Old Princethorpians

On Saturday 17 September former pupils and staff of St Joseph’s and Crackley Hall gathered for a Reunion Mass, made all the more special by the attendance of current Crackley Hall children and the beautiful tones of the school’s Chamber Choir.

The Mass, celebrated by Reverend Father Kevin Hooper of the Catholic Parish of Kenilworth, was the first opportunity for former pupils to see the newly developed east wing of the building, which was opened at Easter 2016. Mass took place in the new purpose-built hall, which incorporates the original ceiling boss and stained glass window from St Joseph’s chapel. The morning was rounded off with the chance for old friends to tour the school and relive old memories.

Attendees included former St Joseph’s pupils, some of whom joined the school when it first relocated to Crackley Hall following the Second World War.

Nick Baker, Archivist for the Princethorpe Foundation, was on hand with an exhibition of photographs and items covering much of the school’s history, from its establishment as St Joseph’s Convent School by the Sisters of Mercy to the present day. Nick was delighted to be presented with an original school boater, complete with St Joseph’s badge donated by former pupil, Paula Bowskill at the event.

“More than seventy years since the creation of a school at this site, Crackley Hall is thriving as it continues the high standards of education established by the Sisters of Mercy,” commented Rob Duigan, Headmaster of Crackley Hall. “It was a real pleasure to see pupils of both schools, including more recent leavers who continued their secondary education at Princethorpe, join together for this occasion.”

Link to the Reunion Mass Photo Gallery: http://www.crackleyhall.co.uk/news/news-archive-2016---2017/past-and-present-meet-at-reunion-event

The Old Tea Warehouse in the City of London proved a popular venue for the Old Princethorpians latest Pub Meet. A contingent from Princethorpe, led by OPs Alex Darkes, Eddie Tolcher and Headmaster, Ed Hester set off mid afternoon on Friday 10 June to make the journey down South to meet up with London and South East based OPs for the annual gathering. The party numbered around 20 with OPs who left in 1976 mingling with those who left in 2013 and all decades in between. OP event stalwarts, including Peter Rollason and Michael Nagaur, were joined by others from the leavers of 1977 - Mike Binney on a visit from his home in Bangkok, Robin Abeyesinhe and Mike Loughnane and his lovely wife. New faces included Eric Udokwu (1975) who came along with Leigh Middleton (1976). OPs from later years included John Sage who left in 1986, Tony Richards (2007) and Aaron Jaffer (1997) and the real babies of the group James and Carmen Simpson who left in 2013. Making the party go with a swing were former parents Loretta Curtis and Di Downes and in support OPs Secretary, Melanie Butler and Princethorpe's new Development Director, Rachel Hadley-Leonard. The Old Tea Warehouse, just a stone's throw from The Gherkin, came recommended by other alumni associations and did not disappoint. The private Boston Bar was well situated and had plenty of room for the group to sit and chat together over the course of the evening. The sharing platters went down a treat and there was much chat about the 'good old, bad old days', what everyone was currently up to and animated suggestions for a staff vs OPs cricket match on the Sunday of Princefest. Comments Old Princethorpian Chairman, Peter Rollason, "There was a really lovely atmosphere and it was particularly nice to see everyone getting along so well irrespective of whether they had left forty years ago or just three!

The Old Princethorpians' Summer Supper on the evening of Friday 24 June was a  lovely evening and fitting farewell for our much loved Deputy Head - Pastoral, Sue Millest who is leaving the College after nine years of dedicated service. Young Old Princethorpian, Lizzie Hester, paid tribute to Sue's inimitable kindness and what she has meant to the hundreds of children who have been in her care since she started at the College in 2007.

This year's supper, attended by some 50 past pupils and current and former members of staff, also provided a focus for a landmark 30th anniversary reunion for some of the leavers of 1986. Longstanding members of staff were recognised including Mike Taylor who celebrates 35 years this year.

Commented OPs Committee member, Eddie Tolcher, "We wish Sue all the very best with her retirement, she will be sadly missed.

He continued, "A huge thank you to the College's wonderful catering, maintenance and grounds staff who worked so hard on the Committe's behalf and made the evening go so well. Here's to Princefest and the College's Golden Jubilee celebrations in September!"

The Foundation's new advertising campaign, which launches this week across a variety of media, takes a personal approach to communicate the essence of Princethorpe and Crackley Hall to prospective parents and pupils.

Based on a series of 'real life' interviews, the campaigns Princethorpe and me and Crackley and me, communicate the personal stories of pupils, parents and teachers in an impactful and playfully visual way.

The concept relies on the premise that whether pupil, parent or teacher, everyone seems to have their own personal Princethorpe or Crackley story. The adverts invite prospectives to visit themselves and leave with a few stories of their own.

Comments Melanie Butler, Assistant Head for Marketing, Admissions and Communications, "We've worked with Lutterworth based agency Key Parker to develop the campaign. They have a close connection with the College, through Old Princethorpian Nigel Bromley, Client Services Director, and he and Chief Creative Al Delgado have understood and interpreted our brief perfectly and created a campaign that is unique to us.

"We hope the campaign will resonate not only with prospectives in terms of what they are looking for from a school for their child, but with the whole Princethorpe community - staff, parents, pupils and Old Princethorpians alike. If you have a Princethorpe story we'd love to hear from you and who knows you might be appearing on a billboard soon!"

The Marketing Team will be working with Key Parker over the coming weeks to develop a campaign for Crescent School, the latest addition to the Foundation.

By the time of going to print, Rachel Hadley-Leonard will have been in post for just over four months as the Foundation’s first Development Director. She will have met many Old Princethorpians, parents, former parents, staff, former staff and pupils at a variety of events, not least, Princefest!

As the College continues with its Golden Jubilee celebrations, we are increasing our focus on making a Princethorpe education more widely accessible. To do this we have established a development function whose purpose is to raise funds to enable the provision of bursary support for those children who would benefit from a Princethorpe education, but whose families face real financial hardship which would otherwise deny them such a life-changing opportunity. In addition, there will be opportunities to help fund capital projects which will benefit not only our current pupils, but also those of future generations.

Together with Alex Darkes who becomes Assistant Head (Development), and Loretta Curtis, Development Assistant, Rachel is planning to grow and enhance Princethorpe’s wider community, including alumni, parents, former parents, former staff and in particular, our friends across the world.

Working closely with Melanie Butler and the Old Princethorpians Committee, Rachel will be striving to keep the community informed about developments at the school, aiming to bring them closer to support its future.

The development office has been really busy over the summer, building foundations for successful times ahead. We have been cleansing data, sending out a ‘lost alumni’ postcard, meeting the wider community, establishing a Development Board, formulating a Development Strategy, and learning the ropes of our new ‘InTouch’ database. We have many exciting initiatives to deliver in the coming months and years, which will benefit generations of future Princethorpians, and we plan to launch our plans with an event in early Springtime.

