Welcome to the fifteenth issue of The Old Princethorpian, Princethorpe College's termly e-newsletter for past pupils, staff and parents, old and new.

The newsletter aims to keep OPs in touch with each other and news, developments and events at the College.

This issue includes more on Gwilym Price's MBE, the OPs invaluable involvement in the upcoming College Careers Fair plus plenty of updates from OPs across the decades.

If you have any comments on the e-newsletter or news to contribute to the next issue, which is due out in May, please email us at oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk.

The next OPs event is the Rugby Pub Meet on Friday 28 February at the popular Merchants Inn. We'd love to see you if you can make it along!

Have a great Spring!

Preview

News

Princethorpe In The News

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

In The News 1

In The News 2

New Style College Golf Umbrellas Available Now

We're not going to say anything about the weather but...the OPs may be interested in purchasing one of the new style College golf umbrella which are now in stock. Costing £22 all proceeds will go towards the next major sports tour in 2015.

If you would like to purchase an umbrella please visit the school shop or contact Neil McCollin, Director of Sport via email at neilmccollin@princethorpe.co.uk. Please make cheques payable to Princethorpe College.

Old Girls News - Olga Kathleen Garman, née Adams

Peter Garman, made the long journey from New Zealand, with his wife Sanrda, to find out more about his mother's school days at The Priory in the 30s and 40s.

Born in 1929 in Coventry, Olga passed away in 2000. After his father's death in 2010 Peter found his mother's old school photographs and a 1951 diary with a reference to Mr and Mrs Baines, Priory Home Farm, Princethopre in his father's effects. These finds spurred him on to find out more about his mother's early life and he approached us to find out whether the school had any records relating to her.  Peter's email swung our Librarian, Celia Scott and her assistant, Karen O'Connor into action. The resourceful pair managed to find a 1st XI Hockey Colours shield dated 1936 which included the name of Olga Adams, plus copies of Peeps (the old school magazine) dating from 1902 – 1964.

Peter and Sandra visited in late November and spent a fascinating afternoon in the Library immersing themselves in Olga's school days and sharing information with Celia and Karen. We think it was a very fruitful trip for all concerned!

Old Girls News - Pat Monk

Princethorpe were delighted to play host to returning Old Girl Pat Monk and Peter Garman, son of Old Girl, Olga Kathleen Garman nee Adams, towards the end of 2013.

Former parent Gabrielle McBride made the introductions for Pat Monk, who returned to the school for the first time since 1941. Pat’s memories came flooding back once she started to tour the building and she had many happy memories of how she was looked after here.

‘Impressive’ King Crowned Warwick District Sportsman Of The Year

OP Jordan King the talented young Warwickshire single-seater F3 racing star has been crowned Warwick District Sports Awards Senior Male Sportsperson of the Year. He won the award for his ‘impressive’ performance in 2013 that yielded the British F3 laurels, leading rookie honours and a top six championship finish in Europe and fastest lap in the prestigious Macau F3 Grand Prix.

Having clinched the Under-18 Male Sports Personality of the Year gong in 2010, King finished runner-up at senior level last year, beaten only by reigning World Superbike Champion Tom Sykes. The highly-rated young Stoneleigh single-seater ace earned his nomination this time around for his stellar achievements during what was a magnificent maiden season of Formula 3 competition.

King triumphed on four occasions as he followed in the wheeltracks of the likes of Ayrton Senna and Jackie Stewart in lifting the British Formula Three International Series trophy, and tallied a brace of hard-fought podiums and no fewer than 20 top ten finishes in the fiercely-contested FIA Formula 3 European Championship for good measure.

The British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC) SuperStar and MSA Team UK member proved himself to be, moreover, nip-and-tuck in terms of outright pace with Carlin team-mate and new Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 recruit Daniil Kvyat, and he concluded the campaign by annexing a tremendous fifth position on his first visit to Macau’s notoriously punishing Guia street circuit.

King was subsequently selected as runner-up in the ‘Sportsman of the Year’ category at the inaugural Birmingham Sports Awards, and at the annual Warwick District Sports Awards – held at Leamington’s Royal Spa Centre and celebrating the indisputable crème de la crème of local talent – he went one better.

“I was shortlisted for the Autosport Awards National Driver of the Year accolade in December, but whereas there, I knew the strengths and weaknesses of the guys I was up against, at the Warwick District Sports Awards, it was a whole different ballgame – literally, in the case of some of the other contenders!” confessed the 19-year-old Hugo Boss brand ambassador, who is in the process of finalising his 2014 racing programme and currently enjoying a Team UK training camp in the French Alps.

“The evening really highlighted the incredible breadth of sporting pedigree and gifted athletes in Warwickshire and I was thrilled and really proud to win. It’s another trophy for the cabinet and a great addition to my CV.

