We are delighted to announce the introduction of the Lara Olanrewaju OP Staff Award which has been created to honour former members of staff who have made an exceptional and lasting difference to Princethorpe pupils and to the wider life of the College. It will sit alongside the annual Alumni Award (click here for details) and will be presented each year at the Princethorpe College Prize Giving Ceremony.

For many Old Princethorpians, it is the people as much as the place that stay with them. A teacher who opened a door, a tutor who offered encouragement at the right moment, a sports coach, mentor or member of support staff who went above and beyond; these are often the people who leave a lasting impression. This new award will give OPs the opportunity to recognise those individuals and to celebrate the impact they have had over many years. For details, including the nomination form, click here. You can also access the nomination form via the link at the end of this article.

Alongside the award, we are also establishing the Lara Olanrewaju Staff Appreciation Fund. The purpose of the fund is to support meaningful and appropriate ways of recognising the contribution of both current and former staff who have made a genuine difference to the life of the Foundation and to generations of pupils.

The fund is intended to create an additional and lasting way for the wider Princethorpe community to express appreciation and gratitude for those members of staff whose care, commitment and influence have meant so much to so many.

It will support initiatives such as the Lara Olanrewaju OP Staff Award, alongside other carefully considered forms of staff recognition over time, helping to ensure that exceptional contribution, dedication and service are acknowledged in a meaningful way.

This new initiative has been made possible through the vision, generosity and commitment of Jide Olanrewaju and the wider Olanrewaju family, whose desire to honour their mother and grandmother, Lara Olanrewaju, has helped bring this tribute into being. Through these efforts, the Foundation is able to establish a lasting form of recognition that reflects the importance of staff in shaping the lives and experiences of Princethorpians.

Nominations for both the Alumni Award and the Lara Olanrewaju OP Staff Award will open in May each year, with a deadline at the end of August. The OP Committee will review the nominations received for the Staff Award and select the recipient, who will then be informed and invited to attend the Princethorpe College Prize Giving at the end of November, where the award will be presented.

We hope both the award and the fund will become an important and valued part of OP life: a way of recognising those members of staff, past and present, whose influence has lasted well beyond the classroom, and whose contribution deserves to be remembered and celebrated.

Support the Lara Olanrewaju Staff Appreciation Fund

Nominate someone for the OP Staff Award

Nominate someone for the OP Award

It was wonderful to see every decade of the College's history represented at this year's OPs Local Meet, along with former pupils, parents and staff (past and present) from across the Foundation. The Aviary Bar in Rugby was a fitting venue, its colourful, cosy and contemporary style perfectly reflecting the diverse crowd and convivial atmosphere.

What made it a particularly special occasion was that we welcomed both new and returning faces to this annual event. Former Princethorpe PTA Chairs, David and Jules Mold, were in high spirits as they returned with fellow regulars, Dave Hall and Mike Edwards, whilst Princethorpe Receptionist and OP, Katie Strange, came along for the first time along with Princethorpe peer, Dan Rajabali.

Similarly, 2024 leavers, George Wild and Amy Hogg, already establishing a habit of supporting OP events, returned to enjoy catching up with each other, whilst 2020 leaver, Toby Austin, boldly came alone to reconnect with the community and was rewarded by the surprise of reuniting with former classmate, Anthony Lock! It was encouraging to see the Local Meet achieving its purpose of bringing the whole Foundation community together and nurturing lasting relationships.

The event was supported by a great mix of Foundation Staff, including Ed and Tracey Hester and all three of their children, Princethorpe Headmaster, Grove du Toit, Crackley Hall Registrar, Jenny Vaughan (also an OP and former St Joseph's School alumna), and several Princethorpe teachers. The OP Committee was also out in force: Toni Reszka (class of 1970), Peter Rollason (class of 1977), Melissa Symonds (class of 1990), Nick Brosnan (class of 1992), Tom Gleghorn (class of 2000), and Committee Chair, James Davies (class of 1997).

It was marvellous to see such a diverse crowd mingling together, and our thanks to the Aviary Bar for the excellent service and tasty buffet, which fuelled the conversation right up until closing time. They even went so far as to create a bespoke cocktail especially for the occasion, aptly named The Old Princethorpian, and not for the faint-hearted!

You can see more photos from the evening when you log in (or sign up) on Princethorpe Connect, here.

OP Friendly Faces is a special scheme that matches our newest OPs with an Old Princethorpian contact who is already at their destination university, in order to ease the transition for the leaver as they embark on life beyond Princethorpe.

Our OP Friendly Face Mentors have a huge impact, offering not only insights or advice about the university, city or life post-Princethorpe, but also also serving as an immediate and relevant way of connecting the Upper Sixth Leaver to the wider OP community of which they are newly a part.

Being in touch with the student via email, mobile or social media, or providing a friendly face to meet up with over a coffee (compliments of the OP Committee!), makes for a far smoother experience in their first few weeks away from home. Recent Friendly Face Mentees reflect:

"[My mentor] was a huge help in answering questions prior to starting and during the first couple of weeks. It was great to have some advice whilst I was getting settled."

"I have seen [my mentor] a lot, as we have both played hockey together throughout the year."

"[My mentor] provided great insights to Bristol. He also suggested I pick up tutoring, which he found a good way to make money on the side, and provided advice on how to go about this."

Our 2026 Upper Sixth Leavers have already been introduced to the scheme and several have already requested a match where possible. 

If you are, or know, a recent leaver (Class of 2024 or 2025) who would be happy to be a Friendly Face, please get in touch at oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

Comments Alumni Relations and Development Officer, Caroline Spencer: "We have run OP Friendly Faces for a number of years now, and it continues to grow. Perhaps you benefitted from the scheme yourself and are keen to pay it forward? It is a powerful way to give back and support the next generation of Old Princethorpians.”

We are thrilled to open nominations for the 2026 Princethorpe Foundation Alumni Award!

This new annual honour was launched just last year. It aims to offer Old Princethorpians and friends of the Foundation the chance to recognise exceptional former pupils from across all our Foundation schools who have made a real difference - in their careers, their communities, or through their continued support of their school and the wider Foundation.

Whether they’ve reached the heights of their profession, gone above and beyond to help others, or shown remarkable commitment to giving back, this award is all about celebrating the very best of what it means to be a Princethorpian.

Here is everything you need to know, but you can also find this information, along with a link to the nomination form, on Princethorpe Connect, here.

Who’s eligible?

Former pupils of Princethorpe College, Crackley Hall, Crescent School, and our heritage schools - St Joseph’s Convent School, Abbotsford, St Bede’s College, and St Mary’s Priory - are eligible to receive this award.

Nominees must be aged 18 or over at the time of nomination.
(Please note: former Crackley Hall or Crescent School pupils still in secondary education are not yet eligible.)

What are we looking for?

We want to hear about OPs who:

• Have achieved excellence in their chosen field
• Are making a difference locally, nationally, or globally
• Continue to embody the ethos of the Princethorpe Foundation and give back in meaningful ways

Why now?

Our alumni community is full of individuals quietly doing extraordinary things. This award offers the chance to shine a spotlight on their achievements — and to inspire today’s pupils with powerful stories of what’s possible beyond the classroom.

Who can submit a nomination?

All members of the Princethorpe Foundation community — alumni, staff, pupils, parents, and friends — can submit a nomination, whether for themselves or someone else, as long as the nominee is a former pupil.

When can I nominate someone?

Nominations open on Friday 15 May 2026 and close on Monday 31 August 2026. Simply click the button below during this period to complete a short, easy form. You will receive a confirmation message once your form has been successfully submitted. You can nominate yourself or someone else — as long as it's a former pupil.

What happens next?

After nominations close, the Alumni and Development team will review all submissions and create a shortlist based on the award criteria. The OP Committee will then elect the winner, and the chosen recipient will be notified and invited to receive their award at the Princethorpe Prize Giving Ceremony in November.

We hope this award becomes a proud tradition - celebrating the talent, generosity, and spirit that make our alumni community so special.

So, who do you know that deserves to be recognised?

Have your say — click below to make your nomination today!

Nomination Form

For more information or to ask a question, email us at oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

Last year's winner:

John Dawkins, Class of 1998, was our first ever winner, and you can read about him and the presentation of his award at last year's Prizegiving, on Princethorpe Connect, here.

Our congratulations went to Amy Gordon (Crackley Hall 2004-2013 and Princethorpe Class of 2020) who was our Easter Princethorpe Connect Prize Draw winner.

The seasonal prize draws are a lovely way to encourage our OP community to connect with each other and the Foundation through our dedicated online platform for Old Princethorpians, Princethorpe Connect.

Amy was the surprised and delighted recipient of an indulgent Chocolate Lover's Hamper by Regency Hampers this Easter. Her name was randomly selected from amongst those who had signed up to or engaged with Princethorpe Connect throughout March. 

Comments Amy, "Thank you so much for the Easter hamper and for sending it to London - it was such a lovely surprise. I've actually got a small supper club in Clapham with three other Old Princethorpians, Alys Hemmings (Class of 2020), Katie Shorten (Class of 2020) and Paddy Parfitt (Class of 2018), so I was able to share it with them!

Since leaving Princethorpe in 2020, I went on to study BA (Hons) Events Management at Oxford Brookes University, and I’m now working as a High Impact Events Manager at Dogs Trust in their London head office. I honestly don’t think I would have pursued a career in events if it wasn't for being Social Prefect at Princethorpe; organising the Sixth Form Winter Ball was definitely a turning point for me!"

It was great to catch up with Amy and hear her news (she is pictured here on the left of the image, posing with Alys with whom she shared the hamper). You can also read about the wider 2020 cohort in our OP Updates section, as a large number of the year group, including Amy, reunited in Leamington Spa recently for a reunion organised by OP Dominic Turner-Burr. We love to hear of OPs staying in touch and keeping Princethorpe's spirit of family alive!

Keep a look out on our OPs social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) for the Summer Princethorpe Connect Prize Draw which will launch soon. You've got to be in it to win it!

Soon-To-Be Old Princethorpian, Julieta Ascencao Martinez, is the lucky winner of the Old Princethorpians' Upper Sixth Leavers Princethorpe Connect Prize Draw. Her prize is a £25 Amazon Voucher, and a Magnum Of Fizz for her and her table at the Leavers’ Ball, which takes place, on Monday 29 June.

Each year, the Old Princethorpian Association runs this prize draw exclusively for Upper Sixth Leavers, to encourage them to join Princethorpe Connect, our online alumni community platform, before they leave to embark on their next chapter.

Julieta's name was drawn from amongst those who had created a profile on Princethorpe Connect between 11 March and 6 May, and it was announced to the Upper Sixth cohort in their final assembly on Friday 8 May, held in the Our Lady of the Angels Chapel.

Princethorpe Connect gives these new Old Princethorpians access to the vibrant community of former pupils, parents and staff, and is a one-stop-shop for staying connected and finding support throughout their lives. It offers a careers and mentoring service, the calendar of OP events, the termly OP e-newsletter, and is host to our merchandise and gift shop. Upper Sixth Leavers will also be able to view their Leavers’ Ball photos on the platform after the event.

Many Leavers signed up to enter this prize draw, which includes, during the process, the opportunity to opt-in to our OP Friendly Faces scheme. This is our initiative to match them with OPs at their destination universities around the country, as a way to offer a source of support, advice and friendship during the Upper Sixth Leaver's first few months as an Old Princethorpian undergraduate. The matching process will begin after Results Day and those who have requested a Friendly Face will be contacted directly. Leavers can request a Friendly Face at any time by emailing oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

All the Upper Sixth have been encouraged to join Princethorpe Connect over the last few weeks, but any who have yet to join can do so by going to connect.princethorpe.co.uk and creating a profile as an Upper Sixth Leaver. All the Upper Sixth Leaver profiles will be activated after their exams end.

Parents of Upper Sixth leavers, for whom this is their last year in the Foundation, are also considered Old Princethorpians, and are warmly invited to join Princethorpe Connect. They can do so by going to connect.princethorpe.co.uk and creating a profile as a Former Parent.

We look forward to the first social opportunity for these new Old Princethorpians: the OPs vs. College Friday Night Lights. On the evening of Friday 4 September, Old Princethorpians from any leaving year are warmly invited to return to the College to play in or spectate at a number of sporting fixtures against College teams. It is a wonderful opportunity for our first year OPs to get acquainted with the wider OP community and catch up with their classmates before their new chapters begin. You can read more about this event in the Events section of this issue.

We hope to see you there!

