Admissions Update

I would like to extend a very warm welcome to Crackley Hall School. Our Admissions Update is designed to give you the latest information on the admissions process here, as well as news and developments at Crackley Hall and Little Crackers Nursery. We also hope that the newsletter will convey a feel for the family atmosphere at Crackley and a taste of the many opportunities available, as well as achievements of the children in our community, from academic to sporting and the arts.

This has been the most unusual year of my teaching career but throughout pupils have continued to learn thanks to the hard work of staff and parents alike. The seamless transition to online learning provided continuity and routine that supported the children through this most difficult of times and minimised the interruption to their learning. 

We continue to thrive following our last 'outstanding in all areas' inspection. The report was a real vote of confidence for everything we do at Crackley Hall and a recognition of the positive impact a Crackley education has on our pupils' lives. I would encourage you to visit the ISI website to read the full report here.

Inspectors from the Archdiocese spent two days at school at the end of last year, visiting Religious Education lessons and classes, interviewing pupils and staff and attending the School Council and assemblies. The focus of their inspection was on the impact, quality and leadership of the school’s provision of Catholic Life, Religious Education and Collective Worship and once again in all aspects the inspectors were incredibly impressed with the School’s pupils and staff.  Our pupils and their families continue to benefit from our inclusive and caring ethos within a setting that will inspire and support everyone. You can read their report here.

As a result, Crackley continues to be very popular. We continue to maintain our small class sizes which allows us to give the attention needed for each child at this critical time in their development.

Crackley Hall retains the small-school feel that makes it so special, but with a wealth of opportunities, often delivered by larger schools, that stretch and challenge all. It's a place where the children are individuals who are very well known to every member of staff. Our children are very happy and this matters so much to us.

We look forward to welcoming you to Crackley Hall and Little Crackers Nursery soon.

Robert Duigan

Little Crackers Nursery has won first prize in the ISA Arts ABC Hand Print Competition. 

This new competition recognises the role of art in promoting and supporting learning in the early years.  The challenge was to create an alphabet using hand prints and the children at Little Crackers Nursery had a marvellous time working together to produce a colourful animal ABC.  Each child chose the animal they liked, and the colour for the basic hand prints, they then added details afterwards with felt pen, googly eyes and even feathers.  

Nursery Teacher, Lisa O’Carroll Bailey, explains, “This was a super activity for the children that they really enjoyed, we had lots of fun creating our animal alphabet letters. It was great learning and I never expected our entry to win.” 

The individual hand prints will now all be framed and mounted on the Nursery walls as a permanent phonic resource. 

In March, Crackley sent a team of nine to Stafford Grammar School for the Under 10s ISA Netball Tournament.

The girls made an excellent start winning all their pool round matches taking them straight into the semi-finals.

The girls were all elated! They then faced Crescent School and had to fight hard in end to end play but the chances went their way and they won 4-1! This put them into the final against Twycross School.

The final was a challenge as some of the Twycross School girls were very tall. They fought hard, but Twycross played well to take the overall win. They were worthy winners, and the girls were so excited to come second overall.

The Under 10s Netball Coach, Mrs Roberts said, ”The secret to the girls' success was: great team work, attentive listening, acting upon advice and super determination! It was a memorable day, and all of the girls represented their school magnificently. Mrs Duigan and I were very proud of them all!”

Crackley Hall's Key Stage 2 Evening of Performing Arts took place in February.  It showcased the breadth and depth of pupils’ musical and dramatic talents as the audience was treated to a variety of individual and group performances.

The orchestra opened proceedings with a stirring rendition of Vivaldi’s Spring from The Four Seasons. Then followed some 28 further performances, all sparkling with crisp clear deliveries and well-rehearsed polish. Too many to mention individually, a wonderful testament to the wide range of the repertoire. 

There were entertaining ensemble numbers from the brass, violin, cello, guitar and choral speaking groups. Delightful solos on piano, viola, trumpet, drum, saxophone and flute.

Throughout the concert, pupils recited LAMDA pieces, many causing a chuckle, and there were many high-quality group and solo musical theatre performances.

The evening finished, as it had begun, with the stage packed with performers as the Chamber Choir and Choral Group delivered glorious performances of favourites such as Somewhere Only We Know and There’s Power In The Music.