“Local recognition like this really does mean a lot to me, and it’s always encouraging to get support from people in your home region and establish a positive relationship with them. I received a lot of nice messages on Twitter afterwards, which was a pleasant surprise – and next year, hopefully I can return and win the overall Sports Personality award as well!”

The former McLaren Autosport Award finalist’s success saw him defeat a number of rivals who had represented not only their county but indeed their country in international arenas, and he admitted that the event gave him a fascinating insight into different sporting disciplines. Warwick & Leamington Courier sports editor Paul Okey revealed that King was a deserving recipient.

“There were strong candidates in the senior male category, but the panel felt that because of his impressive performances on the global stage, Jordan was the obvious choice,” he explained.

“As he continues his rise through the ranks, we look forward to welcoming Jordan to many future sports awards – and, who knows, he might have a chance of winning the outright Sports Personality of the Year award in the future, too...”

You can keep up-to-date with Jordan’s latest career news and results at www.jordanking.co.uk and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/42jordanking.

 

Old Princethorpians Give Top Tips On Uni

Old Princethorpians Ben Warman and Lucy Powell returned to college to talk to Sixth Formers about their university experiences. Ben and Lucy left Princethorpe last summer and are now studying Sports Science at Leeds and Marketing at Nottingham Trent respectively.

They provided valuable tips on how to balance social and work life, why it is important to secure accommodation early, and how to survive Freshers Week. 

Nico Parfitt, 6SL

Oxford University Opens Its Doors To Top A-Level Achiever Rhiannon

Old Princethorpian Rhiannon Edwards has been offered an unconditional offer to read Spanish at Exeter College, Oxford. Rhiannon, who achieved the best A-level grades in the summer of 2013, is completely “over the moon” with the news. Her flawless five A* grades in Spanish, English Literature, Philosphy and Ethics and her Extended Project as well her A grade in History have impressed the Oxford entrance panel enough for her to be offered this exciting new opportunity.

All those who taught Rhiannon will remember her for her total determination and focused application. Bright, quick to learn but also readily accepting of critical advice, Rhiannon powered from strength to strength across a wide range of subjects during her two years’ A-level study at Princethorpe. Ultimately it was her love of languages that won her over. Realising that her passion for Spanish was where her future lay she spent vacations in Spanish speaking countries expanding her cultural and social understanding whilst improving her linguistic skills.

Currently earning money to continue her love for South American travel, Rhiannon is looking forward to 2014. She has a trip planned to Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil undertaking various volunteer programmes. Never a young lady to rest on her laurels we wish Rhiannon all the very best for her future success.

Matt’s National Art Win Far Outdoes The Competition

Princethorpe College art student Matt Farr has won the National Independent Schools’ Association’s U16 Art Competition. The overall winner in the 2D class with a portrait of his grandfather, Mr Brian Suter, Matt took influence from another great portrait artist, Lucien Freud before embarking on his work. Painted over a twelve week period the talented sixteen year old used his favourite medium, acrylic paint on canvas to reveal the likeness of the man he has known all his life.

Speaking about the portrait, Matt commented,

“Freud is well known for adopting the mind set of those he paints. I wanted to use this idea with my Grandfather, to use the paint to express his character. This was part of my GCSE folder and whilst I was pleased with it at the time, I can now see its faults despite having been awarded this National prize.”

Coming from a family of prize winning artists, it is no surprise to hear Matt being self-critical. Older brother, Ben, a former Princethorpe Art Scholar is now studying Fine Art in London. He came second in the same competition three years ago. With dad Andy, also a full time artist, it is a talent that seems to be in the blood.

“I definitely want a career in Art,” admits Matt. “I used to spend time when I was little copying everything Ben did. Now I know it’s something that I love and want to pursue.”

Princethorpe College Art Master, Paul Hubball, described Matt’s A* work, “He is an exceptional painter and this work reflects the detail and time he has spent on capturing his Grandfather’s image. Now studying Art at AS level we are looking forward to seeing what he will produce this year.”

Image shows Matt Farr with his winning portrait.

College Enjoys Bumper Entrance Exams Session

A bumper number of candidates sat the College's entrance examinations on Saturday 18 January.

Comments, Alex Darkes, Assistant Head - Marketing and Operations, "We played host to some 220 prospective pupils across four year groups.  What's particularly lovely is the fact that we are seeing more and more OPs returning with their children to sit the exams. Feedback from parents and candidates alike has been very favourable indeed, which bodes very well for next September's intake."

"The marking machine swung into action, even before candidates had left the building and the Admissions Panel sat the following week to decide on the 130 or so boys and girls who will be joining us in September 2014."