On Monday 9 March, Princethorpe College welcomed back former pupil, Greg Burford, (Class of 2022) who went on from Princethorpe to study Music at Cambridge University. Now in his final year, he kindly served as our Guest Judge for the annual and highly competitive House Singing Competition, lending his musical ear and expertise to support one of the school's most loved traditions. Greg had the challenging task of rating the Houses on their creative effort, quality of singing and volume, and managed to stay objective despite being a Fisher OP himself; it was More House that ultimately earned 1st place.

Staff, and many pupils, remember Greg fondly, as he was a prominent fixture in the Music and Drama departments, performing and leading in shows, concerts and choirs. On the day, he also generously shared his insights with the College's Gold Arts Award students, who enjoyed interviewing Greg as part of their research into arts professionals.

Director of Music, Gil Cowlishaw, facilitated the conversation and told the students: "As well as having a wonderful voice and great work ethic, Greg is a talented composer and a natural leader. Our young singers, especially the boys, thrived under his mentorship. It was a source of immense personal pride when Greg was awarded a place at Cambridge University to study Music, and even more so when he was awarded a Choral Scholarship as well!"

It was a pleasure to welcome Greg back and our deepest thanks to him for being so generous with his time and talents.

Our Sixth Form UCAS Higher Education And Apprenticeship Information Evening took place on Tuesday 28 April. Led by Head of Careers, Mrs Quinney, the session supported our Lower Sixth Form students and their parents as they start to plan their post-Princethorpe steps.

It started with an overview of the options after Sixth Form and included information on university and apprenticeships and the UCAS application process, including timings and tips for writing applications.

Two recent leavers, OP Tim Peyret and OP Ruby Clark, both Class of 2025, spoke about their experiences as Degree Apprentices and during the evening, there were breakout sessions covering applications to competitive universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, and the leading Russell Group and red brick universities, as well as the specifics of applying to Medical School, Dentistry and for Veterinary Medicine.

It was an extremely informative evening which we know parents and students found useful. Many thanks to Tim and Ruby for their insightful contributions.

It was a pleasure to welcome Jordan (Class of 2018) back to the College on Monday 23 February, to share his insights and advice for our Lower Sixth students as they consider their own futures beyond Princethorpe.

Jordan left Princethorpe just over a decade ago and is now a Partner at True Potential LLP. This was his first return to the College and he opened his talk by reflecting on how his journey had taken him, somewhat surprisingly, from Princethorpe's rugby pitch to the boardroom.

In sharing how he transitioned from being a professional rugby player (Leicester Tigers and Wasps) to a successful Wealth Manager, Jordan highlighted a key message to the students: "Your background doesn't define your future. Whether you come from sports, arts or sciences, the skills you develop are transferable to a successful career in finance."

Jordan provided an informative insight into the world of wealth management, as well as an overview of the myriad financial career pathways, noting the day-to-day realities of different roles and encouraging the students to "find what excites you most!" Jordan clearly made an impression, as a throng of students stayed behind after the talk to ask questions and seek further advice.

We were delighted to catch up with Jordan and hear his memories of his time here as a pupil. We thank him for sharing his career experiences and engaging so generously with our students.

OP Carys Nicolle, returned to Princethorpe College on Monday 23 March, much to the delight of  Aileen Cefaliello and Vicky Roberts (joint Heads of Drama), to provide current A-level Drama and Theatre Studies students with an insight into creative pathways beyond secondary education. 

Carys, who is now in her second year at the University of York St John, studying Drama and Theatre, openly shared that, as she is more inclined towards devising and directing theatre, the university route appealed to her. Whereas those interested in pursuing an acting career would be better served by auditioning for Drama Schools. However, a crucial piece of advice that applied to all, was to take as many opportunities for experience and making connections as possible. The talk unfolded into a convivial conversation with both the teachers and students asking questions, and Carys sharing more personal stories about her experiences since leaving Princethorpe.

Carys stayed on after school to meet our Drama scholars and other younger pupils interested in the performing arts. She led a Drama game and shared her own memories of being at Princethorpe again.

It was a pleasure to catch up with Carys, and we wish her all the best as she continues her studies.

Our thanks go to Old Crescentian and Old Princethorpian, Melissa Scott, who returned to Princethorpe on Monday 20 April, ten years after leaving the College, to share her career journey and insights with pupils in Year 11 through to Upper Sixth.

Melissa is now an Associate at HCR Law, specialising in Construction. With Year 11, she outlined the various routes into Law, highlighting the growing number of apprenticeships. She encouraged pupils to invest in extra-curricular activities and pursue work experience, to help them stand out in future applications.

Melissa then went on to share deeper insights into her daily working life with Upper Sixth A-level Law students and the newly established Law Society. In response to thoughtful and probing questions, she explained the solicitor–barrister distinction and the growing role of AI in the legal profession. This was an inspiring and informative visit that gave pupils real clarity and confidence about their future options.

During her visit, Melissa enjoyed a tour of the College and she is hoping to return again in June with fellow 2016 Leavers, to celebrate their 10th anniversary of leaving Princethorpe at this year's OPs Summer Supper Reunion.

This month, Alumni Relations and Development Officer, Caroline Spencer, had the pleasure of catching up with 2025 Leaver, Genevieve Slater-Tucker, and 2023 Leaver, Thomas Smith, who have each been generously giving up their time this term to support current Princethorpe pupils in their studies.

Genevieve is coming in for a couple of days each week to assist in lessons across the Art and History Departments. She is a former Art Scholar, whose stunning fine art piece, Metamorphosis, produced for her A-level Art examination, was awarded first place in the Painting Over 16 category of the 2025 Midlands Region ISA Schools Competition, and second place in the Nationals. She is seen here posing with Head of Art, Paul Hubball, in front of another of her impressive paintings on display in the school.

Genevieve is pursuing her other passion, History, at the University of Birmingham, and has just completed her first year. She reflected on how different she feels being back in the school after only one year, highlighted through her interactions with pupils as a teaching assistant (or Artist-In-Residence, as Head of Art Paul Hubball puts it). Genevieve has settled well into Uni life and is thoroughly enjoying her course at Birmingham. She is looking forward to the fresh challenges and experiences that second year brings.

Thomas Smith is a talented scientist with ambitions to become a vet. He is currently taking a gap year before he embarks on a Veterinary Medicine course and is generously using some of his time each week to come in and support A-level Chemistry students prepare for their exams. Comments, Head of Science, Emma Cooper, "Tom has been volunteering each Thursday, doing small group Chemistry revision with Upper Sixth pupils. He's been re-teaching topics, doing past paper practice with them, and tailoring his support to their individual needs. He has been invaluable to us and the students adore him!"

Thomas follows in the footsteps of other Vet Med OPs - Sol Elliott (Class of 2018), Robyn Field (Class of 2022) and Freya Mills (Class of 2023), and has been in touch with them all about this higher education and career pathway; an example of Princethorpe's Spirit Of Family ethos being alive and well within the Old Princethorpian community.

We are deeply grateful to these two young OPs, and all the OPs who volunteer, for giving back in such a meaningful way, strengthening the bond between the College and its wider alumni community and offering support and inspiration to the next generation of Princethorpians. If you would like to volunteer to share your insights or expertise with pupils, please get in touch with the Alumni and Development team at oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

OP Ruby Clark, who left the College just last year, returned to Princethorpe in April to talk to the Lower Sixth about her experiences working as an apprentice at Grant Thornton in Birmingham. Ruby landed herself a much sought after place on Grant Thorton’s Public Sector Audit Apprenticeship programme and is now working as an audit associate. She works with public sector clients while studying towards a professional qualification and after completing the programme she will be a fully qualified accountant.

Ruby shared her journey so far, giving insights into how to find and apply for apprenticeships. She spoke about the advantages of pursuing the apprenticeship route over university and the valuable work experience you develop. She talked about the challenges of transitioning to the world of work after full time school, of balancing studies with professional work but also of the camaraderie and social side of life as an apprentice.

It was a fascinating introduction to what is becoming an increasingly popular and competitive post sixth form path.

Sign up to Princethorpe Connect or engage with the platform, between Friday 15 May and Friday 19 June, to be in with a chance of winning an indulgent M&S Pink Prosecco Afternoon Tea hamper, full of tasty summertime treats!

Princethorpe Connect is our free, dedicated online platform for alumni, former parents and former staff of the Princethorpe Foundation, including its heritage and associated schools. Membership comes with a whole host of benefits:

• Search for and connect with OPs
• Access careers support and inspiration
• Be the first to hear about our latest news and events
• Search the archives
• View the photo galleries and special publications
• Receive the termly e-newsletter, The OId Princethorpian
• Purchase gifts and merchandise through the online shop

For your chance to win, simply ‘Create a Profile’ via the homepage. Or, if you are already a member, you can update your profile or contact details, comment on one of the stories, sign up to an event, or invite a friend to join from your profile page. Do any or all of the above at Homepage | Princethorpe Connect by Friday 19 June 2026 to qualify for the draw.

Once it closes, the lucky winner will be pulled from all the entries and their prize dispatched! Good luck to all!

Stuck for a gift idea for the OPs in your life? Look no further, as items from our alumni range of merchandise make the perfect present for birthdays, anniversaries or even just a treat for yourself!

• Socks with the distinctive Tower design on dark blue background with thin diagonal stripe
• A university-style scarf (in 100% wool with navy blue, red and gold stripes)
• T-bar cufflinks with a gold Tower design
• The Old Princethorpian tie. A classic 100% silk tie with a repetitive gold Tower design and thin red diagonal stripes on a dark blue background
• Tower pin badge. The 2cm high badge in nickel with recessed metal detail is based on the Tower logo
• A Spirit Of Family: The First Fifty Years Of Princethorpe College - produced to mark the College's Golden Jubilee, this beautiful keepsake is a reflection on the first fifty years of Princethorpe College. Written by Nick Baker and Alex Darkes, published in September 2016 - now reduced to £10 + postage
• The Soaring Redbrick Tower Fine Art prints and cards sized at A2, A3 and as an A5 greetings card
• Heritage Buildings Trio Fine Art prints and cards sized A2, A3 and as an A5 greeting card
• St. Joseph's Convent and School Fine Art print 

Stocks are available to order online from Princethorpe Connect, please click here.

Friday 8 May saw the joyful commemoration of the 125^th anniversary of the consecration of Our Lady of the Angels Chapel. The special service also marked the start of a year of celebrations for the 60^th anniversary of the founding of Princethorpe College. 

Princethorpe welcomed over 150 guests to the College including Fr Joe McGee, MSC Provincial Leader, Sr Mary Lucy from the Benedictine order, Dr Gerald Hyland of the Pugin Society, the Right Rev. Geoffrey Scott OSB, Librarian and Archivist of Douai Abbey, as well as three former College Headmasters, two former College Bursars, two former Deputy Heads and many Old Princethorpians, along with current trustees, staff, pupils, parents, Fr Teddy O'Brien MSC and parishioners for a truly uplifting concelebration of Mass.

The evening’s historic celebrations commenced with the Chapel’s bells ringing out across the campus and surrounding countryside playing Princethorpe (1871) by William Pitts. The first official sounding of the bells in many a year.  

The service reflected not only on the beauty of the magnificent building but also movingly the pivotal role the Chapel has played in the life of the College and in the personal lives of so many over the years.

Fr McGee led the Mass, joined on the dais by fellow MSCs Fr Alan Whelan, Fr Carl Tranter, Fr David Nixon, Fr Tony Horgan and the Rt Rev Geoffrey Scott OSB. 

In his homily, Fr McGee, gave thanks to all who have played a role in the history of the Chapel, from the Benedictine nuns who had the vision and courage to build Our Lady of the Angels, to the generations of Princethorpe communities who have gathered and worshipped within its walls. He reminded us that Our Lady of the Angels is a place where all faiths and none have been welcomed, bearing witness to innumerable gatherings from weddings to recitals, ordinations to assemblies, as well as masses over the years. Truly a place for all - keeping strong the Roman Catholic tradition of welcoming everyone.

During the service, the College’s Choir performed an anthem specially created for the occasion, The Mercies Of The Lord, with music by Director of Music, Gil Cowlishaw, and words by former staff member, Moira Weir. The piece was accompanied by Old Princethorpian and organist, Chris Beaumont.

The service was followed by a fascinating talk delivered by Foundation Archivist, Jo Wong, and former staff member, Peter Griffin, that delved into the long history of Our Lady of the Angels Chapel.

The evening finished with a reception in the Sixth Form Atrium where the guests mingled, reconnecting with former peers and friends and recalling with fondness their memories of the Chapel.

