Welcome to the spring edition of Princethorpe College's Admissions Update e-newsletter. This issue is packed with news to give you a feel for College life, forthcoming events which are open to prospective pupils and their families and helpful advice about the admissions process, particularly for those who are looking at entry in September 2021.

This newsletter is issued twice a year to coincide with key admissions periods, the next edition will be published in Autumn 2020, prior to our Entrance Exams on Saturday 7 November 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

2021 Admissions Cycle Commences

As the College looks forward to welcoming its new pupils to the school in September, the Admissions Team now turns its attention to entry for 2021.

Entrance Examinations, for entry to the school in September 2021, will take place on Saturday 7 November 2020 and we are already busy accepting registrations.

There are plenty of opportunities for prospective pupils and their parents to visit the College before the Entrance Exams take place; including our summer Open Evening on Wednesday 3 June, Year 5 and 6 Taster Days in April, May, June and September, and a last chance to look round before the Entrance Exams at our Open Morning on Thursday 24 September. 

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

Following the entrance exams, offer letters will be sent out on Thursday 26 November 2020 and the acceptance deadlines will be Monday 14 December 2020 for Years 8, 9 and 10 and Thursday 4 March 2021 for Year 7. The acceptance deadline for Year 7 places is, by a nationally agreed code of practice, the same for all independent schools, allowing parents and children time to review all their options, including those from the maintained sector, before making a final decision.

If you have any questions about the admissions process please contact the Registrar, Vanessa Rooney, on 01926 634201 or email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

 

College To Makes More Year 9 Places Available For September 2020

More Year 9 places are to be made available at the College for September 2020 entry, following a significant increase in demand.

Headmaster, Ed Hester comments, "Our current Year 8 has been full for some time and we have been looking at ways to accommodate a few more good children into the Year Group. Interest has grown sufficiently now to make providing more places a viable option for the start of the next academic year."

He continues, "To facilitate this we will add another teaching group into the year. This will reduce the average class sizes and give us more opportunities to fine-tune the teaching groups and setting. It also helps us to maintain a broad curriculum and provides better timetable options for all the pupils in the year group which will have further benefits as we move towards GCSEs."

A further Entrance Exams session will take place on Tuesday 31 March aimed at children currently in Year 8, who would like to join the College in September 2020. The registration deadline will be Friday 20 March.

Offers will be made on Friday 1 May, with an acceptance deadline of Friday 15 May 2020.

For more information please contact the Registrars at admissions@princethorpe.co.uk or call 01926 634201.

Princethorpe College’s Plans For Science Plus Take Major Step Forward

Princethorpe College’s plans for a new Science Centre have taken a major step forward with planning permission granted, the launch of a fundraising campaign and the unveiling of further campus wide benefits.

The state-of-the-art £8 million Science Centre, which will allow the College to redevelop and cluster several other departments, was granted planning permission in May last year.  The College has also revealed further plans for a new suite of Art studios, additional space for Maths and Technology, increased dining capacity and sporting facilities.

Comments, Foundation Headmaster, Ed Hester, “Princethorpe is situated at the heart of the UK’s automotive industry, where science and engineering meet art and design. We know that our pupils need the finest facilities to give them the best opportunities for their future and widening the scope of our Science Campaign to encompass all STEAM subjects enables us to provide these.”

The Science Centre is now entering the detailed ‘developed design’ stage with local RIBA members, AT Architects of Leamington, who designed The Limes 14-classroom wing in 2014. A cost plan will follow early in the new year, then a period of value engineering and technical design before a bill of quantities is prepared in the summer.

Mr Hester continues, “This is a large, complex and exciting project. The next six months will be critical as we prepare thoroughly for the tendering process in autumn 2020. If all goes to plan we should be appointing a main contractor this time next year, with construction starting early in 2021 and completion in summer 2022.”

A fundraising campaign has been launched to work hand in hand with the delivery of the project. The Science Plus Campaign outlines a menu of giving including engraved pavers and bricks, sponsorship of elements on a giant periodic table and personal and corporate naming opportunities.

Our Director of Development comments, “We’re determined to make sure that this project is funded and built as soon as possible. We hope that the many Friends of Princethorpe will be moved to support this project, as they have previous initiatives in the College’s history. Their support is vital in making our vision for Science Plus a reality.”

Those interested in supporting the Science Plus Campaign are invited to email makingadifference@princethorpe.co.uk or call 01926 634265 for a Science Campaign Plus brochure.

Pictured here alongside Mr Hester and Mr Lee are Head of Science, Emma Cooper, and some of the pupils who will reap the benefits of the new facilities at the College.

