Old Princethorpians

Click on the attachment below to download the latest In the News posters featuring some of the Foundation's most recent media coverage.

In The News

The latest issue of The Pinnacle, out in time for the end of term, showcases yet more of our pupils' excellent work.

In this issue there's a double page spread dedicated to the 'legendary' Legends Hockey Camps, orchestrated by our very own, Mr Hockey, Dex. As ever there are pages full of pupils undertaking tough academic challenges, amazing sporting feats and producing fantastic award-winning artwork and evocative creative writing.

A double-sized Minnacle is included this time round, with equally impressive work by Crackley Hall pupils from Reception to Junior 6 and new to the Foundation, Crescent pupils from Reception to Class VI. It's super to showcase their talents too!! Copies were distributed to all pupils via their Form Tutors at the end of term.

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

December 2016 Issue 21.pdf

Princethorpe College’s Annual Prize Giving Ceremony can feel a little like the Oscars. The swish of the well dressed, the chink of fizz and the rousing musical numbers definitively carving out an atmosphere of unity. In addition, there’s also the bubbling build up to the big one; the knee jiggling, dry mouthed front row of former Sixth Form students avidly speculating over who will win the much prized Princethorpe shield?

Well, this year’s ceremony was different but the same. And that neatly encapsulates what Headmaster, Mr Ed Hester’s, rousing address speech was all about. His nod to the past, in this our Golden Jubilee year, was like being wrapped in a warm Sunday afternoon blanket of tea time digestives and fire side tales as we learnt about Fr Clarkson’s 1967 overview of what then meant progress. Much giggling rippled around the Butterworth Hall in response to brow raising facts about new wash basins, enlarged tuck shops and only two, yes two, boys making it through to university way back then. Safely ensconced in the present Mr Hester ebulliently listing many of the wonderful landmark changes that the Foundation has experienced in the last decade alone. Yes, our tuck shop has also undergone extensive renovations but there has been so much more that has contributed to the school that we all know today; not least the slightly soggy but resplendent joy that was Princefest at the start of this term.

Such a partisan audience are bound to share in the delight of this celebration of hand shaking and trophy giving. And that’s what we were there to do. To reflect also on the alchemy behind the teaching profession, so neatly alluded to through Mr Hester’s quotation from Robert Bolt’s fabulous, ‘A Man for all Seasons.’ To applaud the graciousness, the dignity and the sheer hard work of all Princethorpe students; those greatest ambassadors of the College old and new. To listen to advice shared about effort and resilience – the rallying cry of Winston Churchill himself, (“continuous effort… is the key to unlocking potential”) and to thank, thank the dedication of parents, of the trustees and friends of the College community who every single day help to shape the school into far more than bricks and mortar.

This year’s annual Prize Giving Ceremony didn’t run like clockwork. But then why would we want it to? There was the moment of the ‘missing year 11s’ heart warmingly meeting with laughter and applause, the dropping of a trophy midway through Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Margaret Robinson’s, citation, there were the precarious cat walk heels worn by some of the prize recipients – and there were the unplanned tears of Mrs Robinson who was surprised by a flash mob of flowers in recognition of her twenty plus years of service. This year’s Princethorpe Shield, (the big one) winner Tilly Langford, wasn’t even at the ceremony. Committed already to a University of York orchestral performance she missed the standing ovation and smacks of applause, yet still we celebrated in her absence, because that’s what the spirit of Princethorpe is all about – uniting in recognition of the seen, the unseen, the past and the present.

And there was more.

Breaking from tradition we said it in dance. The finale of an evening of sitting and clapping culminated in the whirling feet of Old Princethorpian brothers Alasdair and Callum Spencer. Both now professional Irish dancers ‘living the dream’ (as Alasdair writes on his dance blog) they flew back home to lift our hearts and give us wings before we broke into the College hymn.

Past meets present. Present meets past. Oscars we may not be but this year’s ceremony articulated the College’s enduring ethos; that love, kindness and friendship now, more than ever are the lasting qualities shared amongst all whose time has been spent at the College.

Click here to view more photos from the evening.

The Princethorpe Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment of Joe Thackway as Crescent School Headmaster with effect from September 2017. Joe will also become a member of the Foundation Executive Committee and sit on the Princethorpe College Admissions Panel. He takes over the headship from Huw Marshall who retires at the end of this academic year after 15 years of outstanding service.

Joe is a vastly experienced teacher with a strong track record of success in school leadership and management. He has been Deputy Head at Hallfield School, an outstanding independent preparatory school, in Edgbaston, Birmingham since September 2007. Committed to providing the best possible education for the children in his care in all aspects of school life, along with developing a true sense of belonging, Joe will be responsible for the management and strategic direction of the Crescent following its merger with the Princethorpe Foundation.

A History graduate with 22 years’ experience in the profession, he has taught in both the state and independent sectors and also gained valuable experience in international schools in Vienna and Prague.

Married with three children, aged 10, 14 and 16 years, Joe is a keen sportsman who enjoys long distance cycling and marathon running in his spare time.

Commenting on the appointment Mrs Mary O’Farrell, Chair of Trustees for the Princethorpe Foundation said, “We had a very strong field of candidates for the post and Joe impressed us all with his knowledge and insight, his fine educational credentials and swift rapport with the children. We are confident that he is the right person to take the Crescent to new heights and we will also value his contribution to the overall Foundation.”

In accepting the position Joe commented, “It is an immense privilege to take on the headship of the Crescent at this exciting time. I look forward greatly to meeting and spending more time with the pupils, parents and staff over the coming months and building relationships which will inform our future plans and ambitions for the school.”

Crescent School will be holding a whole school Open Morning on Saturday 25 March from 9.30am to 12.00pm aimed at prospective parents looking for admission in September 2017 and beyond. We are delighted to confirm that Joe Thackway will be joining us for this event.

For more information visit www.crescentschool.co.uk

Old Princethorpian Ellie Garden and current Sixth Form Art Student Selin Hassan have accumulated a total of two first prizes and one second prize in the ISA National Art Competition 2016. Selin, following in her older sister Samira’s footsteps (who also won prizes for both her Drawing and Painting) and Ellie stole the show in the Regional leg of the competition which this year was held in the Chapel at Princethorpe.

Toe-curling images of family members portrayed in the most acute detail and unique background stories embellish both Selin and Ellie’s artwork.

Selin’s love of faces is developed in her acrylic painting ‘Generations’ which highlights the difference between mother and daughter, and is painted in photo realistic detail showing every wrinkle and line. Selin has tackled the subject matter sensitively and the work has an intriguing aesthetic. Her use of colour and light absorbs the eye as you move between the generations noting that each wears the thread of a silver necklace, belonging to Selin’s grandmother – iterating the female bond over the years. With the Key Stage 4 2D Art category being the most fiercely sought after it is a real tribute to Selin’s skill with the brush that she was awarded first place at national level.