A huge thank you to all those who attended and made the evening such a success and also to all those involved in organising such a momentous and memorable event.

To view the Mass Booklet and short History of the Chapel click here.

For more photos visit Princethorpe Connect here.

To watch the Mass click here and to watch the Archive presentation click here.

Princethorpe College has exciting plans for its Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2026-27.

The programme of events is now underway, with a wealth of opportunities for the wider school community to get involved in celebrating the school’s 60^th anniversary.

Some of the highlights will include:

• The popular OPs vs College Sports Day is getting a revamp and feature as part of a special Jubilee Friday Night Lights on Friday 4 September 2026, with OP teams and College teams pitched against each other and local rivals in Football, Netball, Hockey and Rugby.  A BBQ and Bar will be available. This will also see the unveiling of our newly refurbished Astro.
   
• On Saturday 5 September 2026 the College’s grounds will be transformed for a glittering black-tie Diamond Jubilee Ball. Some 300 plus guests will be able to partake in fine dining and dancing to live music in a beautiful marquee in the College’s stunning grounds before carriages at midnight.
   
• On Sunday 25 April the Jubilee Spring Concert will take place at The Bradshaw Hall at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, we will be looking for OPs to join the College's Orchestra, Choir and Ensembles for a fantastic evening of music making!
   
• During the Summer Half Term of 2027 we are considering a three-day 40-Mile Jubilee Walking Pilgrimage in either Somerset or Norfolk for parents, former parents, staff and former staff, taking in historic religious sites, beautiful countryside and fine local hostelries, all in aid of Mary’s Meals.
   
• Bringing the anniversary year to a happy conclusion, Princefest II, the College’s big festival weekend, will return over Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 June 2027 with on-site camping, music, entertainment, stalls and food aplenty, plus our very own funfair in the playground and a fireworks finale on the Saturday, with a more relaxed day including Mass on the Sunday.

Comments Grove du Toit, Headmaster, “We are beyond excited and buzzing about our plans for the College’s Diamond Jubilee next year. It promises to be a wonderful celebration of the College and its ‘spirit of family’, filled with memory-making fun and friendship and we look forward to welcoming all those connected with the College and Foundation, past and present, to our events over the course of the year.

More detailed information and how to book events will be shared in due course.

Tickets for the College's much anticipated Diamond Jubilee Ball on Saturday 5 September are selling well, with over half of the dinner and dancing tickets already sold!

Billed as a magical evening, the Diamond Jubilee Ball will take place on Saturday 5 September from 6.30pm to 1.00am in a beautiful marquee in the College’s glorious parkland. Some 300+ parents, trustees, staff and Old Princethorpians are expected to attend the black-tie event. Guests will enjoy a welcome drink and delicious three course meal with wine followed by live music, dancing and late-night snack. A full bar will also be available. 

Comments, Headmaster, Grove du Toit, "Don't miss out on this once in a decade event! We would encourage all parents, Old Princethorpians and friends of the College to secure their tickets for the Ball early. This is a fantastic opportunity for the Princethorpe community to join together and celebrate the start of the College’s Diamond Jubilee year in style!" 

The deadline for purchasing tickets is Friday 26 June, however tickets are expected to sell out well before then. To purchase your tickets and for more information visit Princethorpe Connect. Tickets are limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. It is possible to purchase individual tickets and a table of ten. In addition to the full Dinner and Dancing tickets at £100 a head, a small number of After Dinner tickets are available at £35 a head. After Dinner ticket holders will have entry from 9.00pm and will receive a welcome drink, before joining in the festivities and enjoying a delicious late-night snack.

If you and your friends are interested in booking a table, please nominate one person as the organiser, they will need to have all names, emails and any special dietary requirements for your party to hand when booking. 

The event is aimed at over 18s only and is not open to Princethorpe students attending the College in 2026/2027, so current Upper Sixth can attend.

If you have any queries about the Diamond Jubilee Ball or any of our other Jubilee celebrations, please contact diamondjubilee@princethorpe.co.uk. 

Department for Education data shows that Sixth Form students at Princethorpe College are making amongst the best progress at A-level in the region. The school placed third out of 83 schools in Coventry and Warwickshire, including all state, grammar and other independent schools, in the latest release of performance data published in late February. The 16 to 18 measures show Princethorpe College achieving a progress score of +0.36, rated as Above Average.

In the summer of 2025, 107 students sat A-level and BTEC examinations and, continuing the strong performances of previous cohorts, 67% of all grades awarded were A*- B, with 36% being awarded A*- A. 

The strong ‘value added’ outcomes for our Sixth Form students are a fantastic indicator of the quality of the College’s curriculum and the teaching that delivers it. Value-added scores are designed to show the progress students make from their starting points, in this case their progression from GCSE to A-levels and BTEC. A positive score means students achieved higher grades than similar students nationally.

Headteacher Grove du Toit commented: “Together our A-level results and value added outcomes recognise the hard work and perseverance of students and of staff who work incredibly hard to stretch Sixth Formers in their courses. We are delighted that the latest Department for Education data highlights this and places us third in Coventry and Warwickshire for student progress. We look forward to building on this success moving forward.”

Head of Sixth Form, Ben Collie, added: “We are proud of our summer 2025 value added results, but they are just one part of the Sixth Form offering here at Princethorpe. Over the last few years, we have invested in subject choice and breadth, developed our extended curriculum, our sixth form enrichment programme, our careers and UCAS guidance and the many leadership development opportunities we provide. Princethorpe College has a successful Sixth Form, we welcome the majority of our own Year 11 as well as a good number of external applicants from other schools. Our focus is on helping students achieve and these results are evidence that our approach works.”

The 2025/26 school year marks a very special anniversary for Princethorpe College, as we celebrate 30 years of being fully co-educational. While girls were welcomed into the Sixth Form from 1976, it was not until September 1995 that Years 7 to 11 were opened up to girls for the first time.

On Wednesday 29 April, pupils and staff attended a special lunchtime talk to mark this milestone in Princethorpe’s history. Headmaster Grove du Toit chaired a panel which included alumnae who were among the ‘pioneer’ girls to join the College in 1995/96, and staff who played a key role in the transition to co-ed.

As two of only fifty girls across the whole school in September 1995, alumnae Eleanor Haddon and Jenny Welch shared their memories of the close friendships that formed, and how the College’s welcoming ethos ensured they instantly felt part of the Princethorpe family. Father Alan Whelan, who was Headmaster at the time of transition, and Margaret-Louise O’Keeffe, who had responsibility for overseeing the move to co-ed in her role as Deputy Head, both gave fascinating insights into all the preparation that went on behind the scenes. Together with form tutor Alex Darkes, who forged strong links with local feeder schools in the leadup to co-education, they worked tirelessly to ensure the transition went smoothly for all pupils, staff and families.

Our audience thoroughly enjoyed hearing all the wonderful stories that were shared, and finished the day’s festivities with some celebratory doughnuts and brownies before heading back to lessons.

The new Princethorpe College Prefect Body for 2026-2027 was formally inaugurated into office at an end of term assembly on Thursday 26 March. Parents of the new prefects were invited to College to watch the afternoon’s formal ceremony.

In his Headmaster's address, Grove du Toit spoke about the importance of leadership and the legacy good leaders leave. The incoming prefects were introduced by Grove du Toit, Headmaster, and presented with their prefect blazers and badges by the outgoing prefects. The outgoing Heads of School, William Gower and Francesca Kelly, spoke of the privilege of serving, thanking all who had supported them in their journey of growth. The incoming Heads of School, Martha Summers and Jonjo Boyle stressed the importance of Princethorpe's family ethos and committed to make a positive impact on every pupil at the school.

After the event parents of the new prefects enjoyed a celebratory afternoon tea in the Sixth Form Centre.

The College extends warm thanks to the outgoing prefect body for all their hard work and unstinting service this last year and we wish the new prefects well as they take up their duties.

On Thursday 30 April, Princethorpe College hosted its annual Spring Concert and what a wonderful celebration of music it was. The Sports Hall was packed with parents and families eager to enjoy the talents of our many musicians and vocalists. 

Over 60 talented Princethorpe pupils treated the audience to a night to remember, impressing all with their varied repertoire and fabulous delivery. The Concert Band opened the proceedings and they were followed by the Chamber Choir, String Orchestra and Cèilidh Band. The audience also enjoyed plenty of soloists and small ensembles in between the big group pieces.

The evening finished with a wonderful medley performance of Music by John Miles with all the pupils playing and harmonising together.

Our thanks went to, Director of Music, Gil Cowlishaw and, Teacher of Music, Alison Wakeley for all their organising and rehearsing and to our talented Princethorpe College musical community for providing such super entertainment. 

You can find a montage of some of their incredible performances on our social media here.

The evening's excitement was completed when Mr Cowlishaw announced that next year, as part of the College's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, the Jubilee Spring Concert will  take place in Birmingham, on Sunday 25 April 2027 at The Bradshaw Hall at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. 

More House celebrated this year after winning the most hotly contested competition in school, the House Cup. Their victory was announced by House Activities Co-ordinator, Rachel Fox, in the Prefect Inauguration ceremony at the end of the Lent Term. The House Cup was presented to the outgoing House Captains, Caitlin, Olivia and Max, as jubilant More pupils cheered across the school.

As always, the House Cup was a close run affair. Across the year, pupils had participated enthusiastically enjoying all the events, including exciting new ones such as Yarn Bombing as well as the traditional Sports Day and Weekly House Quiz.

It was a steady and consistent performance that helped Benet pupils amass their huge total of points and finish first this year. The final placings were: 1st More, 2nd Benet, 3rd Fisher and 4th Austin.

Our thanks go to the whole House team, including the House Activities Leaders (Mrs White, Mrs Wilford, Mr Walters and Mrs Chard) and the House Captains for all they do to organise and run House events.

Work has started to create Princethorpe College’s new purpose-built smallholding that will enrich the educational experiences of all pupils by providing invaluable hands-on learning in the fields of horticulture, environmental science and sustainability for subjects across the curriculum. The project which has been completely funded through donations from the wider Princethorpe community has been in the planning for several years.

Located in the field adjacent to the Sixth Form Centre, this week the smallholding area has been fenced off, prior to the ground being prepared ready for the growing season. Around the 25mx30m boundary, wooden post and rail fencing has been installed along with wire rabbit netting and access gates running directly off the Sixth Form Lawn. Raised beds will shortly be installed as will water and there are plans for a composting area, polytunnel, seating and tool storage.

The new smallholding will serve as a further outdoor classroom, offering plenty of opportunities for study and practical learning in the natural environment. It will foster deeper connections to nature and the countryside, such an important part of the Princethorpe experience, and cultivate valuable life skills in all our pupils.

A dedicated 'Smallholding Working Group' is already working hard to integrate the project into the current curriculum, and co-curricular activities, mapping the links into subjects such as Geography, Science, Food Technology and Business Studies.

The Smallholding Project is a staged project that will grow over time, as the site is established and embedded into curriculum use. This innovative initiative will provide an unparalleled learning experience, not traditionally available in schools, for pupils across the Foundation.

Headmaster, Grove du Toit, comments, “Our new smallholding will provide unique learning experiences that complement our academic curriculum. Through lessons and clubs, pupils will have the opportunity to engage and immerse themselves in the countryside and nature, learning invaluable skills and fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.”

Director of Development, Steve Kowal, added, “This project is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through the quiet generosity of our community. Thanks to donor support, we have been able to create something genuinely distinctive, an educational resource that will benefit pupils for many years to come and grow in impact over time.”

Princethorpe College's U13 Girls' Football team reached the ISFA National Cup Final this year. A truly superb achievement after what has been an outstanding season for the girls.

The team travelled to Letchworth Garden City on Friday 1 May to take on Surbiton High School. In a high-quality and closely contested match, they narrowly lost 1-0, but what a performance they produced, and how near they came – hitting the woodwork on more than one occasion. Their outstanding second half showing incredible determination, teamwork and resilience, and they truly left everything on the pitch.

The girls represented the College with tremendous spirit, determination and composure throughout and we could not be prouder of all they have accomplished this season. This talented young group has an exciting future ahead and we cannot wait to see what they go on to accomplish. 

It has been fantastic to see the progression of our girls teams in football and cricket these last few years. Sport really is for all here at Princethorpe College.

The latest issue of The Pinnacle has just been published, showcasing yet more of our pupils' excellent work. The Pinnacle has always celebrated our pupils at their best and this edition includes plenty more examples of their outstanding efforts; their dedication, hard work and commitment to their studies, inside and outside the classroom, clear to see.

