Princethorpe College

Sunday 22 September 2019 2.00pm - 4.00pm

Built in 1832, St Mary's Priory was one of the first Catholic buildings in England built after the reformation.

On Sunday 22 September Princethorpe College is taking part in the Heritage Open Day festival.  You are all invited to come for a tour of the College's 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.

The 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. They would be delighted to see you!

Princethorpe College Open Morning

Thursday 26 September 2019 - 10.30am - 12.30pm

Princethorpe College, is holding an Open Morning on Thursday 26 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm. This is a normal school working day and an excellent opportunity for Year 6 children and their parents to visit the College prior to Entrance Examinations Day on Saturday 9 November.  Pupil tour guides will be available to show visitors around the school. 

Please do spread the word amongst friends and family, all are very welcome.

Crackley Hall and Little Crackers Open Events

Tuesday 1 October 2019 - 10.00am to 3.00pm

Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery, in Kenilworth, are opening their doors for an Open Day on Tuesday 1 October from 10.00am - 3.00pm.

This is an opportunity to look around the school on a normal working day, to meet the school's Headmaster, Rob Duigan and to see the improvements that have been made to the facilities over the summer. All are welcome, no need to book.

Thursday 21 November - 7.00pm to 8.00pm

Crackley Hall School will also be holding a Nursery and Reception Open Evening on Thursday 21 November between 7.00pm and 8.00pm, which will give parents an insight into the Early Years at Crackley Hall and Little Crackers.  Mrs Susan Glen-Roots, the Assistant Head for Early Years, will be on hand, as well as the rest of the Reception and Little Crackers Team.

All are welcome at both events, no need to book.

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

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

Crescent School Autumn Open Events

Friday 4 October 2019 - 10.00am to 3.00pm

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

This is an opportunity to look around the school on a normal working day, to meet the school's Headmaster, Joe Thackway and see the improvements that have been made to the facilities over the summer. All are welcome, no need to book.

The Crescent is also holding a Reception Open Evening on Tuesday 19 November between 7.00pm and 8.00pm, which will give parents an insight into the Early Years at Crescent and the firm foundation the school gives children for their future learning. Pathfinders, the on-site partner nursery, which has been rated ‘outstanding’ by OFSTED, will also be open on the evening should parents wish to visit.

If you can't make the open events but would like to visit the school, please call the Registrar, Mrs Helen Morley on 01788 523851 and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors on most days.

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

Princethorpe Sixth Form Open Evening

Wednesday 16 October 2019 - 6.30pm to 9.00pm

Year 11 pupils (Princethorpe and external) and their parents are warmly invited to the Sixth Form Open Evening on Wednesday 16 October from 6.30pm - 9.00pm

The evening will focus on the key events and dates in the Sixth Form application process, specific A-level subject information and advice provided by the Heads of Departments and more general information on the Sixth Form experience at Princethorpe.

The evening will include brief talks from Ed Hester, Headmaster, our Head of Sixth Form, Ben Collie, and current members of the Sixth Form. These sessions will run twice during the evening in the Theatre at 7.00pm and 8.00pm. In addition, there will be short presentations in each of the departments and the chance to talk to staff and current Sixth Formers throughout the evening.

Please do spread the word amongst friends and family, all are very welcome.

For further information please visit www.princethorpe.co.uk

 

Princethorpe College Entrance Examinations

Entrance Examinations for Year 7 to 10 entry to Princethorpe College in September 2020 will take place on Saturday 9 November 2019 from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

For more information on Entrance Examinations click here.

Those wishing to register for Entrance Examinations should do so by Friday 4 October to facilitate the gathering of references from primary schools.

Registrations forms are available in our prospectus packs or you can download a registration form here.

 

Princethorpe College PTA Christmas Fayre

Sunday 1 December 2018 2.00pm-4.30pm

The Princethorpe College annual Christmas Fayre takes place on Sunday 1 December 2.00pm – 4.30pm.  It is a great opportunity to come and experience the magic of Princethorpe as well as stocking up on the perfect gift for that special someone.

Organised by the College's fantastic Parent Teacher Association the Fayre offers Christmas carols, mulled wine and a dazzling array of Christmas craft stalls.  Whether visiting Santa, touring the tower or simply stocking up on that all important reindeer food, the Fayre has something for all of the family.

All are most welcome!