Headmaster Mr Duigan expressed his delight announcing, ‘There is no better way to spend an evening than to come and watch Crackley’s children perform.  Our Key Stage 2 Evening of Performing Arts is always a highlight of the year. I am so proud of them all.  It has been a truly wonderful evening.”

Huge thanks went to all of the staff involved in preparing the children and supporting the production and to Mrs Olden, Mrs Wildey and Mrs Paphitis who have shown us yet again what talent, energy and zest for the performing arts there is here at Crackley Hall.

To listen to the Chamber Choir click on the link below.

https://vimeo.com/390972142

This summer we introduced super smart Little Crackers T-shirts, modelled so beautifully for us here. Featuring our Dormice, Hedgehogs and Badgers logos, in lovely bright colours, they are just perfect for nursery days.

Little Crackers Nursery adopted new animal names for the different age groups last year to reflect a ‘back to nature’ nursery makeover in the summer of 2019. The Terrific Twos became Dormice, the Thrilling Threes changed to Hedgehogs and the Fabulous Fours transformed into Badgers.

The nursery, at Crackley Hall School, had been transformed with a new natural look in its spacious rooms, including new furniture, flooring, decoration and a completely new indoor/outdoor Garden Room with a decked area, a sunken sand pit, a glazed roof and retractable folding doors that open up to the woods behind.

Comments Susan Glen-Roots, Assistant Head – Early Years and Key Stage 1, "The makeover was an exciting project which has transformed our children’s experiences in nursery.  A more natural environment inside, creates a sense of calm whilst stimulating interest and providing the children with a blank canvas in which to learn and develop. This, coupled with more opportunities to take their learning outdoors and explore the wonders of the natural world has reaped fantastic rewards in terms of self-confidence, imagination and physical development."

During the 'lockdown' lessons continued for the pupils at Crackley Hall School.

As part of their English lessons the children in Reception enjoyed learning about the journey of a letter. The children watched a clip about the post service and the work that the sorting office and postmen and women do. They also learned how to write a letter and address an envelope. They then chose who to send their own letter to, and posted them!

Crackley Hall also sent them all a personal letter, which they were surprised and delighted to receive.

The children wrote letters to each other, their grandparents, cousins, their own mummy and daddy and it was so sweet to see all the creativity and effort they put in.

It was a hugely popular learning task, and as you can see in the photo we were very delighted to receive some of their letters here.

It was a huge well done to Reception, for an amazing effort from all!

Both Junior 3 classes were hard at work during the lockdown developing their amazing art skills. From works inspired by their history topic on Ancient Greece, to African animals, marvellous mosaics and landscapes printed from recycled bubble wrap, these are some of their truly wonderful creations. The diversity of their fantastic efforts is celebrated in a little online art gallery.

A huge thank you to the children for their wonderful work and to the parents who supported their home learning. 

Why don't you follow the link and sit back and enjoy!

https://vimeo.com/427685004

On Tuesday 3 March, Crescent School welcomed musicians from fellow Foundation junior school, Crackley Hall, for an orchestral workshop. It was a great opportunity for the young virtuosos to play together, as 16 members of Crackley Hall’s Orchestra joined 16 Crescent instrumentalists for a day designed to develop and stretch their music and performance skills.

Pupils from both schools worked under the guidance of Directors of Music, Julie Barnes and Susan Olden, to prepare and rehearse a mixture of pieces ready for an afternoon performance for parents.

The children enjoyed a busy morning and afternoon of rehearsals, they relished making music together, especially in such a big group. They worked hard to prepare three challenging pieces, including the instantly recognisable I Am Sailing by Rod Stewart, two complicated movements, Woody’s Round Up and When She Loves Me, from Toy Story 2 and the catchy big band number In The Mood by Glen Miller. All of the pieces tested the players’ technical and music-reading ability to the limit.

The afternoon concert was super, a sensational symphony of sound. As well as featuring the full 32-piece orchestra playing their now near perfect pieces, it included four solo performances, two from each school.  

Mrs Barnes, Director of Music at Crescent, commented, “It was another very successful day and the pupils enjoyed working and collaborating together. They achieved a very high standard of performance, and this was due in no small part to the preparation and practising that went on in the weeks beforehand”.

Mrs Olden, Director of Music at Crackley Hall, agreed commenting, "The children had a brilliant day, it was fantastic for them to play with different instruments and with so many other talented musicians."