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics.

A Year At Princethorpe - 2018/19 Tower Review

The latest edition of the College’s magazine, The Tower Review, was published just before Christmas.

It tells the story of the school year, term by term, reflecting on the whole host of activities, achievements and successes that pupils from Year 7 through to Upper Sixth took part in.  It includes highlights such as Prize Giving and the College production as well as reviews of sporting events, House competitions and school trips. 

2018/19 was an incredible year with many wonderful and memorable moments and we hope this annual souvenir review will be treasured by pupils and parents alike.

You can view a copy, on the school website here.

If you would like to receive a copy please email marketing@princethorpe.co.uk with your name and address.

Oxbridge Offers For High-Flying Princethorpe Girls

Three recent Princethorpe College Sixth Formers are thrilled to have received unconditional offers for places at Oxford and Cambridge Universities.

Former Head Girl, Lizzie Carr, 19, will be reading English Language and Literature at Christ Church College, Oxford, she will be joined by Amy Field, 18, who has an Open Offer to read History at Oxford too, and Daisy Vucevic, 19, will read Theology, Religion and Philosophy of Religion at Selwyn College, Cambridge.

The high-flying girls all received outstanding A-level results last summer and on the back of that success made the decision to apply to the UK’s two most prestigious universities.

Oxbridge places are highly oversubscribed and increasingly competitive, the talented trio faced a tough selection process consisting of pre-tests, intensive scrutiny of their academic and personal achievements and rigorous interviews before receiving the good news. Throughout the process they were supported and encouraged by the Sixth Form team, Oxbridge Co-ordinator, Mrs Hester and their Princethorpe subject teachers, who provided individual guidance over the past few months.

Princethorpe College Head of Sixth Form, Ben Collie, commented, “These three girls have earned this outstanding success. During their time at Princethorpe College they applied themselves not only to their academic studies, but also to developing themselves as confident and mature young people. Applying to Oxbridge is an extremely rigorous and character-testing experience that seems to get tougher every year.  We were delighted to support them with their applications and are exceptionally proud of all their achievements.”

We Will Rock You - It's A Kinda Magic

What a kinda magic this year’s College production We Will Rock You was. Featuring a hilarious script, thrilling storyline and the Greatest Hits of Queen, the cast surpassed themselves as We Will Rock You Schools Edition blew our minds!

Set in a scarily accurate future, the production told the story of two revolutionaries as they try to save Rock in a post-apocalyptic world. It was packed full of much-loved classic Queen favourites including Another One Bites the Dust, Bohemian Rhapsody, Killer Queen, We Will Rock You, Somebody To Love, We Are The Champions, Don’t Stop Me Now to name just a few. Songs and melodies that parents and relatives grew up listening to and that are back in the limelight now following the success of the film Bohemian Rhapsody.

As always, audiences were treated to a spectacular performance full of rocking entertainment that had them all tap tapping along and whistling the hits long after they left.

They were the champions and they had a great run!

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OP Murray Wells Inspires Engineers With Tales Of The Bloodhound Supersonic Car

Princethorpe College was delighted to welcome back Old Princethorpian Murray Wells on Thursday 9 January to talk to Lower Sixth students and Design Technology pupils about the Bloodhound SSC (Supersonic Car) Project and plans for it to set a new world Land Speed Record.

Murray left Princethorpe in 2014 and went on to study Aerospace Engineering at the University of Hertfordshire.  He had always wanted to be an engineer, his choice of career reinforced by a video he saw explaining just how the Bloodhound was powered.  So he jumped at the chance to work on a placement with the project, amongst the UK’s best engineers, on what can only be described as a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Murray explained that the Bloodhound SSC project has two objectives. To set a new Land Speed Record at or above 1,000mph, but also to address the shortage of engineers, by inspiring a whole new generation of enthusiasts.  He recounted the history of the Land Speed Record and of British involvement in it and how ex-RAF pilot Andy Green finally set the current record of 763 miles per hour in Thrust SSC in 1997.

He talked about the Bloodhound SSC Project and the design challenges it faces. How it took two years to design a new body shape, the search for the right engine, the challenges of developing fuel pumps, air brakes and even wheels. He explained that the car will weigh six tonnes, be three metres tall and larger than a bus and that the plan is to drive at 1,000 miles per hour over 12 miles of desert.  He explained about the work done to prepare the race site in Hakskeen Pan in the Mier area of the Northern Cape, South Africa and the positive impact the project has had on the local community.

