Welcome to The Courier, Crescent School's electronic newsletter.

We hope you enjoy this week's edition and have a wonderful half term break.

This week's photo shows Class VI having a wonderful time in Slapton and the beautiful weather!

Click here to email The Courier.

Preview

Headmaster's Message

Headmaster's Message

Dear Parents

I am writing to you this week from South Devon and the Class VI trip to Slapton Ley. My Internet access is relatively limited so it will only be a brief missive this week.

We have just returned from a wonderful day walking around the rugged coastline near to the centre, looking in rock pools, making designs for villages from the rocks and seaweed, toasting marshmallows in the woods and generally doing exactly the sort of things 10 and 11-year-old children should be doing. Many thanks to Ms Lowe and Mr Phillips for all of their work with the children during the week and as a first-time visitor to the centre I have been impressed with what's on offer here as well as the balance it provides for our children in their residential programme as they move through the school.

Earlier in the week, along with their parents, I enjoyed a very entertaining hour of drama from the Year 3 and 4 children. Every single child delivered their lines clearly and with confidence to a capacity audience. I know the parents were very proud of their children and I shared that pride, as well as a great deal of admiration for Miss Thompson who had skilfully put together four delightful short plays at a busy time of year. The trick with school drama is to be able to put on something that is of good quality, involves all of the children but doesn't impact the teaching and learning too much. This, in essence is exactly what Miss Thompson managed on this occasion. 

Looking forward to the half term break, I hope you are all able to get some peace and quiet with your families, at least at some point during the week. I am off to Wembley with my son on Saturday for the championship play-offs. I don't expect this to be peaceful but it would be nice if it ended with some success for the Villa. Whatever you are doing, enjoy it and I look forward to welcoming you all back to school for the final half term of the year.

Best wishes

Joe Thackway
Headmaster

Weekly Information

Weekly Calendar

Please click on the link below to view the weekly calendar.  This details all the co-curricular clubs running, fixtures and additional information.

Weekly Calendar - 040618 

Crescent School

News

Foundation Response To New Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Earlier this week the Princethorpe Foundation issued its response to new data legislation (GDPR), which comes into force today, Friday 25 May 2018.

Over the last year we have been working hard to keep abreast of directives from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and their guidance concerning data processing. We have also sought advice from professional industry bodies, our school solicitors and external consultants.

Having undertaken a thorough review and audit of the data we hold and the way in which we process it, the Princethorpe Foundation believes that all of the data held relating to our community can be lawfully processed under three bases, namely Legal Obligation, Contractual and/or Legitimate Interests. This is due to the nature of the existing relationships we already have with our community which includes prospective, current and former pupils, prospective, current and former parents, prospective, current and former staff and Friends of the Foundation.

Please be assured that we will treat your data with the utmost integrity, respect and confidentiality. Your personal data will be stored and used in accordance with our updated Privacy Notices in line with the new regulation and our communications with you will be conducted in the least intrusive way possible and only in ways that you would reasonably expect.  You can opt out of receiving non-legal or non-contractual communications at any time by contacting us by email, telephone or by letter.

To see the full response, view the updated Privacy Notices and how to contact us, click on this link

Parents Enjoy Performance Of Well Known Fables

Parents clearly enjoyed the delightful and thought-provoking performance of four well known fables staged by Classes III, IVM and IVY, after school on Tuesday May 22.  The children have been studying the stories in their Drama lessons with specialist Drama teacher, Miss Kim Thompson, and have worked so hard that the school decided to put on a special performance to showcase all their hard work.

The children treaded the boards like professionals, sweeping across the stage, confidently reciting their lines, much to the delight of the watching audience.

Up first was the story of ‘The Sellfish Giant’, a cautionary tale against selfishness.  Everyone was amused by the droll performance of the wall.  Then came ‘How The Leopard Got Its Spots’ and the lesson that to do well you have to blend in, it included a set of excellent animals even though their spots were a little troublesome.  Up next was ‘The Boy Who Cried Wolf’ and the moral that habitual liars are not believed even when they tell the truth.   Both the sheep and wolves delivered their parts with noisy enthusiasm.  Finally, the heart-warming story of ‘The Happy Prince’ (or in our case princess) which told us that love overcomes all.  

Miss Thompson said, “The children have worked incredibly hard, they have worked well together, used self-direction and delivered an incredible performance.”

Headmaster, Joe Thackway added, “What a lovely hour’s entertainment at the end of the day.  This afternoon is a testament to the opportunity the children have here to study drama and take part in live performances, and all as a part of their regular lessons.  Every child spoke clearly and confidently.  Thank you to Miss Thompson and the staff for helping the children put on this charming performance.”

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Dippy The Dinosaur On Tour At Birmingham Museum And Art Gallery

Dippy the famous Dinosaur from the Natural History Museum is on tour at Birmingham Museum And Art Gallery during the half term.  This fits in so well with what we have been doing in Science with Class III.  

I am so excited I will definitely be taking my two whether they want to go or not! Further details can be found through the link below.