Ellie’s artwork ‘Control’ tackles the prickly subject matter of eating disorders and the control this has over someone’s life. It is a positive piece showing someone who is winning the fight with their disorder. Painted on un-primed canvas, the work has a beautiful sensitive quality to it. The regional judges were blown away by Ellie’s not one but two canvases, proving going the extra mile can really benefit you in the long run. Ellie not only received 2nd place in the Key Stage 5 2D Art Category, but also 1st place for her Unit 3 Coursework sketchbook again in the Key Stage 5 Category.

Comments, Paul Hubball, Head of Art, “Both girls worked extensive long hours perfecting brush strokes and colours, they are extremely worthy winners of their national titles and should be justly proud of their achievement.”

Special mention also goes to Josh Tidd and Sebastien Shaw (Year 9) for making it through to the ISA National Art Competition with their computer animation ‘Cher Frere Blanc’ and receiving first in their category.

Click here to view Selin's winning piece

The Development Office has made considerable progress in the last nine months. It has been wonderful to meet so many of the Princethorpe community who have kindly shared their time, advice and ideas.

We are thrilled that we are now able to launch our new Development initiative: Making a Difference at Princethorpe and this will begin with a dinner on Friday 3 March. The dinner will give our guests, an opportunity to learn more of our plans, and also hear from past recipients of bursaries about their life-changing experiences. We are delighted that our inaugural donor to the Bursary campaign is able to attend, along with representatives from the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, our original benefactors.

The Making a Difference initiative will enable us to provide more bursaries to deserving pupils. Whilst our fee income is sufficient to cover core costs and some capital expenditure, it does not allow us to increase the number of places for deserving pupils from families who could otherwise not afford the fees. It is also insufficient to wholly fund major new initiatives. With this in mind, we have established the 50 + 10 Bursary Fund which aims to provide at least ten fully-funded bursary places for children who would not otherwise be able to attend the College.

We believe that every child with the potential and passion to benefit from a Princethorpe education should be given the opportunity to learn, grow and develop here. With support from the Princethorpe community, we can help more children to enjoy our unique education and we are committed to expanding this life-changing scheme.

If you would like to know more, or join us for dinner on Friday 3 March, please contact the Development Team at makingadifference@princethorpe.co.uk, telephone the Foundation Development Director, Rachel Hadley-Leonard on 01926 634265, or click here to visit our web pages. 

The wooded area in the College's grounds including the small lake set below the Mile Walk, known as Switzerland since the time of the Benedictine Nuns, has been undergoing a major renovation since October 2016. 

Over the last few months the project overseen by the College's enthusiastic Grounds Team, in consultation with the Tree and Woodland Company and Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, has seen the area transformed into a teaching area and wildlife habitat zone, which is due to be handed over to the school at Easter.  The area has been opened up, cleared of vegetation and a new boardwalk, jetty, log and bark path and a covered teaching area have been constructed.

Access to the area has been improved from both the bottom and the top, with the original steps revealed. 

Comments Edd Robertson, Foundation Grounds Manager, "We know from the Old Princethorpians that this area was enjoyed and well used by the boys in the olden days, who even canoed on the lake. Over the last 30 or so years the area had sadly become very overgrown and neglected.

He continues, "As part of an ancient woodland we have been mindful with the works to respect the plants and wildlife that exist here. Our team have really enjoyed bringing this area back to life and we hope it will be a haven for staff and pupils alike to enjoy."

Phase two of the project will involve the siting of bird and bat boxes, the building of bug hotels and the planting of reeds and lilies in the pond.

The land which is still owned by the MSCs is due to be handed over to the College in the coming months.

Click here to view old photos of Switzerland in use

Click on the link below to see the plan for Switzerland.

Plan for Switzerland.pdf

Just before Christmas Ed Hester, the Headmaster, sent his end of term letter to the parents which included an update on the staff at the College. We're sure the OPs would be interested to have this information too, so here's an excerpt from his letter.

At the end of term we have a few staff who will be leaving us. John Price has given sterling service as a teaching assistant over the past two years and has been a superb role model for the pupils; he leaves to pursue his academic studies. We say goodbye to Peter Marshall, a fellow member of the trombonist’s union, who has covered for Alison Wakeley’s maternity period in the Music department. Alison returns in the new year. Phil Duckworth retires after seven excellent years’ service in the Physics department. Emma Litterick leaves after fifteen years within the Foundation to pursue fresh career challenges. In addition to her English teaching, Emma has undertaken a number of senior roles within the College including, Press Officer, Teaching and Learning Coordinator and Staff Development Coordinator. We thank Emma for her huge contribution to the development of the College and her committed and resolute service and wish her well for the future. Brigitte Wood retires having been a stalwart of the French department over her 25 years’ service. Finally, as you will already be aware, Margaret Robinson retires after 26 wonderful years. Initially Head of Modern Foreign Languages, Margaret has spent 14 years as Head of Sixth Form. Under Margaret's leadership the Sixth Form has flourished and developed tremendously; her expertise and kindness will be missed by all. Dr Reddish, Margaret’s successor is, of course, already in situ having completed his first term with us. We wish all our leavers well for the future.

A really enjoyable evening was had by all who attended what we hope will be the first of many Old Princethorpians' get togethers down under.

The gathering was initiated by OPs committee member, Peter Griffin (recently retired after 37 years teaching) who with his wife, Liz (another former member of staff) were visiting their son, James (class of 2000) and his fiancée, Cleo who live on the Central Coast, an hour north of Sydney.

James' old classmates from 2000, Michael Kerrigan and Alex Sedgfield also work in Sydney and were delighted to renew old friendships and reminisce. It seems the boys from 2000 have all been smitten by Aussie girls. As well as Cleo, Alex's lovely wife, Katy, also attended the gathering, with the happy couple enjoying an evening out leaving their beautiful baby, Siena, in good hands. Michael is engaged to be married to Nicky this September in Wappenbury, with our own Fr Teddy O'Brien officiating.

Three other OPs in attendance were all former boarders and shared hilarious memories of their time at the college. Although none were at the college at the same time they all have very fond memories of their time at Princethorpe. Peter Wang (aka 'Fat Jack') left in '76, Richard Attrill left in '83 and Thomas Raftery left in '88. All have large families down under and would be delighted to renew links to former classmates and teachers.

We know there are a number of other OPs down under who were unable to make it to this get together but we hope another opportunity will arise in the first week of November to coincide with visits to Australia by another retired long serving member of staff as well as another OPs committee member. More details to follow in due course.

Pictured from left to right are: Michael Kerrigan (class of 2000), Cleo Westermann (James Griffin's fiancé), Katy Sedgfield (wife of Alex), back row Peter Wang (aka Fat Jack) (class of 76), Liz Griffin, Alex Sedgfield (class of 2000) back row, James Griffin (class of 2000), Thomas Raftery  - back row (class of 88 left after GCSEs), Peter Griffin and Richard Attrill (class of 83).

The OPs Golden Jubilee Reception on Friday 10 February in the Clarence Pub's Bulldog Bar on London's Whitehall was a celebration of Princethorpe and its wealth of family connections and generations of Princethorpians.