It was a great to see the young musicians enjoying learning and working together!

Crackley Hall had its best ever year at the Regional ISA Midlands Cross Country at Bedstone College in February with nine pupils finishing in the top 10 for their race and qualifying for the Nationals.

The course was exciting and challenging involving undulating fields, hills, streams, woodland, gravel and even mole hills! The U9 Girls and Boys had a 1500m course while the U11s took on a 1800m course that crossed two streams. There were over 120 children running in each race.

The school took 39 runners who enthusiastically tackled the course's tricky twists and turns with courage and determination.

Nine runners qualified for the ISA Nationals huge congratulations to Martha, Sam, Alex, Elle, Issey, George, Dexter, Sid and Leonardo.

In the team events the first four across the line count so with so many top placings Crackley also secured first place for the U9 Boys, second place for the U9 Girls and U11 Boys and third place for the U11 Girls events.

Commenting on the event, PE Teacher, Kat Vaughan, said, “As always, the children were exceptionally well behaved, a real credit to the school, and a pleasure to take to the competition.  They were nervous but excited and ran courageously to achieve a superb set of results.”

The latest editions of the Pinnacle and Minnacle were published in June.  Showcasing exceptional work by pupils from across the Foundation they are an inspiring read.

They celebrated the extraordinary 'home learning' that took place during the coronavirus lockdown and are a testament to the dedication of pupils and staff to continue with their studies in the face of the pandemic restrictions.

From the Spring Social Distance-Sing Concert and the Princethorpe At Home Recital to superb Art and DT, English competition winners, History projects, Bridging courses, EPQ and even an Online Bake Off, they showcased flair and ingenuity across a wide range of subjects and year groups.

The Minnacle included equally impressive work by the Foundation junior schools, Crackley Hall and Crescent School. It was wonderful to showcase their pupils' talents too!!

Click here to read The Pinnacle and here if you would like to see The Minnacle.

In January Junior 5 left modern day Britain behind and travelled back in time to the Tudor era. 

Children, staff and even parents came to school dressed in costume and enjoyed a memorable day exploring life in the 16th century.

They began in the court of King Henry VIII in the year of our Lord 1536. Despite rumours and intrigue surrounding his second wife, Anne Boleyn, the King’s household had plenty of tasks to attend to. Set out in Crackley’s Great Hall were typical Tudor professions and a range of crafts that included: Alchemists, Apothecaries, Barbers, Chandlers, Embroiders, Leatherworkers, Miniature Artists, Scholars (ink making and writing), Scent bag and Soap makers. The children all enjoyed taking part in the traditional Tudor activities, it was fantastic hands-on learning.

In the afternoon the children took on various roles at a mock royal banquet. Some were servants whilst others were entertainers, dancers and even singers. As they worked, more rumours swirled around the ill-fated Anne Boleyn. The background narrative really helped bring the Tudor era alive.

Crackley’s Tudor Day was led by History Off The Page, a company who run historical workshops. Junior 5 teacher Sarah Lammas, commented, “The children were immersed in history and surrounded by authentic replica artefacts. It was a day full of practical learning, storytelling and drama.“ Fellow Junior 5 teacher, Julia Roberts added, “History Off the Page were knowledgeable and enthusiastic. All of the children and adults thoroughly enjoyed the workshop, a huge thanks goes to all of the parents, who joined in the fun, dressed up and so ably assisted us.”

Princethorpe College’s plans for a new Science Centre took a major step forward last year with planning permission granted and the unveiling of further campus wide benefits.

The state-of-the-art £8 million Science Centre, which will allow the College to redevelop and cluster several other departments, was granted planning permission in May.  The College then revealed further plans for a new suite of Art studios, additional space for Maths and Technology, increased dining capacity and sporting facilities.

Comments, Foundation Headmaster, Ed Hester, “Princethorpe is situated at the heart of the UK’s automotive industry, where science and engineering meet art and design. We know that our pupils need the finest facilities to give them the best opportunities for their future and widening the scope of our Science Campaign to encompass all STEAM subjects enables us to provide these.”

The Science Centre has entered the detailed ‘developed design’ stage with local RIBA members, AT Architects of Leamington, who designed The Limes 14-classroom wing in 2014. A cost plan will follow, and then a period of value engineering and technical design before a bill of quantities is prepared.