Parents and children were notified of the results last Wednesday 5 February and have until Monday 3 March to accept their place.

Those interested in a place at the College in September 2015 can download our flyer below which includes key open events and admissions dates, like the forthcoming Open Evening on Wednesday 4 June from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

J1847 PC Flyer (Web).pdf

OPs Play Central Part In College Careers Fair 2014

The College's Careers Fair 2014 is shaping up nicely thanks in large part to the support of the Old Princethorpian network.

The event which is scheduled for Saturday 29 March is looking to be even bigger and better than the inaugural event in 2012. Phil Popham, Group Marketing Director of Jaguar Landrover has agreed to be the keynote speaker and a host of careers and professions will be represented.

Comments organiser Melanie Butler, "Once again we have had a great response from the Old Princethorpians, who alongside our parents form the backbone of the event. We have some speakers from 2012 who have kindly agreed to speak again, such as OP Marc Marot, who works in the music industry and manages the career of among others Jessie J and PR and Marketing man, St John White.

"We're also delighted to have a number of new OPs on board including sisters Alex Johnson and Zara Healy who are going to speak on careers in writing and journalism and John Naylor an OP who is a stockbroker and investment manager."

This year there will also be a wider range of universities exhibiting including Southampton, Cardiff and Sheffield, plus a number of Gap Year companies to give ideas and advice.

Headmaster, Ed Hester comments, "We are really indebted to all the OPs who have volunteered their time and energy to making the Careers Fair a success for our current Year 10 to Sixth Form pupils and their parents."

There is still time to volunteer as a speaker or exhibitor at the Careers Fair. Information about the format of the day can be found on the Careers Fair page on the Princethorpe website or email melaniebutler@princethorpe.co.uk.

New Classroom Block Update

Princethorpe's new £4.5m classroom block sited on the side of the existing Sports Centre is progressing well inspite of the wet weather. Much of the structure is up to roof level now and the roof steels are starting to go into place, with the wooden roof trusses following a few days later.

The builders are focussed on getting the roof complete so that work can continue independent of the weather. This week the project team has been finalising internal doors, door furniture and colour ways. The raw materials for the windows and external doors have been sent to the manufacturers and the wooden and aluminium windows are now taking shape.

Over Easter we will be forming the doorways inside the sports hall to access the new building and also the sports storage.

Comments Assistant Head, Alex Darkes, "It’s exciting to see it all taking shape and we now have a very good idea of how the building will fit in with the local terrain. Wer'e hoping to have a 'topping out ceremony' for the new block around the middle of March, this will be a milestone in the project and a good indication that we are well on the way to completion."

Congratulations Flow In As Former Director Of Sport Is Awarded MBE

A flurry of congratulations from OPs young and old followed the announcement that Princethorpe's former Director of Sport  Gwilym Price has been awarded an MBE for services to education and sport in the Queen's New Year's Honour List.

Facebook was awash with messages of thanks and support from former pupils who recognised what Gwil had done for them over the years, here are just a few of them:

Eddie Craig said: I have a lot of respect for Gwilym. He was my hero, whenever I represented the school at whatever sport I did it for him, fair play Mr Price you deserve all you get.

Anthony Ku said: Congrates Mr Price!! Its an honour to have been one of your students.

Tom Mylott said: Best school report I ever received came from Pricey. 'A' in rugby, the only one that really matters......Congrats Gwil!

Helen McAleese said: What an absolute legend! So thoroughly deserved! X

We're pleased to say that the hands on sports ambassador is still very much part of the Princethorpe family through his ISA Director of Sport role, which sees him at two major events at the College in March alone with a national cross country event on 1 March and Rugby 7s on the 15th!

Ever modest and humble Gwilym was at pains to say that Princethorpe was very much part of his MBE story, he commented, "If it hadn't been for the opportunities and support I had working at Princethorpe over the years, this would never have come about. It's been an absolute privilege to work with the children and staff at the College."

The invitation to accept the Queen’s honour was described as a “bolt out of the blue”. Having got used to the idea he joked with former colleagues, that he was looking forward to meeting the Queen when he collects his award and perhaps 'having a game of Scrabble'.

Appointed as Princethorpe Head of Sport in 1974, Gwil’s immediate aim was to place the College at the centre of the Independent Schools’ sporting map. His ‘think big’ attitude was welcomed by the Independent Schools’ Association as well as services to Warwickshire sport. Thousands of youngsters over the years have taken part in a wide range of sporting activities under Gwilym’s directorship. “It’s surprising how many past pupils stay in touch,” he adds, “and it’s that contact that lets you know that you have made a difference to young people’s lives.”