The super turnout of OPs from across the decades included brothers, twins, mothers and sons and husbands and wives, all linked to the College as past pupils and/or members of staff.

The Princethorpe contingent who travelled down by train included Headmaster, Ed Hester, OPs Chairman, Peter Rollason, Assistant Head, Alex Darkes and Bursar, Eddie Tolcher.

There were familiar faces and new faces in the mix, brought together through a love of Princethorpe and an interest in how the school was doing now. Those in attendance with family connections were brothers Sean and Kevin Kerrigan, brothers Jeremy and Gary Peacock, twins Carmen and James Simpson, mother and son, Margaret-Louise and Malachy O'Keeffe, mother and son Vanessa and Alex Rooney, husband and wife OPs Luke and Ingrid Farrell.

Alongside organiser OPs Secretary Melanie Butler and Princethorpe Development Team members, Rachel Hadley-Leonard and Loretta Curtis, were London meet stalwarts, Michael Nagaur, Rory Aitkenhead, Aaron Jaffer, Chris Santamarina, Joe Holmes and Joel Gleghorn and newcomers Richard Bunt, Daniel Bevan and Chris O'Neill. 

Conversation flowed easily between the guests, as drinks and a delicious buffet were served.

Comments OPs Chairman, Peter Rollason, "We couldn't have hoped for a better venue, our own private room, centrally located in the heart of London with great service and delicious food and drinks.  We were delighted with the evening and look forward to the next OPs meet in Leamington at the Real Tennis Club on Friday 12 May. Partners and friends are most welcome to come along too!"

Image shows from left to right, Ed Hester, Headmaster with brothers Kevin and Sean Kerrigan, 

Click here to view more photos from the evening.

The range of Old Princethorpians merchandise has grown with the addition of 'Old Boys' style socks.

The knee-length socks, mirror the pattern of the popular Old Princethorpian tie, and are made of quality ring spun cotton yarn (80%), along with nylon (17%) and Lycra (3).

The socks have been produced by Princethorpe parent David Winterton's company Magicfit, which is based in Leicester, and supplies schools all over the world with quality socks.

Available in shoe size 7-11, they will retail at £10 a pair including postage and packing.  To request your pair please email oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

Significant numbers of Old Princethorpians are now entering their children for the College's entrance exams. For September 2017 entry we had around 20 candidates with close OP connections, almost ten per cent of the 250 children sitting the exams.

After hours of pain-staking reference checking, exam results analysis and individual letter production offer letters went out on Thursday 9 February, to successful candidates.

Comments, Melanie Butler Assistant Head, Marketing, Admissions and Communications, "The number and standard of candidates taking the entrance exams this year was once again very high, with a big demand for Year 7 places. It's lovely to see high levels of interest from the Old Princethorpians, with generations of families coming through the school.

"Members of the admissions panel had a very hard job deciding who might be joining us and we're looking forward to welcoming what promises to be a fantastic year group to the College in September."

Those parents wishing to accept a place need to send their signed confirmation and £300 deposit back to Mrs Vanessa Rooney, the Registrar, by Monday 6 March 2017 please, to secure the place.

As we finish one year's admissions cycle, another one begins and for September 2018 entry the cycle is shorter because the Entrance Exams are moving two months earlier to Saturday 11 November 2017.  We are now accepting registrations for 2018. There are plenty of opportunities for prospective pupils and their parents to visit the College before then, including our summer Open Evening on Wednesday 7 June from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and taster days for Year 5 children in May and June.

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

Princethorpe's Director of Music, Gil Cowlishaw, is extending an open invitation to any musical OPs to get involved in the College's popular annual Spring Concert on Friday 24 March.  The concert, the fifth of its kind, will take place at Coventry's Central Methodist Hall from 7.00pm, and as previously will involve all of Princethorpe's musical ensembles from Orchestra, to Choir and School of Rock.

Comments Gil, "In this the College's Jubilee Year, it would be super to involve as many OPs as possible in the concert, and what we have in mind is a finale piece, ELO's fantastic Mr Blue Sky. We can accommodate both musicians and singers in the line up, we just need to know how many OPs would like to perform and what instrument they play! "

There would be a rehearsal at 6.00pm on the day of the concert. If you are interested in getting involved please click on this link to answer a few simple questions and we will send more information, including music for your part, out to you shortly.

OPs and Friends of Princethorpe are also most welcome to be part of the audience. Tickets are free of charge and available from gilcowlishaw@princethorpe.co.uk

The Coventry Central Hall is located on Warwick Lane, Coventry, CV1 2HA.

As the College's Golden Jubilee year draws to a close Old Princethorpians with artistic talents are invited to contribute a piece of artwork or photography for inclusion in the College's popular Summer Art, Photography and Design Show 2017.

Comments Paul Hubball, Head of Art and Photography, "Over the years we have had some talented and distinguished artists and photographers and we would love to extend this year's Show to include work from past pupils as part of the Jubilee celebrations."

The Summer Art, Photography and Design Show takes place at the end of the Trinity Term, with a preview on the evening of Thursday 22 June and a second opportunity to view on the afternoon of Sunday 25 June, coinciding with the Summer Fete and Motoring Festival.

Those interested in contributing to the show should email paulhubball@princethorpe.co.uk in the first instance, with their name, years at Princethorpe and a jpg picture of the piece for inclusion along with its title and dimensions.

Artwork can be framed or unframed, but would need to be mounted.  Framed pieces should have picture or mirror wire rather than mirror plates. Work would need to be delivered to the College, for the attention of Melanie Butler, OPs Secretary, during wc Monday 12 June and can be collected from close of show on Sunday 25 June until Friday 5 July.

There's still time to join Headmaster, Ed Hester, OPs Chairman, Peter Rollason and former Head of Economics and Business Studies, Peter Griffin and their merry band of cyclists and non-cyclists on the French Golden Jubilee Cycling Pilgrimage next May Half Term.

Following a well-attended Information Evening before Christmas, plans for the Golden Jubilee Cycling Pilgrimage for May Half Term 2017 are firming up. Headmaster, Ed Hester, outlined the trip, the challenge, sights and fun to be had, to an eager audience of parents, former parents, OPs and staff, over some fine French wine and cheese.

The trip is open to all over 18s associated with the College who are prepared to take on the challenge of a 110 mile cycle ride between the two French towns. The route of the 110 mile cycle ride wends its way between two French towns, Issoudun and Montargis, which are close to Princethorpe's heart, via the famed hilltop wine town of Sancerre. Issoudon is home to the MSCs, Princethorpe's founders, and Montargis is where the Benedictine Nuns of the earlier St Mary's Priory, originated from.

A coach with the happy band of cyclists, semi-cyclists and non-cyclists will leave Princethorpe on Tuesday 30 May and return on Saturday 3 June. Along the way there will be plenty of cycling (55 miles on Day 1 (Wednesday) and 55 miles on Day 3 (Friday), with a rest day in between for some wine tasting and sightseeing, plus stop offs en route. The pilgrimage will take in a stay at the MSC's Chevalier Centre in Issoudun and culminate in a Champagne civic reception in Montargis.