This bumper edition is a testament to the talent that thrives within our community. Incredible and inspiring work in Humanities, Sciences, Languages, English, Art and Design is featured within the booklet and there is also a double page spread on the first whole school COP, as well as news of the achievements of pupils taking Project Qualifications.

You can read a copy of The Pinnacle here.

We welcomed Dr Simon Hyde, Chief Executive Officer of HMC (The Heads' Conference), to Princethorpe College on Thursday 12 March. During his visit, Dr Hyde met with Foundation Principal, Ed Hester, and Headmaster, Grove du Toit, before touring the school with Heads of School, Will Gower and Francesca Kelly.

HMC represents more than 400 leading independent schools in the UK and internationally including Princethorpe College. Being a part of the HMC, connects Princethorpe to schools that share the same educational values and commitment to quality, innovation and excellence in education. 

The visit provided an opportunity for Dr Hyde to witness everyday school life here at Princethorpe College as well as discuss topical issues. It was a chance for Dr Hyde to experience Princethorpe’s ‘spirit of family’ first hand and to share expertise and collaborate on ideas.

Foundation Principal, Ed Hester, said, "It was wonderful to welcome Simon to Princethorpe College. HMC represents independent schools’ common interests, provides national advocacy, shares best practices and acts as an industry advisory body. Membership of the association allows our staff to engage with the best professional development enabling our pupils to receive an education shaped by outstanding practice in the sector."

Dr Simon Hyde, added, "Thanks to the whole Princethorpe community for welcoming me so warmly. The chance to drop in on classes and chat with pupils and staff is always welcome and gave me added insight into your wonderful school."

It was great to share our approach to education here at Princethorpe College with Dr Hyde.

Anyone for Tennis? - New for Summer 2026 -  Princethorpe College Tennis Courts now open for public hire

As part of Princethorpe Enterprises, we’re delighted to be opening up the Princethorpe College tennis courts this summer for the very first time. Whether you’d like a relaxed knock-about with a friend or family member or something more competitive, you can now hire one of our well-maintained tennis courts for just £12 per hour per court (including VAT).

Courts are available at the following times:

• Term Time
  • Monday to Friday: 6.30pm – 8.30pm
  • Saturday: 1.30pm – 8.30pm
  • Sunday: 8.30am – 8.30pm
• School Holidays
  • Monday to Friday: 5.30pm – 8.30pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 8.30am – 8.30pm

To book your court visit, https://schoolhire.co.uk/rugby/princethorpe

For some pupils, a Princethorpe education is only possible because someone chose to give. For others, support becomes essential when family circumstances change unexpectedly. A parent loses work, a household faces financial pressure, a situation shifts, and suddenly a pupil’s place at school is at risk.

Bursary and hardship support exists for those moments.

It helps pupils come to Princethorpe who otherwise could not. It helps families remain part of the school community when life becomes difficult. Most importantly, it gives pupils stability, confidence and the chance to benefit fully from the education, care and opportunities around them.

We have created a new short film focused on bursary and hardship support at Princethorpe College. It features Upper Sixth students who reflect on their time at school, what they are taking forward as they leave, and the role bursary support has played in making that possible.

The film is built around a simple but powerful truth: “I’m here because of you.”

That message is at the heart of bursary giving. A donation is not simply a financial transaction. It is a direct act of belief in a young person’s future.

Through the Annual Fund, Old Princethorpians can help more pupils access, and remain part of, the Princethorpe experience. Regular gifts are especially powerful because they provide reliable support we can plan around. One-off gifts also make an immediate difference, particularly where families need help quickly.

The outcomes are tangible. Pupils can stay in their friendship groups, they can continue learning without disruption, they can take part fully in school life. Ultimately, they can leave Princethorpe with confidence, ambition and a strong sense of belonging.

This matters now because the need for financial support is growing. More families are under pressure, and the Foundation must do what it can to ensure that financial difficulty does not unnecessarily interrupt a pupil’s education.

For OPs, this is one of the most meaningful ways to give back. It protects something you know well: the chance to be part of the Princethorpe family, to be known, encouraged and supported, and to carry that experience into adult life.

Watch the bursary film

Support bursaries and hardship through the Annual Fund

Independent education is changing, and schools like ours must think carefully about how they remain strong, accessible and ambitious for the future.

Across the Princethorpe Foundation, school fees remain the main source of income. They cover the day-to-day cost of education, staffing, care, facilities and opportunity. But fees alone cannot, and should not, carry every future ambition.

As a charitable Foundation, we have a wider responsibility: to widen access where we can, support families when circumstances change, improve the pupil experience, and invest in the places and facilities that help young people thrive.

That is why we have produced a new, short video to explain how our finances work. Its purpose is simple: to help our community understand how the Foundation is funded, why philanthropy matters, and how charitable giving can strengthen what we are able to do for pupils across our schools.

This is not just a financial message. It is about sustainability, fairness and shared purpose.

Donations through the Annual Fund allow us to respond to real need and opportunity. They can support bursaries and hardship funding, help bring forward practical projects, enhance facilities, and protect the breadth of experience that makes Foundation life so distinctive.

Old Princethorpians have a particularly important role in this story. You know what a Princethorpe education can mean. You understand the friendships, confidence, values and sense of belonging that stay with pupils long after they leave. Philanthropy helps ensure that those experiences remain possible for future generations.

The video also explains how Gift Aid can make donations go further, allowing eligible UK taxpayers to increase the value of their gift to the Foundation at no additional cost to them.

The challenge is clear: if we want the Foundation to remain ambitious, caring and accessible, we must continue to grow charitable support alongside fee income.

The opportunity is just as clear: gifts of all sizes, given regularly or as one-off donations, can make a practical and lasting difference.

Watch the Explainer Video

Support the Annual Fund

After a rigorous selection process, the trustees of The Princethorpe Foundation have announced the appointment of Stuart Shelton to the role of CEO and Foundation Principal, with effect from September 2027. 

Mr Shelton will take over from Ed Hester, who will be retiring after 18 years of outstanding service leading the Foundation. 

Currently Headteacher of St Peter’s Catholic School in Solihull, a role he has held for the past four years, Stuart has led the school to an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted judgement and through a major collaborative expansion project. In addition, he has a wealth of senior leadership experience gained in both the state and independent school sectors. He had previously been Deputy Headteacher of The Priory School in Birmingham, Head of Secondary at The Doha British School in Qatar and Executive Headteacher of Four Dwellings Primary and Secondary Academies in Birmingham. 
Married with four children, a keen sportsman and a committed Catholic, Stuart originally trained as an engineer with Jaguar Land Rover before becoming a PE teacher. He has a MA in Educational Leadership and is currently participating in the Archdiocese of Birmingham’s first Catholic Leadership Programme. 

Commenting on the appointment, John Fisher, Chair of Trustees explains, “The trustees were impressed with not only Stuart’s excellent personal qualities and his educational leadership credentials, but also the considerable business and commercial acumen he brings to the role. His ambition and vision for the Foundation is clear, and we are confident that he will be a worthy successor to Ed Hester. With the support of our three outstanding Heads and the Foundation Directors, Stuart will uphold our ethos and values and lead the Foundation forward strongly into its next chapter.” 

Stuart Shelton adds, “I am tremendously excited and honoured to take on the CEO and Principal role, entrusted with guiding the future direction of the Foundation. The aspirational aims and inclusive ethos of The Princethorpe Foundation resonate strongly with my own vision for education and the nurturing of young people. I am really looking forward to getting to know the wider communities at Princethorpe College, Crackley Hall and Crescent School. 

Ed Hester commented “I am very grateful to the trustees for involving me in the process to select my successor. Stuart is a superb appointment and I am really looking forward to working closely with him over the next year, to ensure a smooth handover in the run up to him taking over the reins.

The Foundation has just published its latest Sustainability Plan. The 2026 Environmental Sustainability Report highlights the achievements of the Foundation community across our key sustainability pillars over the last two years. It shares our plans for the future and reiterates our ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. All the schools are very much aware of the importance of ensuring careful husbandry of our resources and of educating our children on the importance of caring for the environment. If you would like to read the report you can find a copy of it here: 2026 Sustainability Plan.

In response to high demand for Reception school places in the local area, Crescent School on Bawnmore Road, Bilton, will have two Reception classes starting in September 2026.    

Applications for places in Reception started early, with interest in the year group high. With class size limited to just 20 children, the school was quickly oversubscribed. In response to so many parents applying, the school has decided to offer two classes this year.  

Comments, Headmaster, Joe Thackway, “Having two small classes of up to 20 pupils each will enable more pupils to benefit from our specialist child-centred approach. Each class will be led by an experienced early years teacher, supported by a dedicated teaching assistant, enabling tailored learning and improved outcomes.”   

As well as daily phonics, reading and numeracy teaching, children attending Crescent School benefit from specialist teachers delivering Languages, Music, IT and PE, as well as an integrated Forest School programme.  

Mr Thackway, continues, “There has been an enormous amount of new house building in Bilton and the surrounding area so we hope this extra provision will be well received.”  

Prospective parents who would be interested in a Reception place for their child in September 2026 are urged to contact Mrs Becky Witcomb, the Registrar, on 01788 523851 or by email admissions@crescentschool.co.uk to find out more.   

Part of the Princethorpe Foundation, the Crescent is a co-educational independent day school for 200 children aged 4 to 11 years. Class sizes range from no more than 20 pupils for Reception to Year 2 to up to 24 for Years 3 to 6.

On Thursday 19 March, our Crackley Hall School community came together to mark St Joseph’s Day. Supported by pupils, Father Ryan Service led an afternoon mass that celebrated the school’s patron saint.

At the service, the school community was joined by former pupils, staff and parents, including St Joseph’s Convent School alumni.

During his Homily, Fr Ryan reflected on how St Joseph is so often overlooked and rarely given the recognition he deserves. He reminded us that there is power and great value in turning up for others and being there, even when it doesn't attract attention or appreciation.

Our thanks go to the staff and pupils who contributed to the celebrations and also to all the past pupils, parents and staff who attended. It was our pleasure to welcome them back to Crackley Hall.

We welcomed two Old Crescentians back to Crescent School in March for their Year 10 work experience placements.

Freya and Dorritt (both Class of 2022) worked with pupils across the school in a range of different subject lessons, including Forest School. They particularly enjoyed working with the Reception classes especially reading with the children.

It was lovely to see them assisting and interacting with the children and we very much hope that their work experience here at Crescent inspires them to go on and train as teachers. Both girls were a delight and pleasure to have in school.

Crescent School welcomed Rugby’s local independent book seller Hunt's Bookshop into school in late April and were especially delighted to catch up with, Old Crescentian (and Old Princethorpian) Christopher Hunt.

Christopher brought along his brilliant book trolleys for a school book fair. All the classes had the opportunity to come up to the library for a browse with parents exploring the books before and after school. As well as providing extra sales for Crescent's local bookshop, the book fair earns commission for the school. The money raised going straight back into supporting the children’s learning and reading opportunities. 

Our OPs' events calendar details all our events for our alumni community for 2025-2026.

This year's annual Summer Supper Reunion is upcoming and takes place at the College on Friday 19 June, celebrating the joiners of 1966 and the leavers of 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006 and 2016, although leavers of other years are, as ever, most welcome.

All OPs, past parents and staff are welcome to participate in any or all of the events. Visit Princethorpe Connect, our online alumni community, to register and book onto events.

Team Super Sports Camps run every school holiday and are back for May Half Term! The camps are held at Princethorpe College from Tuesday 26 May to Friday 29 May, the Holiday Camps will run from 8.00am to 5.00pm.

Children aged 7 to 16 can choose from a variety of sports to create their own personalised sports camp! For our younger campers (ages 5 to 7), along with sport we’ve got arts, crafts, and dance activities to keep them engaged and having a blast!

Checkout this video of the Super Sports Camp at Princethorpe to see what they get up to. 

Camps are priced at £39 per day. 

Sibling discounts and flexible booking options available!

Click here to book your Team Super Sports camps 

Open Evening - Wednesday 3 June 2026 - 6.30pm to 8.30pm

The College's annual Summer Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 3 June from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. This is a perfect opportunity for prospective families looking for a place in September 2027 and beyond to visit the school, for children to take part in departmental activities and for parents to meet and chat to members of staff and pupils.

The Headmaster, Grove du Toit, will also address visitors during the evening. Light refreshments will be available.

Please click here to book your place. 