Rachel is keen to meet as many members of the Princethorpe community as possible. There will also be opportunities to become part of a development committee which will help to deliver events and grow our networks. Should you be interested to learn more of Princethorpe’s plans for development initiatives, please do contact Rachel at rachelhadleyleonard@princethorpe.co.uk or telephone 01926 634265/07391 407169.

From a cohort of 80 Upper Sixth Formers at Princethorpe College, the overwhelming majority have gained entry into the universities of their choice with over a quarter of all grades at A* or A, and over 80% of all grades at C or better. In addition, over 70% of the students were awarded the unique Princethorpe Diploma, encompassing academic success, work experience, extra-curricular achievement and service to others in the community.

Out of 160 GCSE candidates at Princethorpe College, 40% of grades are at A* or A, over two thirds at grade B or better and 20% of pupils achieved at least nine A* or A grades.

There were many distinguished performances, but the best individual results were from Isabel Meade and Anna Harper-Lawrence who both achieved 11 A* grades.

Headmaster, Ed Hester, said that he was delighted with the results. “We have had another great year and the results show that the hard work of both students and staff has been rewarded. Whilst we are of course delighted with their academic achievements, these students have many other fine qualities: kindness, respect and a strong sense of right and wrong which will be as important for them - if not more so - as they move on to the next phase of their lives. We all wish them well for the future”, he commented.

From left to right, Emily Wood, Harry White, Izzy Snead, Tom Brindley, Ed Hester, Headmaster, Evie Bonsall, Nick Bond and Sophie Nicholls

The Princethorpe Foundation and Crescent School have merged with effect from 1 September 2016. The Crescent, a flourishing independent junior school in Rugby, retains its own identity but becomes a Princethorpe Foundation school. Award-winning provider Nature Trails will continue to operate the on-site nursery.

Parents and staff at both organisations were informed of the decision in an announcement by their respective Chairs of Governors on Monday 4 July.

Crescent Headmaster, Huw Marshall, continues in the role until the end of this academic year, having recently announced his intention to retire. He will have the support of Ed Hester, the Senior Head of the Foundation, and the fellowship of Robert Duigan, Headmaster of Crackley Hall, Princethorpe’s junior school and nursery based in Kenilworth.

Comments, Pat Lines, Chair of Governors at Crescent School, “The merger brings benefits to both parties in terms of long term security, opportunities for development and shared resources, expertise and leadership. There will also be opportunities to provide our pupils with a broader range of teaching, learning and extra-curricular activities.

“It will be business as usual for the Crescent with the same excellent standards of teaching and pastoral care, though with the backing of the Princethorpe Foundation campus developments will be brought on stream far quicker than would have been possible.”

Continues Mary O’Farrell, Chair of Trustees for the Princethorpe Foundation, “Over fifty former Crescent pupils currently attend our senior school, Princethorpe College, this and the already excellent working relationship between both leadership teams is testament to the excellent fit between us in terms of ethos and culture. We are very excited about working together for the benefit of our joint long-term futures.”

For more information visit www.crescentschool.co.uk

Image shows from left to right: Crescent Headmaster, Huw Marshall, Princethorpe Foundation Senior Head , Ed Hester and Crackley Hall Headmaster, Robert Duigan, Headmaster.

“A fabulous night to remember,” perfectly sums up the College’s Golden Jubilee Year launch event at the House of Commons on Saturday 21 May. A 100-strong contingent from the wider Princethorpe Community, who had successfully applied for tickets in the lottery, gathered in the iconic surroundings of Westminster Hall, dressed in their finest black tie apparel and eagerly anticipating the evening ahead.

The party included representatives from all parts of the Princethorpe community - former and current parents, trustees, staff, pupils and friends of the College.

As the tourists made their way home, our party was divided into four groups to go on private guided tours of both Houses of Parliament. Expert tour guides gave a fascinating insight into the history and current workings of both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

Following in the footsteps of former Prime Ministers such as Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George and Margaret Thatcher, the groups heard about the traditions, customs and quirks of Parliament, before getting the chance to stand in the famous green and red benches. Guests marvelled at Her Majesty’s throne in the House of Lords and the ornate décor, carvings, paintings and statues throughout the historic building.

After the hour-long tour the party made their way to the Terrace Pavilion for pre-dinner drinks, as if on cue the sun broke through the clouds and bathed everyone in sunlight. As boats plied their way up and down the River Thames and with Westminster Bridge and the London Eye as our backdrop, small groups mingled and chatted happily over Pimms and Prosecco.

Just before eight o’clock we were summoned to our seats in the adjacent Churchill Dining Room. The distinctive green and cream portcullis bedecked room echoed with excited voices as the guests found their way to their places at nine tables and were called to order by Headmaster, Ed Hester.

Before dinner was served, Ed Hester invited guest of honour Mark Pawsey, MP, a former parent of the College, to say a few words. Welcoming the assembled throng to his ‘place of work’, Mark quizzed the guests over their Parliamentary knowledge and wished everyone an enjoyable evening. Mark handed over the speech baton to Mary O’Farrell, Chair of the Trustees who spoke of her long association with the College, the special bond between the school and all those associated with it and gave thanks to the foresight, commitment and vision of the MSCs and the three Headmasters present, Ed Hester, John Shinkwin, the first lay Headmaster, and Fr Alan Whelan, MSC.

Fr Alan then proceeded to say Grace and dinner commenced. A delicious menu followed comprising: First Course - Flaked ham hock with broad bean salad, piccalilli dressing and sour dough bread or Minted garden pea panna-cotta with aged Greek feta cheese, oven dried peppers and pea tendrils (v) Main Course - Pan fried Gressingham duck supreme and confit leg croquette,sweet potato mash, roasted beetroot and honey sauce or Wild mushroom and garden herb frittata with brioche croute, confit of fennel, courgette, toasted pine kernel and truffle oil (v) Palette Cleanser - Pimms O’clock - Pimms sorbet, orange gel, diced strawberry, mint, apple blossom (v) Dessert - Raspberry Peach Melba - Vanilla mousse, raspberry poached peach, raspberry sorbet and macaron. After coffee and petit fours were served the final speeches of the night ensued with Ed Hester saying his own welcome and giving thanks to key Princethorpe people, including Mary O’Farrell and her fellow trustees, who work so tirelessly on behalf of the College.

He gave special mention to the three old girls of St Mary’s Priory, one of whom, Mrs Maria Cecilia Cordoba Good, had travelled from Florida to share the special evening.

He spoke of his own journey with the College, first as a parent and over the last few years as Headmaster, of the great strides taken in terms of developments and progress at the College and ambitions for the future including future building projects and the renovation of the area known as Little Switzerland. He also wished Alex Darkes, or Mr Princethorpe as he referred to him, well in his new role in charge of Development, tasked with making a Princethorpe education more accessible to children who would benefit from it.