Assistant Head of Sixth Form, Rod Isaacs and Head of Design and Technology, Paul Scopes both agreed that Murray’s talk was fascinating, saying, “The Bloodhound SSC is one of the most exciting engineering projects in the world, there really is nothing like UK engineering, it was incredible to hear about the project and its achievements so far.”

Our huge thanks go to Murray for taking the time to come into school to talk about the project and his involvement with it.

Year 8 Rosie Reeve Wins Futurechef Local Finals

Princethorpe College school heat winners, Year 8, Rosie Reeve, and Year 7, Francesca Kelly, took part in the Springboard Futurechef Local Finals on Monday 13 January. The competition was hosted by Caludon Castle School in Coventry and saw ten school heat qualifiers battling for a place in the Midlands Regional Final which will take place on Monday 10 February at Coventry College.

The competitors were challenged to cook a two-course meal, a main and a dessert, for two people in 90 minutes for a budget of up to £7, under the scrutiny of two professional chefs who were the judges for the competition.

Rosie’s menu featured a main course of her own home-reared lamb in a redcurrant and red wine jus served with fondant potatoes, accompanied by a rich chocolate tartlet with vanilla cream quenelle and sesame crisp. Whilst Francesca chose a menu of salmon and dill fish cakes with pea puree followed by a dessert of shortcake stack with raspberry and vanilla cream.

Both girls were nervous but had put a lot of effort into practising to prepare for the competition. They produced beautiful dishes against strong competition from their fellow finalists including older pupils from Year 10.  As a Year 7, Francesca was by far the youngest competitor taking part.

The organisers of the competition, Springboard, provide opportunities for young people aged 12-16 to explore food and develop their culinary skills.  Each year over 8,000 young chefs take part in their national competition.

Announcing the winners, the judges commented that they were impressed with the talent shown throughout the morning. They praised the contestants for the high standard of the dishes produced and agreed that the competitors had displayed good technique and execution.

Princethorpe’s Rosie cooked up a storm and was judged the overall winner.  She will now go forward to represent Coventry and Warwickshire at the Regional Final in Coventry next month.  Rosie was delighted to be presented with a certificate and a cookbook.

Rosie said, “The standard of the other competitors was amazing. I was so pleased to be given the opportunity to take part and never expected to win”.

Princethorpe’s Food and Nutrition Teacher, Jacqui Scott, commented, “I was extremely proud of both of our Princethorpe competitors who put a lot of time and effort into menu planning and practising. The food they produced was of the highest standard and was beautifully presented. Both meals could have been served at a restaurant table. They were calm and collected throughout the tense 90 minutes and the professional chefs gave very positive feedback saying it was a very difficult decision. It was such a great experience for our pupils and I am really delighted that we won the Local Final and that one of our Year 8 pupils has taken the title for the second year running.”

Four Team Titles And 14 Qualify For The National Cross Country Championships

14 Princethorpe runners have qualified for the National ISA Cross Country Championships after competing in the Midlands regional competition at Bedstone College, Shropshire on Wednesday 5 February. In addition the U15 Boys, U15 Girls, U13 Boys and U13 Girls teams all placed first, the icing on the cake for the College.

Princethorpe College runners have a long tradition of success at this competition, many have competed at Bedstone before, so hopes were high as they set off to do battle for a place at the National competition.

Both the U13 Girls' and Boys' teams ran well and with so many College pupils finishing in the top 20, both Princethorpe teams bagged the top spot and the team trophy for their age group. Qualifying for the Nationals for the U13 Girls were Kate Pomerleau, Ava Farren and Hannah Wildey who ran superbly to come 1st, 3rd and 5th position respectively. For the U13 Boys Ben Smith, Oscar Reynolds and Ollie Farquharson were just as determined to qualify, finishing their race in 3rd, 5th and 9th.

For the U15 Girls Grace Darcy and Jess Evans had excellent runs to finish in 3rd and 6th place. Whilst for the U15 Boys Zac Johnson, Toby Collett and Jamie Smith came home in quick succession in 5th, 6th and 7th place. They all qualified for the Nationals too.

The U18 Boys team ran swiftly with the Crowfoot twins in excellent form, Tom finished 1st and brother Will 2nd, reversing the results of last year, both qualify for the Nationals, and with a solid team performance the U18 Boys also claimed second position overall for their age group.

In the U18 Girls, Molly Minshull had an excellent race taking 3rd place in a competitive field, she qualified for the Nationals too.

Head of Outdoor Education and PE Teacher, Will Bower, said, “It was a fantastic team performance and I am delighted with the results. You never quite know what you’re going to get with cross country as conditions can be difficult, but today we had red vest after red vest crossing the line at the front of the field; our runners took on the arduous terrain and did very well.”