Final Entrance Exams for Years 7 - 10 in September 2026

Monday 8 June  

Whilst our main entrance exams session for entry to the College took place in November, due to significant continued interest we are planning a final Summer Entrance Exams session on Monday 8 June for candidates still looking for a place in Years 7 to 10 for September 2026. The Entrance Exams have been scheduled to take place after our Open Evening on Wednesday 3 June, so candidates can visit the school before they take the exams.

Please click here for more information.

Year 5 Taster Day - Tuesday 9, Thursday 11 and Thursday 17 June 2026

Our Year 5 Taster Days are a great opportunity for pupils who are currently in Year 5 and are interested in joining Princethorpe in September 2027. 

The days run from 9.30am to 3.00pm and typically involve four lessons, a question and answer session with some of our current pupils and the chance to talk to the Headmaster, Mr du Toit. Snacks and lunch are provided and there is no charge for the day.

Please click here to book your place. 

Open Afternoon - Sunday 13 September 2026 - 2.00pm to 5.00pm

The College Open Afternoon will take place on Sunday 13 September 2026 from 2.00pm to 5.00pm and will be a great opportunity for prospective pupils and families to hear a welcome address from Grove du Toit, the Headmaster, meet members of staff and pupils, take part in activities around the different departments and tour the school and grounds. 

Booking will open shortly after the Summer Open Evening. 

Those wishing to register for Entrance Examinations should do so by the deadline of Friday 25 September 2026 to facilitate the gathering of references from primary schools. You can now complete your Registration form online by clicking here.

Entrance Examinations for Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 will take place on Saturday 7 November 2026 from 9.30am to 3.30pm. More information is available in our 2027 Admissions and Entrance Examinations Booklet available on our website, click here.

We are excited to offer OPs a unique opportunity, brought about by a generous offer from Old Princethorpian, Aaron Jaffer.

Aaron was a pupil at Princethorpe from 1997 to 2002, heavily involved in Drama and Music throughout his time at the College. He has remained a close friend of the College, supporting many OP events, and we are delighted and humbled that he has offered to create a unique event especially for his fellow Old Princethorpians.

Royal Museums Greenwich (RMG) is a family of four museums in South London, covering a huge range of subjects across its four sites. Its 2.5+ million items include everything from Titanic relics to Tongan clubs!

Aaron has worked at RMG for over ten years and will be selecting some weird and wonderful things especially for us! On this tour, you will see some of the Museum’s most famous objects, including Nelson’s Battle of Trafalgar coat with a bullet hole in the shoulder, but also many hidden gems! 

Here's everything you need to know:

Arrivals:

We ask that guests make their own travel arrangements and meet Aaron and the tour group at the entrance of the National Maritime Museum at 11.15am, so that we can begin the tour promptly at 11.30am.

The tour will last approximately 70 minutes, followed by a chance to explore the nearby majestic tea clipper, Cutty Sark.

Afterwards, you are warmly invited to join Aaron and the Alumni and Development team in a nearby pub for an informal catch up and a bite to eat.

Travel and Costs:

The tour and Aaron’s time are offered free of charge. Optional lunch afterwards to be paid individually.

You can find detailed information about getting to Royal Museums Greenwich on their website: Getting to Royal Museums Greenwich

Crucially, please sign up for the event on Princethorpe Connect, here, so that we know to expect you and can include you in any updates about the event.

Spaces are strictly limited so please sign up as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. You may book for up to three additional guests in your party.

This is a unique opportunity for Old Princethorpians and promises to be a fantastic way to spend a Sunday in London.

We hope you’ll be able to join us!

Thursday 18 June from 6.00pm to 8.30pm and Sunday 21 June from 2.00pm to 4.30pm

A celebration of the College pupils' GCSE and A-level Art, Photography Textile and Design work will take place in the Sixth Form Centre on Thursday 18 June from 6.00pm to 8.30pm and on Sunday 21 June from 2.00pm to 4.30pm.

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

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

All are welcome. On Thursday evening admission is free, on the Sunday admission will be £5 per car including entry to the College's Summer Fest. Light refreshments will be available.

Friday 19 June 2026 - 6.00pm Optional tour, 7.00pm Drinks Reception, 7.45pm Supper

OPs who left the College in 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006 and 2016 (or those who were in the equivalent year groups) are warmly invited back to the College for the OPs Annual Summer Supper Reunion on Friday 19 June, to celebrate their respective 50th, 40th, 30th, 20th and 10th anniversaries of leaving.

This year we are delighted to extend the invitation even further. As the College is preparing to celebrate its Diamond Jubilee anniversary, marking 60 years since opening its doors, we would be honoured if those who arrived at Princethorpe in 1966 would join us at this reunion supper too, helping us to launch a year of anniversary celebrations. OPs from other year groups are also most welcome to attend and share in the celebrations, as are former members of staff.

Alumni Relations and Development Officer, Caroline Spencer, reflects: "We had a wonderful turnout last year, and this year promises to be even bigger. Mingling with the younger generations of OPs will be some original Old Princethorpians, who started in 1966, and some former pupils of St Mary's Priory, who represent the nun's that played a vital role in Princethorpe's history. We know that many OPs are keener to come to these events if they can be sure of seeing some familiar faces. You can rest assured that there is always a good number from each decade, as well as former and current long-serving members of staff to aid in the reminiscence!"

The evening commences with a Drinks Reception at 7.00pm, but guests are welcome to arrive at the earlier time of 6.00pm for an optional tour of the school campus. Supper is served at 7.45pm, during which the school and OP Committee will thank long-standing members of staff for their ongoing service, and bid farewell to any staff leaving the College. Some photos of last year's event are attached, and you can read about it on Princethorpe Connect, here.

Numbers are limited to around 100 guests and we already have OPs booking onto the event, so if you would like to attend please go to the event page on Princethorpe Connect by Wednesday 10 June for all details and to book your place. We hope to see you there!

Sunday 21 June - 12.00pm to 5.00pm

After the success of last year, we are delighted to share that Princethorpe Summer Fest is returning.

Mark your calendars for Sunday 21 June, from 12.00pm to 5.00pm, and get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration featuring:

• Live Music
• Performances from local groups
• Stunning Vintage Car Display
• Food, Craft and Beauty stalls selling lots of amazing products
• Exquisite Art Exhibition
• PTA Fun Zone with inflatables, games and activities
• 9-Hole Crazy Golf Course
• Fun-filled Activities, Games, and Crafts for all ages!

And that's not all! Indulge in a delightful array of stalls selling food, drink, and artisan products.

Don't miss out on this spectacular event - bring your friends and family for a day of entertainment, creativity, and delicious treats!

Entry is £5 per car to be paid on the day. To get your tickets click here.

Friday 4 September 2026 - 4.30pm to 8.00pm, Princethorpe College

To help us kick off the College’s Diamond Jubilee anniversary celebrations, marking 60 years since the College opened its doors, we are excited to invite all Old Princethorpians to a first of its kind, the OPs vs College Friday Night Lights, taking place at Princethorpe on Friday 4 September.

We are merging our 15th annual OPs vs College Sports Day with the Games Department’s popular Friday Night Lights, making it bigger and better than ever before. It is the perfect opportunity to bring the whole Princethorpe community together, not only to herald in the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, but also to officially open the resurfaced Astroturf, which will have been laid during the Summer Holidays. OPs can be the very first to play on this new surface in the OPs vs College 1st XI Hockey fixture! (See below for the schedule).

This is also the first opportunity for the Upper Sixth Leavers of 2026 to meet the wider OP community of which they are now a part, and it's a wonderful occasion where OPs of all ages can come together in friendly competition and celebration of a diverse and extensive community. You don't want to miss out!

Whether you’re there as a participant or a spectator, this will be a great evening. Family and friends are most welcome to come along to spectate and enjoy the community spirit. There will be BBQ food available and a bar, and any OPs who participate in a fixture will receive a voucher for a complimentary food and drink item.

The fixture schedule is as follows:

4.30pm: Rugby - OP 2026 Leavers vs OP Veterans (Class of 2025 + Prior)

5.00pm: Football - OPs vs Princethorpe College 1st XI

5.10pm: Cutting Of The Ribbon to open the new astroturf

5.15pm: Hockey - OPs (Mixed) vs Princethorpe College 1st XI Boys

5.30pm: Netball - OPs (Mixed) vs College Select

6.30pm: OP After Match Awards by the BBQ

As before, points will be accumulated throughout the evening, with the Alex Wallis Memorial Shield being awarded to the victors at the end of the night.

We would like as many 2026 leavers and OPs from across the generations as possible to take part in one or more of the matches, so if you are able to come, please complete the participants' form via this link, where details of the fixtures are included, by Monday 31 August at the latest.

You can view full details on the event page, and register as a spectator, on Princethorpe Connect, here.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Saturday 5 September - 6.30pm to 1.00am

Join us for a magical evening celebrating 60 years of Princethorpe College. Our Diamond Jubilee Ball will take place on Saturday 5 September from 6.30pm to 1.00am in a beautiful marquee in the College’s glorious parkland.

Guests will enjoy a welcome drink and delicious three course meal with wine followed by live music, dancing and late-night snack. A full bar will also be available. 

The deadline for purchasing tickets is Friday 26 June, however tickets are expected to sell out well before then. To purchase your tickets and for more information visit Princethorpe Connect. Tickets are limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. It is possible to purchase individual tickets and a table of ten. In addition to the full Dinner and Dancing tickets at £100 a head, a small number of After Dinner tickets are available at £35 a head. After Dinner ticket holders will have entry from 9.00pm and will receive a welcome drink, before joining in the festivities and enjoying a delicious late-night snack.

If you and your friends are interested in booking a table, please nominate one person as the organiser, they will need to have all names, emails and any special dietary requirements for your party to hand when booking. 

The event is aimed at over 18s only and is not open to Princethorpe students attending the College in 2026/2027, so current Upper Sixth can attend.

If you have any queries about the Diamond Jubilee Ball or any of our other Jubilee celebrations, please contact diamondjubilee@princethorpe.co.uk. 

Thursday 24 September 2026 - 6.00pm to 8.00pm

Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery, Princethorpe's prep school and nursery in Kenilworth, is having a specific Nursery, Reception and Year 3 Open Evening on Thursday 24 September from 6.00pm to 8.00pm. Parents are being encouraged to apply now for places in Reception in 2027.

This is an opportunity for parents and children looking for a Nursery, Reception or Year 3 place for September 2027, to look around the Nursery and the Reception and Year 3 class and to meet and talk informally to staff. There will be a short presentation at the beginning of the evening and light refreshments will be available.

We still have limited availability in Nursery, Reception, Year 2 and Year 5 for September 2026. We are also now taking registrations for Nursery and for Reception for September 2027 admissions. 

The nursery is open 51 weeks a year providing carefully structured sessions for children aged 9-months old+, two-year olds, three-year olds and pre-school children.

Please book your place at the Open Evening here. 

If you can't make the Open Evening but would like to look around, please call our Registrar on 01926 514410 and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors for individual tours on most days.

For more information please also see our Admissions Update.

Friday 25 September 2026, 4.00pm to 6.00pm, Commencing at Farringdon Station

We are delighted to invite you to join us for what we hope will be the first of many London Walking Tours, led by our very own Old Princethorpian, Jonnie Fielding, who founded and runs Bowl Of Chalk Walking Tours.

The tour takes place on the same day as the OPs London Meet, conveniently concluding at the OPs London Meet venue, so that you can seamlessly move from one event to the other and make the most of these opportunities to socialise and reconnect with fellow Old Princethorpians.

Jonnie's background:

Jonnie attended Princethorpe College between 1989 and 1996, and over the years has had many 'lives', but for the last 15 years has run his own walking tour business in London called Bowl of Chalk. Time Out London have over a number of years listed Jonnie's walks as "One of the best London walking tours". The Times said that Jonnie "is a conduit for the city's soul, distilling its chaotic history into digestible, engaging narratives", and James Corden has said that "Jonnie made me see London through new eyes." In 2025, Harper Collins published Jonnie's first book entitled Why is Downing Street Painted Black? And 364 Other Fun London Facts, a collection of London's often overlooked oddities and eccentricities. Jonnie also runs monthly pub events called 'Bowl of Chalk's Curistorian Club', curating different guests, all of whom bring to life different aspects of London's past, present and future. 

Jonnie's Tour:

Jonnie will be guiding us through the areas of Clerkenwell and Smithfield, exploring the area's monastic connections, alongside dissenters, revolutionaries, plague, war, death, execution and a 900 year old meat market...and perhaps a few literary, TV and Film references for good measure!