Mr Hester continues, “This is a large, complex and exciting project. The next six months will be critical as we prepare thoroughly for the tendering process in autumn 2020. If all goes to plan we should be appointing a main contractor this time next year.”

A fundraising campaign has been launched to work hand in hand with the delivery of the project. The Science Plus Campaign outlines a menu of giving including engraved pavers and bricks, sponsorship of elements on a giant periodic table and personal and corporate naming opportunities.

Our Director of Development comments, “We’re determined to make sure that this project is funded and built as soon as possible. We hope that the many Friends of Princethorpe will be moved to support this project, as they have previous initiatives in the College’s history. Their support is vital in making our vision for Science Plus a reality.”

Those interested in supporting the Science Plus Campaign are invited to email makingadifference@princethorpe.co.uk or call 01926 634265 for a Science Campaign Plus brochure.

Pictured here alongside Mr Hester and Mr Lee are Head of Science, Emma Cooper, and some of the pupils who will reap the benefits of the new facilities at the College.

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics.

Sunday 4 October - 10.00am to 3.00pm

Foundation senior school, Princethorpe College, is planning on holding an Open Day on Sunday 4 October from 10.00am to 3.00pm by appointment only.

The day will be split into three hour-long sessions and visitors will be asked to book a specific session, to help manage the numbers and adhere to government guidelines.

Places will be very limited and the event is aimed at families who have not had the chance to visit the College previously and have a prospective pupil for Years 7 to 10 specifically interested in September 2021 entry. A maximum of two family members will be able to attend with the prospective pupil.

Each session will open with a Welcome Address by our Headmaster, Ed Hester and then visitors will follow a tour route around key school locations.

At the moment, under the coronavirus restrictions, we are unable to welcome visitors into school on normal school days.

Depending on the developing situation we are planning a second Open Morning later in the Michaelmas Term. The Open Morning is scheduled for Thursday 26 November 2020 from 10.30am to 12.30pm and again will be by appointment only. 

For further information on admissions and entry to the College in 2021 visit our website or contact the Admissions Team on 01926 634201/634262 or by email admissions@princethorpe.co.uk.

The senior school entrance examinations for Princethorpe College, for Year 7 to 10 entry in September 2021, will take place this year on Saturday 23 January 2021 from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Thursday 8 October 2020 - 9.00am to 4.00pm

Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery, in Kenilworth, are opening their doors for an Open Day on Thursday 8 October from 9.00am - 4.00pm by appointment only.

This is an opportunity to look around the school on a normal working day and to meet the school's Headmaster, Rob Duigan. The school is now accepting registrations for admission to Reception, Year 1 and Year 3 in 2021. There are a very small number of places available in other years - where year groups are full, there are waiting groups.  

Thursday 19 November - 7.00pm to 8.00pm

Crackley Hall School will also be holding a Nursery and Reception Open Evening on Thursday 19 November between 7.00pm and 8.00pm, which will give parents an insight into the Early Years at Crackley Hall and Little Crackers.  Mrs Susan Glen-Roots, the Assistant Head for Early Years, will be on hand, as well as the rest of the Reception and Little Crackers Team. This event will also be by appointment only.

For more information and to book an apppointment at either event please contact our Admissions Secretary, Mrs Jenny Vaughan on 01926 514410 or by email admissions@crackleyhall.co.uk or visit the school's website http://www.crackleyhall.co.uk/.

From Wednesday 4 November 2020

Our friendly toddler group, Stay 'n' Play, normally runs every Wednesday morning during term time. At the moment, government guidlelines will not allow the group to meet in person. So, instead, Stay 'n' Play is moving online. 

Join us every other Wednesday morning from Wednesday 4 November to take part in a range of different activities. Story-time, singalong, creative crafts and maybe even some of our popular, regular visiting activities will be on hand to offer your little one lots of fantastic fun. 

We do hope you will join us and why not virtually bring along your friends. Email jennyvaughan@crackleyhall.co.uk to register and the link will be sent to you in advance of each session.

We hope Stay 'n' Play will be able to return to Crackley Hall next term.

For more information, please visit: www.littlecrackers.co.uk/stay-n-play. 

We look forward to seeing you there.

Due to the continuing COVID-19 restrictions this year's Princethorpe College Christmas Fair has unfortunately had to be cancelled.