He then introduced one such Old Princethorpian and bursary recipient, Jacob Stone, who left the College in 2012 to say a few words. Jacob spoke eloquently and movingly of his experience, of searching for and finding a school ‘where he could thrive not just survive’. The four years he spent at the College were filled with opportunities and memories which helped him grow and develop as a person. Now in his third year studying medicine at Southampton University, he hopes to work as a doctor in Sub-Saharan Africa. Concluding his speech Jacob said the Christian values and ethos of Princethorpe would remain with him for a lifetime and thanked the College and staff for really changing his life.

The final speech of the night and the task of proposing a toast to the College was left to Old Princethorpians Chairman Peter Rollason, who in his own inimitable style, spoke fondly and eloquently of what the school means to him, of Old Princethorpians and their varied calendar of events and how pleased he was to see the plans for the Golden Jubilee finally coming to fruition. His impassioned toast to the College, got the biggest roar of approval of the night as the guests raised their freshly charged glasses in unison.

As the last guests departed, some to make a weekend of it in London, and many to catch the coach homeward bound to Princethorpe, a few die-hard revellers took the opportunity for a final photograph in front of Big Ben, before heading off to Leicester Square to continue the celebrations!

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

To view the photos from the evening click here

Headmaster, Ed Hester, OPs Chairman, Peter Rollason and former Head of Economics and Business Studies, Peter Griffin are looking for some fellow cyclists to join them for a French Golden Jubilee Cycling Pilgrimage next May Half Term.

The charity event is open to all over 18s associated with the College who are prepared to take on the Challenge of a 120 mile cycle ride between the two French towns which are close to Princethorpe's heart, namely Issoudun and Montargis, home to Princethorpe's founders the MSCs and the Benedictines of the previous St Mary's Priory.

Each competitor would need to pledge to raise £250 for charity to earn their place on the coach that will leave Princethorpe on Tuesday 30 May and return on Saturday 3 June. Along the way there will be plenty of cycling (60 miles on Day 1 (Wednesday) and 60 miles on Day 3 (Friday), with a rest day in between), plus stop offs en route as the pilgrimage wends its way between the two towns via Sancerre.  The pilgrimage will take in a stay at the Chevalier Centre in Issoudun and culminate in Montargis.

Comments, Ed Hester, "We have planned the five day trip to allow plenty of time for chateaux and wine tasting, we estimate the cost including travel, food and accommodation will be around the £500 per person mark. Places will be limited to 30 riders, though we may be able to accommodate some non-cyclists in a support capacity too!"

Those interested should email goldenjubilee@princethorpe.co.uk to register their interest by 1 December 2016.

So if you've always fancied yourself in a yellow jersey, this could be your time!

As part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, twenty-five of the former St Mary’s Priory girls attended a reunion at Princethorpe on Saturday 24 September; their last meeting at the school having taken place in autumn 2014. Beatrice Delachenal (née Gaspard) attended from Belgium, whilst Ann Wilby made sure that the re-union coincided with her European holiday, travelling all the way from her home in Sydney, Australia. She attended with her sister, Pauline, who lives fairly near to Princethorpe and who has been a regular at reunions for many years. Amongst those attending was Biddy Allen (née Baines) whose late father, Lewis, was the manager of the College’s home farm.

Organised by OPs Janet Haynes and Mary Wheildon with assistance from Loretta Curtis at Princethorpe, those attending met first for coffee and reminisced before having lunch in the Sixth Form Atrium, where they were welcomed by headmaster, Ed Hester. After lunch they had a tour of the school before gathering in the New Church to sing their school anthem Except the Lord build the house, accompanied on the organ by Princethorpe’s Will Uglow. Many took time to look at the archive display in the library which had been put together by Nick Baker, complete with past copies of Peeps of Princethorpe the annual St Mary’s Priory magazine, which was published up until 1965. Nick also displayed an early 20th century illuminated manuscript – a product of the Princethorpe Benedictines - which the school has recently acquired. Others ambled along the Lime Walk and around “The Plan” (mile walk) past the Hockey Field behind Switzerland, recalling the arduous Jog Trot every morning when they were boarders. Janet Haynes (née Campion) boarded, but her parents only lived the other side of the woods, giving her the opportunity to seize occasional food parcels from home!

St Mary’s Priory was established in the mid-nineteenth century by French Benedictine nuns from Montargis who had been forced to leave their homeland in 1792, amidst the turmoil of the French Revolution. They settled first in Brighton with the help of Mrs Fitzherbert, then variously in London, Norfolk, Yorkshire and finally Orrell Mount in Lancashire, before buying two hundred acres of Warwickshire parkland in the 1830s, where they built the first post-reformation monastery in England, establishing a school for up to 80 girls. Octogenarian, Margit Tumin (née Neumann), who has attended reunions for many years, left Vienna alone by train as an eight-year-old with no English, bound for St Mary’s Priory. She is still not sure why this should have been her destination, but it was the start of a happy lifelong relationship which continues to this day. The late Beryle Peeke who taught History at St Mary’s Priory from 1942 until its closure in 1966, also continued to attend all reunions, missing one only shortly before her death in 2013. Miss Peeke would regularly travel by train from Kent to London Victoria to have lunch with “her girls” and share Princethorpe memories.

St Mary’s Priory was also well represented at the House of Commons Golden Jubilee Dinner in May, when locals Mary Wheildon and Jane Duppa-Miller attended, joined also by Maria Cecilia Cordoba-Good, who made the journey from Miami. Like Margit Tumin, Maria Cecilia was also a long distance learner: when she was at Princethorpe her parents lived in Colombia, where she still has family today.

In addressing those gathered at the recent re-union and replying to Ed Hester, thanking him for the school’s hospitality, Mary Wheildon said: “I’m not sure that we should be called OPs, perhaps VOPs would be more appropriate as we are Very Old Princethorpians!”

The next St Mary’s Priory reunion is planned for 2018.

APD

Picture: St Mary’s Priory reunion September 2016

Get your hands on one of our Princefest t-shirts whilst stocks last!

ONLY:
£6 incl Postage and Packaging or
£5 for collection

These limited edition t-shirts are the perfect way to celebrate our Golden Jubilee and will make brilliant Christmas or birthday presents! Made of 100% cotton, we have a range of sizes available: youth large, small, medium, large and extra-large.
Please email goldenjubilee@princethorpe.co.uk to check stock and place orders

BACS Transfer:
HSBC Bank
Sort code: 40-18-17
Account: 82689111
Ref: PC3052 plus your surname

Cheque made payable to:
The Princethorpe Foundation with the Ref: PC3052 plus your surname on the back to be sent to Miss Liz Brown, The Bursary, Princethorpe College, Princethorpe, CV23 9PX.