Format of the afternoon:

Meet Jonnie and Foundation Staff at the entrance to Farringdon Station, on Cowcross Street, at 3.45pm so that the tour can begin promptly at 4.00pm.

The tour will commence at 4.00pm from this location, and conclude at 6.00pm at 'Smiths' of Smithfield, the location of our OPs London Meet. You are welcome to depart here, but we warmly invite you to book tickets for the London Meet (see its own event page, here) to continue the fun into the evening.

Tickets:

The charge for the tour is £20 and goes directly to cover Jonnie's fees. Tickets are limited to 20 walkers and must be purchased in advance, and by Friday 18 September at the latest, so that we can confirm numbers and plan accordingly for the event. You may book tickets for up to 3 additional guests.

Please click here to visit the event page on Princethorpe Connect for details and tickets.

This is a unique opportunity and we hope you'll be able to join us!

Friday 25 September 2026 - 6.00pm to 10.30pm - 'Smiths' of Smithfield, 67-77 Charterhouse St, London, EC1M 6HJ

Our popular London Meet takes place this year on Friday 25 September, from 6.00pm to 10.30pm, at 'Smiths' of Smithfield.

Located just minutes from Farringdon station (with connections to the Tube, Elizabeth Line, and National Rail) and a short stroll from Chancery Lane, the first floor of this Central London venue offers a spacious, contemporary environment for our annual social.

You will be greeted by venue staff upon arrival and directed up the stairs, where the OP Committee and Foundation staff will greet you warmly and you can get settled into the evening with a complimentary Welcome Drink, courtesy of the Committee. Included in the ticket price - a bargain, at £15 - will be a spread of delicious food catering to various dietary requirements, and you can enjoy dedicated service, a semi-private bar area, and views overlooking Smithfield Market.

Our London Meets are always popular, sociable affairs, with OPs from across the generations mixing and networking happily together, and we have room to welcome even more this year, so why not gather your OP friends and come join us? Partners are most welcome and you can rest assured you'll be well looked after if you come alone! We would love to see you there.

For details and to book, visit the event page on Princethorpe Connect, here.

Please spread the word to any OPs you are in contact with, as we sadly do not have contact details for everyone.

For any queries, feel free to email the Alumni and Development team at oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

You can read about last year's London Meet, here, to get a taste of what to expect!

Tuesday 29 September 2026 - 6.00pm - 7.00pm

The Crescent School, Princethorpe's prep school in Rugby, is opening its doors to prospective parents and children for a dedicated Reception and Year 3 Open Evening on Tuesday 29 September from 6.00pm to 7.00pm.

Visitors will be able to hear a presentation about Reception or Year 3 as well as tour the school, visit the Reception and Year 3 classrooms, see the facilities and meet staff. Mr Matt Aston, our new Head from September 2026, will also be on hand to answer any of your questions. 

We are now taking registrations for places in Reception and Year 3 starting in September 2027 but still have a few places available in Reception, Year 4 and Year 5 for entry this September 2026. In other year groups we have waiting groups, speak to our Registrar, Mrs Becky Witcomb on 01788 522851 or email admissions@crescentschool.co.uk for more information on availability.

To book your place at the Open Evening click here. 

If you can't make the date but would like to look around, please call our Registrar, Mrs Becky Witcomb on 01788 523851 and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors for individual tours on most days.

For more information please click here or see our Admissions Update.

Bit of background; where you live, your family, what you do for a living:
I’m currently based between Warwickshire and London, working across archives, collections, and interpretation while developing my career as a curator and artist. I work at The National Archives supporting access to nationally significant historical collections, and I also contribute to exhibitions and inclusive interpretation at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. Alongside this, I maintain a freelance artistic practice focused on the female body, identity, and chronic illness. I am currently working towards my Associateship of the Museums Association, with a focus on developing inclusive, research-led approaches to interpretation and curatorial practice.

Age:
31

When were you at Princethorpe – years from and to?
2011 to 2013, for Sixth Form.

What was the school like in your day?
I have really fond memories of the creative side of Princethorpe. I loved being part of choir — especially going on tour to Barcelona and singing a solo — and I was also in Little Shop of Horrors and We Will Rock You, which were such fun experiences. Mr Cowlishaw, our musical director, was an absolute joy and someone I still think of very fondly. Alongside all of that, it was where I formed some of my closest friendships.

How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?
It gave me resilience, creativity, and a sense of curiosity that has stayed with me into adulthood. Looking back, I think it helped shape my love of storytelling, history, and the arts — all things that now sit at the centre of my career.

What advice would you give to your teenage self?
I’d tell my teenage self that art doesn’t need to be perfect — it’s okay to experiment and not get it right the first time. I’d also remind myself to follow my passions, challenge myself, and build strong connections, because those relationships and experiences shape you more than you realise at the time.

Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?
The women in my life have been the greatest influence on me, alongside the artists, writers, and historians I’ve encountered over the years. I’m particularly inspired by people who challenge established narratives and encourage us to see history — and ourselves — differently.

What keeps you awake at night?
Wondering whether I’ll fully achieve the dream of becoming a curator. I also think a lot about the realities of being a woman in the arts today — trying to remain authentic, individual, and resilient in a world that can often make that difficult.

What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?
Completing my Master’s degree is probably my proudest achievement.

What’s your biggest indulgence?
Chocolate-covered frozen fruit.

If you had to have one last meal, what would it be?
A Christmas roast dinner — sweet roasted carrots, parsnips, and an enormous mountain of roast potatoes.

What is your favourite TV show and why?
I love Bridgerton — it’s one of those shows I can endlessly rewatch.

If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be and who would be with you?
On a Greek island — somewhere warm, peaceful, and completely free of stress.

Lasting memories of Princethorpe:
Sitting on the lawn outside the Sixth Form Centre revising for exams with a field of cows in the background, and the hours spent in the art studio listening to the radio and painting.

Are you in touch with any other Old Princethorpians, if so whom?
I’m still in touch with Sophie Jones, Evie Ratcliffe, and Isabelle Stevens.

Is there anyone you would like to track down?
I’d love to reconnect with others from my year, especially those I sang with in choir or performed with in school shows.

We are delighted for Lottie Jones (Class of 2014) who has been serving on the OP Committee since September 2024, as she has become a mum for the first time.

"Last November, we welcomed our daughter, Florence, into the world. The past six months have been the most incredible whirlwind I could have ever imagined. Honestly, being a mum is a total dream come true. Florence is already showing us her personality, she’s a strong-willed, cheeky little soul who I know is going to keep us on our toes for years to come."

Congratulations to Lottie and the family, and welcome to the world Florence!

Congratulations to Helen McAleese (Class of 2008) on the birth of her second daughter, Lottie Isla Higdon. Mother and baby are recovering well following a difficult time for the family; Helen continues:

"After a tough pregnancy following the loss of our twin sons, Leo and Isaac, who arrived into the world too soon last year, we are delighted that baby Lottie Isla Higdon has arrived safely, albeit 5 weeks early on 28 April. We are currently being looked after on the TCU at Worcester Royal Hospital but very much can't wait to get home to join our first daughter, Emily."

Our best wishes to Helen for a swift recovery and return home.

Congratulations to former Princethorpe pupil (Class of 2013), Megan Chapman (née Bailey) and her husband Ben, who are delighted to announce the birth of their first child.

Winslet Emma Chapman was born 26 March 2026 at Coventry hospital. Comment the proud parents, "We’re both over the moon to have our beautiful baby girl finally with us."

Congratulations to OP Evie Gibbard (née Ratcliffe), who married her partner, Adam, in April this year.

Evie was at Princethorpe right through from Year 7 to Upper Sixth, leaving in 2013. She went onto study at Nottingham Trent University to earn a degree in Product Design. Her husband is Adam, but she insists the biblical pairing of names was not intended, rather a happy coincidence!

We wish Evie and Adam a very happy future together.

Earlier this year the sad news reached us that Colin Jamie, a longstanding and valued member of the catering team working at both Princethorpe and Crackley Hall, who retired due to ill health a few years ago, had sadly passed away.

Colin is remembered by many longstanding members of staff as someone who was always the same: pleased to see you, kind and chatty. He got on well with his colleagues, was hugely supported by them and was one of the great constants on the lunch queue each day, where he served the food with great patience. He was equally highly regarded by the pupils, as he treated them unfailingly with kindness and respect. Colin was straightforward, selfless, unassuming and had an immense sense of duty. He was always happy when he was at work, and Princethorpe was very much like home to him.

We remember Colin and his family in our prayers.

According to our calendar, on Wednesday 1 April we held our annual ghost census - a light-hearted entry for April Fool’s Day.

Hopefully, you weren’t too disappointed to discover that on that day there was no one wandering the corridors, checking in on our friendly spirits and spectres. No one counting the apparitions and wraiths, recording the objects moved or unexplained temperature changes. 

Like any old building though, Princethorpe does have a few ghost tales, some of which were shared by our Archivist recently on School Archives Day.

A disappearing priest (story from the 1970s – reported in 1985 College magazine.) 

An MSC priest who taught science at the College in the 1970s came back late one night, and was surprised to notice lights in the Chapel and the sound of the organ playing. When he went to investigate, the music stopped and he was met by an unknown priest who asked if he would assist him in saying Mass, to which he agreed. 

Immediately after Mass the unknown priest hurried into the vestry, while the MSC priest remained behind for a moment to put out the candles. On going into the vestry, the MSC priest found only a pile of vestments on the floor – the stranger had completely disappeared. 

Nobody else knew who the other priest might have been, or why he was at the College at that hour. Peter Rex, who wrote the piece for the College magazine, concluded the story by asking ‘Was it the spirit of some previous chaplain, returning to say a mass he had once neglected?’ 

The half nun (story from the 1970s – reported in 1985 College magazine.) 

During the 1970s, numerous first year boarders (the equivalent of today’s Year 7) reported seeing the figure of half a nun walking the corridors near the top floor dormitory (now S1, S2 and S3). 

According to Old Princethorpian and former Foundation Assistant Head Alex Darkes, there was no consensus among the boys as to which half of the nun it was (top or bottom, left or right); we also know that the older boarders were sometimes fond of playing tricks on the younger ones, so the jury’s out on this one! Either way, even by 1985 the College magazine reports that the half nun ‘has not been seen for some considerable time’. 

Civil War ghosts near the Woodhouse (story reported in 1985 College magazine.) 

Peter Rex’s piece in the College magazine states that on several occasions people had seen the following take place in a field on the bend in the Leamington Road, below Burnthurst Lane and near what was formerly the Woodhouse. Two figures – a man and a woman – in seventeenth-century clothing were seen running out of the woods into the field, followed by Roundhead soldiers. On reaching the middle of the field, the two people were surrounded by the soldiers, and then vanished. 

The grey nun on Burnthurst Lane (from ‘Midland Spirits and Spectres’ by Anne Bradford and Barrie Roberts.) 

In the early 1950s, a woman who lived on Burnthurst Lane had several sightings of a nun in a grey habit (the nuns of St Mary’s Priory wore black habits). Through her window, she saw the nun walking up the front path to her house, but when she opened the front door there was nobody there. 

Returning inside, the woman saw the nun passing one of her windows and walking towards the back door. Again, she opened the door and found no-one there. This occurred several times, always at around 4.30pm, and only in the summer months. 

When we shared this news on social media we had plenty of comments. Our archivist is always interested in your stories of Princethorpe, whether they include ghosts or not. If you have one to tell and photos to share why not email archives@princethorpe.co.uk.

We are looking forward to participating in the 2026 Heritage Open Days festival this September.

This year’s festival theme is ‘Everyday Histories’, focusing on daily working life through the ages. Linking the theme to Women's History Month, our Foundation Archivist Jo Wong took the opportunity to explore the story of Emma Cooke, a skilled dressmaker who joined the staff of St Mary’s Priory, Princethorpe in 1866 and served the Priory and its school for an incredible 68 years. You can discover more about Emma’s life in Jo’s blog post which has just been published on the Heritage Open Days website here.

Look out for further information on our Heritage Open Days tours when bookings open in June.

We had a wonderful time celebrating School Archives Day 2026 at Princethorpe College.

Having been one of the ‘pioneer’ schools taking part in the first nationwide School Archives Day last year, on 12 March 2026 we again joined schools up and down the country in celebrating everything that school archives have to offer.

Although our planned Co-education 30^th Anniversary event had to be postponed until the following term, we were pleased to mark School Archives Day by welcoming pupils and staff to a lunchtime talk on some of the stranger stories from Princethorpe’s past. Foundation Archivist Jo Wong shared some weird and wonderful tales from the archives, featuring a blunderbuss in the library, abseiling out of dormitory windows, and a herd of photogenic cows, to name but a few!

