Highlights of 2021

Exam Success

Students overcame the challenges of COVID-19 to achieve exam success. Despite the upheaval that pupils faced in 2021, we are pleased to report that our A Level, BTEC and GCSE students achieved results which have thoroughly reflected their capabilities and academic potential.

The overall pass rate (Grades 9-4) for GCSE was 97% and 46% of the Grades were 9-7.

The percentage of A Level A*- A grades was 45%, evidence of the wealth of talented students in this year’s cohort. The vast majority of our A Level students have progressed to their firm-choice universities. Amongst the success stories was that of Music Scholar, Grace Spalton, who achieved A*A* A in her A Levels. Grace has since accepted a place at the University of Cambridge to study Natural Sciences.

Black History Month

October is Black History Month, dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of black people throughout history.

Upper Sixth student, Megan Fergusson, has been offered an incredible sponsorship opportunity with top-class sports equipment company, Grays International.

Our Racial Diversity and Inclusion Working Party, which helps international pupils and pupils of colour come together and share ideas to make Pangbourne a more inclusive and safer environment, decided that we needed to be more vocal about Black History Month and how it is celebrated.

As a result, there were a series of activities and celebrations, including a study of Frank Bowling and Sonia Boyce in Art, an investigation into the lack of cultural diversity in Psychological research, and a study of the history of the Black Lives Matter movement in PSHCE and RS.

Sponsorship for Illawarra CCC

As a Grays Team Sports Brand Ambassador, she will also be a Grays Hockey Sponsored Player.

As part of her newfound responsibilities, Megan will spend time in schools and hockey clubs, helping players to build their confidence.

Megan’s hockey career has gone from strength to strength over the years, despite being born without her lower left arm. Learning the art of adaptability, she has never let this hold her back.

“I’ve never let my disability hold me back in life and in hockey,” explains Megan. “I’ve adapted and have come through stronger as a result and I believe that I can achieve what those with two hands can achieve.”

Podium Potential Pathway for Josie

In May 2021, Upper Sixth student, Josie Symons, was selected for the Podium Potential pathway level of the World Class programme that is part of the Olympic Development Squad.

Josie will receive the finest international

coaching, human sports science expertise, a sport psychologist, a specialist saddle fitter, and much more. Recognising Josie’s immense capabilities and talent, the College has continuously strived to support her throughout her time here. From providing Josie with the flexibility that she needs to train, to ensuring that she does not miss out on other aspects of College life, such as her studies and time with friends. Congratulations to Josie!

Calum wins London Irish contract

In April 2021, we were delighted to announce that Upper Sixth student, Calum Scott, had secured a 2-year professional contract with London Irish Senior Academy.

He was also confirmed as captain for the London Irish U18s for the 2021/22 season and has been

selected for the England U18 training squad. This is an incredible opportunity for Calum, who has been in the London Irish Academy since the age of 13. Initially coming through the London

Irish Developing Player Programme, he also played club rugby for both Tadley RFC and Newbury Blues.

When asked what he values most about Pangbourne College, Calum said, “I really value the effort the teachers have put in driving my sporting performance. In particular, Mr Hewick, Mr Hawthorn, and Mr Thompson have really supported me along my journey to this point, and I would really like to thank them.”

Mr Hewick, Director of Sport said, “This opportunity will allow Calum to train and play as a full-time professional rugby player, as well as integrate with his England age group selections. He has worked incredibly hard for this, and has displayed many of Pangbourne’s Flag Values throughout his journey to this point. I am sure that he will continue with the same determination and resilience in the next stage of his rugby journey.”

Lower Sixth tackle taking responsibility

Each year, as the Summer term comes to an end, Lower Sixth students embark on our Taking Responsibility course.

Established over 20 years ago, its aims are to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills for leading the College in their final year. This year, following 12 months of lockdowns and distant learning, it was great to enjoy face-to-face activities in the extensive grounds of the College, as well as at the Boat Club on the River Thames.

The week encompassed an array of activities, from leadership tasks, to community service, to networking exercises. The Taking Responsibility course is a key event in our calendar year, instilling team-building, leadership, and communication skills into our forthcoming heads of College. Well done to all of those who took part.