Click here to download more information on the trip and our planned itinerary.  If you would like to register your interest please click on this link and send £100 deposit per person as follows:

BACS Transfer:

HSBC Bank

Sort code: 40-18-17

Account: 82689111

Ref: ‘PIL3053’ plus your surname

Cheque made payable to:

The Princethorpe Foundation with the Ref: ‘PIL3053’ plus your surname on the back to be sent to Miss Liz Brown, The Bursary, Princethorpe College, Princethorpe, CV23 9PX.

For further information or if you have any questions please email goldenjubilee@princethorpe.co.uk.

As we are now firmly in the second half of the Golden Jubilee Year, we are now focussing our efforts on our final event – the Golden Jubilee Ball!

Billed as a magical evening, the Golden Jubilee Ball will take place on Saturday 1 July from 7.30pm to 1.00am in a beautiful marquee in the College grounds. This will be an over 18s black tie event, with a drinks reception and delicious three course meal, followed by music and dancing. 

Comments, Headmaster, Ed Hester, "We would urge all parents, Old Princethorpians and friends of the College to keep this date free as much like Princefest, it will be a fantastic opportunity for the Princethorpe Community to join together and celebrate the end of the College’s Golden Jubilee year in style!”

More detailed information, including ticket prices, will be unveiled in the coming weeks. As well as individual tickets, it will also be possible to book tables of ten. If you would like to register your interest now, please contact goldenjubilee@princethorpe.co.uk.

The College's new Feast Day, celebrated this year on Thursday 8 December, was rounded off with a very special event. The occasion, part of the College's Golden Jubilee celebrations, saw the return of a number of MSC priests with very close connections to the College.

After the excitement of the College festivities, invited guests, mostly long-standing and former members of staff, joined the priests, Fr Joe McGee, Fr Carl Tranter, Fr Charles Sweeney, Fr Tony Horgan, and well known to the College Fr Alan Whelan and Fr Teddy O'Brien, for a tour of the College, a Feast Day Mass in the Chapel and a delicious meal with old friends and colleagues in the Sixth Form Centre.

The special Mass was celebrated by Fr Joe McGee, Provincial of the MSCs based in Ireland, with support from Frs Whelan, O'Brien and Sweeney. The homily was given by Old Princethorpian, Fr Carl Tranter, who now resides in Rome.

Comments Ed Hester, "With the Feast Day coinciding with the MSC Founder's Day, it was completely fitting to have so many of the MSCs back to bring the day to a wonderful conclusion. Fr Carl spoke eloquently and in such a heartfelt way about the very early days of the MSCs, their mission to promote a 'God of love' and the relevance of that today, both at Princethorpe and in the wider world. He also brought a smile to the faces of the congregation by retelling the story of the nativity with all the wonder of a child's perspective."

He continued, "From the very outset we wanted this Jubilee Year to recognise the debt the College owes the MSCs and celebrate our ongoing close rapport. All the MSCs who joined us have very close connections with the College, indeed two were former Headmasters and two others former pupils. In true MSC spirit, the evening was sociable, hospitable and filled with good humour. It was particularly lovely to see the warmth and high regard the priests are held in amongst their friends and former colleagues."

It is hoped that the MSCs will play a part in the further celebrations planned as we enter the second half of the Golden Jubilee Year.

Please click here to view more photos from the evening.

Sunday 25 June - 2.00pm to 4.30pm

The Summer Art, Photography and Design Show 2016, a celebration of our students GCSE, AS and A2 Art, Photography and Design work will take place in the College's Sixth Form Centre on Thursday 22 June from 6.00pm to 8.30pm and on Sunday 25 June from 2.00pm to 4.30pm.
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."
Added Head of Design Technology, Paul Scopes, "We look forward to welcoming all the exam students and their families from across Design, Art and Photography to enjoy the fruit of their labours."
All are welcome. If you would like to attend on Thursday evening please click here so we can cater for you. Drinks and nibbles will be available.
On Thursday evening admission is free, on the Sunday admission will be £2 per car including entry to the College's Summer Fete and Motoring Festival.

The Summer Fete and 22nd Annual Motoring Festival will take place on Sunday 25 June between 2.00pm and 4.30pm. 
The event is held in the Orchard with lots of entertainment for both children and adults. We have many and varied attractions including a ‘real-ale’ tent and a Dog Show! Please keep an eye on the PTA section of the Princethorpe website for updates and for more details of what’s on offer, including the chance to register your interest in helping on the day. 

The 22nd 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 2017 event is open now! See below.

For a Motoring Festival 2017 Newsletter click here 

To register a vehicle online click here

For a booking form in Word click here

For a club booking form in Word click here

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

Wednesday 7 June - 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Princethorpe College's annual Summer Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 8 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.

We will also be offering taster days in the summer term for current Year 5 students (children born between 1 September 2006 and 31 August 2007), who are interested in admission to the College in September 2018. These days will involve a number of classroom sessions, a tour of the school, lunch and other activities. The days will run from 9.30am to 3.00pm. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. To book your child's place telephone the Registrars on 01926 634262 or email helenmorgan@princethorpe.co.uk.

Friday 12 May 2017 - 6.00pm onwards

This year's OPs Leamington Meet is a Pub Meet with a difference, or rather with a little real tennis on the side.

OP Chairman Peter Rollason, himself a keen real tennis player, has booked the Leamington Real Tennis Club at 50 Bedford Street for the evening.  

The event will give OPs the chance to see a demonstration of the game by professionals and to ‘have a go’ themselves. Less sporty types can spectate and partake of the Club Bar, food will be provided.

Please RSVP to oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk by 1 May 2017.

The Crescent School Open Morning
Saturday 25 March 2017 - 9.30am - 12.00pm

The Crescent School, Princethorpe's junior school and nursery in Rugby, is opening its doors to prospective and current parents and children for a Spring Open Morning on Saturday 25 March from 9.30am to 12.00pm. 

This is an opportunity to look around and to meet and talk informally to staff. There will be a special perfromance from the Early Years children and light refreshments will be available.

Open Morning will also provide an opportunity to meet the future Headmaster of The Crescent School, Joe Thackway, who will take on the role from September 2017.

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

Experience Days
Reception - Tuesday 28 February
Year 2 - Monday 6 March

Throughout spring, The Crescent School are holding Experience Days for children currently in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 who would like to spend a day with us to find out more about the school. These days will typically run from 8.30am to 3.30pm (3.15pm for Reception).

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

For more information about either of the Open Events or to register your child for a Experience Day please emai our Registrar, Mrs Helen Morely at admissions@crescentschool.co.uk or call her on 01788 523 851.

Alternatively please visit our website www.crescentschool.co.uk for more information.