Having retired from Princethorpe in 2005 Gwil’s current position as ISA National Ambassador for Sport means that he is ever on the road, supporting regions around the country to set up new sporting events.

“It’s all about creating opportunity,” he says, “sport is about presenting the ordinary child with the opportunity to be extraordinary.” Being extraordinary is what Gwilym Price is all about; an unassuming man with an indefatigable passion for making a difference. We're delighted to see him recognised in this way, it's fantastically well desrved!

Image shows from left: Princethorpe College athletes who have excelled at Midlands and National Level  ISA Sport: Mollie Dibb (swimming and athletics), Ella Bromley (athletics and hockey), Adam Shaw (athletics and rugby), Annabelle Pask (athletics), Mr Neil McCollin present Princethorpe Director of Sport, Mr Gwilym Price MBE, Mr Ed Hester Headmaster of Princethorpe College, John Price (cricket), Lloyd Ellis (athletics), Jessica Marshall (equestrian).

Events

College Open Evening And Taster Days For Year 5 Pupils

Wednesday 4 June - 6.30pm to 8.30pm

An Open Evening for prospective pupils and their parents will take place on Wednesday 4 June from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

This will be an informal opportunity to look around the school and to meet pupils and staff. Children can particpate in fun activities in the different departments and the Headmaster will make presentations during the evening.

Year 5 Taster Days

Taster Days will also be available for current Year 5 students (children born between 1 September 2003 and 31 August 2004), who are interested in admission to the College in September 2015.

These days will involve a number of classroom sessions, a tour of the school, lunch and other activities. The days will run from 9.45am to 3.20pm.  If you are interested in booking your child on a taster day or would like to find out more, please telephone the Registrars on 01926 634201 or email elainewarwick@princethorpe.co.uk  or lorettacurtis@princethorpe.co.uk.

Taster days for Year 6 children will be available in October and November.

OPs London Meeting - East India Club

Friday 16 May - 6.30pm

New to the OP Calendar this year is a gathering in the Canadian Room of the prestigious East India Club in St James' Square, London on Friday 16 May, pictured.

The event will include the official placing of the Princethorpe crest on the Club's school 'wall of fame', where it will sit alongside the crests of schools such as Eton, Harrow and Rugby.

A light buffet will be available. Please let us know if you would like to join us so we can cater for you, email oldprincethorpians@princethorpe.co.uk by Friday 2 May.

Click here for directions.

Crackley Hall And Little Crackers Nursery - Spring Open Events

Saturday 15 March - 10.30am to 12.30pm and
Wednesday 26 March - 7.00pm to 8.00pm

Crackley Hall and Little Crackers, Princethorpe's junior school and nursery in Kenilworth, is opening its doors for a Spring Open Morning on Saturday 15 March from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

There will be fun activities for children to participate in and Crackley pupils will be involved in sport and musical performances.

There will also be a specific event aimed at parents with nursery and prospective Reception children on the evening of Wednesday 26 March.

The nursery is now open 48 weeks a year and is carefully structured for two-year olds, three-year olds and pre-school, based on the exciting Reggio Emilia approach to learning.

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

For more information call 01926 514444 or visit www.crackleyhall.co.uk.

Arts Society Spring 2014 Programme

Thursday 6 March 2014 at 7.30pm Sixth Form Lecture Theatre

The Arts Society is delighted to welcome back former deputy Head of the College Margaret-Louise O’Keeffe

Michelangelo and the Madonna

Throughout his long life, Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564) created some of the most powerful and memorable images of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus Christ. Perhaps because he lost his own mother at the age of six, these images are often particularly tender and moving. They include the famous Pietas showing the dead Christ in his mother's arms, but also depictions of Mary as the loving mother of a robust, wriggling baby boy. They are all imbued with Michelangelo's Christian faith and his profound understanding of love and loss.

An illustrated talk followed by a glass of wine and light refreshments.

Adults £5 including refreshments; Princethorpe and Crackley Hall pupils free of charge.

Please click here for the booking form. Tickets may also be purchased at the door; but advance notice helps catering, please. We are happy to receive provisional bookings by e-mail, please, to alexdarkes@princethorpe.co.uk

Alex Darkes Assistant Head - Marketing and Operations

Old Princethorpians Pub Meet - February

Friday 28 February 2014 from 6.30pm

The next Old Princethorpians gathering is the Rugby Pub Meet on Friday 28 February 2014.

We will be meeting at The Merchants Inn, 5-7 Little Church Street, Rugby, CV21 3AN, which proved to be a popular venue last year. We meet in a room towards the back of the pub and there will be a light buffet available.  We've had quite a lot of interest in this events so we hope to see lots of OPs there!

Click here for directions.