Our qualifying runners will now compete in the ISA National Cross-Country championships that will take place at Worksop College on Friday 20 March.

 

Helena Lintott Awarded First Place In National ISA Art Competition

Following success in the Regional ISA Art competition the College is delighted to announce that recent Upper Sixth Leaver, Helena Lintott, has just been awarded first place in the prestigious Independent Schools’ Association’s National Art Competition.

Helena’s stunning painting ‘The Gift’ was awarded first place in the coveted Over 16 Painting category. ‘The Gift’ refers to the Three Graces who in Greek mythology are the personifications of beauty, charm, and grace; they were the daughters of Zeus and given these ‘gifts’ by him to bestow on the world. Her work is a superb, striking painting and a well-deserving winner. The piece will be instantly recognisable to anyone connected to the College as it has featured on the cover of the school’s Pinnacle magazine.  This is not the first time Helena has received recognition for her work as she also took first place two years ago in the Key Stage 4 Drawing Category.

We are also pleased to tell you that Lower Sixth Former, Sophie Cheshire’s GCSE design project, that won the Midlands Regional Key Stage 4 Textiles class received a Highly Commended in the National competition.

In the ISA Midlands Regional Art Competition the College was delighted that pupils received the following recognition:

Helena Lintott - first place in the Over 16 Painting category

Fleur Street - first place in the Over 16 Photography category

Sophie Cheshire - first place in the Key Stage 4 Textiles class and a Highly Commended in the Key Stage 4 3D category.

Damien Cowie - second place in the Key Stage 4 Drawing category

Abbie O’Carroll Bailey - second in place the Key Stage 4 Sketchbook class.

Princethorpe College Head of Art, Paul Hubball, applauded the winners, “These prizes reflect the talent we have within our school. There were plenty of excellent entries for the competition so we are very pleased to have so many winners.”

 

U14 Boys Take Silver Medal At National ISA Football Championships

Princethorpe College's U14 Boys Football team have finished as runners up after a sensational performance at the Independent Schools Association (ISA) National Football Championships.

The six-a-side competition took place on Tuesday 28 January at Nottingham University. 20 teams had travelled from across the country to take part in the prestigious event.

The boys stormed through the group stages finishing top of their pool without conceding a single goal. Their opening match was played against Lucton School and confident play led to an easy 1-0 win. They then faced Trinity School Teignmouth, who were dispatched just as quickly 2-0. Next came Huddersfield Grammar School who put up more of a fight, the match was fast paced but Princethorpe’s boys held on for a 0-0 draw.  They finished the initial round with another good 2-0 win against Leighton Park School.

In the semi-final the team faced Red House School but Princethorpe’s boys capitalised on every opportunity.  Superb goals from Dawson Barnett (2) and Joseph Bird ensured the match finished in a fantastic 3-0 win.

In the final Princethorpe went up against a strong and experienced team from the Priory School.  It was a much tougher game, both sides played well and the U14s were unlucky to lose out just going down 0-2 at the end.

Assistant Head of Co-curricular, Neil McCollin, was delighted and commented, "The boys played fantastic football today and the silver medal is a brilliant reward for their commitment and tenacity on the pitch. I am very proud of them all, they were incredible."

Princethorpe College Gains Prestigious Arkwright Scholarship Affiliation

Princethorpe College is delighted to announce that it has been recognised as an affiliated Arkwright School and so joins an elite group of schools, committed to inspiring future leaders in Engineering and Technical Design. 

Arkwright Engineering Scholarships are offered by The Smallpeice Trust, the UK’s leading STEM Education Charity, they are the most prestigious scholarships of their type in the UK.  Arkwright Engineering Scholarships are awarded to high-calibre Year 11 pupils through a rigorous selection process. The scholarships identify, inspire and nurture exceptional pupils in Engineering, Computing and Technical Design. 

Those lucky enough to be awarded a scholarship, receive a financial award and the support of a mentor who works with them throughout their time in Sixth Form. They are also given the opportunity to attend courses and events for Arkwright Scholars. They are then ideally positioned to pursue Engineering, Computing or Technical Design at university or through a higher-level apprenticeship and to pursue careers in the engineering field.

Head of Careers, Jacqui Quinney, comments, “Arkwright Scholarships are highly sought after as they provide exceptional support.  Pupils who successfully obtain an award have access to unparalleled opportunities. Arkwright Engineering Scholars achieve excellent academic success and are known to make enviable career progress.  Princethorpe College has identified a small number of current Year 11 pupils who we believe have the skills and attitude to be successful in the scheme and they are preparing their applications now.”