Wednesday 22 March 2017  - 7.30pm 
Sixth Form Lecture Theatre
Followed by wine and light refreshments in the Atrium

Arts Society - Spring Term 2017 Programme

When Auguste Rodin died, aged 77, in November 1917, he was unquestionably the most famous contemporary sculptor in the world. A man of genius who had produced an extraordinary range of inspiring sculptures capturing a range of human emotions, he had also courted controversy with his originality and innovations. Works such as The Gates of Hell and The Burghers of Calais had secured his reputation.  

Women were of vital importance in his life and work. His ideas were stimulated by the female nudes wandering around his studio and by his encounters with dancers such as Isadora Duncan and the visiting troupe from Cambodia.

His personal affections were lavished on a series of women: Rose Beuret, his companion of 52 years whom he married just before her death; Camille Claudel, the dazzlingly beautiful and talented sculptor who became his muse, model and assistant; the American Duchesse de Choiseul and the enigmatic British painter Gwen John.

This illustrated talk, given by art historian Margaret-Louise O’Keeffe, former Deputy Head of Princethorpe College, will focus on his depictions of the female form in his art and on some of the women who inspired them.

Adults £5; children free of charge (includes refreshments).

Click here for a booking form.

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

Crackley Hall Open Morning
Saturday 11 March 2017 - 10.30am - 12.30pm

Crackley Hall and Little Crackers, Princethorpe's junior school and nursery in Kenilworth, is opening its doors for a Spring Open Morning on Saturday 11 March from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

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

Registrations are now being taken for Nursery, Reception, Junior 1 ,2, 3 and 4 for September 2017 admissions. The nursery is open 48 weeks a year and is carefully structured for two-year olds, three-year olds and pre-school.

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

Junior 1 and Junior 2 Experience Days 
Thursday 16 March - 9.00am - 3.00pm
Monday 20 March - 9.00am - 3.00pm 

Crackley Hall are holding Experience Days for children currently in Year 1 and Year 2 who would like to spend a day with us, experiencing lessons such as Mandarin, Science and Games in Junior 2 and French, Music and Forest School in Junior 1. 

The Experience Day will include a delicious hot lunch and playtime and run from 9.00am to 3.00pm.

Children visiting on this day will be able to participate in fun activities as part of the Whole School Maths Day at Crackley Hall.

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

For more information about the Open Event or to book your child for an Experience Day please email our Admissions Secretary, Mrs Angela Barnard at angelabarnard@crackleyhall.co.uk or call her on 01926 514410.

Alternatively please visit our website www.crackleyhall.co.uk for more information.

Age: 60

When were you at Princethorpe - years from and to?

1969 to 1975

Bit of background, where you live, what you do for a living.

I was born in Oldham in Lancashire, into a working-class family and my father was an engineer in a local Foam factory. When I was about 10 years old my parents moved to Nigeria as my dad had been offered a position out there and my elder brother Martin and I were put into Princethorpe as full boarders.

In fact, myself and all three of my brothers went through Princethorpe, Martin, Me (Melvin), Michael and Mark. All ‘M’ Glynn’s which proved very difficult when letters came addressed to just ‘M. Glynn’. We were often mixed up on sports team lists as well.

I think we are one of very few families that had four brothers at the school. The Cox’s were another set of four as I recall.

On leaving Princethorpe I went to Christ's College in Liverpool to study Art and it was there that I met Carole, my wife, and we both trained as teachers. We now live in Wiltshire and have enjoyed 39 years of happy marriage and we have a son Matthew, his wife Gemma and our lovely granddaughter Sophia who is only 3 years old and an absolute joy to us.

In career terms I never actually followed a teaching career, instead I took up a position in a food production management.

Over the last forty years I have been the Managing Director of several food businesses including Burts Potato Chips and Ilchester Cheese, but I now own my own family cheese business, Windyridge Cheese and we sell top quality speciality British cheeses all over the world.

All my family are involved in the business and that’s very satisfying to me.

What was the school like in your day?

I remember it being a school full of great fun and adventure.

It was an all-boys school back then and run mainly by the MSC Priests with only a few paid teaching staff and of course Matron, Maria Lawless. The memories are still very vivid as though it was yesterday. As full boarders, back then Fr Clarkson and the other priests replaced our parents for most of the year and going back to Princethorpe now, always makes me feel like I’m going home. That’s what is so special about it.

At the recent Princefest weekend I met with Fr Teddy O’Brien and we discussed those early school days and he said that “the priests in the beginning really didn’t know what they were doing, they sort of bungled their way through, they didn’t know how or why it worked but it did!!’ I was surprised by this as we boys were very happy and contented and the school seemed to run like clockwork. However, when I think about it, it did seem like we were all on a sort of development journey together.

I like to think that not only those priests but we boys as well, set the foundations for what the school is today. It’s a bit like we had a hand in creating Princethorpe’s DNA and I feel very proud of that.

How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?

It’s almost as though Princethorpe is still my Guardian Angel, the morals, and life rules that were instilled in us as boys at the school are still with me today. It’s difficult to describe but the ‘Princethorpian’ is deep in my psyche.

What advice would you give to your teenage self?  

If there was any advice that I would give to myself as a teenager it would probably be ‘Get your hair cut!’, as I used to have it quite long in those days but of course almost everyone did.

Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?

I think the greatest influence in my life from those Princethorpe days must be Lou Skiffington.

He was my art teacher back then and is still one of my dearest friends now, He taught me how to look at things differently and not to just accept things at face value.

Of course, back then I thought that he was just talking about what you see as an artist, but I now know he meant it about life itself.

He was the reason that I went on to study at Christ's College in Liverpool, where he had studied, and obviously because of that I met my wife Carole, who is my soulmate and the reason that I wake up every morning and think how lucky I am.

What keeps you awake at night? 

Physically, our very old little dog that snores, and mentally where the next cheese conquest is to be made.

What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?

My proudest moment was when our son was born and my greatest achievement to date is starting my own business six years ago, it’s terribly hard work but very satisfying.

What’s your biggest indulgence?

Spending time with our granddaughter Sophia, she is adorable!

If you had to have one last meal, what would it be? 

A good Chinese meal probably including shredded Duck pancakes

What is your favourite TV Show and why? 

I love Dragon's Den, I once went clay pigeon shooting in Berkshire with Debra Meaden and her husband. She’s great fun, not at all like she is on the telly and my favourite Dragon.

If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be and who would be with you? 

In the Cavern Club in Liverpool with my wife listening to the Beatles.

Lasting memories of Princethorpe:

Oh, so many memories,

Fr Bill Clarkson driving us around the mile walk in a beat-up Morris Minor…yes, it is true, I was one of those boys! It was grey with burgundy leather seats.

I used to run the Tuck Shop and I think that this was my first outing into retail sales!

I was Joseph in Princethorpe’s very first musical, a production of Joseph and his Technicoloured Dream Coat, produced by Fr Teddy O’Brien. In fact he said to me just a few months ago, when we met and he couldn’t recall who I was, I said to him ‘I was your Joseph ’and he immediately replied ‘Well Melvin Glynn as I live a breath!’ I thought, thank God he didn’t say Jason Donovan…Fame at last!!