Dippy on Tour

Mrs McCollin
Head of Girls Games
Science Teacher

 

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Foundation News: Foundation Welcomes Two New Trustees

The Princethorpe Foundation is pleased to announce that it has appointed two new trustees. Elizabeth Kenward and Mike Fletcher have joined the Governing Body and will work with fellow Trustees to oversee the overall management and strategic direction of the Foundation.

Mrs Elizabeth Kenward BA, PGCE, CTC brings a wealth of educational experience having worked in Catholic secondary education for 37 years, including 15 as a Deputy Head.

Mrs Kenward, commented, “My two children left Princethorpe in 2017 after seven happy years at the college, both progressing to university to study their chosen courses. They benefited greatly from the opportunities the school provided to travel widely and play sport, leaving with many happy memories.” She continued, “ I was honoured to be asked to join the Princethorpe Foundation Trustees, which will enable me to continue my links with the College and my involvement in Catholic education, both of which I value greatly.”

Mr Mike Fletcher BSc (Hons) is an Old Princethorpian, who attended the College from 1977 to 1982. Mr Fletcher has recently retired from his role as Vice President at a global IT company, where he worked for over 30 years in a number of technical, operational, managerial and business development roles. Mr Fletcher has two children that currently attend the College.

Mr Fletcher, remarked, “I particularly appreciate the environment that Princethorpe provides, academic challenge is complemented by sound ethical values and the opportunity to experience a wide range of extra-curricular activities that enrich the lives of pupils for years to come.”

Eddie Tolcher, Foundation Bursar and Clerk to the Trustees said, “Both our new Trustees bring valuable experience to the Foundation’s Governing Body. Their support and advice will be much appreciated and we are delighted to welcome them to the Board of Trustees.

Nigel Lines' Funeral Details

Nigel Lines' funeral will be held at Rainsbrook Crematorium, Drayton Chapel on Friday 8 June 2018 at 2.30pm.  All are welcome to attend.  

Family flowers only please.  Donations to Dementia UK.

Crescent School

 

 

Evolve Trips, Visits And Events System

Crescent School have started using Evolve, a paperless home-school communication and management system for school trips, workshops or events that require parental permission.

Communications that you receive from Evolve will appear in your inbox as a normal email, addressed from Princethorpe College. You will be able to read about the activity in question and give your consent to your child’s participation by simply clicking as requested in the message.

It is a user friendly and convenient way to ensure that you can communicate your consent quickly and accurately without the worry of forms being lost or left in a desk.

Joe Thackway
Headmaster

Happy Lunchtimes

All the children, from Reception to Year VI, would like to say a huge thank you to the FOC for kindly purchasing some lovely new games and toys that help to make our 'happy lunchtimes' even happier!!

Disco Wednesday with added bubbles always goes down a treat, as do the floor chalks and various sports equipment, not forgetting the lovely new picnic rugs which enable us all to sit in the shade comfortably on a hot, sunny day.

Thank you FoC.

Mrs Nelson
Teaching Assistant
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Events

Princethorpe College Summer Open Evening

Wednesday 6 June 2018 - 6.00pm to 8.30pm 

The College's Summer Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 6 June from 6.00pm - 8.30pm. This is an informal opportunity for prospective families to look around the school and to meet members of staff and pupils.

There will be activities in each department for children to participate in, and the Headmaster will also address visitors in the Chapel during the evening. Light refreshments are available.

There is no need to book.

For further information please contact the Registrar, Mrs Vanessa Rooney, on 01926 634201 or email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

Sudden Impulse Theatre Production Of The Comedy Of Errors By William Shakespeare

Friday 8 and Saturday 9 June 2018

The Sudden Impulse Theatre Company is returning to Princethorpe College in June for two outdoor performances of William Shakespeare's play, The Comedy of Errors.

Believed to be one of Shakespeare's earlier written plays; The Comedy of Errors is a true farce ahead of its time. The story involves two sets of twins, separated at birth, being thrown together in a tale of mistaken identity.

The performances are open to the public and will take place on the Sixth Form Lawn as follows:

Friday 8 June - 6.30pm to 10.00pm

Saturday 9 June - 3.30pm to 7.00pm

A wonderful opportunity to bring a picnic, settle down in your camping chair and enjoy some perfect summer entertainment.

Tickets are available from www.suddenimpulse.co.uk priced at £12 adults or £10 for concessions. 

Princethorpe College Class V Crescent Taster Day

Tuesday 19 June 2018

Class V are warmly invited to a taste of senior school life at Princethorpe College on Tuesday 19 June 2018.  The taster day will begin at 9.30am when the children will be transported to the College by mini-bus from Crescent.  Pupils will experience a variety of classroom sessions, a tour of the school and a question and answer session with our current pupils. Break and lunch will be provided and there is no charge for this day.

At the end of the afternoon, you are invited to a Parents’ Information Session on entry to the College in September 2019. The session will commence at 4.30pm, finish at approximately 6.00pm and light refreshments will be served. 

