Friday 9 October 2026
Head’s Update
Best wishes,
Oliver Knight
Notices (Please click on the + sign to expand for full information)
All Pupils & Parents: Years 7- Upper Sixth
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Please see the timings and information here for College Parade which is taking place tomorrow, Saturday 10 October.
All students in Years 9 - 13 are expected to be at College Parades. Pupils in Year 7 & 8 are welcome to attend if they would like to watch. All parents are welcome to join the event.
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CCF Junior Cadet Instructor Cadre (JCIC) (Year 11 - Upper Sixth)
This October half term, our Year 11 - Upper Sixth cadets have the opportunity to take part in the Junior Cadet Instructor Cadre (JCIC), running from Friday 16 to Tuesday 20 October inclusive.
As cadets become more senior, we want them increasingly involved in leading and instructing our younger cadets rather than simply taking part in training themselves. JCIC will give them the skills and confidence to do this properly, developing their instructional ability, leadership, communication and confidence.
The cadre will take place on a military Field Training Area (FTA) and we will be fully self-contained for the duration, giving cadets a proper field experience alongside their instructional training. They will learn how to plan and deliver lessons, practise instructing others and develop the leadership skills needed as they take on greater responsibility within the Contingent.
JCIC is also an important part of progression within the CCF. Cadets who want to progress into more senior leadership roles and be considered for promotion should attend. As our senior cadets progress, we expect them to be able to lead, instruct and pass their experience on to those coming up behind them. This also counts towards the Volunteering Section for ALL DofE Levels.
It should also be a fantastic five days: proper training, on an actual FTA, living in the field and with plenty of opportunity to get stuck in. It will be challenging at times, but should give our senior cadets a real sense of achievement as well as skills that will be useful well beyond the CCF.
Cadets wishing to attend should sign up here. Further joining instructions, transport arrangements and a full kit list will be sent to those attending.
Please complete the form by Monday 12 October 2026.
CCF Dates for your Diary:
Saturday 17 – Tuesday 20 October: JCIC/SCIC Prep 4 days for Year 11 – Upper Sixth (First weekend/week of half term)
Thursday 3 December: Final parade – pizza and promotion
Sunday 6 December: Ex Winter Sniper 2 (Full bore shooting for Year 11 - Upper Sixth)
Saturday 27 – Sunday 28 February 2027: Skill at Arms weekend for all years
Sunday 7 March: Ex Self Reliance 2 (senior cadets only). Collaboration between two units (Year 11 - Upper Sixth)
25 March – 4 April 2027: Easter Camp – Fieldcraft by appt only (Year 11 - Upper Sixth)
Friday 30 April 2027: Contingent Dinner TBC
Sunday 4 July 2027: Summer Camp (All years)
Major Matt Heaven - Contingent Commander
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Half Term begins on Friday 16 October. Pupils will be leaving at 17:15. School buses and minibus shuttle to the station will leave at normal time. Please make sure all pupils are collected at 17:15 if they are not travelling on school transport.
The boarders will return on Sunday 1 November from 19:00 and day pupils on Monday 2 November from 08:00.
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All Parents:
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To ensure that we continue to build on our safeguarding procedures and provide the best possible care to your child(ren) we are introducing a new process for parents to communicate whether children will be using school transport for away fixtures.
To confirm your child's availability and provide participation consent, you will need to log into SOCS by clicking the link in the SOCS email, navigate to the fixture details, and click the red 'submit consent/travel info' button.
The button will turn green once your submission is successful, providing visual confirmation that consent has been granted.
Please see here for a tutorial video.
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Thank you to all the parents who attended our webinar on Wednesday 7 October, 18:30 - 19:15 on Academic Tracking - Pupil Progress, Minimum Target Grades and GL Assessments.
Academic tracking is a crucial part of our recent examination success. Done well, it allows us to identify potential concerns and intervene early. It also lets us identify the pupils who are excelling and need to be stretched. This webinar will explain the data and systems that we use so that parents can understand the information we provide and how it is used within the College. It will be lead by Mr Mark Seccombe (Senior Deputy Head Academic)
If you missed it, you can watch the recording of the webinar here.
Mrs Amelia Athendriou - PA to Senior Teaching Staff
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The Parent Ambassador Team is excited to share the upcoming dates for our Wreath Making Workshops. Run by a professional wreath maker and former Pangbourne parent, you will be provided with all the materials and guidance you need to go home with a beautiful traditional wreath whilst also supporting the College's Transforming Futures programme. Refreshments included.
The events will be on Tuesday 8 December (evening) and Wednesday 9 December (morning) in the College Cricket Pavillion.
Book your tickets below:
Mrs Fraza-Jane Robins - Year 7 Parent Ambassador
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Visit our Pangbournian Benefits page for more details.
Mrs Lucinda Grafton, Director of Development and Community
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Pupils currently in Year 8 will have the opportunity to apply for a Scholarship in their chosen field for when they enter the Senior School in Year 9 in September 2027. Academic Scholarship awards are available as well as co-curricular areas of Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music and Sport.