Sixth Form Taster Days

The College will hold specific Sixth Form Taster Days in December 2018 and January 2019 for external Year 11 pupils who might be interested in joining us for Sixth Form in September 2019.

Prospective Sixth Formers will get the chance to attend four lessons over the course of the day (sitting in on current Lower Sixth lessons), plus have time for an informal Question and Answer session with current students, a tour of the College, a short interview with Ben Collie, our Head of Sixth Form, along with time in the Sixth Form Centre for lunch and breaks. 

There will be approximately 12-16 prospective Sixth Formers from a range of schools attending the day and they will be placed in a group with 3 to 4 other current Year 11s.

If you would be interested in joining us for one of these days, please email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

 

Old Princethorpians' Events Calendar 2019-20

We have great pleasure in unveiling the OPs' events calendar for the forthcoming academic year that offers plenty of opportunities for OPs, current and former parents, staff and friends of the College and the Foundation schools to catch up.

Our ever popular Pub meets return with a spring meet in Rugby at Inside the 22 on Friday 6 March and an early summer gathering in London at Le Petit Salon Prive in Covent Garden on Friday 15 May.

The OPs' Summer Supper, a favourite event in the calendar, will take place on Friday 26 June 2020, this time celebrating the leavers of 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000 and 2010, although leavers of other years are also most welcome.

All alumni, former staff and parents fo Princethorpe College, St Joseph's School, Crackley Hall and Crescent School are welcome to participate in any or all of the events. Click here to download the calendar or visit the Old Princethorpians section at www.princethorpe.co.uk for more information on Old Princethorpians.

Admissions

Princethorpe College Admissions 2020 And Entrance Examinations Day

Children who want to come to Princethorpe College, the Foundation's senior school, sit an entrance examination in the November prior to the year of entry, mainly at 11, and at other ages as space allows. A significant number also join us for Sixth Form at age 16.

We welcome children of all faiths and backgrounds, from our junior schools, Crackley Hall and Crescent School, and many other maintained and independent primary schools from around a radius of about thirty miles.

Competition for places is high, as are standards, but the school also looks for young people who will contribute to the wider life of the school.

Our Registrar, Mrs Vanessa Rooney and her assistants, Miss Helen Morgan and Mrs Catherine Rogers, will be pleased to talk you through the admissions process; contact them on 01926 634201/634262.

Click here to download our 2020 Admissions and Entrance Examinations Booklet (Years 7 to 10).

Click here to download our new Princethorpe College Information Booklet for 2019-20.

Entrance Examinations Day

Entrance Examinations for all age groups (except Sixth Form) will take place on Saturday 9 November 2019 from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

All candidates must be registered before sitting the entrance examinations. Registrations, bursary and scholarship applications must be received by the deadline of Friday 4 October 2019 to allow us to process the registration and contact schools for references.

Click here to download a Registration FormArt Scholarship Application Form and a Music Scholarship Application Form.

Following receipt of the registration form any candidate with a learning need will have an assessment with a Special Educational Needs professional.

On The Day

Candidates are requested to report to the College by 9.30am and entry to the building will be from no earlier than 8.45am. Candidates should wear their current school uniform and should bring a pen, two pencils, eraser and ruler. Candidates for Years 9 and 10 (13+ and 14+) should bring a calculator and protractor and the relevant language dictionary.

Candidates sit papers in English and Maths and for those looking at Year 9 and 10 a language paper.  The papers vary in length from 45 minutes to 1 hour. All candidates also sit a 50 minute online assessment which includes Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning and Numerical Reasoning, appropriate to their age and year of entry. More information is available under the relevant age group information.

The online assessment is provided by Durham University’s Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring (CEM). The test is designed to enable all children to demonstrate their academic potential without the need for excessive preparation.

For more information on the online assessment please visit the CEM website at:

https://www.intuproject.org/CEMSelect/fam/CSFamiliarisation.html 

(If you experience difficulties opening this link please try Internet Explorer.)

There are no practice papers available for the online assessment. CEM advises parents that children can best prepare for their online assessment by learning to work quietly on their own, completing homework set by their school, and by reading and making sure they understand all the words in any books they read. Children should also, wherever possible, be encouraged to try to solve problems by looking things up for themselves. Children should be familiar with using a keyboard and a mouse including the ability to click, drag and slide with a mouse.

