Independent Schools 2017

Thursday, September 14, 2017

Newbury Weekly News

Pangbourne College PANGBOURNE is a place where the individual matters. We have a beautiful site and inspired and challenged to do the very best they can and are

We champion as equals those who go to Oxbridge or a Russell Group university and those who choose a vocational route. This August saw Pangbourne College achieve a record number of A* grades since their introduction in 2010. The college also saw successful GCSE results, with 35 per cent of entries achieving A* to A grades, and 100 per cent A*-C grades in the core subjects, English and mathematics. Overall, 97 per cent of entries gained five A* to C grades. Pangbourne is proud to be different with its heritage dating back to 1917, when the then named Nautical College was founded by Sir Thomas Devitt. Elements of the college’s naval heritage still exist today with students wearing Royal Naval uniforms, while certain ceremonial traditions, such as parades which add colour to the Pangbourne experience, are maintained. The college is set in 230 acres within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and rural Berkshire countryside, yet within easy reach of excellent transport connections. We are just 10 minutes from Junction 12 of the M4 motorway, and on the mainline rail network between Oxford (30 minutes) and London Paddington (45 minutes). Daily school transport services are available from Newbury, Basingstoke and Wantage and, from 2018, Henley and the surrounding area. We offer entry at 11+, 13+ and 16+, and occasionally into other year groups if space permits. Full boarding, part boarding and day options are available and all get to experience the best of Pangbourne and build strong relationships within their peer groups. What is notable about boarding at Pangbourne is the camaraderie and friendliness of each Division (House), as well as the feeling of always being with

to improve the support which we can provide. Pangbournians are encouraged not only to challenge themselves and reach their potential, but also to be happy and fulfilled. The college offers a comprehensive co-curricular programme which enables pupils to find their niche and thrive as their specific abilities are recognised and developed. Pangbourne offers a multitude of challenging, engaging and, above A distinctive school that puts huge emphasis on self- discipline, teamwork and leadership. Caring and supportive, Pangbourne buzzes with activity and encourages every pupil to have a go and get involved. Good Schools Guide

all, fun co-curricular activities which includes music, drama, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and CCF among others. This engagement with non- academic pursuits benefits students’ development and develops skills which are highly valued by employers. Our flag values of kindness, self- lessness, moral courage initiative, industry, resilience and integrity underpin all we do as a college. They are rooted in our Christian ethos and go a long way to prepare our pupils for life’s challenges and the responsibilities of adulthood. Our aim is to equip Pangbournians with the strongest possible foundations for their future, with nearly all going to their first choice university after the college.

THE personal development of Pangbourne’s students is outstanding, meeting the college’s aim to develop the character of all students. This is supported by an excellent, broad curriculum which enables students to progress academically and supports the development of

exposed to a variety of engaging lessons, memorable trips and plentiful learning tools to bring each and every subject to life. The number of pupils at Pangbourne ensures small class sizes and more one-to-one time with the teachers. Every individual is catered for by an empathetic and caring group of teachers, and those pupils with the ability to take their learning to the highest level are aided by a support structure which enables them to realise their ambitions. We are proud of our outstanding pastoral care and we take an integrated approach to caring for each pupil. We are not complacent about the challenges which young people face and we are always seeking

excellent facilities, but first and foremost this is a ‘people place’. We are committed to the personal development of our pupils in the fullest sense. They are encouraged to work hard towards academic success and we celebrate the results they achieve. Just as important is the development of their characters: confidence and values, creative and physical skills and an appreciation of who they are and what they can contribute to the world. There is a close bond between the school and the pupils – but the success of the school is in nurturing each student’s individual talent. Students at Pangbourne are

the whole individual. ISI Inspection Report

friends and supported by exceptional staff.

The only way to experience the authentic college life is to come and visit us, enjoy a tour of the campus and speak to pupils and staff here. They will give you real insight into what Pangbourne is today. Prospective pupils and family members are welcome to take advantage of a visit to Pangbourne where they will be given a tour of the college by a senior student and have an informal meeting with the Headmaster, Mr Thomas Garnier. Such visits will enable families to see the college during a normal, working day and provide an authentic Pangbourne experience for all. Pangbourne also hosts a number of open mornings throughout the academic year, with two whole- school events in September and April/May. These open mornings take the form of a tour led by Sixth Formers, a presentation by Mr Garnier and activities and classes to illustrate the wide range of academic, sporting, musical and extra-curricular opportunities available to students. Scholarships and bursaries are available. For more information or to arrange a visit to the college, please visit www.pang- bourne.com or email registrar@ pangbourne.com