Year 7 Have An Amazing Time At Whitemoor Lakes

Year 7 were lucky with the weather when they enjoyed a wonderful three-day programme at Whitemoor Lakes Outdoor Residential Centre. 

135 pupils took part in an itinerary that included archery, canoeing, climbing, high ropes and problem solving.  In small groups they rotated around the different activities working together to complete the challenges they were set. In the evenings they enjoyed team games and dancing at the fabulous Saturday night disco. With no mobiles, Year 7 were off the grid and had time for plenty of old-fashioned fun.

There were lots of opportunities for pupils to develop their team working skills and the activities all helped to encourage initiative and develop resilience and social awareness. Over the weekend Year 7 all grew in confidence having approached new challenges with determination and enthusiasm and enjoyed a memorable three days.

Deputy Head – Pastoral, Beth Sharpe said, “This was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 7 pupils to bond together as a year group. They had an amazing time and were really supportive of one another as they worked together.  I know they have come back into school with new friends and better able to work together as a team.”

Well done to everyone and a big thank you to all the staff who supported the trip and took on the activities too.

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Princethorpe College Invaded By Romans!

Visiting Roman Centurions invaded Princethorpe College on Tuesday 8 October armed with swords and scutums (shields) and ready to do battle. It was Year 7 Roman Day, a day when every pupil in the year enjoys lessons full of tales of blood and gore, as they learn about the Roman invasion and settlement of Britain.

The Centurions’ passion and knowledge of the period was vividly dramatised as the two men, dressed in full legionnaire’s costume, brought to life the strategic tactics and organisation of the Roman fighting machine. With replica costumes and equipment based on real archaeological finds, the sessions complemented the lessons Year 7 have been studying in History this half term.

Lucky class ‘volunteers’ dressed up in full body armour and attempted to carry a soldier’s kit, as Roman Tours expert, Centurion Ocratius Maximii, captivated the new recruits with graphic stories of life in the Roman Army and fascinating facts about all things Roman. Ethan Peachey was just one of the lucky pupils who donned the Roman Tunica, Lorica (armour) and Galea (helmet) and then picked up his soldier’s kit and prepared to march. Ethan and his classmates were also treated to lessons in sword skills and battle tactics from the greatest army of the time.

Peter Bucknall, Head of History said, “The Year 7s have learnt all about the life of a Roman soldier, his training and his clothing and armour, but they have also discovered lots of interesting background information about Roman times. The Centurions’ visit has left pupils buzzing with curiosity and keen to find out more, it was a fantastic day’s learning for all who took part.”

Inspiration For All At Princethorpe’s Choral Fun Day

Some 70 young singers from local primary schools enjoyed a super day of singing when they joined Princethorpe's Director of Music, Gil Cowlishaw, Music Teacher, Alison Wakeley, Peripatetic Music Co-ordinator, Felicity Coulson, and members of the Princethorpe College Choir for a fabulous Choral Fun Day.

The Year 5 and 6 pupils tackled a variety of choral pieces from popular favourites such as Bruno Mars' Count on Me, traditional works such as Siyahamba and Canon, to the inspirational High Hopes by Panic at the Disco.

As well as rehearsing furiously, the visiting children took part in a musical team scavenger hunt and enjoyed lunch in the Refectory.

The day culminated in an impressive gala performance of their newly learnt pieces in front of an enthusiastic capacity audience of family and friends in the College's Clarkson theatre, followed by afternoon tea for all.

Commenting on the day, Gil Cowlishaw said, "We were really impressed by the children. They achieved such a lot in just a few hours, learning so many songs and then taking to the stage to perform in front of an audience is no mean feat, a huge well done to them all!”

And a special thank you to all of the fantastic Princethorpe pupils and staff who came along to support the Choral Fun Day.

Pinnacle And Minnacle Showcase Extraordinary Work

The latest editions of the Pinnacle and Minnacle magazines have just been published.  Showcasing exceptional work by pupils from across the Foundation it is certainly an inspiring read.

In the Pinnacle there is news of the College's STEAM initiative and Oxbridge success plus examples of linguistic flair, technological triumphs and exquisite English.

A double-sided 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.

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Events

Princethorpe College Open Events

Tuesday 17 March 2020 - 10.30am to 12.30pm - To Be Rescheduled

With the fast-changing situation regarding COVID-19 it is with regret that we have decided to cancel or postpone all non-essential, larger scale Foundation events in the coming week or so, including postponing Princethorpe College's Spring Open Morning on Tuesday 17 March.

Our next planned event is our Open Evening on Wednesday 3 June 2020, see below.