Old Princethorpians Events Calendar 2013-2014 - Reminder

All OPs, past parents and staff are welcome to participate in any or all of the events which range from the College events to the OPs Summer Supper Meeting and the annual picnic.

There's still plenty to look forward to in the coming months, so please take a look and join us.

Click here to download the calendar or visit the Old Princethorpians section at www.princethorpe.co.uk  for more information on Old Princethorpians.

Old Princethorpian Interview

Alasdair Spencer

Age: 19

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

I live in Rugby and I am a professional Irish dancer.

Since I left school I have been touring the world with different Irish dance shows such as Lord of the Dance and Riverdance from America to Asia and all around Europe.  

When were you at Princethorpe - years from and to?

2005-2012

How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?

I matured a lot during my time there. I think that Princethorpe taught me to be a better person that would help anyone in need and be good to people just because it's the right thing to do.

What advice would you give to your teenage self?

Don't stress about exams and enjoy your time at school. Getting good grades isn't the be all and end all in this world!  

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

My mum. She has been the constant driving force behind everything her children do and is the reason I am able to travel the world as a dancer. If she hadn't dragged me to dance classes and competitions when I was younger I doubt I would have kept it up.

What keeps you awake at night?

Nothing, I sleep like a baby.

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

When I realised how far Irish dancing had taken me, that was my proudest moment. Not many people can say they were paid to travel around China because of a hobby they started doing when they were 10.

What’s your biggest indulgence?

Splashing out on something expensive after saving up while I was away on tour!

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

Bacon cheeseburger and a beer. 

What is your favourite TV Show and why?

Top Gear. There are just so many nice cars and Clarkson, Hammond and May are hilarious.*

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

I would have to say anywhere in the US (I would love to go back to Huntington Beach, California) and I would have to be with my girlfriend Brigid.

Lasting memories of Princethorpe:

Summer afternoons sat outside the Sixth Form Centre during free periods just chilling and the class of 2012's last day! I will remember that one for the rest of my life. We went crazy!

Births, Deaths & Marriages

High Altitude Proposal For James and Simone

Many congratulations to OP James Ferris who got engaged to Simone Costello early in the New Year.

James popped the question at the top of a mountain in Avoriaz on the first day of the couple's New Year skiing holiday with friends.

James jokes, "Thankfully she said yes as it could have been a long holiday otherwise!"

We wish the lovely couple every happiness!

Gerard Peter Francis Venes 1964 - 2013

This sad news has reached the Old Princethorpians from Keble College’s The Record 2012-13.

Gerard Venes died on 30 January 2013 aged 49. He was educated at Princethorpe College and came up to Keble to read Chemistry, rowed and played hockey and darts for the College.

On graduating he joined Software Sciences Ltd as an Analyst/Programmer (1985-89) and then moved to IT Southern Ltd also as an Analyst/Programmer (1989-94). He was an IT Project Officer with UBS Investment Bank (1994-2006) and remained in the Financial Sector with Fidelity Asset Management (2007-8) and Royal Bank of Scotland Investment Bank (2009-12). He then joined Warburg Dillon Read: SBC Warburg as an IT Project Leader. He played hockey for Marden Russets Hockey Club and went skiing. His wife Cheri wrote that he died in the Hospice in the Weald, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells having bravely fought a seven-month battle against bowel cancer. He leaves a wife Cheri and three children.

Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends.

Beryle Peeke - RIP

Assistant Head, Alex Darkes, was very pleased to represent the College and do the bidding prayers at the funeral of Beryle Peeke, a much loved former teacher of St Mary's Priory, who died on the 9 December, a month short of her ninety-ninth birthday.

Commenting on the day, he said, "I was exceptionally warmly received by about ten Ursuline nuns who made sure that I was fed and watered before heading home! It was a truly lovely occasion and I can see why Miss Peeke easily made the transition from Princethorpe to Westgate-on-Sea. I should think that there would have been about fifty people in attendance. Sue O’Brien (St Mary’s Priory) and I were the only OPs in attendance.

Alex has written this obituary for the Benedictine and Ursuline nuns, happy memories of a great Princethorpian!

Beryle Peeke who died on 9 December 2013, after a short illness, was one of the greatest living authorities on St Mary’s Priory, Princethorpe. Miss Peeke - as she was known to everyone - arrived at Princethorpe in 1942 having responded to an advertisement for a history teacher in a Catholic newspaper. She recalled how the taxi driver had thrust his visiting card into her hand on dropping her off at the Priory, certain that she would call him, as he thought it unlikely that she would want to stay. Nothing could have been further from the truth and it was only when the school closed in 1965, when the Benedictine nuns left for a new home, that she was forced to leave, taking up another teaching post at the Ursuline Convent in Westgate-on-Sea, where she remained very happily until retirement.