The following practice papers may prove helpful:

Bond How to do 11+ Verbal Reasoning published by Nelson Thornes (ISBN 9 780192 742292)

Bond How to do 11+ Non-Verbal Reasoning published by Nelson Thornes (ISBN 9 780192 742285)

Bond How to do 11+ Maths published by Nelson Thornes (ISBN 9 780192 742278)

They can be ordered from Waterstones, 1 Priorsgate, Warwick Street, Leamington Spa, CV32 4QG, Tel 01926 883804.

A copy of a past English paper is included in the prospectus pack

For more information visit the Entrance Examinations section on our website.

Please contact the Registrars if you have any queries or concerns.

After the Entrance Examinations are marked, the Admissions Panel sits to discuss applications. The Panel will take into consideration the Entrance Examinations results, references from feeder schools and, for those with learning support needs, the assessment by the Special Educational Needs professional, prior to the Entrance Examinations.

Those entering Years 8, 9 and 10 will also have their personal interviews considered.

Offers Made

Exam results will be posted, first class, on Thursday 28 November 2019. No information will be available before hand.

For those offered a place confirmation of acceptance with £300 deposit is then required to secure the place by Thursday 5 March 2020. This deposit is refunded after the end of the final term which the pupil spends at Princethorpe.

Once you have confirmed your acceptance of a place and sent your £300 deposit you will receive an acknowledgement and a reciept.  A Joining Details Pack will then be sent to you during the Easter holidays. This includes details of the Parent Portal, Communication, Term Dates, Induction, the School Day, Medical Information, Uniform, Bus Services, Catering, School Trips and Activities Information, Music and Drama Information, Stationery and Locker Keys, Parents’ Evenings and the Parent Teacher Association.

Sixth Form Admissions

Sixth Form Admissions 2020

The Sixth Form at Princethorpe offers great choice, quality teaching in small classes, a vast array of sporting, co-curricular, leadership and service opportunities coupled with excellent pastoral care and guidance, tailored to the needs of today's young adults.

Sixth Formers at Princethorpe are fortunate to have a dedicated Sixth Form Centre, featuring a Dining Room, Lecture Theatre, Common Room and a Sixth Form Resource Area and Library for their use.

Admissions for Sixth Form continue to be focused in the spring term following GCSE mocks, though we would encourage all prospective Sixth Formers and their parents to visit our Sixth Form Open Evening on Wednesday 16 October 2019 from 6.30pm to 9.00pm.

This is an ideal opportunity to get a feel for the breadth of Sixth Form life at Princethorpe and to meet and talk with members of staff and current Sixth Formers about A-level subject choices.

Following the Sixth Form Open Evening external Year 11 candidates can attend a Sixth Form Taster Day, which are offered in December and January. These are informal opportunities for small groups of prospective Sixth Formers to visit the College for a selection of A-level subject taster lessons, a Q&A session with current Sixth Formers, lunch, a tour of school and a chance to meet the Head of Sixth Form. If you would be interested in joining us for one of these days, please email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

The minimum academic requirement for entry to Princethorpe Sixth Form is six GCSE grades at 9-5, including at least three grade 6s. Candidates are normally expected to have at least grade 6 in the subjects to be studied to A-level, however for Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages, Latin and the Sciences a grade 7 at GCSE is required.

If you wish to begin Economics or Law in Sixth Form, you will be expected to have achieved at least 6 grades in both Mathematics and English Language. If you wish to study Computer Science at A-level, you must have taken it at GCSE. If you wish to study Psychology at A-level you will need a minimum of a 5 grade in English and Mathematics, plus a 6 grade is highly recommended in a Science subject (ideally Biology).

External candidates are required to complete a registration form along with provisional options for A-levels. The deadline for Sixth Form registrations and Sixth Form Scholarships is Monday 3 February 2020.

Following satisfactory references from the student’s current school, the Admission Panel will meet and, if appropriate, a conditional offer will be made subject to actual GCSE grades. Confirmation of acceptance from a parent with £300 deposit is then required to secure the place. This deposit is refunded after the end of the final term which the pupil spends at Princethorpe.

Sixth Form offers and Scholarship offers, along with confirmation of subject choices will be made the week commencing Monday 23 March 2020, with an acceptance deadline of Wednesday 22 April 2020.

A range of Sixth Form scholarships are available, from Academic to Art, Drama, Music (including Organ) and Sports Scholarships, click here to visit the relevant page on our website.