Wednesday 3 June 2020 - 6.30pm - 8.30pm 

The College's annual Summer Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 3 June from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.  This is an informal opportunity to look around the school 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 will be available.

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

Crackley Hall 75th Anniversary Celebrations - Postponed

Thursday 19 March and Saturday 21 March

With the fast-changing situation regarding COVID-19 we are looking carefully at all aspects of the school’s organisation and events. The health and wellbeing of our community is of paramount importance to us; we want to ensure the safety of our school community and to minimise the potential for the spread of any infection.

It is with regret that we have decided to cancel or postpone all non-essential, larger scale Foundation events in the coming weeks.  This unfortunately affects Crackley Hall’s 75th Anniversary Celebrations, including the St Joseph’s Mass (now only open to school family members) on Thursday 19 March and the Open House and Diamond Anniversary Gala Ball on Saturday 21 March.

We will look to reschedule the Open House and the Diamond Anniversary Gala Ball later this calendar year.

 

Crescent School Open Events

Crescent School Open Morning

Saturday 21 March 2020 - 09.30am to 12.30pm - To Be Rescheduled

With the fast-changing situation regarding COVID-19 it is with regret that we have decided to cancel or postpone all non-essential, larger scale Foundation events in the coming week or so, including postponing Crescent School's Spring Open Morning on Saturday 21 March.

Our next planned event is our Open Evening on Tuesday 5 May 2020, see below.

Crescent School Open Evening

Tuesday 5 May 2020 - 5.00pm - 7.30pm

The school will also be holding an Open Evening in May where parents will be able to tour the school and speak to the Headmaster.

There is no need to book for either event.

The school has recently announced plans to add a second Reception class for September 2020 due to high demand, spaces in other years are limited.

If you can't make the Open Evening but would like to look around, please call our Registrar, Mrs Helen Morley on 01788 523851 or email admissions@crescentschool.co.uk to arrange a visit.

Princethorpe College Year 5 Taster Days

Due to the ongoing pandemic the College is not currently holding Taster Days.

However you can still register your interest here and we will get back in touch with you as soon as we are able to organise the next Taster Day events.

Taster Days are for children currently in Year 5 (children born between 1 September 2009 and 31 August 2010), who are interested in admission to the College in September 2021.

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.

Princethorpe Say Hello To Hockey

Saturday 2 May 2020 -  9.30am to 12.00pm

If you'd love to give hockey a try, why not come along to the Princethorpe College 'Year 4 and 5 Say Hello To Hockey' taster session!

A morning of free hockey training on our astroturf, you'll learn new skills, make friends, have fun and beginners are most welcome.  Aimed at girls and boys, the morning will finish with a mini tournament.

Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. To book your child's place please complete a booking and consent form here.

 

Arts Society Events 2020

Princethorpe College’s Arts Society meets regularly with lectures and performances on interesting and diverse topics.

Dante Alighieri - Lecture 3 - Tuesday 12 May 2020 - 7.30pm

The last in our series of lectures on Dante will take place on Tuesday 12 May.

The talk will take commence at 7.30pm in the Sixth Form Lecture Theatre and will be followed by wine and light refreshments in The Atrium.

Further details will be published shortly but we are happy to receive provisional bookings by e-mail please, at alexdarkes@princethorpe.co.uk

Arts Society Summer Lecture - Sir Wilfred Thesiger - Tuesday 2 June 2020 - 7.30pm 

Dr Nick Baker, former archivist of Princethorpe College will give a presentation on the life and times of Sir Wilfred Thesiger. A quintessential English explorer, Sir Wilfred Thesiger was the last and greatest of that small band of travellers who sought out the secrets of the desert in the years before Arabia was transformed forever by the oil beneath her sands.

The talk will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday 2 June 2020 in the Sixth Form Lecture Theatre followed by wine and light refreshments in the Atrium.

Tickets may be purchased at the door but advance notice helps catering. Princethorpe, Crackley Hall and Crescent School pupils free of charge. We are happy to receive provisional bookings by email, please at alexdarkes@princethorpe.co.uk

 

The annual Huge Page Organ Recital (Huge Page at 100) will take place on Tuesday 30 June 2020 - please save the date.

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Crackley Hall and Little Crackers Open Events

Open Evening

Tuesday 12 May 2020 - 5.00pm to 7.30pm

Another chance to look around the school and nursery and meet staff and pupils.

All are welcome to both events and there is no need to book. Light refreshments will be available.

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

For more information please see the school website. 

Come And Say Hello At The Kenilworth Show!