Those whom she taught recall an inspirational, charming woman who treated her charges as adults, whilst remaining mindful of her own responsibilities and their youth. History was her passion and former pupils attribute their love of the subject to her graphic and exciting commentaries. The subject, too, had perks: visits to Canterbury, London, Oxford, Cambridge, Stratford and abroad also featured. She was naturally at home in France and Germany where she spent many school holidays, being fluent in their languages. Both of the schools were boarding, so she was able to live on the premises and contribute fully to their extra-curricular lives.

Scrabble was a favourite: "such a lovely way to extend one’s vocabulary and improve spelling". One duty was to act as a chaperone for Sixth Formers attending discotheques at local boarding schools, where she enjoyed rather endured the modern music. At times she found herself teaching English, German and French as well as history; one head was heard to comment that "it was hard to think of a subject which Miss Peeke would not be able to teach"!

After retirement her mind would constantly revert to her days at Princethorpe where she had clearly been so happy. She continued to attend all school re-unions and would frequently take the train to Victoria to have lunch and share with "her girls" what really went on behind the scenes, missing only one meeting shortly before her death. One past pupil recalled: "She never seemed to change, always appearing to be the same age". She was fiercely independent and brave, kept her own home and maintained a razor-sharp intellect and strong sense of humour right to the end. Summarily despatching a telesales call in the summer, aged ninety-eight, she slammed down the ‘phone and added: "When they say Hi you always know it’s a salesman!" She defied all medical science and never needed medication until shortly before her death.

Beryle Peeke was born in Plymouth and brought up in the West Country where she secured a teaching post after reading for a history degree in London. She often puzzled why she had

been given a name which had the letter "e" in it so many times! Being less than contented in her first post, securing the job at Princethorpe gave her something of a blissful future, though she recalled that a few colleagues could sometimes be awkward and unreasonable, testing her mettle from time-to-time. Her strong faith was central to her life and it tempered the way in which she interacted easily with others: she was always fair, kind and had high standards, never appearing to have favourites amongst her pupils. She was active and well-respected in the community, had strong friends in her neighbours as well as other locals and was a regular communicant member of the congregation at the Ursuline Convent at Westgate. She never married.

Two Old Princethorpians visited her at her home in Westgate-on-Sea in September 2013 to interview her for material for a book published to celebrate the school’s golden jubilee in 2016, when she talked animatedly for four hours, at the end of which she paused and said: "I wish I was coming back with you"!

Beryle Peeke, 3 January 1916 – 9 December 2013, is survived by a nephew and niece. A Requiem Mass took place at the Ursuline Convent Westgate-on-Sea on 20 December 2013, followed by interment at Margate Cemetery.

Engagement Joy For Alex and Elina

Many congratulations to Alex Corkhill who got engaged to Elina Tenusar on Sunday 19 January.

The happy couple plan to wed on Saturday 29 November this year and settle in Tallinn, the capital city of Elina's native Estonia, where Alex is currently job hunting.

We wish them both well with the wedding plans!

New Arrival For Lucy Litwinko née Hayes

Lucy Litwinko, née Hayes and her husband Jason are celebrating the birth of their first child Sophia, who was born in October 2013.

Lucy was at Princethorpe from 1995-2000. Since leaving school she spent some time traveling and working in Africa. Then got a first class honours degree in construction management and economics from Birmingham City University. She's now working for a construction consultancy firm in Birmingham as a project manager.

She got married to her husband at Princethorpe in 2006 and they are hoping to have Sophia christened in the Chapel this year.

We wish them all well!

Adieu Dear Ann

We learnt early in the New Year of the sad passing of Ann Grant, former much loved assistant matron at the College from the mid 1980s.

She died on Saturday 4 January after a very short illness and will be principally remembered by those who boarded at Princethorpe in the 80s and 90s. Ann was one of Princethorpe’s colourful and irreplaceable characters who would do anything for anyone. She had a very wide circle of friends and will be hugely missed. 

Ann's funeral took place in North Wales on Thursday 9 January, Fr Alan Whelan, Margaret-Louise O'Keeffe and Sean Philpott attended the funeral on our behalf. Sean read one of the eulogies at the service, which had been written by former French teacher, Dominica Jewell [nee McBride]. We reproduce Dominica's words here as a fitting tribute to a lovely lady.

Approximately thirty years ago, one Monday morning in October, there was a loud knock on my classroom door. The weekly French vocabulary test was in full swing and a tall, somewhat authoritative lady dressed in a blue uniform beckoned me to approach her. She was reluctant to enter, but was evidently nonetheless determined to engage me in conversation. ‘Hello Madame. Are you aware that five of your students are currently in sick bay all claiming to feel unwell?’ That was the beginning of a long, warm and wonderful friendship, and one which has provided me and many others, most of whom no doubt have at least one ‘Ann’ story, with memories which will always be revisited and cherished.