Members of the wider Princethorpe community are invited to buy a copy of the Golden Jubilee Book - A Spirit of Family: a portrait of the first fifty years of Princethorpe College by Nick Baker and Alex Darkes, published on 1 September 2016.

To mark the College’s Golden Jubilee, Nick Baker (Foundation Archivist) and Alex Darkes (Assistant Head) have written a book charting the school’s history from 1966 to the present day. With 160 pages and over 600 photographs from the archive, many reproduced in full colour, this book looks at different aspects of College life: the environment; teaching and learning; music; liturgy; sport; drama; celebrations; beyond the classroom and Old Princethorpians.

There are also short introductions to the other institutions associated with Princethorpe, such as St Mary’s Priory, St Bede’s College, St Joseph’s Convent (now Crackley Hall), Feldon, Abbotsford and The Crescent schools.

The authors gratefully acknowledge help and source material from the Leamington History Group for the Feldon School section of Chapter 4.Further reading at: www.leamingtonhistory.co.uk/feldon-school/

Here's a sneak preview from the frontspiece:

It’s 1792 and the stormy political backdrop in France, against which church property has been nationalised and solemn vows ended, forces a group of Benedictine nuns to flee the country in search of asylum. Their planned destination is Flanders, but the journey is too risky and instead they cross the Channel and end up in Brighton. For the next forty years or so they stay briefly in various places including London, Norfolk, Yorkshire, Lancashire before finally settling in Princethorpe, where they construct St Mary’s Priory in 1832, which is the first post-reformation monastery to be built in England.
The nuns lead a contemplative life and run a small girls’ boarding school for over one-hundred-and-thirty years until dwindling vocations and falling pupil numbers force them to sell the priory and seek a smaller house in Oxfordshire. In the meantime, the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart who opened a boys’ school in Leamington the 1950s, which they were now rapidly outgrowing, buy the priory from the Benedictines, opening Princethorpe College with under two hundred pupils in 1966, rising to nearly nine hundred in 2016.

This book tells the fascinating story of the school, its pupils, staff and friends during its first half century and is the first major work to emerge from Princethorpe since the History of the Benedictines of St Mary’s Priory published in 1930.

The book costs £20 per copy, which can be collected from the College or alternatively posted to you at the additional charge of £5.00 for postage and packing.

Please email nickbaker@princethorpe.co.uk to make a purchase.

Means of payment for the book are as follows:

Online by logging in or registering at http://princethorpe.alumni-online.com/ Once logged in go to Events and choose Golden Jubilee Book, you can pay by PayPal, debit or credit card.

BACS Transfer:
HSBC Bank
Sort code: 40-18-17
Account: 82689111
Ref: GJ3051 plus your surname

Cheque made payable to:
The Princethorpe Foundation with the Ref: GJ3051 plus your surname on the back to be sent to Miss Liz Brown, The Bursary, Princethorpe College, Princethorpe, CV23 9PX.

What a way to kick-start the College’s Golden Jubilee celebrations! On Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 September, Princethorpe opened its doors to festival goers of all ages for the much-anticipated Princefest.  

Although a little soggy on Saturday, the weather certainly didn’t dampen people’s spirits with a good crowd ready for the 12noon opening. By 1.00pm Princefest was electric with live music across both stages and current and Old Princethorpians gearing up for their sporting battles.

Thanks to our dedicated spectators, and the valiant sporting efforts of our OPs and current Princethorpians, there was a fantastic atmosphere up at the pitches in spite of the rain. In Rugby, the OPs proved triumphant in retaining both the John Shinkwin Trophy and Alex Wallis Memorial Match against the Kenilworth Babas for another year.  Across the range of sports the prized Alex Wallis Memorial Shield also went to the OPs, although this year was a much closer contested tournament. There were many fine performances in all sports with each team putting the other through their paces! For a full breakdown of the day’s results, please see the bottom of this article.

As Saturday afternoon progressed, a vibe that could rival Glastonbury was bubbling alongside the sporting activities! Princefesters were treated to a range of festival favourites including children's activities, a funfair (which was jam-packed for most of the day!), silent disco, archive exhibition, delicious food and shopping stalls – not to mention the eclectic musical mix that was on offer. 

OP Tom Cross did a sterling job as Princefest’s MC for the day. From Princethorpe’s own School of Rock, and OP bands Luna Kiss, The Recruits and Boudika, to Sticky Wicket & His Swing Orchestra and local favourites, The Commonjets, there was something to suit everyone’s taste. Drawing the evening’s festivities to a fabulous close was headliner and 21st Century One Man Band, Thom Kirkpatrick – a definite crowd pleaser!    

The three hundred or so intrepid campers woke to a drier Sunday morning and enjoyed a welcome breakfast from the Tuck Shop.

After the full on fun of Saturday, Sunday was a much more mellow affair. The Celebratory Mass led by Fr Alan Whelan MSC and Fr Teddy O'Brien MSC infront of a packed Chapel congregation, brought a fitting reflective element to the proceedings and was followed by a delicious relaxed hog roast lunch. For the rest of the afternoon the wider Princethorpe community enjoyed more trips down memory lane, tours of the school and a welcome chance to catch up after many decades in some instances.

As the weekend drew to a close, many left tired but happy, clutching their copies of the Golden Jubilee book and the odd Princefest t-shirt.

Once more, we extend a huge thank you to the Princefest team, all the staff and pupil helpers and the Princethorpe community for making the first event of our Golden Jubilee Year so memorable. As predicted, Princefest lived up to the Princethorpe tradition of fun and friendship aplenty!

If you are interested in purchasing a Golden Jubilee Book (£20 for collection) or a Princefest t-shirt (£5 for collection) please email goldenjubilee@princethorpe.co.uk. 

To see more images and to view the fantastic Princethorpe film by OP Tom Pilling of Dusk Productions click here.

Princefest Sports Results

Girls’ Hockey:

OPs Old vs. OPs Young: 1 – 1

OPs Old vs. College: 1 – 0

College vs. OPs Young: 0 – 0

Boys’ Hockey:

OPs Old vs. OPs Young: 1 – 2

OPs Old vs. College: 0 – 1

College vs. OP’s Young: 3 – 1

 Netball:

OPs Old vs. OPs Young: 17 - 10

OPs Old vs. College U18: 17 - 3

College U16 vs. OPs Young: 8 - 13

College U18 vs. College U16: 19 - 12

OPs Old vs. College U16: 19 - 2

College U18 vs. OPs Young: 5 - 10

Rugby:

OPs vs College:  12 – 5

OPs vs Kenilworth Babas: 26 - 12

Friday 12 May 2017 - 6.00pm onwards

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

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

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

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

Sunday 27 November  - 2.00pm to 4.30pm

The College's annual PTA Christmas Fair will take place on Sunday 27 November from 2.00pm to 4.30pm.

As well as the 'must visit' Old Princethorpians stand, there will be an array of stalls full of present ideas, games and activities, festive music and refreshments plus, of course, Santa in his grotto!