The PTA are hoping to arrange a different event and details will be shared once they are confirmed.

The OPs' events calendar offers plenty of opportunities for past pupils, former parents, staff and friends of the College and the Foundation schools to catch up.

This year some events are being run virtually, but the popular Pub Meets and Summer Reunion, are booked and we very much hope they will be able to go ahead.

All alumni, former staff and parents of Princethorpe College, St Bede's, St Mary's Priory, St Joseph's School, Crackley Hall, Abbotsford and Crescent School are welcome to participate in any or all of the events.

Click here to download the calendar or visit Princethorpe Connect to sign up to our new online alumni community.

The Foundation's senior school Princethorpe College is accepting registrations for September 2021 entry.

The Entrance Exams for 2021 take place on Saturday 23 January 2021. The deadline for registrations is Friday 4 December 2020. There are still opportunities for prospective pupils and their parents to visit the College, including an Open Day on Sunday 4 October from 10.00am to 3.00pm, by appointment only and Year 6 Taster Experiences on Saturday 7 and 14 November, once again by appointment only.

For more information click here to see the latest Princethorpe Admissions Update newsletter.

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

Most of our pupils enter at Nursery and progress through to Reception. Some pupils also join us at Reception and pupils are welcome at any age dependent on a place being available. Places in other years may be limited and, in years where there is no place available, we operate waiting groups.

We encourage prospective parents and pupils to visit us both formally and informally to get a true flavour of the school. We hold various Open Events throughout the year, including a specific Nursery and Reception Open Evening in November, which prospective parents and pupils are most welcome to attend. A meeting with Mr Robert Duigan, the Headmaster, is also a key part of the admissions process.

Our Admissions Secretary, Mrs Jenny Vaughan will be pleased to talk you through the admissions process and current availability, please contact her on 01926 514410/514444 or email her at admissions@crackleyhall.co.uk. To request a prospectus pack please click here.

To download our current Crackley Information Booklet click here.

Reception 2021

Little Crackers applicants and siblings

Those already attending Little Crackers in the pre-school year, and siblings, are given priority for places in Reception. The deadline for taking advantage of this priority arrangement for Little Crackers and sibling Reception applications is Monday 23 November 2020. Please return your completed Registration Form with the accompanying fee of £50 (non-returnable) by this date. Offer letters will be sent out first class on Monday 14 December 2020 with a Confirmation of Acceptance Form, which we ask you to complete and return to us together with a deposit of £300 by the acceptance deadline of Tuesday 5 January 2021.

External applicants (those attending nursery elsewhere)

External applicants interested in a place in Reception need to register by the deadline of Monday 1 February 2021; you will be invited to bring your child in for a taster session in pre-school once we have received your completed Registration Form and accompanying fee of £50 (non-returnable). Subject to availability and a satisfactory taster session, offer letters to external candidates will be sent out first class on Friday 5 March 2021 with a Confirmation of Acceptance Form, which we ask you to complete and return to us together with a deposit of £300 by the acceptance deadline of Monday 26 April 2021.

Current Reception to Junior 6

Applications for places in the current Reception to Junior 6 will be treated on an individual basis as places are limited.  In years where there is no place available we operate waiting groups. Please contact Jenny Vaughan, our Admissions Secretary, to discuss these on an individual basis.

Should a potential place be available you will be invited in to meet with Mr Duigan, the Headmaster, then if appropriate you should complete a Registration Form and return it with the accompanying fee of £50 (non-returnable), after which time your child would normally be invited for a Taster Day. Unfortunately we are unable to host Taster Days at the moment due to the current government restrictions. Instead, your child will be invited to an informal chat with Mr Duigan at a mutually convenient day and time.

We will also ask for your child’s most recent school report to support your application and will seek a reference from your child’s current school. Following receipt of this information, confirmation of a place being offered would be made in writing. To secure your place return your completed Confirmation of Acceptance Form with a deposit of £300 within 14 days of the date of the offer being made.

The final deadline for applications and completed registration forms for entry in September 2020 is Friday 21 May 2021. All incoming pupils need to have completed the admissions process by Friday 11 June 2021 to enable the applicant to attend our Induction Morning at the end of that month. (Although a place at Crackley Hall may become available after this date, and applications will be processed, we cannot guarantee availability of places.)