Once actual GCSE grades have been advised to the Registrar by telephone in August, a confirmed offer will be made.

Click here to download our Sixth Form Admissions 2020 Information Booklet and here for a Registration Form.

Scholarships

Princethorpe College Scholarships and Bursaries

There is a variety of Scholarships available for particularly able or talented candidates including Academic, Art, Music and All-Rounder. Additionally for the Sixth Form there are Academic, Art, Drama, Music (including Organ) and Sport Scholarships available, see the Sixth Form Scholarships article.

Scholarships to a maximum reduction of 50% of tuition fees are available and are awarded at point of entry.

Click here to download our Registration Form, Art Scholarship Form  and Music Scholarship Form.

Academic Scholarships

Candidates applying for entry in Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 will be considered automatically for an academic scholarship when taking the Entrance Examination.

All Rounder Scholarships

Sometimes there are pupils who are both academically able and gifted in a variety of areas and the most outstanding of these can be awarded an All Rounder Scholarship. Supportive evidence is required, such as references from team coaches or activity leaders. This information should be collated and submitted to the Registrars before the close of registrations for the Entrance Examinations on Friday 4 October 2019.

More information on Art Scholarships and Music Scholarships is visit the College website here.

Scholarship Interviews

Prospective Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 pupils who are being considered for either major Academic or major All Rounder Scholarships will be invited to an interview with the Headmaster or the Assistant Head - Co-Curricular following the entrance examinations. The parents/guardians of these candidates will be contacted by telephone from Wednesday 13 November 2019. Only those being considered for these awards will be contacted.

The interviews will take place on Saturday 16 November 2019 and during week commencing Monday 18 November 2019.

Bursaries

Bursaries are available up to 100% of tuition fees. Application forms are available from the Foundation Bursar's office and from our website. Completed applications should be forwarded to the Foundation Bursar with supporting documentary evidence. Applications for bursaries are means-tested and reviewed by external consultants. The deadline for bursary applications is Friday 4 October 2019. 

Click here for more information on Bursaries and the means-tested Thomas More Scholarship aimed at Catholic children who attend a Catholic school.

Sixth Form Scholarships

Sixth Form Academic Scholarships 

External Candidates

Sixth Form Academic Scholarships are available to external candidates who are expected to achieve 7, 8 or 9 grades at GCSE. 

Those who wish to be considered should make an application by the deadline date of Monday 3 February 2020 and if appropriate will be invited to attend the Sixth Form Acadamic Scholarship Day on Tuesday 10 March 2019. The Academic Scholarship Day will comprise a Verbal Reasoning examination, an interview with the Headmaster and Head of Sixth Form, taster lessons in two A-level option subjects, lunch and a tour of school.

Internal Candidates

Internal candidates are also able to apply for Sixth Form - Academic Scholarship as well as Art, Music, Drama and Sport Scholarships.

To do so they must complete a Sixth Form Scholarship Application Form and write a ‘personal statement’ outlining their achievements to date and why they feel they would make an excellent candidate for the scholarship (maximum 500 words).

Those pupils who currently have a scholarship, will normally retain their award for Sixth Form, but must also complete a Sixth Form Scholarship Application Form to re-apply for the scholarship.

The deadline for this application is Monday 3 February 2020. Applications should be marked for the attention of the Registrar.

Prospective award holders may be interviewed in early March. Details of any awards will be confirmed when the Sixth Form offer letters are sent out in writing during week commencing Monday 23 March 2020. Some awards may be dependent on final GCSE grades.

Sixth Form Sport Scholarships

Sport Scholarships may be awarded to internal or external candidates entering the Sixth Form.  The candidates should submit a portfolio and detailed account of their reasons for the application supported by references from their coach/activity leaders.

The final document should be forwarded to our Registrar by Monday 3 February 2020. Following a review of the portfolios, as appropriate, candidates will be invited to the Sports Scholarship Assessment Day on Friday 6 March 2020.

Sixth Form Art Scholarships

A Sixth Form Art Scholarship is available to internal or external candidates entering the Sixth Form. The deadline to apply is Monday 3 February 2020 and the Art Scholarship Assessment Day takes place on Wednesday 11 March 2020.

Successful candidates will be expected to pursue the A-level Art Course.