Ann’s years as Matron at Princethorpe College were, perhaps, some of the happiest of her life, as she expressed her delight more than once at having the good fortune to meet lovely people and form lasting relationships. In her professional role, I once asked Ann to accompany me, other teaching colleagues and about fifty young boys on an educational trip to Normandy. She of course threw herself into the thick of things and assumed her responsibilities with her customary gusto.

No matter that our coach driver’s navigational skills were such that he had to circle the roundabout at the front of the school twice before joining the road outside, that the accommodation was a rung below that of tourist class, that our male charges discovered that they could gain access to the girls’ wing via the window ledges on the first floor, that our coach was vandalised during the night – in every instance Ann rallied us all round without complaint and somehow assumed the role of chief ‘lifter of spirits’. Ann was the ultimate intrepid searcher of the silver lining.

It was during this trip in particular that I became aware of the affection and respect in which she was held by the boarders and especially those who lived abroad.

In those days of working together, Ann’s enormous generosity extended to welcoming me to her private living quarters at all times of the day and evening – providing respite from the rigours of the day and a temporary escape from the occasional agitated parent or colleague.

Life after Princethorpe for Ann was no less eventful or busy and despite increasing mobility challenges, she continued to make her own inimitable contribution to the lives of those around her through a rigorous programme of volunteer work.

I am so grateful that in recent years Ann was able to visit my husband and me at our home in France a number of times. On the last occasion, we spent ten memorable days together last May. Even then I continued to learn things about her I did not know before, for example her ability to establish an easy rapport with French workmen without uttering a single word in their language.

I was both surprised and delighted to see that Ann readily embraced technology and I very much enjoyed sharing regular calls and email messages with her, although her responses tended to be somewhat succinct. A typical example of her brevity, haste to get things done and verve for life, as well as a sharp insight into the bright, generous, funny, busy and selfless person she always was, is, I believe, perfectly illustrated by one of the last emails I received from her on 8th December. It read as follows:

Subject – ‘OUT’

‘I am out now till after 2 my time. If possible ring in the week. Timetable as follows:

-       ARW and Potts for the day Monday

-       Hospital Tuesday

-       Wednesday Volunteers’ lunch

-       Thursday final arrangements for club Christmas party

-       Friday Christmas party

Love to you both.

Goodbye my dear beloved friend. Thank you for all those precious shared moments of joy. Thank you for your exuberance. Your presence in the form of wonderful memories will be with me and your friends always.

Baby Boom For Head Of Economics and Business Studies

Kenny Owen Head of Economics and Business Studies and wife Jess, have been experiencing their own baby boom in the shape of son Bode.  Bode was in a rush to see the world, arriving three weeks early on Saturday 16 November and giving new mum and dad, Kenny and Jess, a bit of a surprise. Born at Warwick Hospital Bode weighed in at 5lb, 15oz and has already made his first visit to Princethorpe, a quick appearance at the Christmas Fair where he got lots of attention. Kenny says, "Family life is incredible, we are savouring every moment and already wonder what life was like without him!" Congratulations to Kenny and Jess.

Memory Bank

Prize Giving 1984 Brings Back Memories

OP Paul McGrath has kindly shared this picture taken after Prize Giving in 1984, a bit different to today's event at the Warwick Arts Centre, this photo looks to have been taken at the back of the main school building.

Paul has got a good memory for faces and names just one person unaccounted for, can you tell us who he is?

Left to right Carl Tranter, ? , Richard Hill, Neil Farrow, Father MacManus, Gerard Hannifin, Mick Penlington, Nick Essex, Paul Magrath, Nick Sullivan, Janine Matthew, Julian Winn, Neil Leader, Robin Knowles and Sean Webb.

OP Updates

New Additions To The OP Database

Since the last edition of The Old Princethorpian in October, we've had a bumper number of OPs from across the decades either adding or updating their details on the database.

To check them out go to the OPs part of the website and register or logon if you have already registered.

http://www.princethorpe.co.uk/old-princethorpians

Peter Hurst - 1967 - 1967

Emma Fletcher - 2005 - 2012

James Pargetter - 1995 - 2001

Sophie Porter - 2000 - 2007

Vincent Kwong - 1984 - 1989

Geoff Watkins - 1970 - 1974

Anthony Powell  - 1978 - 1984

Harrison Porter - 2006 - 2013

Megan Bailey - 2006 - 2013

Lucy Litwinko - 1995 - 2000

Christine Aveline - 2001- 2008

Harry O'Brien - 2005 - 2012

Simon Gusah - 1982 - 1984

Conrad Howard - 1985 - 1992

John Shanahan - 1974 - 1977

Michael Curtin - 1968 - 1972

Kevin Kerrigan - 1969 - 1976

Stephen O'Connell - 1991- 1998

Jon Edwards - 1973 - 1979

And last but by no means least, Jonathan Holmes - 1977 - 1981

Welcome to them all and we hope to see them at some of our events in the coming months.