Induction
New pupils are given the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the school, staff and fellow pupils when they are invited to our Induction Morning in the Trinity Term, normally at the end of June. 

Bursaries
Bursaries are available for pupils wishing to join Crackley Hall although these are normally awarded to children from Junior 3 and above. Application forms are available from the Foundation Bursar’s office and from our website. Completed applications should be forwarded to the Foundation Bursar with supporting documentary evidence.

Note: Deposits are refunded after the end of the final term which the pupil spends at the school.

For more information and to download a registration form please click here.

The Crackley Hall community is enriched by the inclusion of children from many different countries and we are happy to assist parents relocating from overseas with their applications. The Crackley family currently includes children who have joined us from the USA, China, Brazil, Spain, France, Germany, Hungary, Poland and Korea.

If parents are visiting the UK we ask them to meet with Mr Duigan, the Headmaster.  Where a taster day is not possible and where children are English-speaking and in Year 2 or above, we can arrange for assessment papers in English and Maths to be sent to the child’s current school for them to administer and send back to us for marking.

Where children do not speak English as a first language or are too young to take assessment papers, we ask for school reports and a reference from the current school prior to offering a place.

We work closely at Crackley with a trusted partner who is experienced in English Language teaching and who can tailor a programme to meet the individual needs of children joining us.  This normally focuses on an initial intensive period of English Language support, tailing off as the child becomes more proficient and settles into life at Crackley Hall.

Our Admissions Secretary, Jenny Vaughan will always be happy to answer any questions regarding applications from overseas and to ensure that the admissions process runs as smoothly as possible.

You can email her at admissions@crackleyhall.co.uk or telephone her direct line on 01926 514410.

We understand that prospective parents may have many questions that they would like to ask ahead of applying for a place for their child at Crackley Hall.  We have included those most frequently asked, but should you have a query that isn’t covered here, please call Jenny Vaughan (pictured), our Admissions Secretary, on 01926 514410.

Q: Will my child need to take an entrance exam for Crackley Hall?

A: Whilst we do not have a formal entrance examination for Crackley, we wish to ensure that every child will fit into school life and engage with our stimulating and varied range of activities and our ethos.  We ask prospective parents to meet with Mr Duigan, the Headmaster, and for children to join us on a taster day which can be arranged for a mutually convenient date. During the course of a taster day, we ask children in years 2 and above to take papers in English and Maths although we will look at the taster day as a whole when offering a place. For more information see the section in this update under Admissions about 'What to expect on a taster day'.

Q: Are there set joining points within the school year?

A: No, where places exist, we take children throughout the school year according to the preference of parents.

Q: What is the average class size at Crackley Hall?

A: The average class size is 18 pupils.  Where class sizes exceed this we provide additional teaching support to ensure the same high standards and level of personal attention for each child. Our teacher to pupil ratio is 1:11 and our adult to child ratio is 1:8.

Q: Do you have to be Catholic to join Crackley Hall?

A: No. We welcome children from all faiths and cultural backgrounds.  The Catholic ethos of the Princethorpe Foundation underpins the school and is central to its character as a caring and friendly environment where children are encouraged to be the best that they can be.  The Crackley community includes Catholic children whose families wish their children to be educated within a Catholic setting but also other Christian denominations and children of other faiths or no faith.

Q: What makes Crackley Hall special?

A:  We talk a lot about the ethos of the Princethorpe Foundation and it is not just talk; it really is the basis of all that we do at Crackley Hall and parents often comment on the friendly atmosphere when they visit.  We encourage the children to be kind to each other and to show respect for their peers and teachers, which in turn creates an environment where they are free to try their best and to develop their talents. The school has grown in recent years, but the family feel where each child is known as an individual remains.  This combines with the highest standards of teaching and tuition from specialist teachers in Music, Drama, French, Sports, RE, and Mandarin. 

Q: My child is a high achiever; how will Crackley benefit him/her? 

A: Children who demonstrate a high standard academically will be supported to further develop their abilities. A structured Able, Gifted and Talented programme operates through the school, ensuring that we meet the needs of children not just academically but also in other areas such as sports and performing arts. Sometimes parents worry that because their child is quiet or falls in the middle ground, they will be overlooked – this is not the case at Crackley as we strive to develop the potential of all children and to develop their talents.