This is a good chance to see the College at a weekend and all the family are very welcome to come along!

Crackley Hall Nursery And Reception Open Evening

Wednesday 16 November 2016 - 7.00pm to 8.00pm

Crackley Hall, Princethorpe's junior school and nursery in Kenilworth, is having a specific Nursery and Reception Open Evening on Wednesday 18 November from 7.00pm to 8.00pm. Parents are being encouraged to apply now for places in Reception in 2017.

This is an opportunity to look around Nursery and Reception class and to meet and talk informally to staff.  There will be a short presentation at the beginning of the evening and light refresments will be available.

Crackley Hall Open Day
Tuesday 17 January 2017- 10.00am - 3.00pm

This is a great chance to look around the school and nursery during a normal working day and to chat to staff and pupils. Light refreshments will be available.

If you can't make the Open Evening or Open Day but would like to look around, please call our Admissions Secretary, Mrs Angela Barnard on 01926 514444 and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors on most days.

For more information visit www.crackleyhall.co.uk

Nursery and Reception Open Evening 

Tuesday 15 November 2016  

The Crescent School, the Foundation's new junior school for 4 to 11-year-olds in Bilton, Rugby, is having a specific Nursery and Reception Open Evening on Tuesday 15 November from 7.00pm to 8.00pm. Parents are being encouraged to apply now for places in Reception in 2017.

This is an opportunity to look around Nursery and Reception class and to meet and talk informally to staff.  There will be light refresments available.

The Crescent School Open Day
Monday 16 January 2017 

This is an opportunity to look around the school and to meet staff and pupils on a normal working day. All are welcome, no need to book.

If you can't make the Open Day but would like to look around, please call our Registrar, Mrs Helen Morley on 01788 521595 and come on a day to suit you, we welcome visitors on most days.

For more information visit www.crescentschool.co.uk

Wednesday 9 November 2017 - 7.00pm to 9.00pm

Aimed at internal and external prospective Sixth Formers and their parents, this is an opportunity to get an insight into the Sixth Form experience at Princethorpe, to meet staff and members of the Sixth Form and to get specific A-level information and advice.

Individual taster days for prospective external Sixth Formers are available. For more information please contact the Registrar, Mrs Vanessa Rooney on 01926 634201 or email vanessarooney@princethorpe.co.uk. Scholarships and bursaries are available.

Friday 4 November 2016 - 7.30pm

This year's Prize Giving will be held on Friday 4 November in the Butterworth Hall at Warwick Arts Centre beginning at 7.30pm.

Traditionally, the vast majority of last year’s Upper Sixth returns to collect their A-level examination certificates.  Most will have embarked on their first year at university, apprenticeship or employment and this is an opportunity to catch up with the class of 2016.

The OPs Committee hosts a special Drinks Reception before the ceremony for the U6 leavers, their parents and other invited guests. This is a very popular occasion and we have a limited number of seats available for any OPs who would like to join us for the Pre-Drinks at 6.30pm in the Helen Martin Studio and later for the ceremony itself.

To secure your seat please RSVP with the number in your party, stating that you are an Old Princethorpian, to carmelhopkins@princethorpe.co.uk by Friday 14 October please.

Wednesday 12 October at 7.30pm.

The Reading Group is open to all members of the wider Princethorpe community whether they be OP, a Princethorpe parent or teacher. The group got off to a good start this term with a discussion of two very different books which we had read over the holiday. One was the bestselling All the Light we Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. This takes a fresh look at the Second World war period through charting the lives of a young blind girl from Paris and a German orphan with a genius for anything to do with radio communication. Their lives briefly come together when they are in St Malo under siege. This was an engaging read which handled historical detail with some perception and sensitivity. Our other book was Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a writer we have enjoyed before. Set in Nigeria this novel explores the effects of religious fanaticism as we follow the lives of a family blighted by the influence of an abusive father who does all in the name of religion. The book is uncompromising and perhaps a little painful to read at times. Political and cultural background are deftly interwoven in the family saga and we all found this a very worthwhile book. Our next meeting will be in the library on Wednesday 12 October at 7.30pm. We will be discussing A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara, a Booker shortlisted book which charts the friendship of four men whose lives take them in very different directions. Apparently this is quite lengthy so we may not all complete in by the time of the meeting. Please join us whether or not you have read this book. We are a friendly group of readers who are always prepared to try anything new. We’d like some new members this year and you can be sure of a warm welcome. Come along if you’d like to share your own reading interests or if you’d like some recommendations for future reads yourself. Chris Kerrigan Head of English

Saturday 3 December 2016 - 7.00pm

The Class of 2002 and Year 11 leavers of 2000 are meeting up for an unofficial OP Reunion on Saturday 3 December from 7pm at The White Horse, Clarendon Avenue, Leamington, CV32 5PZ.

All welcome, anyone interested and wanting to find out more please contact organiser Max Oxton-Morris via Facebook.

For current Year 6 pupils (children born between 1 September 2005 and 31 August 2006), who are interested in admission to the College in September 2017.

Year 6 Taster Days will be available in October and November.

The dates are as follows:

Wednesday 2 November 2016 (Full)

Monday 14 November 2016 (2 Spaces)

Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. To book your child's place telephone the Registrars on 01926 634262 or email at helenmorgan@princethorpe.co.uk.

We have great pleasure in unveiling the OPs events calendar for the forthcoming academic year.

We have tweaked the programme slightly with it being the Golden Jubilee Year, some timings have changed, some events will have a rest for a year and some new venues have been introduced.  Our London meet will be the focus for an OPs Golden Jubilee Reception in February, venue still tbc but expect somewhere interesting and The Real Tennis Club on Leamington's Bedford Street will be the venue for our local pub meet in May.

The Summer Supper Meeting at the College in June will not take place due to the eagerly awaited Golden Jubilee Ball taking place on Saturday 1 July and the leavers of 1977, 1987, 1997 and 2007 (Year 11 leavers from those cohorts are most welcome too) will be encouraged to attend this instead, along with OPs from across the 50 years, current and former parents and staff.

More details will follow before Christmas on how to book a table or individual tickets at the Golden Jubilee Ball.  Interest is expected to be high, following the success of the other Golden Jubilee events and places are limited to approximately 500.

All OPs, past parents and staff are welcome to participate in any or all of the events.

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

When were you at Princethorpe - years from and to?
I went to Princethorpe from 2002 to 2007.

Bit of background, where you live, what you do for a living
I am a 25 year old session guitarist and guitar teacher living in Leamington Spa. I’m also the singer and guitarist in the alt rock band, Luna Kiss.

What was the school like in your day?
Princethorpe College was a lot smaller! It was a well balanced place to grow up, full of activities for both academic and creative people. 

How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?
The teachers I had were very encouraging and made you believe that you were capable of achieving your best. Being both a musician and member of a band requires a lot of determination and self believe. Some of which was grown out of being at Princethorpe.