Are you in touch with any other Old Princethorpians, if so whom? 

Yes, on Facebook, Peter Hurst, Peter Yang (Fat Jack), Rabi Di Melo and David Douglas

We are delighted to share news that Chris Lowe (class of 2001) and his wife Amy welcomed Henrietta Frances Ivy Lowe on Monday 12 February 2017, weighing 8lb 1oz. Chris met his wife Amy through work and they married last year at Claverdon Church, near Warwick. Now based between the Middle East and UK, Chris spends his time working with Arabian horses.

Many congratulations! 

OPs Tom and Sarah Edwards were married at Princethorpe on 28 December 2016, followed by a reception at Wethele Manor, just 5 minutes’ down the road.

Both Tom and Sarah joined Princethorpe in 1996 in Year 7, and left in Upper Sixth in 2003. Since then, they have lived together in Sydney for 3 years (from early 2013 to the end of 2015) and now live together in their house in Wandsworth, London. Tom is a Strategy Director working in the world of marketing and advertising, and Sarah works at PWC in London.

Amongst the many friends and family joining them on their big day in December were OPs Briony Patel (formerly Briony Stone!) and Kimerley Hiles, who were Sarah’s bridesmaids, and supporting Tom as groomsmen on the day were OPs Steve Edden, Tom Ewer and his brother, Mike.

The newlyweds will be honeymooning in South Africa and the Seychelles in the spring of this year.

Old Princethorpian Olli Bentley popped the question to girlfriend Rachel Hall in October whilst on holiday at Disney World in Florida.

Olli went down on bended knee at the resort with Sleeping Beauty's castle in the background.

Wishing the happy couple all the very best with their wedding plans, one thing's for sure it's bound to be a fairytale affair!

Robert Webster who attended St Bede's and then Princethorpe from 1965 to 1970, sadly passed away in January after a short illness. His funeral took place at Our Lady and St Michael Church, Shipston on Stour on Wednesday 1st February.  A Mass will be held for Robert at Princethorpe on Sunday 19 February at 10.15am, all are welcome to come and pay their respects.

Robert's widow Julia sent us the following tribute to Robert, our sincerest condolences are with her and his family and friends.

Robert always reflected on his school days, at Princethorpe College, positively and acknowledged the well balanced education he received. He loved playing rugby and the outdoor activities.

He completed his Apprenticeship at Dunlop Aviation and became a Freeman of the City of Coventry in 1975.

During this time he developed further, his love of hill walking, particularly overnight walking, in the Lake District, but in his early days of working realised he wanted to see more of the world. He bought a long wheel based Landrover and planned an adventure crossing from mainland Europe over to the African continent and travelled down into the sub Sahara desert with Dave Kerrigan. His diary makes good reading! From Mali, they returned through Niger and Algeria and back into mainland Europe, they then travelled across Europe down through the then Yugoslavia , Turkey and into Iran hoping to get to India and the Himalayas. When they reached Tehran they found that the Army tanks were out on the streets and the political unrest with the Shah would make it difficult to return a month or so later. For safety reasons they had to turn back.

He then qualified as a coal miner but that did not last long.

Robert’s career in the aerospace industry included various large, well respected companies working on civil and military aircraft projects as a cost engineer. Approximately fifteen years ago he decided to work for himself and was successful. In many ways he was much more content with the challenges that presented to him. All his colleagues knew him as ‘Bob’ and with his sense of humour he was well liked and respected within the industry.

We were married in 1983 and so losing Robert, so suddenly, last month has been a great shock, as he had decided only last year, to retire early, so we could spend time together and go on a world cruise, but it was not to be.

We did see some of the world though, in these latter years, including the Indian/Asian continent, Russia, Antarctica, South America, Elephant Island (his hero was Sir Earnest Shackleton), the Falkland Islands and the Arctic, visiting Svalbard, Iceland and Greenland. He enjoyed ocean cruising. When I first knew him, he had a canal boat and always retained an interest in the canal systems many of which we have walked. 

Robert will be remembered by many, from all the cards of condolence and mass offerings I have received, as a ‘well liked and respected colleague and friend’.

Robert was my best friend and a loving, kind-hearted husband, supportive son to his mother, Mary, and all the family.

May he rest in peace and let perpetual light shine upon him. Thanks be to God. 

Robert is pictured centre working on the Land Rover engine with friends Dave Kerrigan left and Ed Hodgetts right.

We are delighted to share the news that Princethorpe Teachers Matt Parsons (OP) and Kate Boothroyd got married at Pageant House in Warwick on Friday 21 October and celebrated with family and friends at The Warwick Arms Hotel.

The couple commented that they thoroughly enjoyed their ‘autumn’ themed day and are immensely grateful to all of those within the Princethorpe community who helped make the event so special. In particular, they would like to thank Paul Hubball for capturing the day on camera and Princethorpe parent Jeannie Williamson for her beautiful flower arrangements.

Kate and Matt were thrilled that some of the Sixth Form members of School of Rock (Ed Williamson, James Fletcher, Erin O’Rourke, JJ Van Wyk and Emily Storek-Knight) were able to support Matt’s band ‘Jacklines’ as part of the evening entertainment.

After the excitement of the wedding, they spent the following few days relaxing in Padstow, and are saving up for a honeymoon at the end of the academic year.

Huge congratulations to them both! 

OP Rich Sibbick has brought memories flooding back of past Princethorpe College theatrical productions for many fellow OPs through the medium of YouTube.

Rich has uploaded his personal archive of footage on to the internet to rave reviews.

He has uploaded 23 videos including almost two hours coverage of Oklahoma and a host of sketches from the 1991 Revue.

Comments Rich, "Of all the quality acting on show from the 23 videos the one with 10 times the views of any other is the mad dancing to "All 4 Love". Fantastic!"

Next to be uploaded will be a Tale of Two Cities and some Rugby Match coverage, so watch this space

If you would like to view Rich's classic selection of videos please click on the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/user/sibboinwales

Courtney Gilbert (Class of 2008) established her own business ‘Cosy Chic Pet Boutique’ last year and has recently received a business boost from retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis!

Courtney explains, “After leaving Princethorpe in Year 11, I went on to college to study Theatre Costume and Fashion Design.  I excelled at college and gained a Triple Distinction Star grade, the equivalent to 3 A*s at A-Level. I initially began studying Fashion Design at Coventry University but after a term, decided I wanted to move to London. So, after finishing my first year at Coventry, I relocated to London and secured a place at a top University for fashion, Ravensbourne.”  

“It was during my University summer holidays that I first had the idea for the distinctive style of bed that makes Cosy Chic Pet Boutique unique. Having owned family pets for as long as I can remember, my Mum and I were chatting about the perils of cat fluff and unsightly dog beds, which, to add insult to injury, looked even more terrible once washed!  After getting my own kitten in London and finding out what I already knew, I decided that there was a gap in the market and having always aspired to have my own business, this was going to be it!”