Requirements:

  • Candidates should have achieved high standards in their GCSE courses (predicted 7, 8 or 9).
  • Portfolio work would also be expected to contain evidence of creative endeavours outside the confines of school GCSE coursework and be supported by a reference from their Head of Art.
  • The candidates will be expected to have excellent observational drawing skills and be able to draw from a still life during the interview day.
  • A CD with up to 20 images of artwork, in JPEG format, must be included with the application and sent to Princethorpe College by the application deadline.
  • Candidates will also be expected to bring a portfolio showing work from their previous two years. 3D work should not be brought, photographic evidence of 3D work being sufficient, or as images on the CD.

Art Scholarship Assessment Day:

  • Candidates will undertake some drawing and design exercises in the art studios and will also be interviewed by the Head of Art with their portfolios of artwork (portfolios should include recent GCSE coursework and evidence of work created outside school).

Internal Candidates for Art Scholarships

Internal candidates are not required to submit a portfolio, however they will be required to attend the Art Scholarship Assessment Day. They will be considered by the Headmaster based on their performance in the GCSE examinations and feedback from the Head of Art.

Sixth Form Music Scholarships

A Sixth Form Music Scholarship is available to external candidates entering the Sixth Form. The deadline for applications is Monday 3 February 2020 and Scholarship Auditions will take place the week commencing Monday 9 March 2020. Successful candidates will be expected to pursue the A-level Music course.

Requirements

  • A standard of Grade 7 ABRSM or equivalent in any instrument.
  • A second instrument, which will probably be at a lower standard than the first. In certain cases it may be possible to begin a second instrument on entry.

The Audition

All candidates must attend a practical examination. At the audition they will be required to:

  • Perform 2 pieces on the instrument of their first choice.
  • Perform 1 piece on the instrument of their second choice.
  • Sing a song of their own choice.
  • Play the panel’s selection of scales and arpeggios from the ABRSM grade that best reflects their current standard and undertake an aural test of the same standard.
  • Participate in a viva voce, where they will be asked about their music-making, hobbies, etc.

Piano accompaniments should be brought to the audition. An accompanist will be provided unless a candidate prefers to be accompanied by an external accompanist they elect to bring with them. Candidates are advised to perform music with which they are comfortable with, rather than playing music which is technically beyond them.

Names and addresses of two referees must be supplied, one of which should be the school music teacher or conductor of a choir or orchestra in which the candidate regularly performs.

Sixth Form Organ Scholarship

A Sixth Form Organ Scholarship of up to 50% of tuition fees is available to candidates who have a high level of ability and are committed and enthusiastic performers; the successful candidate will be expected to play in the College Chapel on Sunday at 10.15am Mass during term time and other functions. Applications, addressed to the Registrar should be received by the deadline of Monday 3 February 2020.

Candidates will be required to perform a short piece and be interviewed by the Director of Music and Headmaster as part of the selection process.

Internal Candidates for Music and Organ Scholarships

Internal candidates do not have to apply for Sixth Form Music and Organ Scholarships. They will be considered by the Headmaster based on their performance in the GCSE examinations and feedback from the Director of Music.

Sixth Form Drama Scholarships

A Sixth Form Drama Scholarship is available to internal and external candidates entering the Sixth Form. Successful candidates will be expected to pursue the A-level Theatre Studies course.

Requirements

  • Candidates should have achieved high standards in their GCSE drama course (predicted 7-9).
  • A proven track record of dedication to school co-curricular drama productions and a commitment for this to continue in the Sixth Form.
  • Candidates to have demonstrated leadership qualities in drama related activities, such as directing or mentoring.

The Audition

All candidates must attend an audition. At the audition they will be required to:

  • Perform two 2 minute contrasting monologues, one contemporary and one from pre 1950.
  • Submit a theatre review of a recent production seen by the candidate.
  • Present other supporting evidence for their application.
  • Participate in a viva voce on a play they have studied and a company/theatre practitioner/theatrical style that has particularly inspired them.

Names and addresses of two referees must be supplied, one of which should be the school drama teacher or the leader of a drama company in which the candidate regularly performs.

Sixth Form and Scholarship offers

Sixth Form offers and Scholarship offers, along with confirmation of option subject choices, will be made the week commencing Monday 23 March 2020.

The deadline for acceptances of Sixth Form places and Scholarship offers is Wednesday 22 April 2020.