We are excited to introduce our brand new Pangbournian Scholarship award. The Pangbournian Scholarship is for an all-rounder who excels in three disciplines or more. The right candidate will have a strong academic track record, contribution to sporting excellence in more than one field and also offer a strong contribution to at least one other area of the College such as Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music and Sport. This award carries a 30% fee remission.
If pupils would like to apply for an academic scholarship we would encourage a conversation with Mr Hammond as Head of Key Stage 3. For the co-curricular scholarship awards, we would encourage them to speak first with the Head of Department before submitting their online application.
The closing date for all Scholarship applications is TODAY, 9 October 2026.
The Academic, Art, Design Technology, Music, Sport and Drama Scholarship assessments will take place during w/c 16 and w/c 23 November 2026.
The Scholarship brochure can be found on the Scholarship page of our website here and the online application can be completed here.
The Admissions Team are happy to help with any queries about the process so please do not hesitate to get in contact on admissions@pangbourne.com.
Mrs Elly Hayward - Assistant Head Pupil Expertise
Year 7 - 9
Year 10 - 11
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This week marks another important milestone for our Year 11s as they prepare to draft their Macbeth Literary Heritage coursework assignment.
To help them stay on track and feel confident, we would appreciate your support in the following areas:
Responsible Use of AI
All pupils have received a presentation on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence. The key message conveyed to students is that AI must NOT be used for planning, writing or improving coursework drafts, ensuring all work submitted reflects their original individual effort.
Timeline & Key Dates
This Week (Prep): Classwork and prep will focus on finalising essay plans.
Monday 5 October - Thursday 15 October: In-class drafting and writing phase.
Monday 2 November: Pupils will receive feedback on their first draft, followed by three dedicated lessons to amend, refine and submit their final coursework.
How You Can Help
Review the Guidelines: Take a moment to look over the coursework guidelines on how English coursework is completed and supervised to ensure fairness, authenticity and compliance with Pearson Edexcel International GCSE regulations.
Review the brief and assessment criteria with your child. Understanding the "why" behind the task can make a huge difference in their approach.
Spark a Conversation: Ask your child about the ambition and Macbeth’s choices throughout the play. Discussing their ideas aloud often helps clarify their thoughts and refine their arguments before writing.
Track Progress: Check in regularly to see how their plans and drafts are developing. A little encouragement goes a long way in maintaining momentum.
Fuelling Success
Consistent attendance and a focused mindset are key during coursework weeks. We strongly encourage parents to support their children in maintaining healthy sleep routines and balanced nutrition. A well-rested, well-fed brain is much better equipped for the stamina required for extended writing.
We very much look forward to seeing their focus and hard work pay off!
Mrs Sarah Kiernan-Webb - Head of English
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Pupils currently in Year 11 will have the opportunity to apply for a Scholarship in their chosen field for when they enter the Sixth Form in Year 12 in September 2027. Academic Scholarship awards are available as well as co-curricular areas of Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music and Sport.
We are excited to introduce our brand new Pangbournian Scholarship award. The Pangbournian Scholarship is for an all-rounder who excels in three disciplines or more. The right candidate will have a strong academic track record, contribution to sporting excellence in more than one field and also offer a strong contribution to at least one other area of the College such as Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music and Sport. This award carries a 30% fee remission.
If pupils would like to apply for an academic scholarship we would encourage a conversation with Mrs Stephenson Head of Key Stage 4. For the co-curricular scholarship awards, we would encourage them to speak first with the Head of Department before submitting their online application.
The closing date for all Scholarship applications is 30 October 2026.
The Academic, Art, Design Technology, Music, Sport and Drama Scholarship assessments will take place during w/c 16 and w/c 23 November 2026.
The Scholarship brochure can be found on the Scholarship page of our website here and the online application can be completed here.
The Admissions Team are happy to help with any queries about the process so please do not hesitate to get in contact on admissions@pangbourne.com.
Mrs Elly Hayward - Assistant Head Pupil Expertise
Sixth Form
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Ms Indy Kaur - Head of Sixth Form
Friday 9 October, 19:00 - 23:00
Dunbar Parents’ Dinner
Goring & Streatley Golf Cub, Community
Saturday 10 October, 09:00 - 12:00
College Parade
Community
Tuesday 13 October, 15:45 - 17:00
Scholar Nutrition Talk
Hudson Room, Year 9 - Upper Sixth, Sport
Tuesday 13 October, 17:00 - 20:00
Dunbar Parents’ Meeting
Year 7, Year 8, Parents’/Guardians’
Wednesday 14 October, All Day
Annual National Service for Seafarers
St Paul’s Cathedral, Year 7 - Upper Sixth, Music, Trip
Wednesday 14 October, All Day
DofE Silver Day Walk
Year 11, Co-Curricular
Wednesday 14 October, 18:00 - 18:45
Supporting Revision at Home - Parent Webinar
Year 7 - Upper Sixth, Academic, Parent/ Guardian
Thursday 15 October - Sunday 18 October
History Trip to Berlin
Year 9 - Upper Sixth, Trip
Thursday 15 October, 08:45 - 10:45
Head’s Introduction to Pangbourne
Hudson Room, Admissions
Friday 16 October, 17:15
Half Term Begins
Community
Friday 16 October, 18:00 - Tuesday 20 October, 18:00
Exercise Pangbourne Wanderer
Year 11 - Upper Sixth, Co-Curricular, Trip
UPCOMING EVENTS
COLLEGE NEWS THIS WEEK
Div Music 2026
The Divisional Music Competition is always a highlight of the school calendar, and this year's event certainly did not disappoint. Last Friday evening, students took to the stage for the 2026 Divisional Music Competition, embracing a lively Country and Western theme that brought energy, enthusiasm and plenty of entertainment to the occasion.