With the support of our senior school, Princethorpe College, we have introduced the Junior da Vinci Programme to stretch children and to engender the idea that any child can be a gifted or talented student if they work hard. The programme encourages children to develop a growth mind-set and to take an active part in their own learning.

Q: My child may need additional support – what can Crackley Hall offer?

A: Our learning support team, which includes a Speech and Language therapist, works with children providing extra help at whatever level they need from 1:1 support to inclusion in small groups to hone their skills in specific areas, such as communication and language, numeracy and co-ordination.  

We are quick to recognise children who may need extra support and we try to “catch” them before they begin to struggle. This means that class teachers refer children to our Learning Support Co-ordinator as soon as they are concerned. In this way we try not to miss anyone and to keep all children’s self-esteem high. We welcome input from parents and are very happy to discuss any concerns they may have.

When a child needs support that is additional to, or different from that provided for other children of their age, then we follow the Special Needs Code of Practice fully. This includes the process of applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan where required, so that parents are fully involved and children get the support they need.

Support for a child may entail 1:1 teaching for which there is a termly charge. Children who require this teaching will receive a structured, cumulative, multi-sensory learning programme tailored to their individual needs.

Should your child need any additional learning support, please indicate this on the registration form.  He/she will then spend some time with our SENCo during the taster day.

Q: What extra-curricular clubs do you offer?

A: We offer over 47 different lunch-time and after school clubs that cater for all interests – see the section on clubs, sport and music within this update. 

Q: I am a working parent – do you offer wrap around care and holiday provision?

A:  We offer free ‘early bird’ supervision from 7.45am and paid-for after-care until 6.00pm.  We run a holiday club subject to demand, in all school holidays apart from the Christmas week.

Q: If I have two or more children joining, will I get a discount?

A: Yes, families with more than one child at either Princethorpe College or Crackley Hall School receive a discount of 5% for a second or third child or 10% for a fourth or subsequent child. The discount does not apply to Little Crackers, although children in our Nursery may qualify for Nursery Education Funding.

Q: Do you accept childcare vouchers?

A: Yes, we take vouchers from most of the major schemes, which may be used against after-school care or holiday club.

Q: Do you operate a bus service to Crackley?

We do not currently operate a bus service, however should you accept a place we are happy to pass your details on to current parents in your post-code so that you can explore lift-share opportunities.

Q: When do I need to apply for a place in September?

A: We always advise the sooner, the better as classes fill up.  For external applicants for Reception the deadline is Monday 1 February 2021.  For other year groups all children need to be registered by Friday 21 May 2021 in order for their application to be progressed for our Induction Morning in June. Our prospectus pack includes a registration form and once you return it to us with the registration fee, we can start the admissions process.

Q: If I apply, when will I hear about a place?

A: Once you have completed and returned a registration form, we will contact you to arrange for you and your child to meet Mr Duigan.  We will also ask for a copy of your child's latest report and request a reference from your child’s current school, when we have this information we will advise whether we will offer a place.  

For Reception applicants, offer letters are sent out at the start of December for children attending Little Crackers Nursery whilst, for those children joining us from other nurseries, the offer date is Friday 5 March 2021.

Q: Will joining Crackley Hall give my child priority for joining Princethorpe?

A:  Crackley children do not automatically gain entry to Princethorpe and whilst in Year 6 take the Princethorpe examination paper.  However, they are well prepared for the examination and have a high success rate as a result.

Uniform is compulsory for Crackley Hall pupils and helps to create a sense of shared identity, community spirit and a pride in oneself and in the school.

Uniform can be purchased from the School Shop located at Princethorpe College.

Normally the Uniform Shop is open from 3.30pm to 4.30pm Monday to Friday during term time. Additionally during the summer holidays the shop is open on selected dates on an appointment only basis.

A uniform list is available in the Crackley Hall Information Booklet that can be found on the Admissions page of the school's website here.

Music and Drama

Music is an integral part of life at Crackley Hall and at Little Crackers Nursery where children benefit from a music and movement class each week.

Mrs Olden is our specialist music teacher and every class has one hour of music a week.  In Junior 1, every child learns to play the recorder and to read music and to play with others. 

In addition, children are encouraged to take part in private lessons with our experienced peripatetic teachers. 

We have a thriving choral group, chamber choir and orchestra and there are many opportunities to sing and play at school and at external events such as Young Voices in which the school has participated for many years.