What advice would you give to your teenage self?
I grew my hair long at Princethorpe as it was "the thing to do". Looking back I would definitely tell my teenage self to get a hair cut.

Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?
I get influenced by a lot of people who through their determination and drive have become successful. I wouldn't say I have any people in particular. Musically the first influential guitarist I came across was David Gilmour from Pink Floyd.  

What keeps you awake at night? 
I'm a pretty sound sleeper to be fair. Probably my Beagle! 

What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?
We played a huge festival in Loreley, Germany last year in an amphitheatre. As a band we spend a lot of time in grinding away to get to "the next stage". Playing that gig was a great moment and a huge achievement for myself and the rest of a Luna Kiss. 

What’s your biggest indulgence?
Ben and Jerrys Ice Cream. Any flavour, any time, any where. 

If you had to have one last meal, what would it be? 
It's roast dinner all the way!

What is your favourite TV Show and why? 
The saddest guilty pleasure. Home and Away. Yes the acting isn't world class, and the sets a bit wobbly but it always looks like summer on every episode and the beaches look epic! 

If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be and who would be with you? 
On the road. There is nothing better than spending two weeks driving around in a van playing shows every day with your best pals. 

Lasting memories of Princethorpe:
The spicey sausage pasta at lunch time and the amazing pastry bakes at the end of the day. Chicken and mushroom bake was a highlight moment of each day. 

Are you in touch with any other Old Princethorpians, if so whom? 
I still stay in touch with a few people. James Pedley is the drummer in the band. Harvey Broadbent who now runs Positive Outlook clothing. He has also worked on some Luna Kiss designs. By family obligation both my brother and sister who are also Old Princethorpians. 

Is there anyone you would like to track down?
Mrs Francis my music teacher was very encouraging and set me on the path to where I am today.

Image shows from left to right: Chris Butler (guitars), OP James Pedley (drums), OP Wil Russell (vocals/guitars) and Ross Morris (bass)

The band website is: www.lunakiss.co.uk

Facebook Page is: www.facebook.com/LunaKissBandUK

Twitter is: @LunaKissBand https://twitter.com/LunaKissBand

Rory (2001) and Carrie Aitkenhead were married at Fawlsey Hall, Northamptonshire on the 29th of May 2016.

The couple who live in London, have been together for eight years.

We wish them both every happiness together!

Michael Curtis, who was at Princethorpe from 1995 to 1999, and his partner Kate are thrilled to announce the birth of their first child, Finlay Paul Curtis.

Finlay was born on Sunday 30 September, weighing in at a healthy 8lb 2oz. The new family are doing really well.

Finlay is a first grandchild for doting grandma and former longstanding Princethorpe Registrar, Loretta Curtis and her husband Paul.

Congratulations to the Alex and Lina Corkhill on their latest addition, Patrick Laurence.

Born at 06.54 on July 27th 2016, at 7lbs 6oz (3.49kg).
Patrick is doing perfectly and is already 10 weeks old and so much bigger!

Alex Comments: "Lina and I are starting to adjust to being parents (lack of sleep, etc!) and love him to bits. As you can see, he's already amassed quite a teddy collection!"

We wish them all well.

After their wedding last summer, which took place at Princethorpe College, OPs Megan and Tom Redman announce the safe arrival of their new baby girl, Arabella.

Arabella Rose Redman was born on the 7th July 2016, weighing 7lb03oz.

Megan Commented: "Tom and I are both loving being parents, she has been a really happy content little baby (so far!) and has easily slotted into our lives.  She enjoyed the music at Princefest so much that she slept the whole way through it."

We wish them all the luck in the world with their little bundle of joy.

Congratulations to Laura Hanrahan (née Crosby-Harris), who left Princethorpe in 2004, and her new husband Phil who decided on a wedding with a difference in Italy.

Laura takes up their story...

"Phil and I got married in the magical place of Malcesine in Lake Garda on Tuesday 20 September! We were married in Malcesine Castle with 40 of our nearest and dearest friends and family! (Lily Powell-Brett was my maid of honour, she was the year above me at Princethorpe).

We had never been to Lake Garda before, it was really a gamble, we knew we wanted to get married abroad and had heard so many amazing stories about Lake Garda, we looked online and simply fell in love with the place!

We had the most fantastic week and the most perfect wedding day, it is truly a beautiful place!

We will be going to the Caribbean early next year for our honeymoon, but we are squeezing a mini moon in before then! We are going to Iceland as that is where Phil proposed to me (I'm a girl who loves Christmas...he couldn't have picked a more festive place)!

I have been with Phil for seven years! He works in exercise rehab and I am a senior support assistant for adults with profound and multiple learning disabilities!"

Many congratulations to Laura and Phil, they will always have a romantic place to revisit for future anniversaries!!

The summer of 2016 was extraordinary, and more so as Princethorpe was but a memory of 40 plus years. With my brothers Robert, Patrick and Terry we became the first "four of the same family" at the College.  Our own family gathering of the Cox's was taking place in Abingdon and so it came about the college was also visited, thanks to Melanie Butler. My wife and two sons were so impressed at the stately college, the locality and its amenities, while on-site painters/builders were busy to meet the deadline of the start of term.

The quadrangle, long corridors, ex-dormitories and sports hall all reminded me of the earlier spartan existence as a full time boarder. Names such as Fr Clarkson, O'Connor and O'Rourke, as well as "the gang" Martin Glynn, Mark Patterson and Geoff Carr came back to me. Whilst visiting the refectory I was pleasantly reminded of myself as the Austin House Captain 1972-1973 and the Games Captain 1973-1974 on the honours boards, which was news to my own family!!

Our visit to the Chapel was very mindful of the family spirit that is fundamental to the practices of the College. The present library was where the boarders spent time writing home on a Sunday evening, with the hope of some later cash to be spent at the Tuck shop (long gone now). The tour of the adjoining grounds was a classic case of deja vu as the lime tree avenue and walled path led to the open sports fields and the Mile Walk, as it always has. These and the modern new study facilities and extensions are an asset to the success of the current pupils' education.

After my time at the College I had a fun time in Straford-upon-Avon for a while. This was followed by Health Management at Oxford Health Authority, which later continued at the Department of Health in London. About fourteen years ago we moved to Denmark which has the happiest people in Europe (except for the taxes). My work interests include healthcare standards for transplants and bioengineering, whilst my hobby is beekeeping. Trips to Brussels (see photo with flags) are often where quality standards are negotiated with the European Commission and Member States.     

It was a pleasure to see the College thriving on its educational and special interests programme for all. The website is so informative and I periodically like to view the news on Old Princethorpians as it is an interesting read. So many thanks for the continued work to connect Old Princethorpians from a different era.