FAQs

FAQs

Registrar, Mrs Vanessa Rooney, Assistant Registrar, Miss Helen Morgan, and Admissions Administrator, Mrs Catherine Rogers, deal with many enquiries from prospective parents, here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about the admissions process, with their responses.

If you have a query that isn't covered here, please feel free to contact Vanessa, Helen or Catherine on 01926 634201/634262.

How are places offered?

Places are considered based on the results from the Entrance Examinations, the reference which the College requests from the current school and any other information which is contained on the registration form. The Admissions Panel looks at each individual at length before a decision is made regarding the offer of a place. The decision making process runs over three days.

How many places are offered each year?

The cohort each year is different in number and ability so it depends upon the examination results and the references from the current school.  We usually offer slightly more places than we have space for because we recognise that some children may take entrance examinations for more than one school and some live in areas which still use the 11+ examination.

How can I prepare my child for the exams?

For more information on the online assessment please visit the CEM website at:

https://www.intuproject.org/CEMSelect/fam/CSFamiliarisation.html

If you experience difficulties opening this link, please try Internet Explorer.  

There are no practice papers available for the online assessment. CEM advises parents that children can best prepare for their online assessment by learning to work quietly on their own, completing homework set by their school, and by reading and making sure they understand all the words in any books they read. Children should also, wherever possible, be encouraged to try to solve problems by looking things up for themselves. Children should be familiar with using a keyboard and a mouse including the ability to click, drag and slide with a mouse.

The following practice papers may prove helpful:

  • Bond How to do 11+ Verbal Reasoning published by Nelson Thornes (ISBN 9 780192 742292)
  • Bond How to do 11+ Non-Verbal Reasoning published by Nelson Thornes (ISBN 9 780192 742285) 
  • Bond How to do 11+ Maths published by Nelson Thornes (ISBN 9 780192 742278)

They can be ordered from Waterstones, 1 Priorsgate, Warwick Street, Leamington Spa, CV32 4QG, Tel 01926 883804.

You can also work with your child on a copy of a past English paper which is included in the prospectus pack.

As a general rule on the paper tests advise your son/daughter to answer the easy questions first on the paper and then go back and work on the more tricky ones. Practice at timing themselves while they are working is important too, as they often run out of time. None of the questions on any of the papers need to be answered in order. If the child thinks a question is difficult leave it and go onto the next one and then go back and try again if there is enough time.

How many scholarships are offered each year?

The number of scholarships offered each year depends on the funds allocated by the trustees.  Academic scholarships awarded vary between 10% and 50%. Art and Music can be from 10% to 25%. All-Rounder scholarships are generally from 10% to 25%. All awards are at the discretion of the Headmaster.

What does an All-Rounder Scholarship mean?

The All-Rounder scholarship is for a child with a good academic ability who is involved with activities outside of school. This can be a sport, music, drama, art, cubs, brownies etc. If you wish to apply for this scholarship we ask you to collect evidence and references from coaches and activity leaders outlining the child’s enthusiasm, commitment and ability.  This information should be collated and submitted by the registration deadline. The Admissions Panel frequently sees applications for All-Rounder scholarships which have minimal supporting paperwork. Please make sure that we have sufficient evidence to consider.

Do you take children with a Special Educational Need or Disability?

If your child has a special educational need or disability (SEND), please indicate this on the registration form. He/she will then be invited in for an assessment with a member of our Learning Support department before the entrance examination takes place. The findings from this assessment then go forward to the Admissions Panel together with the entrance exam results, current school reference and, where appropriate, an up to date specialist report from, for example, an Educational Psychologist or Occupational Therapist.

Are children with a SEND entitled to access arrangements in the exam?

Children with a special educational need or disability may be considered for access arrangements in the entrance examinations. Any access arrangements will usually be based on the child's normal way of working in their current educational environment, for which evidence will be required.  We would ask that any Educational Psychologist reports or other supporting information, are forwarded to the Registrars at the earliest opportunity. 

All children with a SEND should see a member of our Learning Support department, prior to the entrance exams taking place, who will be happy to discuss their needs.  Please ensure that you register in good time, to enable us to arrange this meeting.

How are the children put in the new form groups?

At Princethorpe new pupils to the school will join an existing house tutor group comprising pupils from Years 7 to 11. They will stay with this 'family' and form tutor up until Year 11. The Sixth Form have form tutor groups which consist of both Lower and Upper Sixth students.