Courtney spent the last year concentrating on raising the profile of Cosy Chic Pet Boutique, selling though her website and social media, and at some well-known events, including charity events in London, such as PupAid (started by TV vet and animal welfare campaigner, Marc the Vet).  In September 2016, Courtney decided it was time to move out of the busy city and back up to the Midlands where she has a large studio at her family home.  

In late 2016, Courtney tweeted Theo Paphitis about her business during ‘Small Business Sunday’ and was one of six weekly winners to gain a retweet by Theo to his 500,000 Twitter followers. The weekly initiative, set up by Theo in 2010, now has 1700 #SBS winners and supports small businesses in the UK.

Having won the Theo Paphitis Small Business Sunday Award last year, Courtney recently attended a whole day event of workshops and talks, including a question time with Deborah Meaden and John Mills at the ICC in Birmingham.

Courtney continues, “Being handpicked by Theo as a winner after only being in business for 9 months gave me an incredible sense of achievement and recognition for all my hard work and ideas. The Small Business Sunday Awards and event at the ICC in Birmingham was a really amazing experience. I feel very fortunate to have been part of it.” 

Cosy Chic Pet Boutique is heading into its second year and expanding rapidly. Having just been approved for a stand at Crufts: The World’s Largest Dog Show in March this year (Stand No 5-40) and a new website on the horizon, there are some exciting times ahead for Courtney and Cosy Chic Pet Boutique. 

Check out www.cosychicpetboutique.com to find out more. 

We are very pleased to share news that OP Emilio Doorgasingh (class of 1993) is currently performing in Kite Runner at the Wyndham Theatre, London. Billed as the “best ‘page-to-stage’ since War Horse” (The Stage), the show has welcomed many sell-out performances since its opening night in January this year. 

Since leaving Princethorpe, Emilio moved to London to study Drama and English at Goldsmiths University. After graduating, he has spent much of his time in the West End Producing and Acting and first became involved with the Kite Runner in 2013, initially launching at the Nottingham Playhouse. Emilio went on to tour with Kite Runner in 2014 before it took up residence in the West End late in 2016.

Emilio has kindly said that if anyone would like to see Kite Runner, he is able to get cast rate (£30 for the best available seats) so please contact him at edoorgasingh@btinternet.com for more information. 

Image: Emilio Doorgasingh (L) and Ben Turner (R) in The Kite Runner. Photo: Robert Workman.

Emma joined Princethorpe back in 2011, proving in the first few months that her mind was focused firmly on Hockey - and some cricket in the summer term. Taxiing backwards and forwards from club hockey matches and Princethorpe matches Emma amazingly still found time to coach the younger generation. Since leaving Princethorpe in 2014, she has continued her passion and developed it into a career which has taken her up north. 

Emma continues… 

After leaving Princethorpe I attended Rugby College for two years and obtained a Level 3 BTEC in Sport Development, Coaching & Fitness.  I have been coaching hockey since the age of 13 and was fortunate enough to obtain a Sports Coach position at Stonyhurst College, St Marys Hall in Clitheroe, Lancashire in October 2016.  I am now taking my hockey and cricket coaching qualifications and enjoying my new life in Lancashire.

We wish Emma continued success.

The Estates team welcomes George Wright as a Groundsman. George studied a National Diploma in Countryside Management and was even voted as class representative on his course. As an Old Princethorpian, he is very keen to help make Princethorpe a beautiful and wildlife rich area for us all to enjoy. He is enjoying seeing new and old faces and looking after the place that looked after him growing up!

In his spare time, he likes to travel, having spent some time in New Zealand, knitting, rock and roll music and reading.

This February brings some exciting developments for OP and Princethorpe Foundation staff member Jodie Fisher. Jodie, who left Princethorpe as a pupil in 2013, returned to the Foundation to teach Brass and coach sport at Princethorpe and Crackley Hall. More recently, she has set up a business with her mum, Di. Their company MULTIMANIA specialises in Music and Sport camps, which run three times a year at the Foundation’s other Junior School, the Crescent.

Jodie shared news that she has recently stepped on to the housing ladder and purchased her first home with boyfriend Richard whom she met in 2014 through his musical dad. Comments, Jodie, “We’ll be moving to Cawston and living on the new estate, Cawston Chase. We received our keys at the start of February and if all goes to plan, we hope to move in later this month – it’s all very exciting!” 

Old Princethorpian Carmen Simpson (Class of 2013) is on the brink of finishing her Physiotherapy degree at York St John University. Following three intense years of study, which saw her undertake six different placements, she is soon to complete her dissertation. If that wasn’t enough, she has also just landed her first job as a physiotherapist at Coventry University Trust!   

Since finishing her A-levels at Princethorpe, Camren decided to take a year out and spent some time in Spain playing hockey and building up some funds for University by working for her Dad. In September 2014, she made the big move to York to begin her studies. By studying so many different aspects of Physiotherapy throughout her degree, Carmen has decided that she is most interested in Orthopaedic Physiotherapy. She explains, “It’s fascinating, you see so many different things. It can be such a challenge to get people up and get people home who have broken many bones. Trying to get them A) walking and B) home, it’s a really interesting process.”  

Carmen’s dissertation focusses on Dementia Care. She hopes in the future to work more with the elderly and dementia patients because of how rewarding it can be and how much she has learnt about the topic whilst writing her dissertation.  

Like any other student coming to the end of their degree, Carmen recently started her job hunt. She secured her first interview at Coventry University Hospital Trust and testament to her hard work and determination, came away from it with a job, which starts in July!  When asked how she felt about officially becoming a Physiotherapist in the not so distant future, Carmen remarked, “…it’s all happened quite quickly, it’s very scary!”.

Using her local knowledge to her advantage, Carmen will live at home and commute into work via bus (avoiding the Coventry rush hour traffic!). Working with four other newly qualified Physios, she will start her career helping to re-habilitate people with major injuries to the musculoskeletal system back to full health. 

Good luck Carmen!

Whether it is by sea, land or air, nothing stands in the way of a Royal Marine Commando. But what makes them the world’s best elite fighting force? It’s right under their famous green beret: it’s a state of mind.  

News has reached the OPs that Harry McKenna (class of 2015) successfully passed out from training at CTCRM Lympstone on 3 February 2017. After 70 gruelling weeks of training (rather than 32 due to an injury), Harry now finds himself being posted to 43 Commando, Fleet Protection at Faslane, Scotland.

Harry, who joined Princethorpe Sixth Form in September 2014, comments, “I always wanted a career in the military and had set my sights on being a Royal Marines Commando, initially as an officer. However, I gradually came to the decision that I would prefer not to enter the Marines on the Young Officers programme but with time and maturity could go for a commission later.”

On that basis, and with the support of Mr Hester, Harry started his application and left Princethorpe in the Summer of 2015, joining CTCRM Lympstone in October 2015. He continues, “During my time at Princethorpe I met some amazing people, staff and pupils, many of whom I am still friends with now.”