Drama is also a core part of life at Crackley Hall and children develop their skills in choral speaking, improvisation, public speaking and performance.  From the annual LAMDA Communication and Drama Exams to local drama festivals and in-house performances, there are many opportunities for children to develop their confidence and poise through drama. Some of our children have even taken part in professional productions at the RSC and in the West End.

Our end of year music and drama production is always unmissable and gives the children the opportunity to participate in a show of professional quality in a real theatre.

Sports

Our success in competitive sports is testament to the importance of physical education and the promotion of an active lifestyle at Crackley Hall. 

Whether children want to take part in an individual pursuit such as athletics or swimming or a team game such as netball or rugby, they will be encouraged by our enthusiastic and committed staff led by Mrs Vaughan, Head of Sport, to find an activity in which they can develop their skills and confidence. 

Our curriculum and programme of clubs take in a wide range of activities including dance and gymnastics.  We are lucky to have spacious playing fields with plans to further develop our facilities.  We also use the sports facilities at Princethorpe College and The University of Warwick.

Clubs

Our extra-curricular programme is extremely popular at Crackley Hall and we encourage children to find something that they will enjoy. From sports to singing to creative arts, with more than 35 different clubs, there is something for every taste.

Our current clubs include rugby, netball, climbing, chamber choir, cookery, yoga and midfulness, lego, chess, ballet, karate, Irish dancing, Mad Science, football, silk painting and orchestra and homework club. Some of these clubs are run by teachers and are free of charge whilst some are from external providers.

For those who like to plan ahead the Foundation Term Dates are:

2020-2021 

Michaelmas Term 2020

Tuesday 1 September to Tuesday 15 December

Half Term

Saturday 17 October to Sunday 1 November

Lent Term 2021 

Tuesday 5 January to Friday 26 March

Half Term

Saturday 13 February to Sunday 21 February

Trinity Term 2021

Monday 19 April to Tuesday 6 July 

Half Term

Saturday 29 May to Sunday 6 June

2021-2022 

Michaelmas Term 2021  
 
Monday 6 September to Tuesday 14 December 
 
Half Term

Saturday 16 October to Sunday 31 October  
 
Lent Term 2022  
 
Wednesday 5 January to Tuesday 5 April 
 
Half Term

Saturday 19 February to Sunday 27 February 

Trinity Term 2022 
 
Monday 25 April 2022 to Wednesday 6 July
 
Half Term

Saturday 28 May to Sunday 5 June 2022 

We currently have availability across all sessions for all age groups on both a term-time only basis and all year round.

For further details on the places available, please call our Admissions Secretary, Jenny Vaughan on 01926 514410 or email admissions@crackleyhall.co.uk

We take children from age two through to pre-school as space allows. The nursery day currently runs from 7.45am to 6.00pm, 51 weeks a year, to cater for the needs of working parents.

Places are available on a term-time only basis or all year round.  Flexible morning and afternoon sessions are available and government nursery and employer childcare vouchers are accepted.

We have dedicated nursery staff for our Dormice (two-year-olds), Hedgehogs (three-year-olds) and Badgers (four-year-olds).  Each group has its own Leader and dedicated staff so they and the children get to know each other well.

A minimum of two sessions a week is recommended for two-year olds and four sessions for over three-year olds.

It is a good idea to register your child well in advance as places get booked up early.

Arrange a visit and register for your preferred sessions

If you are interested in your child attending Little Crackers we would recommend that you contact Mrs Jenny Vaughan, our Admissions Secretary, who will make an appointment for you and your child to meet with Mrs Clare Bird, the Nursery Manager and discuss availability.

Or alternatively come to one of our regular Open Events or once it is back in session join us at our Stay ‘n’ Play toddler group, which takes place on Wednesdays in term-time from 10.00am to 11.30am, to get a feel for the Nursery and chat with the staff informally.

To secure a place, simply complete a Registration Form with your required sessions and preferred start date and return this with the accompanying fee of £50 to the Admissions Secretary. You will then receive confirmation in writing that we can offer a nursery place with an acceptance form for you to sign. If the sessions you require are not available your fee will be returned.

Prior to starting, you and your child can attend a number of short settling in sessions, typically two or three, where you will meet your child’s key worker. A start date, from which point sessions are billable, will be agreed with Nursery staff at the settling-in sessions.