We had some brilliant questions from the pupils, and impressive participation by all in the quick-fire round. As ever, Princethorpe’s ghost stories proved popular too – have a look at our separate article for a few of the tales!

Although the Chapel was not fully completed by the date which had been set for its consecration, the decision was made to proceed with the ceremony as planned; the official opening was subsequently deferred until spring 1902.

The Chapel was consecrated by the Right Reverend Dr Ilsley, Bishop of Birmingham, assisted by local clergy including the Priory’s own Chaplain. At 8.45am the Bishop entered the Chapel and ordered the lighting of the candles in front of the twelve consecration crosses on the interior walls. After the seven penitential psalms had been recited, the Bishop led a procession to the Chapel’s front door, and blessed salt and water with which he sprinkled the outside walls, making three circuits around the building to symbolise holy baptism. Then, knocking three times at the external doors with his crozier, he demanded admittance to the Chapel.

After the procession had re-entered the building, the ceremony included the chanting of the Litanies of the Saints, and the Bishop traced the letters of the Latin and Greek alphabets on the Chapel floor with his crozier to represent the instruction of the newly baptised. The Bishop then blessed salt, ashes, wine and water, with which he sprinkled the altar seven times, the interior walls three times, and the floor in the shape of a cross. Four priests carried the relics of the saints in procession around the outside of the Chapel before enshrining them in the high altar. The Bishop anointed the altar and the twelve consecration crosses with chrism, and blessed the altar furniture prior to its use in Mass.

Following the consecration, Mass was celebrated, and the Blessed Sacrament was carried by the Bishop in procession from the old Chapel to the new. In the words of Sister Frideswide Stapleton of St Mary’s Priory, ‘No one who was present on that day will ever forget the deep hush and unutterable gladness of the moment when the Blessed Sacrament was brought in and Our Divine Lord came to take possession of the temple raised in His honour with so much love.’

Images

1. Photograph of the interior of the Chapel, early C20th (archive ref. SMP.24.2.53)

2. One of the twelve consecration crosses in the Chapel

3. The Chapel of the Sacred Heart, one of the side chapels within the Chapel of Our Lady of the Angels, c.1901-1903

The Chapel of Our Lady of the Angels was built for the Benedictine nuns of St Mary’s Priory, Princethorpe, over the period 1898-1901. It was the second main chapel to be built at the Priory; the first, which had been consecrated in 1843, had become too small for the community’s needs by the 1890s.

The new Chapel was the vision of Mother Marie Evangelista du Breuil, 15th Prioress of the community, who had long wished to build a larger, more elaborate Gothic church to celebrate the glory of God. Thanks to a substantial dowry from Hilda de Trafford, a wealthy young woman who entered the Priory in 1896, the community found itself in a position to undertake this work.

Peter Paul Pugin, a member of the celebrated family of architects, was appointed to design the new Chapel. Like his father Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin, Peter Paul was both a devout Catholic and an acclaimed architect in the Gothic Revival style, and through his expertise was able to turn Mother Marie Evangelista’s dream into reality.

The foundation stone was laid on 24 May 1898 by the Right Reverend Dr Ilsley, Bishop of Birmingham, attended by the community and numerous invited guests. The building work was undertaken by the Rugby firm Foster and Dicksee, and the new Chapel, with its distinctive tower, soon started to take shape.

The building of the Chapel and associated works cost in the region of £58,000 – over £6m in today’s money. The expense of building materials led to the tower’s height being reduced from Pugin’s original design; nevertheless, at 130 feet (39.6 metres) tall, it became an impressive new addition to the Priory which also served practical functions. As well as housing the Chapel’s bells, the tower contains a large water tank which originally served to power the organ.

Thanks to generous contributions from local donors and former pupils of the Priory’s school, no expense was spared in furnishing the Chapel. The stained glass windows and rood screen were created by renowned Birmingham firm John Hardman and Company, while skilled artist Joseph Aloysius Pippet, whose six daughters attended the Priory school, undertook the decorative work including the gilded baldachin above the altar.

The Chapel was dedicated to Our Lady of the Angels, just as the chapel of the community’s original priory in Montargis, France, had been at the community’s foundation in 1630. The Virgin Mary had been elected Perpetual Abbess of the community in 1630 by a unanimous vote. In the Princethorpe Chapel, her statue was accordingly placed between the seats of the Prioress and Subprioress, and still holds this place today.

After three years of work on the building, the consecration of the Chapel took place on 8 May 1901. The Rugby Advertiser of 18 May 1901 noted that ‘The interior is not yet finished; carpenters and decorators are still busy, but it was sufficiently far advanced to allow of the consecration service.’ Bishop Ilsley returned to perform the ceremony, witnessed by the community, schoolgirls and local clergy; Peter Paul Pugin was among the guests in attendance.

Once it had been officially opened, the Chapel was reserved for the use of the enclosed community of St Mary’s Priory and the Priory schoolgirls; however, the adjacent Strangers’ Chapel with its carefully arranged screens allowed local parishioners and visitors to participate in Mass without being in view of the community.

In 1966, following the departure of the community and the purchase of the Priory site by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, the Chapel became part of Princethorpe College and was also made available for parish worship. 

The Chapel of Our Lady of the Angels remains at the heart of College life with daily assemblies and celebrations and is regularly used for Sunday Mass by the local parish of St Anne’s, Wappenbury.

Images

1. Ground floor plan of St Mary’s Priory Church, 1900 (archive ref. SMP.10.2.12)

2. Mother Marie Evangelista de Breuil O.S.B., 15^th Prioress of the community, early C20th. Photograph from The History of the Benedictines of St Mary’s Priory, Princethorpe by Sister Frideswide Stapleton O.S.B. (Hinckley: Walker, 1930)

3. Peter Paul Pugin with his wife Agnes and their young family, c.1890s. Image: public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

4. Postcard showing the interior of the Chapel looking towards the West window, early C20th (archive ref. SMP.24.2.15)

5. Photograph of the interior of the Chapel looking towards the high altar, 1978 (archive ref. PC.24.2.23)

6. Photograph of Father Clarkson addressing pupils in the Chapel, c.1970s

If you have visited the College or the surrounding area in the past few weeks, you may have been lucky enough to hear the Chapel bells ringing for the first time in several decades. To mark the 125^th anniversary of the consecration of the Chapel, the bells have recently undergone careful renovation and maintenance work, and been brought back into service after many years of lying dormant.

Site Supervisor Dekk Brain describes his recent work on restoring the bells and getting them back into working order:

We have nine bells in the main tower at Princethorpe, which were installed in 1900 before the work on the tower was completed. The bells were blessed by the Right Reverend Dr Ilsley, Bishop of Birmingham, on 26 June 1900 in a special ceremony outside the Chapel, where each bell was washed with salt water blessed by the Bishop before being consecrated with holy oil. Each of the bells has its own name and inscription, as detailed in the list shown in the image gallery.

Eight of the bells are ‘hung dead’ and the ninth hung on a swinging bell wheel in the more traditional fashion. Hung dead means that the bells are fixed in a solid oak frame with Elm headstocks and the clapper is pulled into the bell. This means that all eight of the playing bells can be played by one person using a system called an Ellacombe mechanism. As the bells had not been chimed for some time it was decided that they should be given a thorough inspection and a healthy dose of maintenance. 

Firstly, the entire bell room had a thorough clean and inspection to ensure everything was in good condition and safe to use.

Then, following guidance from the Central Council of Church Bellringers each bell had its clapper removed and its Lignum Vitae wooden bearings removed, cleaned and oiled using chainsaw oil. Every nut and bolt was checked and tightened and any damaged parts repaired or remade. The metalwork was then all cleaned and a coat of anti-rust primer applied. The wooden frame was also cleaned down and given a generous coat of oil-based stain to protect it. The clappers were refitted and turned so there was a fresh surface ready to go. 

Next to receive some attention were the bell ropes themselves. We think the current ones may have originally come from another tower as the sallies seem far too long for the chiming apparatus. The ropes themselves are made from flax so are very susceptible to humidity and therefore need adjustment every time the bells are played. Seven of the eight were in good enough condition to reuse but one rope was missing entirely so a new temporary rope has been fitted. 

The ninth ‘Angelus’ ringing bell was treated in the same way but is awaiting a new bell rope so is currently still in retirement. 

These final adjustments were made, and we were ready for the first attempt at playing the bells. Tracking down music for a set of eight Ellacombe bells when you don’t read music isn’t an easy task, however I did manage to find an 1889 book entitled ‘The Bell Hymn Book’ which effectively turned the bells into a ‘play by numbers’ instrument. The actual playing is quite simple as you only need to pull or pluck each rope around 150mm to chime it correctly. 

Several practice sessions took place, gradually getting the hang of both the bells and the music. Several of the school Music Leaders joined me for a practice just before the 125th anniversary of the chapel to practise the Princethorpe Hymn, which we don’t think has ever been played on the bells before. We then had an amusing few minutes as these very musically talented pupils scratched their heads to work out the bell music I had ready for them. As expected, they worked it out quickly and proved more than proficient on the night.

We’re looking forward to continuing our bellringing over the years to come, so that more generations of Princethorpians can enjoy the sound of the Princethorpe bells.

Images

1. The bells following restoration

2. The names and inscriptions of the bells of St Mary’s Priory

In this term’s Snippets from the Archives, we look back at some bright – very bright – 1990s redecoration works at Princethorpe College, a Crescent School memory book which nearly didn’t happen, and steel pan fun at St Joseph’s!

If these stories spark any memories for you, we would be delighted to hear them – do get in touch at archives@princethorpe.co.uk.

Eye-Catching New Colours at Princethorpe College, Autumn 1999

Do you remember the College receiving a colourful makeover in 1999? During renovation works over the summer of that year, it was decided that several of the classrooms and offices needed a lick of paint – and staff were encouraged to choose their own colour schemes!

The Tower magazine of Autumn 1999 noted that ‘the choices are making us wonder whether we should change the College colours to yellow and blue!’ However, there was some variation in the shades chosen for individual rooms, with Mr Moroney opting for light blue for his office, Mrs O’Keeffe preferring saffron yellow with dark blue for hers, and Father Alan Whelan choosing daffodil yellow for F13. The article goes on to reflect that ‘these outward signs of unity reflect the common bond between us – our community with its great richness and variety of personalities and talents is kept together by the common purpose of giving our pupils the best possible education in every aspect – in their academic, physical, personal and spiritual development’.

Shared areas were not overlooked either, with the upper boarding floor (Upper Pugin) undergoing a brightly-coloured transformation to create ‘a new comfortable and homely wing for our girl boarders’; see the image gallery for a photo of the completed work.

Were you one of the first to stay in the newly decorated boarding corridor, or do you remember returning to some colourful classrooms in September 1999?  We would love to hear your stories!

Memories Captured by Chance at Crescent School, 1992

This term’s archive item from Crescent School provides a lovely insight into the experiences of one class in the mid/late 1980s and early 1990s – but it nearly wasn’t created at all.

This unassuming little album titled ‘Class VIII, 1992’ contains handwritten memories from all the pupils in the class, looking back at their time in the old school building in Horton Crescent as well as the new Bawnmore Road premises following the 1988 move. Pupils reflected on swimming in the outdoor pool known as the Tosh (and trying to avoid swallowing the leaves in the water), birthday celebrations, school trips… and History lessons on the Romans which left one pupil less than impressed!

Other memorable experiences included the discovery during a class performance of ‘Peter Rabbit' that skipping ropes and rabbit ears don’t mix well, and a lucky escape from an unexpected dip in the water during a visit to Stoke Bruerne!

A passing comment from one of the pupils reveals how it was entirely by chance that these memories were captured: ‘Near the end of term we had a swimming gala and Whites won by a lot. The next day we had normal swimming but the coach didn’t come so we did these memories’.

We’re very glad that they did! See the image gallery for some of the highlights from the album.

Were you one of the children in Class VIII who recorded their memories? Or do their experiences remind you of your own schooldays at Crescent? Do let us know if you have stories to share.

A Steel Band at St Joseph’s, 2002

Princethorpe College’s Steel Band Club has recently given us the perfect opportunity to do a little bit of digging into the archives of St Joseph’s and Crackley Hall! Earlier this year, a wonderful set of steel pans was taken out of retirement at Crackley, reconditioned, and brought over to the College, where they are now being put to excellent use at the popular after-school club.