Michael Cox, Copenhagen Denmark

Princethorpe College Archivist Mr Nick Baker has had one of the luckiest finds of his professional life. An extraordinary illuminated manuscript was located, by chance, at a book auction in Wiltshire last month. Its origins belong to St Mary’s Priory, which later became Princethorpe College.  Its two artists were Sister Mary Walburga and Sister Francis de Sales who worked on the nine page, eighteen side volume at the start of the twentieth century. Bound in vermillion goat skin and inscribed with ornate decorate gold leaf borders the simple inscription Pax (Peace) adorns its front. Over two feet in length the manuscript is expansive; it’s meant to be seen and admired, used and responded to.

The history of medieval illuminations (from where the Sisters took their inspiration) is rich. Famed for their intricate depictions not just of the Bible but also of the natural world and science they believe the assumption that the medieval period was drab. Not at all. Just opening the first page of the St Mary’s Priory manuscript elicits an instinctive gasp out loud, its impact is that visceral. Nothing short of miraculous. Each page, handwritten in meticulous Latin script, details the story of the birth of Christ. The illuminations that quite literally lighten each leaf are astonishing. Dazzling, almost psychedelic colours pattern the parameters with drawings of saints, cherubs, dragons and flowers. The sheer craftsmanship of the nuns is unequivocal. It’s no wonder that during the medieval period these texts were sought after by monarchs and aristocrats alike.

College archivist Nick Baker goes on to say,

“It’s a delight that the manuscript has come home to the College. Every book has its own story and we’re still investigating the history behind this one. Already we have used the volume with Year 7 RS classes as they learn about Princethorpe’s past. Their reaction has been great. They can’t believe that each page was drawn by hand using paint and ink; they’re astonished by the use of gold and silver leaf and the delicate scratch work that gives the illuminations a three dimensional feel. The manuscript has galvanized discussions between pupils about the lives the nuns at The Priory used to lead. True to its original purpose it is still inspiring wonder and contemplation.”

Image shows Princethorpe College archivist Mr Nick Baker with the recently acquired St Mary’s Priory Manuscript

A huge thank you to OP Tony Cowland who travelled from the depths of Sussex to be Chief Judge at the ISA Midlands Regional Art Competition held at Princethorpe today (Friday 7 October).

It's the first time in 15 years that Princethorpe has hosted the regional competition and the exhibition was set up in the College's beautiful, historic Chapel.

Tony, who left the College over 40 years ago is now a renowned artist and illustrator. He judged the competition alongside Barbara Forster, Headteacher of Ruckleigh School.

12 ISA Midlands-based schools took part in the competition with work represented from age 3 to 18 years. 150 pieces were appraised from 2D and 3D art, to textiles, fashion, sketchbook, photography and drawing.

The best pieces were awarded either 1st, 2nd or Highly Commended, and the first place winners now go on to the National ISA Art Competition in November.

Commented Tony, "It's been a busy but rewarding day, we saw some true flashes of genuine creativity and imagination amongs the entries. We wish all our winners good luck in the National Finals!".

On the eve of Princefest OPs John Sage and Mike Cleary (1979-1986) decided to round up a few of the '84 and '86 leavers - and the natural choice of venue was their old stomping ground of the Three Horseshoes. 

There was a decent turnout and, given that it was the first time most people had laid eyes on each other for 30 years, banter levels were soon rising nicely: among the observations was that Wardy (Simon Ward) was still scrounging a lift home - no change there, then - and that somebody should report the theft of Ben Collett's hair to Warwickshire Police. Colin Morgan came along as the Honorary Teacher, and remembered a pretty good chunk of his former pupils' names - old habits die hard. 

By the end of the night Mike Cleary was in full in planning mode for the next reunion, which won't wait another 30 years.

The OPs who came along were John Sage, Mike Cleary, Ben Collett, Simon Ward, Alex Johnson (Healey), Georgina Cowley, Kevin Grant, Jeremy Butler, Paul Doherty, Noel 'Ralph' McDermott, Martin Nwanga, Luke Morris,Tim Wadland and Martin Robson

I started in my role as Facilities Manager here at Compton Verney in May this year. For those that don’t know, Compton Verney is an Art Gallery and Park located in Warwickshire. My responsibilities include buildings & facilities management, financial planning, operations, health & safety and security. There are quite a few things that I have had to learn quickly, especially regarding the environmental controls required for the artwork. There are certain temperature, humidity and lighting levels that must be maintained in order to protect the art. We have collections of our own, however every three months we have new temporary exhibitions and the environmental records for the galleries are requested by lenders before they agree to lending their works for exhibitions. We also heat our main building via a water-source heat pump which comes from our stunning lake; understanding how the above all works may seem boring for some but not for me, I like it.

I really am enjoying my role here, it is a lovely place to work and the staff are all nice, which helps. I really do recommend anyone to come and visit as there is so much to do here. There’s so much to choose from: seeing the exhibitions and collections, eating in the restaurant and café, or enjoying the grounds where we have bird watching and pond-dipping facilities as well as a children’s play area too. Of course I loved my time at Princethorpe: I don't look upon this like it's the end, I look upon it like it's moving on, it's almost like my work there was done.

What is the single most important thing for a company? Is it the building? Is it the stock? Is it the turnover? It's the people, investment in people and at Princethorpe, there’s some great people. I do miss the crack with the Estates and Grounds teams especially, as well as various other members of staff.

I came back for Princefest which was a great success and I’m sure I’ll be back on occasion in the future; it would be good to see some of you over here at Compton Verney too.

Over the Trinity Term Friday evening’s cycling club remains a vital link in the extra-curricular chain of events welcoming over twenty keen cyclists each week. Now in its third year, Mr Will Bower’s avid team of bike die-hards were preparing for a bigger feat; a coast to coast tour of England. The tour, starting in Whitehaven on Saturday 10 July wound its away across 140 miles of north-eastern countryside to land up in Tynemouth six days later. This infamous route, the C2C to those in the know, prefered twelve Princethorpe College cyclists and four accompanying members of staff unrivalled access to some of the most beautiful parts of the Lake District fells and North Pennines. With a saddle distance of thirty miles endured each day, the team prepared by taking Department of Transport Bikeability tests. These levelled assessments provided the cyclists with experience of practical skills, route planning and confidence on a range of roads.

At the last Friday’s club meet, participants were awarded with their Bikeability certificates as well as being given the opportunity to meet Old Princethorpian, Mark Hartley, who owns Warwick bike shop Velo Esprit. Mark, and his technician, Jason Mountford, gave practical demonstrations informing pupils how to maintain brakes, tyres, chains and gears; all vital information for when enduring climbs of up to 4500 metres on remote rural roads.

Cycling Club Coordinator and trip leader for the C2C tour, Mr Bower went on,

“The idea of a tour seemed a natural progression from the work that we’d been doing each week on and off the roads. Mark’s visit gave us all an insight into the technicalities of the bike as a machine. We knew what emergency repair kits to carry with us and felt better equipped to deal with the eventuality of a chain breaking or a brake losing friction.’