Ed Hester, the Headmaster, along with other key members of staff will be available to talk to you about the College and to outline the admissions process. Children will also have the opportunity to trial the online CEM test, one of the exams that prospective pupils complete during the Entrance Examinations day, which will take place on Saturday 10 November 2018 from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Please click here to access the online booking form for the Year 5 Taster Day. Please complete and submit the form by 5.00pm on Monday 4 June to secure a place for your child.

For those parents who are unable to attend the Parents’ Information Session, your child will be transported back to Crescent for 3.30pm.

We hope you can join us and look forward to welcoming you to Princethorpe College.

With kind regards from the Admissions Team at Princethorpe College. 

Registrar - Mrs Vanessa Rooney
01926 634201
vanessarooney@princethorpe.co.uk
Working hours: 08.30-17.00

Assistant Registrar - Miss Helen Morgan
01926 634262
helenmorgan@princethorpe.co.uk
Working hours: 08.30-13.30

Admissions Administrator - Mrs Catherine Rogers
01926 634262
catherinerogers@princethorpe.co.uk
Working hours: 13.00-17.30

 

70th Anniversary Celebrations

Saturday 29 September 2018

This year the Crescent School celebrates 70 years since it was formally founded back in 1948.  70th anniversary celebrations are planned for the Michaelmas Term when the school will also officially mark 30 years at its current site.  On Saturday 29 September the school will open its doors and welcome pupils past and present back into school to celebrate its double anniversary.  It will be a fantastic opportunity for people to come and see their old school and to catch up with old friends.  There will be tours, displays, activities, the school choir will sing, the Bilton Silver Band will play and there will be refreshments available.

Do put the date in your diary and do encourage any Old Crescentians you know to get back in touch with the school and to come and join in the celebrations.

The school has created a Facebook Group the Old Crescentians which can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/oldcrescentians/
to help connect past pupils.

It has been a wonderful 70 years for the Crescent School.

Awards

Accelerated Reader Double Millionaire

Well done to Christopher Gibson, Chloe Wensley and Harry Barnwell for becoming double millionaires. I wonder how many more books they will read before the end of term?

Ms Lowe
Senior Teacher

 

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Sport

Rugby Success For Crescent Pupils

Crescent pupils Fin Calder and Kyle Kerfoot-Bale impressed their coaches and team during the season playing for old Laurentians Rugby Club.

On 13 May 2018, they were presented with the following awards:

  • Fin Calder - U10 coaches player of the year
  • Kyle Kerfoot-Bale - U11 team player of the year

Both were thrilled with their awards after an exciting season of rugby.

Well done both, we are very proud of you!

Crescent School

 

View Gallery

Hotshots Player Of The Term

A huge congratulations to Thomas Ferguson, Class IV(M) who was named as Hotshots Basketball player of the term (January - April).

Well done Thomas!

Crescent School

 

FoC

FoC Disco Update

Thank you so much to all the wonderful children who attended the disco and behaved so brilliantly. In total we raised £283.35 profit from this event. As always thanks to all my FoC helpers.

Zara Corbin
FoC Chair

The Class VI Performance Of The Demon Headmaster DVD Recording

This year we will be recording the dress rehearsal of the Class VI performance which you will be able to buy as a DVD for £10.

If you would like your a copy please complete the form below or a copy will be sent home after the half term break due to Class VI being away Slapton.

The Demon Headmaster DVD Form

Please return this by Friday 8 June into the FoC green box.

Zara Corbin
FoC Chair

FoC Next Meeting

Monday 11 June 2018 - 3.45pm

The next meeting will be held on Monday 11 June at 3.45pm in the Art Room.  

Please come along and join us to discuss next term's activities. Children are able to be put into after school for free for this time.

Zara Corbin
FoC Chair

 

Fathers Day Craft Activities

This year we will be producing a beautifully decorated picture frame hand-decorated by your child, in a gift bag complete with a bar of chocolate. Frames will be decorated in school and then brought home on Thursday 14 June.

If you would like your child to be involved in this please complete the form which has been sent home today, or click here to download, and return by Monday 4 June (date extended) together with payment of £5 per frame.

Please mark envelopes "Father's Day" and post in the FoC green box by the pupil entrance. Cheques to be made payable to Friends of Crescent. 

Zara Corbin
FoC Chair

Summer Fete

Friday 22 June 3.20pm - 5.00pm

Our final event of the year is the Summer Fete. This year we will be having inflatables; donkeys; games including some new ones & some old classics; tombola stall; adopt a teddy; candyfloss; face painting; nail painting and tattoos; cakes and refreshments and the school raffle.  Raffle tickets will be coming home on Friday 25 May.

Fingers crossed we'll have some nice weather too.

Zara Corbin
Foc Chair

Housekeeping

Outside School

Reception Roundup

Please click on the link below to read all about what the Reception Class have been learning over the last fortnight.

Reception Round Up

Mrs Pullen
Reception Class Teacher