The Y7 to Y11 house tutor groups have approximately the same number of children from every year group, a mix of girls and boys and ability. 

What sizes are the classes at Princethorpe?

The maximum class size is 24 but this year's Year 7 classes are at around 20 pupils. Design and Technology groups tend to be smaller, normally around 14. Maths and English sets vary according to need – pupils in lower sets will be in slightly smaller groups – usually around 16 or 17.  Students in top sets work very well in slightly larger groups, up to 23/24. 

How are the children allocated to a House?

Houses are allocated by the Deputy Head - Pastoral. Where there is an existing connection with the school pupils usually go into the same house as a sibling or the same house if the parent is an Old Princethorpian. Otherwise the houses are allocated to ensure that the boys and girls are evenly distributed across all four houses.

Will my child get lost when they come to Princethorpe?

Princethorpe has an excellent induction programme that is offered in two separate ways. We have an Induction Day in June for all the new pupils when they spend a day in class and get to meet their Head of House and other members of the Princethorpe community. We also have a Year 7 Activity Day which takes place at the end of the summer holidays. This is a fun day with all the new Year 7 children taking part in games, treasure hunts and activities in and out of the classroom. This is another opportunity to find their way around and meet more staff and children in their House just before they begin school, in September.

How do we find out what is happening at school?

The College has a bi-weekly electronic newsletter, The Flagpole, that includes news articles, events, important information and advice.  We start sending it to new parents towards the end of the summer term and it is the best place to find out what is happening in school. You will also find a wealth of information on our Parent Portal.

Do you offer before and after school care?

The school is open from 7.30am each day with breakfast available in the Sixth Form Centre for early birds. Period 1 and registration is at 8.40am. School finishes at 3.45pm with buses departing at 3.55pm. Princethorpe Prep is available for pupils until 6.00pm. 

What extra charges, apart from the school fees are there likely to be?

When your child first joins Princethorpe there will be the cost of the school uniform and the initial pack of exercise books. All text books are loaned to the child and there is no charge unless one is lost or badly damaged. There are school trips, usually for each year group and these are always connected to the curriculum. Children will need to buy food from the Refectory or bring a packed lunch. We use a fingerprint system so money does not need to be brought into school. Princethorpe takes great care to ensure that costs are kept to a minimum and are always good value.

Current Princethorpe College Bus Service

A comprehensive private bus service brings pupils into the College from a wide area, extending as far afield as Nuneaton and Coventry to the north, Lutterworth and Daventry to the east, Stratford-upon-Avon and Banbury to the south and Solihull to the west.

The two coach operators are Catterall's of Southam and Ridley's of Leamington Spa.

Buses arrive in school for 8.30am in time for the start of the school day.

All buses leave from the front of school at 3.55pm at the end of the school day. Arrangements need to be made for the collection of those children staying on for extra-curricular activities until 5.15pm or Princethorpe Prep until 6.00pm.

We are looking into facilitating lift shares after activities for families living close to each other.

The current bus timetable is available on the school website here

 

 

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Uniform and Sixth Form Dress Code

Uniform is compulsory for College pupils and helps to create a sense of shared identity, community spirit and a pride in oneself and in the College.

Uniform can be purchased from the School Shop.

The School Shop is open from 3.30pm to 4.30pm Monday to Friday during term time. Additionally during the summer holidays the shop is open on selected dates on an appointment only basis.

To make an appointment please call Miss Nicola Browne on 01926 634272 or email uniform@princethorpe.co.uk.

Sixth Form Dress Code

Although College uniform is not required we expect Sixth Formers to set an example by smartness of dress and appearance. Smart clothes suitable for a work environment, including a jacket are compulsory.

High standards of personal appearance and presentation are expected of pupils at all times.

 

Foundation Term Dates 2020-21

For those who like to plan ahead the Foundation Term Dates for 2020-2021 are:

Michaelmas Term 2020

Tuesday 1 September to Tuesday 15 December

Half Term

Saturday 17 October to Sunday 1 November

Lent Term 2021 

Tuesday 5 January to Friday 26 March

Half Term

Saturday 13 February to Sunday 21 February

Trinity Term 2021

Monday 19 April to Tuesday 6 July 

Half Term

Saturday 29 May to Sunday 6 June