Will H-L To Climb Kilimanjaro For Charity

This summer former Head Boy, Will Harper-Lawrence has been given the opportunity to climb Kilimanjaro for charity. He will be making the climb in aid of a charity called Childreach International between the 6th and 19th June.

Will comments, "Childreach works with children in Nepal, India and Tanzania, setting up schools that provide a meal whilst they are at school. As well as this they set up farming initiatives that help farmers get the most out of the land they have available. They also work within the realm of protection and human rights."

Will is currently studying Sports Science at Edinburgh University, playing Hockey for the first team and training six times a week in preparation for the expedition. He's also doing lots of fundraising including selling donuts on nights out and doing a 24 hour climb of Arthur's Seat.

His donation page if you would like to support this initiative is:

https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/williamharperlawrence

 

George Comes To The Rescue

OP George Lucas received a thank you from Warwickshire Police after his quick actions saved a young family from a flood drama.

George who is a tree surgeon, based in Barby, rushed to save a woman and her three young children from the waters of a fast-flowing ford at Churchover on 6 January with a little help from his trusty Mitsubishi Shogun.

Arriving before the emergency services George waded into the rising waters and managed to hook up a towline to the stranded car. Clambering back in through the window of his Shogun, he reversed out and took the family back to the safety of dry land.

The Police commended George for his actions and so do we. What a hero!

Old Princethorpian Ben Puts Sports Ed Pupils Through Their Paces

Currently in his first year at Leeds University studying for a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science, Old Princethorpian Ben Warman returned to “ give back a little of what he gained” during his seven years at Princethorpe.

An outstanding sportsman with a passion for exercise physiology, Ben delivered a series of presentations to GCSE and A Level pupils about fitness testing. He explained,

“The higher the level of sport, the more scientific it becomes basically. You can perform fitness tests in your own garden or they can become so finely tuned that elite athletes are able to use them to perfectly gauge the performance capacity of their bodies. I find the whole area very exciting. Delivering to Princethorpe pupils today enabled them to see where the next step of sports study could lead them to. At the moment I am undecided where my four year degree will take me but I aim to make the most of every chance offered. One important lesson learnt from the Princethorpe Diploma was to embrace all opportunities in every aspect of life as this will enhance not only your personal statement for UCAS but will also develop your individual confidence. Lots of students today were asking me about my degree and life at university. I was able to pass on to them good advice, hopefully, about making the most of their final years in College.”

Mrs McCullough, a former PE teacher of Ben’s, was thrilled to have him back on site.

“I miss Ben’s intellectual spark. As a teacher I have learned so much from him and we saw that in action again today in the classroom.”

The junior rugby squads saw Ben out on the pitches with them the next morning for some mid-season skills training. As a former 1st XV flanker he gave heaps of practical advice to our future Princethorpe sporting stars.

Nisha Khan Takes To The Inca Trail

My name is Nisha Khan. I am 19 years old and I was at Princethorpe College right the way through from Year 7 to Upper Sixth, leaving in 2012. I studied Maths, Biology, Chemistry and Spanish at A-level and I am currently at the University of Nottingham reading Medicine.

This August I will be climbing the Inca Trail up to Macchu Picchu with a group of students from Nottingham University to raise money for Breast Cancer Campaign.

The trek itself is six days long. We will be climbing up through the Lares Valley to Macchu Picchu, which is one of the new seven wonders of the world. This will be not an easy feat as it is 2430m above sea level and will require a lot of fitness training in the run up to the trek. Macchu Picchu is an Incan farming town situated in the Andes near Cuzco in Peru. It was built in the 15th century as an estate for the Incan emperor Pachacuti.

As well as the main trek I will be organising and taking part in other fundraising events such as fun runs, bag packs and pub quizzes to try and reach my total of £3000.

Breast Cancer Campaign is a very worthwhile charity that funds world class breast cancer research all over the UK. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK, affecting 1 in 8 women. Breast Cancer Campaign aims to find a cure for breast cancer by 2050!

The money that I raise will go to Breast Cancer Campaign and it will directly fund two research projects based at the Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham, right next to my med school. (http://www.breastcancercampaign.org)

Please have a look at my online fundraising page:  http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KhanNisha, any support would be much appreciated!