A team of three young Old Princethorpians, and one brother, have joined forces to create their own unique clothing business. OPs Peter Hitchman (class of 2016), Alex Hopkins (class of 2012), Elliot Bates (class of 2013) and Elliot’s brother Chris, have been working hard alongside their day jobs to create their new business venture - Magari Clothing Co.

Only three-months ago they came up with the idea and have been working non-stop ever since to reach today’s exciting milestone. Magari Clothing Co. business venture will see them selling a range of apparel with a different design every month depending on seasons and trends.

Becoming businesses magnates has always been attractive to the team ever since they found themselves in Princethorpe’s Business and Economics lessons. Understanding the basic qualities that make a successful entrepreneur and how to meet the needs of their consumers, it sparked a desire to make dreams a reality. So putting their studies into practice, their first port of call was to undertake some initial marketing steps. Reaching out to friends and family to create a vital word of mouth teaser campaign, Magari Clothing Co. (Italian for I Desire) began flooding Instagram, Facebook and Twitter feeds with their branding.

The team explain…

“Magari Clothing Co. is a limited edition clothing company that supplies high quality garments to the refined young person. Once one design is gone, they never come back. Magari was set up by four best friends who have a passion for business and good clothes! We have been working so hard and are ecstatic that we can finally share with everyone what we have been working on. Launching this Friday at 7.00pm. Our vision for Magari is for it to become a brand known for its high quality products and limited edition ranges. We want people to be fighting to get their hands on our clothes!”

Don’t forget to visit magariclothing.co.uk to be one of the first to purchase high quality Magari garments. Help spread the word - share your purchases on social media with #MyMagari.

Good luck boys!

At Princethorpe from 2008-2012, I was actively involved with many sports and I particularly enjoyed and excelled at Rugby and Sprinting (100M). During my time at Princethorpe, not only did I play Rugby for the College and my hometown team in Hinckley, I was fortunate to be selected to be part of the EPDG at Leicester Tigers and the Worcester Warriors Academy. In addition, I also represented Leicester and Warwickshire County – it was a busy time!   

I decided to leave Princethorpe after GCSEs to attend Loughborough College to continue my education in Sports and Exercise Science. Due to my love for training, I focussed on bodybuilding and at the age of 18, I became the Junior British Champion!

I am now in my second year at St Mary’s University, Twickenham studying for a BSc in Strength and Conditioning Science. At University, I continued to play Rugby and started sprint training again to develop my sprinting technique. This led me to attend a trial for the GB Bobsleigh Talent squad in July 2016. Impressing the selectors, the trial was successful and my first training camp was in Germany, October 2016. After mid-season testing in December, I was then selected to compete for Team GB! 

Our first race was in Switzerland for the Europa Cup where we finished 10th overall and we then headed to Germany for the World Junior Championships, finishing 7th. The experience was amazing.

My moto is train hard, work hard and you will achieve so look out for me in the Winter Olympics 2022 – I plan to be there.

Former OP Lillie Bleasdale (class of 2014) and her sister Victoria are setting out on an epic fundraising mission to raise £5,000 this year.  This will be equally split between Cancer Research UK and the Central England Rehabilitation Unit at Leamington Spa Hospital.   

The pair will be arranging many events throughout the year in the local community and their places of work, alongside their family and friends. However, they hope to raise the majority of their target by doing something that (in their words!!) “doesn’t come all that naturally to us Bleasdales”… running! 

With that in mind, they have booked in to run almost 190km worth of races between them at present (with more to come):

1st April 2017 - London Supernova 5km (Lillie only)

30th April 2017 - Great Birmingham 10km

29th May 2017 – Vitality London 10,000

11th June 2017 - 2 Castles Run 10km (subject to ballot entry)

2nd July 2017 - Great Newham London 10km

24th September 2017 - Windsor Half Marathon

8th October 2017 – Bournemouth Half Marathon

11th November 2017 - Stratford Autumn Shakespeare 10k 

Comments Lillie, “The two charities are very close to our hearts. We have grown up with our Mum working in, and now running, the Central England Rehabilitation Unit. It’s a fantastic facility that helps care for people suffering from an acquired brain injury, stroke or a brain tumour. My sister Victoria worked at the unit as a Health Care Assistant for several years during her time at University and I volunteered at the unit throughout my time at school. It makes such a difference to the local community.”

She continues, “We’re also raising money for Cancer Research UK as late last year, our amazing Grandpa sadly passed away from cancer. We hope that the money we raise for them will ensure that one day, everyone diagnosed with cancer can beat it. Whether it be 5p, £5 or £50 - all race entry fees have already been paid for on our part so any donation, no matter how big or small, will go to these two incredible causes.”

The pair have set up a fundraising team on Just Giving where you can donate towards their challenge; http://bit.ly/2lqyg7w

Unfortunately, Just Giving doesn't allow for Fundraisers to equally split their target between two charities, so instead they have created a page for each charity. As soon as they hit the goal for one, they will pause it until the other page reaches their goal:

CERU Just Giving page; http://bit.ly/2k3gpBS

Cancer Research UK Just Giving Page; http://bit.ly/2kHPmhi

You can also keep up with their endeavours and progress at www.bleasdalechallenge2017.co.uk

This month marks the start of nine-month sabbatical in Australia for rugby player extraordinaire Chris Easton. OP Chris, who left in 2014, has worked his way up from playing for Old Leamingtonians (minis) all the way to Cottesloe RFC in Western Australia, via Rugby Lions, Bedford Blue, Ampthill & District and Stourton along the way

After keeping in contact with former coach Alex Stajka, Chris got the opportunity of a lifetime to spend nine months in Perth Australia playing rugby for Cottesloe RFC without even being seen in action. Before he knew it he was boarding a plane on 29 January from Heathrow at 7.00am and starting his 24-hour trip to Australia. As soon as Chris landed he was picked up by the club and sent straight to training, there was no time for jet lag when there was training to be done.

Chris comments, “It’s my first trip to Australia so as you can imagine, I can’t wait to experience something new both on and off the pitch.”

Alongside the rugby Chris has gained valuable knowledge and experience as a personal trainer which he was studying at Nottingham Trent University before taking the 9-month sabbatical. 

In the future Chris hopes to return to the UK and continue playing rugby semi-professionally or professionally, whilst keeping the hope of becoming a personal trainer in mind.

We’re sending Chris the best of luck and looking forward to hearing updates from his time in Oz. 

Huge congratulations to Old Princethorpian and writer Ciaran Murtagh who picked up a BAFTA Children's Award in November for his work on the children's TV series The Amazing World of Gumball. The series fought off close competition from children's favourites, The Clangers, Hetty Feather and Horrible Histories.

Ciaran takes up the story...

The Amazing World of Gumball is an 11 minute cartoon, currently shown in over 126 countries around the world. In the UK it is on Cartoon Network every day. I started writing for the show on series 3 and we're now working on series 6. I won the Bafta for my work on an episode called The Origins. The show is about a cartoon cat called Gumball and his family, it's a surreal, funny take on modern family life, and according to The Times it's 'the kids show that parents love to watch.'  

Ciaran is pictured with his writing partner, Andrew Jones.