At the beginning of the holidays the intrepid squad of cyclists took on 180 miles of disused railway lines, off road tracks and minor roads in their bid to succeed as what’s deemed a ‘challenging’ route by the National Cycle Network. 

Minor teething problems such as the inevitable saddle sore, punctures and less than clement weather did little to wither the steadfast spirit amongst this Blyton-esque touring group. Trip leader, Mr Will Bower, commented on the cheerful spirit amongst the riders: their unflappable resilience and sense of achievement as the end of the road drew nearer. With overnight accommodation in comfortable Youth Hostels along the way there was plenty of recovery time nourished by some pretty secure carbo loading to ensure energy levels remained high.

Mr Bower went on, “What was most impressive was the bonding between the pack. With boys from across different year groups it was great to see how well they got on, how they helped each other and encouraged one another during some of our longer days when we were riding upmost of forty miles. Thanks to Mark and Jason we were equipped to take on whatever the challenge threw at us!"

Earlier in the Summer the Old Princethorpians got a plea from Ka Wai Lee to try and help her arrange a meeting with her former teachers whilst she was on a flying visit to England.

Ka Wai from Hong Kong was at the College for Sixth Form from 1992-1994 doing her A-levels in Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry and was keen to find time during a business trip to London for a catch up with former teachers, Colin Morgan, Steve White, John Miller and John Hopwood.

She is now working for an Australian bank in Hong Kong and is married with two sons aged six and three.

A flurry of emails later and Ka Wai was sitting in Leamington on a delightful May evening at the Turtle Bay restaurant rekindling old times with Mr Morgan and Mr White. How's that for a little Princethorpe magic?

News has reached the OPs that Alex Mushore has been accepted to Bristol Old Vic Theatre School to train in professional acting. Only 14 students are taken a year out of thousands of applicants, and the School boasts famous alumni such as Sir Patrick Stewart, Jeremy Irons and Daniel Day Lewis.  

Alex is now looking for sponsorship and help fundraising for his second year of training, as he is ineligible for a student loan from the government as he has already had one for a previous degree.

To that end he has set up a gofundme page: 

https://www.gofundme.com/alexander-bristol

Alex takes up the story....

When I first came to Princethorpe in 2002 and boarded in Year 8, I was involved in a number of drama productions. When I came back to Princethorpe for Sixth Form in 2006, I had scoliosis surgery and lost a little bit of that confidence I had before to perform. 

I then made sure I worked very hard and was advised when I decided on a Drama degree by my parents to study something else I was passionate about, with the promise that I could always pursue Drama once I had done so. I chose Psychology, and got a first class honours degree from my BSc in Marketing and Psychology and a Distinction in my MSc in Organisational Psychology. In the middle of my MSc, it was discovered that I have dyslexia and mild dyspraxia but I have never let that hold me back in any way during my studies. 

At university I had been performing in a number of shows and training part time at Identity Drama School in London. Following graduation, I worked at Warwick Business School as a Behavioural Science Lab Manager whilst performing in amateur theatre and doing evening courses at Birmingham School of Acting. 

During my time working, I have been saving and auditioning for Drama Schools. I was unsuccessful last year although I got to the last stage of Oxford School of Drama. This year, I got to the last stages of all the schools appied to: LAMDA, National Theatre School of Canada, Oxford School of Drama and Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Out of those four, I was offered places at Oxford and Bristol.

I am now over the moon to be through but need some help so if anyone could offer any advice on funding or scholarships I could look into or if anyone can help me with fundraising or sponsorship I'd be really grateful.

I would really appreciate any support anyone is able to give me as I undertake this new journey.

Next week I will have been in Australia for three months. It’s absolutely flown by already (which is quite scary) and I am making some truly incredible memories! I have been to the Sydney Opera House, wandered through the Blue Mountains, surfed with dolphins, drunk rather a lot of coffee in Melbourne and taken a helicopter flight over the 12 Apostles. I cannot wait to see what else this year brings!

I joined half way through the academic year as Down Under they do things slightly differently. It’s strange having to start again in terms of making friends etc. Luckily my love of acting has helped a lot. Next week I am performing in a series of sketches written, starring and directed by women. Not only are all the proceeds of the event going to charity but I have met some truly inspiring women in the process.

University work is definitely keeping me busy too! I always have some piece of work to be doing as I am assessed on a number of different things for each module, however in a month or so exams will over and I will have summer out here! A Christmas BBQ on the beach is calling. It’s hard at times. I miss everyone at home, friends at University and of course my wonderful PC family. Nevertheless, I know I’ve have been extremely lucky to have been offered this once in a lifetime opportunity. I only hope I continue to make the most of it.

After recently graduating from university I have secured a job with Akuma sportswear, a leading supplier of grassroots sportswear with a particular focus on rugby, cycling and polo. My role includes liaising with customers throughout the production process and the administrative aspect of production. 

As a keen sportsman this market is of great interest to me and I am enjoying the high pressure environment that our 2-3 week kit turnaround can create. I am currently in my third month at Akuma and I have joined during the busiest time of the year, with rugby clubs, schools and universities all ordering their kits. I have certainly been thrown in at the deep end with full control of client's orders, organising our factories schedule and working closely with our sales representatives on new enquiries.

I am looking forward to the continued learning and responsibility that this role, inside a relatively small company, can provide me in the near future. 

I had a fantastic  time at Harper Adams University and after four years of studying, I was awarded a 2:1 in Agriculture BSc (Hons). I decided not to specialise my degree down a certain agricultural route as this enabled me to learn about all of the different aspects of agriculture, gaining a broader knowledge base.

My third year was a year in industry, in which I worked for Moy Park with a poultry scholarship. I was able to learn and work in many different areas of the agricultural sector of this business, gaining a rare insight into the efficiency and high levels of productivity found in the broiler meat industry (at much higher levels than most other agricultural industries). This year inspired my choice of dissertation in my final year; which I chose to research ‘If the UK leaves the EU what are the possible impacts on the broiler meat industry’. This study was obviously a very topical and current subject, and it will now be interesting to put my study into practice, discovering the real outcomes from the Brexit. During this final year I was also lucky enough to be awarded the John Longwill Agricultural Scholarship. Since then, this summer I was working in Norwich for Anglia Farmers on the livestock desk, which is very large national buying group for farmers.

Going forward, I am taking some time out to travel. On Wednesday 5 October I am flying to the USA with a friend to travel around the country for two months. After this I am hoping to work and travel in New Zealand, also visiting parts of Asia, Europe and Australia. After my travelling, I am hoping to return to the family farms to develop some existing and new enterprises. With the hope to maybe start a new livestock enterprise in the future, but also looking into further diversifying the farms with potential enterprises such as glamping, equestrian facilities and a green burial ground.