Saturday 6 June 2020

Both Crackley Hall School and Princethorpe College will be out in force at the Kenilworth Show on Saturday 6 June 2020.

A great day out for all the family, there is so much to see and do: The Sheep Show, Heavy Horses, The Grand Parade of Livestock, The Countryside Arena, Farm Machinery and much much more!  

There will also be over 100 trade stands from arts and crafts, jewellery, homewares, through to artisan breads and pies in the indoor trade marquee (where you can also find us!), with clothing stalls, garden furniture, plants and local club stands outside.

Visitors to the show can come and find out about our upcoming open events, admissions for September 2020 and beyond, and we would love to say hello to any former St Joseph School pupils and Old Princethorpians!

Tickets are just £12.50 in advance but under 16s go free! For more information about the event and to buy tickets, please visit: https://www.kenilworthshow.co.uk/

We hope to see you there.

Princethorpe PTA Summer Fete, Summer Art, Photography And Design Show and 25th Annual Motoring Festival 2020

Sunday 21 June - 2.00pm to 4.30pm

The Summer Art, Photography and Design Show  

A celebration of Princethorpe College's pupils GCSE and A-level Art, Photography and Design work will take place in the College's Sixth Form Centre.  A range of design 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 students' fantastic creativity with a wider audience and to welcome more art and design lovers to Princethorpe."

The Princethorpe PTA Summer Fete 

The event is held in the Orchard with lots of entertainment for both children and adults. There will be many and varied attractions including a ‘real-ale’ tent, a Dog Show with plenty of summer fete stalls, activities and competitions.

Please keep an eye on the PTA section of the Princethorpe website for updates and for more details of what’s on offer. 

25th Annual Motoring Festival

The 25th Annual Motoring 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.

On-line registration for the 2020 event is now open, click here for more information.

 

New Pupils Induction Day And Information Fair

Wednesday 24 June 2019 9.00am to 4.45pm

(Presentation to Parents and Information Fair from 3.30pm to 4.30pm)

The Induction Day for new pupils starting at the College in September 2020 will take place on Wednesday 24 June 2019. The day will consist of two separate events. The new pupils should arrive at school in their current school uniform for 9.00am, but no earlier than 8.45am and can be dropped off by the Sports Hall where they will be met by the Registrars.

They will spend the day getting to know Mrs Susan Harris, Head of Transition and Induction, their Head of House, meet their new Vertical Tutor Group and their teaching group. Refreshments at break and lunch will be provided.

Parents should return to the Chapel at 3.15pm for a prompt start at 3.30pm for their own talks and an Information Fair. Parking will be in the Orchard. There will be an introductory address by the Headmaster and senior staff and after which parents will have the opportunity to visit the Information Fair.

The Fair comprises the following;

  • Bus services
  • Music lessons 
  • Medical matters 
  • Catering
  • Parent Teacher Association 
  • Uniform - book your appointment for the shop

Following the Fair you will be rejoined by your son or daughter for refreshments outside when there will be a further opportunity to chat with Mrs Harris, the Heads of House and other members of staff.  The day will finish around 4.45pm

Year 7 Activity Day - Friday 28 August - 9.30am to 4.00pm

The incoming Year 7 children will get a further opportunity to get to know the College and each other a little better on their Activity Day on Friday 28 August, just before term begins on Tuesday 1 September.

 

Year 5 Parents' Admissions Q and A Session

Monday 29 June 2020 - 6.30pm to 7.30pm

The College's Admissions Team will be holding a Year 5 Parents' Q and A session on Monday 29 June 2020.

This is a chance for Year 5 parents’ to ask our Admissions Team questions relating to the admissions process and Entrance Examinations Day in an informal forum before the registration deadline of Friday 2 October 2020.

If you would like to attend please click here to secure your booking for the event and the Registrars will contact you nearer the time with further details.

Princethorpe College Entrance Examinations

Entrance Examinations for Year 7 to 10 entry in September 2021 will take place on Saturday 7 November 2020 from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

More information on the Entrance Examinations is available in the Admissions section of this newsletter or from the school website please click here.

All candidates must be registered before sitting the entrance examinations. Registrations, bursary and scholarship applications must be received by the deadline of Friday 2 October 2020 to allow us to process the registration and contact schools for references

Following receipt of the registration form, any candidate with a learning need will have an assessment with Lorna Prestage, our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Co-ordinator, prior to the entrance examination. In this instance, early submission of the registration form is advised in order that this appointment can be made in good time. 

Old Princethorpians' Events Calendar 2019-20

The OPs' events calendar offers plenty of opportunities for past pupils, former parents, staff and friends of the College and the Foundation schools to catch up.