An article in the Tower magazine of Summer 2002 reveals the first plans to set up a steel band at St Joseph’s (shortly before it was renamed as Crackley Hall), with the PTA organising fundraising events to purchase a steel pan set. The pupils had a preview of the steel pan experience when established local steel group Dayspring gave a concert at the school, with headteacher Jane le Poidevin also joining in enthusiastically!

At £250 per steel pan, the PTA aimed to buy one pan per year; while there is no record in the magazines as to when the purchase was fully completed, there is a mention of Crackley Hall’s steel band playing at the St Joseph’s Reunion Barbecue in June 2004, presumably using the full set. The steel band is later mentioned as playing at Crackley’s 2004 Christmas service and at a concert in March 2007. The former was held in the Chapel at Princethorpe College, and is likely to have been the set’s Princethorpe début!

We’re delighted that the set has now been restored and is once again in regular use by our Foundation pupils. See the image gallery for the 2002 Tower article, photographs of the steel pans in use at Crackley in 2007, and a recent photo of the reconditioned pans being played by current Princethorpe Steel Band Club members.

Do you remember performances by the St Joseph’s/Crackley steel band, or were you perhaps one of the players? Please do get in touch if so – we would love to hear your memories!

We were delighted to hear that a large number of the Class of 2020 cohort gathered together in Leamington Spa on Saturday 25 April for a long overdue catch up. This cohort missed out on some of the usual end-of-school celebrations due to the Covid-19 pandemic, such as the Leavers' Ball, so it is particularly heart-warming to see that the year group has maintained a closeness over the past six years and made room in their divergent and busy lives to come together in celebration of their shared history.

Amy Gordon, who incidentally was our Easter Princethorpe Connect Prize Draw winner (see Alumni News), made it clear to us that Dominic Turner-Burr deserves all the credit for putting the event together, and gave us an insider's account of the evening:

"It really was a lovely evening. We all met at The Cricketers in Leamington Spa, and it was so special to see everyone again. Some people haven’t changed at all, while others have changed so much! It was especially nice that people who left before Sixth Form, or even earlier, were able to come along too. There were lots of exciting updates - new moves, new careers - and it felt like we’re all just at the start of new adventures, which was wonderful to celebrate together. It's hard to believe it’s only four years until our ten-year reunion - I’m not quite sure where the time has gone!"

We also heard from Anthony Lock, a regular at OP events, commenting on the successes of the event:

"It was brilliantly organised by Dom Turner-Burr and it had a bumper turn out of roughly 60-70 people."

Our thanks to Dom for taking the initiative and to all the 2020 leavers for keeping Princethorpe's Spirit Of Family alive and well! Our best wishes to you all.

The Alumni and Development team would like to support all such endeavours, so do get in touch if you would like to arrange a reunion for your own year group, at oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk. We'd love to hear from you.

This Spring, OP Aidan McMahon (Class of 2018) took on two marathons in just one week. He ran the Shakespeare Marathon in Stratford-upon-Avon on Sunday 26 April, followed by the Belfast City Marathon on Sunday 3 May. He told us that training went well and he felt ready for the challenges! Aidan is raising money for Medecins Sans Frontiers. It appears all that Cross Country running in Games lessons has eventually proved useful! If you would like to find out more about his chosen charity or dontate, please visit his JustGiving page: Just Giving | Aidan McMahon

Congratulations also to the Crowfoot twins (Class of 2021), Tom and Will, who got in touch to say that, after running the Brighton Marathon on Sunday 12 April where they both achieved personal bests, they also took on the London Marathon on 26 April. They are raising money for a mutual friend that has been sadly paralysed during a trip over the summer. You can find out more and support their endeavours here: Go Fund Me | Crowfoot Twins

About the Brighton event, Tom told us: "It was an amazing race with incredible atmosphere the whole way around the course. The weather wasn’t necessarily on our side, but we managed to keep a steady pace and get a time we wanted. We both managed to complete it in 2:49:22. This is a PB for both Will and I."

And finally, big smiles from Ailis Spencer, Class of 2014, who also ran the London Marathon. She commented: "It was the most incredible experience ever! Nothing but smiles for 26 miles!"

Congratulations to Aidan, Will, Tom and Ailis, and all OPs who took on marathon challenges this year!

Anthony McMullan was one of three siblings at Princethorpe College, from 1993 to 1998. He recently ran the Brighton Marathon and shared with us both his motivation for taking part and his personal journey since leaving Princethorpe.

"I completed primary school at St Augustine’s in Kenilworth in Year 6 and began Year 7 at Princethorpe in September 1993. I moved to Kenilworth School Castle Sixth Form to take my A-levels in Business Studies, IT and French, and then went to Huddersfield University in the Summer of 2000 to embark on a degree in Business Computing with French. I graduated in 2004.

After my studies, I worked abroad for a year, for TUI, and then spent five years in Corporate Sales roles, providing print and copy devices and also then in telecoms roles. The skills and experiences that I gained during my studies and these first six years equipped me to set up Homemaker Properties, based in Coventry, with my father in 2010. (https://www.homemakerproperties.com/)

My wife and I now run the successful business offering property lettings and sales, sourcing, refurbishment and maintenance, and property education including a YouTube Channel, podcasts, webinars and networking events.         

I met my wife, Alison, in 2006. We married in 2015 and now live in Kenilworth with our two amazing boys, Charlie and Freddie.

One of my hobbies is long distance running and I have run many half marathons over the years. In 2023, I ran the London Marathon for charity with my brother Michael, who also attended Princethorpe. In 2025, I decided I wanted to run another marathon for charity and registered for the Brighton Marathon 2026. A key motivator was to raise money for a very just cause, Promise Dreams (https://www.promisedreams.co.uk/). This charity works hard to fulfil the dreams of critically and terminally ill children and, as a parent, I think they are incredible in what they offer. We’ve gone a long way towards our target but any further donations would be gratefully appreciated, no matter their size."

If you would like to find out more about Anthony's chosen charity, or to donate, visit his Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/anthony-mcmullan-promise-dreams

Congratulations to Neil Robson (Class of 2000) who has earned another podium position in only his second season competing at Time Attack - a unique motorsport which, at its heart, is the art of registering the quickest lap time possible in a production-based car.

Neil shares his journey so far:

"I left Princethorpe in the Summer of 2000 having completed my A-levels. I went straight into an apprenticeship with Rolls-Royce Aerospace in Derby, where I spent the next 20 years, the last five of which I worked as a Design Team Leader for Combustion Systems.

I left there in 2020 during Covid when my son was born, to be closer to home. I set up my own company, BiB Performance, just down the road from Princethorpe in the village of Marton. We specialise in performance car tuning, track and race car support, etc.

I also race my own car (a highly modified 500bhp BMW 1series) in a series called Time Attack. In the words of the Managing Director, Andy Barnes: ‘Originating from Japan, Time Attack is about racing against the clock to prove who can build the fastest tuning car and using the latest tuning techniques to do so - with minimal red tape and one goal - be the quickest no matter the car. Any power, any weight, any type.’

This is my second season, but last year I won two events and then in my first event this year, at Cadwell Park last weekend, I finished third."

Our thanks to Neil for sharing this update, and we wish him well in his subsequent events this year.

Princethorpe College was delighted to hear that Rosie Pritchard-Jeffs, who is about to enter her final year at Manchester University, is also taking on a new position as a Campaign Leader at Google Gemini. She kindly got in touch to share this exciting chapter in her post-Princethorpe journey:

"I left Princethorpe in 2021 after completing my GCSEs and went on to achieve 3 As at A-level. In 2024, I moved to the University of Manchester to begin my degree in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE), and it has been a busy and rewarding experience so far.

Outside of the lecture theatre, netball has been a huge part of my university life. I’ve been playing for the university teams and had the responsibility of captaining clubs of 80 players, leading us to several league wins. On the professional side, I’ve been leading a campaign for Google Gemini, where I work with students to show them how to practically incorporate AI into their daily lives and use these tools responsibly to support their studies. I am also really looking forward to this summer, as I’ve been offered an internship at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in Financial Regulation. This will be a great opportunity to start building the skills I will need for my future career.

Looking back, Princethorpe gave me much more than just a strong academic foundation. It taught me the life skills that really matter, such as the value of building genuine relationships and the confidence to take full advantage of every opportunity that comes my way."

We wish Rosie every success in the new role and also with her studies.

It was a pleasure to hear from Zara Simpson, a former pupil of Crackley Hall and a Princethorpe pupil from Year 7 to Upper Sixth. Since leaving the College, where she also served as Ethos Prefect and Politics Subject Ambassador, Zara has been studying Politics and International Studies, and Political Science at the University of Warwick.

Zara has just completed her second year, during which time she has been an active member of the Travel Society. She updated us on the exciting opportunity that this has brought:

"I recently planned a budget trip for 30 university students to China and South Korea as part of my role at the University of Warwick’s Travel Society. The trip is possibly one of the biggest student run travel society trips, making it both exciting and challenging. From pushing accommodation and day trip proposals through the Student Union approval process, to negotiating plane tickets and holding prices, the trip has taught me a lot. Being able to take a group of people my age travelling to Asia, and more specifically two countries that I had never been to, was a great privilege. I particularly enjoyed being able to watch peoples’ love of travel grow, as many on the trip had never even flown before."

Our congratulations to Zara for a successful trip, and we wish her well as she enters her final year of studies.

This month, the Foundation was pleased to assist Carole, wife of Old Princethorpian Melvin Glynn, with a secret mission she was conducting in preparation for Melvin's 70th birthday.

To celebrate this birthday milestone, Carole and her son were planning a surprise party, which included a special video of messages from his friends and family. Our Foundation Principal, Ed Hester, and OP Committee Honorary President, Peter Rollason (Class of 1977), were delighted to be able to send in their own messages of congratulations and best wishes.

Melvin got in touch after the party to tell us all about it:

"It was a great surprise to me that many of my friends and family, including those from Princethorpe, took the time to send me special messages. The video was played at the end of a wonderful evening with my family, who had organised a private chef to cook a superb dinner for us all. My granddaughters got involved as waitresses for the evening (aged 12 and 6), which was delightful!

At 70 years old, I continue to follow most activities on the Princethorpe College and Old Princethorpian social media pages, and seeing the video messages from my old school friends triggered memories of friendships made, happy times and how Princethorpe College has shaped my life. It was, and still is, a very magical, special place, and I remember my time there with much fondness.

Best regards to the Foundation and my fellow Old Princethorpians. You made this ‘old man’ very happy."

Richard was a Princethorpe pupil from 1982 to 1987, a regular participant in Drama productions and sports (hockey and rugby) and passionate about art from an early age. His dedication to school life was recognised when he earned a school prize for academic work and endeavour, and his work ethic continued to serve him well as he went on to earn a degree in 3-Dimensional Design, Glass with Ceramic and a post-graduate diploma in Glass Design. Today he runs a successful business as a Designer Maker of bespoke and individually-designed kiln formed glass, ceramic and metal interior products.

Richard kindly shared his story with us and offered insights and advice about his line of work:

"I have fond memories of my time at Princethorpe; The school productions and revues - such talent and generosity of spirit on display! Playing sport, particularly hockey and rugby on those vast pitches and in the orchard. Also, the privilege of sipping coffee in the Sixth form art room whilst tackling my current themed painting! I remember fondly the Skiffintons, the Weirs, Mr Silcock, Fr Whelan and Fr O'Conner (Dan the Man!)

I established my business in 1998 and my ranges of work includes lighting, mirrors, architectural glass panels, vessels, tiles, coasters and sculpture. I supply my creations to galleries and design-led retail, I undertake commissions and I work with interior designers and architects.

All aspects of my work are challenging but ultimately rewarding. I enjoy coming up with new designs either for the expansion of my work or for the client. I have to collaborate with clients and be adaptable to their needs. The processes I employ can be technically challenging. If you don't pay close attention and prepare properly, errors will occur. Opening the kiln after a firing still gives me tingles of excitement! I've found that to think outside of the box and to be experimental with the skills I have learnt as a designer maker is essential.

Much can be learnt from fellow practitioners and I am proud to have managed some collaborative design projects. I have also curated exhibitions and learned that displaying your own and others' work is both challenging and influential; the feedback from the onlooker is key to progression.

In the future, I want to expand my customer base and I aim to gain more work in other sectors, such as public commissions, community art based projects and work alongside the performing arts. I would love to teach more as I feel I have much to offer and I crave the reward helping others develop their creativity. I don't plan to ever retire, just to get better at what I do!"

You can read more about Richard's work, view his items for sale and submit enquiries for commissions, via his website, at RPJRay Design.