We were delighted to welcome back Andrew Thornhill as our adjudicator. Each division showcased its musical talent through four categories: a solo singer, a solo instrumentalist, a divisional song and, for the first time in a number of years, a divisional ensemble. The return of the ensemble category proved to be a tremendous success and added an extra boost to the competition.
The standard of performance throughout the evening was exceptionally high. The audience was treated to a diverse programme featuring music from artists including ABBA, Dolly Parton, John Denver and Shaggy, demonstrating the creativity and versatility of our students. While the solo performances were impressive, particularly given the professionalism shown by performers in overcoming unexpected technical difficulties, it was the ensemble and divisional song categories that truly stood out. These performances captured the spirit of teamwork, engaged the audience and created a fantastic atmosphere in the Chapel.
As the evening progressed, the excitement continued to build, with enthusiastic support from divisions and a real buzz around the performances. The ensembles, in particular, had the crowd singing along and fully immersed in the occasion.
Of course, every competition needs a result. Following careful consideration, our adjudicator was unable to separate the top two divisions, resulting in a shared victory. Congratulations to Hesperus and Macquarie, who tied for first place and will share the Divisional Music Competition trophy this year.
The event was a wonderful start to the divisional competitions for 2026 and highlighted the dedication, talent and teamwork of all involved. A special mention should also go to the Division Chiefs, whose leadership and encouragement helped their students rise to the challenge of the first major divisional event of the year. We look forward to seeing the same enthusiasm and spirit continue throughout the remaining competitions.
Mrs Nichola Graham - Director of Music
All Scholars’ Event
Mrs Elly Hayward - Assistant Head Pupil Expertise
SPORT
Girls’ U13A Hockey Against Abingdon School
Dunbar took part in a round-robin tournament, with the girls arriving full of excitement and enthusiasm. It was fantastic to see them putting the skills developed during our sport sessions into practice.
Our first game against Holme Grange saw us concede two early goals, but the girls responded positively and grew into the game. Their defensive organisation, passing and communication improved as the match progressed.
Milly had an excellent game in goal, showing confidence when clearing the ball and communicating well with her defenders. In attack, Evie worked tirelessly to take on opponents and carry the ball forward, creating opportunities for Lucille, who demonstrated some excellent dribbling skills.
Although the results were not in our favour, the girls showed tremendous effort, resilience and determination throughout the tournament. They continued to encourage one another, develop their skills and work together as a team.
They should be incredibly proud of their enthusiasm, perseverance and progress.
Miss Esme Young - Hockey Coach
Boys’ U12B Football Against Holyport College
Another spirited performance from the team with special mentions to James L, Freddie, Oscar G, Arthur and Luke who showed great determination throughout the match. Very few opportunities on goal in the first half which ended 0-0 as neither team was able to break the deadlock.
The second team was a completely different game with Pangbourne being dominant from the start but unfortunately conceiding to goals due to some very loose defending. The boys rallied and scored one back but unfortunately did not convert their numerous chances to equalise.
Mr Fabrice Vie - Football Coach
Girls’ 2nd XI Against The Oratory School
The result did not reflect how well Pangbourne dominated this game. Emma Weekes scored an excellent reaction goal in the first half which was followed by a well taken goal from Lottie Costello in the second half. The Pangbourne press was excellent and everyone worked well together to secure the lion's share of posession throughout the game. Some of our passing and movement was fantastic to watch and we really did deserve a more positive result. We were undone in the last 10 minutes of the game with a breakaway goal and a short corner.
Mr Andy Sumner - Hockey Coach
Divisional Updates
Heads of Divisions and Email Addresses:
Harbinger: Mrs Candice Greenly - harbinger@pangbourne.com
Hesperus: Mrs Laura Besley-Piggott - hesperus@pangbourne.com
Illawarra: Mrs Dona Poitrat Rachmaninoff - illawarra@pangbourne.com
Macquarie: Mrs Steph Kingsland - macquarie@pangbourne.com
Dunbar: Dr Ian Hart - dunbar@pangbourne.com
Boarding Updates
The next boarding update will be on Friday 16 October.
Heads of Boarding Houses and Email Addresses:
St George - Mrs Debbie Atkins - stgeorge@pangbourne.com
Port Jackson (boys) - Mr Paul Radford - portjackson@pangbourne.com
Adelaide (boys) - Mr Ed Williams - adelaide@pangbourne.com