Our ever popular Pub Meets return with an early summer gathering in London at French restaurant, Balthazar in Covent Garden on Friday 15 May.

The OPs' Summer Supper Reunion, 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 of 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 2021 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 2021 Admissions and Entrance Examinations Booklet (Years 7 to 10)

Click here to download the Princethorpe College Information Booklet for 2019-20

Entrance Examinations Day

Entrance Examinations for all age groups (except Sixth Form) will take place on Saturday 7  November 2020 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 2 October 2020 to allow us to process the registration and contact schools for references.

Click here to download a Registration Form, All-Rounder Scholarship 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 for 9.30am and entry to the building will be from no earlier than 9.00am. 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 Day 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 26 November 2020. No information will be available beforehand.

For those offered a place confirmation of acceptance with £300 deposit is then required to secure the place by Monday 14 December 2020 for Years 8, 9 and 10 and Thursday 4 March 2021 for Year 7. 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 receipt.  Joining details will then be sent to you during the Easter holidays. These include details of Term Dates, Induction, the School Day, Medical Questionnaire, Uniform, Buses, Catering, Locker Keys, Stationery, Parents’ Evenings and the Parent Teacher Association.

Sixth Form Admissions

Sixth Form Admissions 2020

We have had a high level of interest in Sixth Form Admissions for September 2020 entry and will be shortly making offers, if you are interested in a place please call the Admissions Team to discuss potential availability.

Admission to the Sixth Form is based on satisfactory GCSE results, with the addition of an informal interview for external candidates. The minimum academic requirement for entry to Princethorpe Sixth Form is six GCSE grades at 9-5, including at least three grade 6s. Under the new numerical grading system, that equates to three ‘5’s and three ‘6’s. 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).

Click here to download our Sixth Form Admissions 2020 Information booklet

External candidates should get in touch with the Registrar, Mrs Vanessa Rooney to arrange an informal interview, with the Head of Sixth Form, Ben Collie or one of his assistants, after which a formal registration along with provisional options for A-level should be made.

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.

Sixth Form offers and Scholarship offers will be made week commencing Monday 23 March 2020.

Confirmation of acceptance from a parent with a £300 deposit is then required to secure the place. This deposit is refunded after the end of the final term which the student spends at Princethorpe.

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

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

Sixth Form Induction Day will take place on Friday 28 August 2020 from 8.30am to 3.20pm.

Sixth Form Admissions 2021

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 14 October 2020 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 1 February 2021.

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 22 March 2021, with an acceptance deadline of Wednesday 21 April 2021.

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 current Sixth Form Admissions 2020 Information Booklet and here for a Registration Form. The Sixth Form Admissions 2021 Information Booklet will be published later in the year.

Scholarships

Princethorpe College Scholarships and Bursaries 2021

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, All-Rounder Scholarship FormArt 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 

Children who are both academically able and gifted in a variety of areas are invited to apply for an All-Rounder Scholarship

Please complete the All-Rounder Scholarship form and provide supporting evidence to show the areas of talent or expertise and standards achieved. This should include, for example, references from team coaches or activity leaders, certificates and awards. This information should be presented in a portfolio format with a covering letter from the child to the Headmaster.

Applications for the All-Rounder Scholarship and supporting portfolio should be submitted to the Registrars by Friday 2 October 2020. Please note that portfolios are returned after results letters have been sent out at the end of November.

More information on Art Scholarships and Music Scholarships is available on 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 11 November 2020. Only those being considered for these awards will be contacted.

The interviews will take place on Saturday 14 November 2020 and during week commencing Monday 16 November 2020.

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 2 October 2020. 

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 2021

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 1 February 2021 and if appropriate will be invited to attend the Sixth Form Acadamic Scholarship Day on Tuesday 9 March 2021. 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,  Drama, Music, Organ 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 1 February 2021. 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 22 March 2021. 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 1 February 2021. Following a review of the portfolios, as appropriate, candidates will be invited to the Sports Scholarship Assessment Day on Friday 5 March 2021.

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 1 February 2021 and the Art Scholarship Assessment Day will take place during week commencing Monday 8 March 2021.

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 1 February 2021 and Scholarship Auditions will take place the week commencing Monday 8 March 2021. 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 1 February 2021 and Scholarship Auditions will take place the week commencing Monday 8 March 2021.

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. The deadline for applications is Monday 1 February 2021 and Scholarship Auditions will take place the week commencing Monday 8 March 2021.

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 22 March 2021.

The deadline for acceptances of Sixth Form places and Scholarship offers is Wednesday 21 April 2021.

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