College House Blog

CCF Field Day

2011-10-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

A large number of Year 13 boys lead the recent CCF Field Day. Army, Navy and Air force sections were all in action. Most boys camped overnight and completed command tasks as part of their training. Some Army cadets were lucky enough to get a rid in a helicopter!

Rugby season well under way.

2011-10-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

The rugby season is well under way now and the 1st, 2nd and 3rd XVs have recorded some impressive wins. The 2nd XV have the best playing record recently having put 50 points past Christ's Hospital. the 1sts have had some tough games and narrow losses, but beating Prior park School by over 40 points was a highlight.

This Saturday all teams meet Pangbourne in the hotly awaited local derby. Good luck!

Welcome to a new school year!

2011-09-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

A very warm welcome to College House 2011/12! We hope that you all have a wonderfully successful year in every respect.

Prefects, Chapel Wardens and the Year 7 Support Group have already been rushed off their feet settling into their new roles and we thank them for all they have done so far.

The 1st XV has recorded it's first win of the season at the first opportunity, beating Reeds School 12-3.

We wish Jimmy Wright (Head of College), Harry Griffiths (Head Chapel Warden) and Matt Thomas (Captain of Rugby) the very best of luck!

Girls' Sports Dinner

2011-06-17T15:09:00.001-07:00

1st VIII in fine form

2011-06-17T12:55:00.001-07:00

The 1st VIII go from strength to strength will a string of fine wins, most notably in the Championship at The National Schools' Regatta. Here they are sporting their new blazers!

Early morning Communion on the tower

2011-06-17T12:53:00.001-07:00

CCF Beating the Retreat

2011-06-17T12:44:00.001-07:00

Summer Term

2011-06-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

Apologies from the College House Blogger for recent inactivity! He's been a little preoccupied with exam preparation.

Here are some highlights of the term so far... starting with Ascention Day at Maidensgrove.

Summer sports captains announced

2011-03-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

Many congratulations to James Wood on being appointed Captain of Cricket and to George Reeves on his appointment as Captain of Tennis. We wish both boys every success as they prepare for the season ahead.

A Level Drama - Pierre Blanc

2011-03-27T14:13:00.000-07:00

"The Fall of the House of Usher" is a dark and disturbing piece set in a decaying country house and explores the bizarre relationship between a brother and sister. It was originally a short story by Edgar Allan Poe and was adapted for the stage by Steven Berkoff. Pierre Blanc performed superbly with two Year 12 pupils, Oliver Smith and Zoe Ozwell. His performance encapsulated the darkness of the play and the highly mannered style of Berkoff productions. A lot of hard work and a fine performance. Well done!

College House "Designers" shine.

2011-03-20T15:10:00.001-07:00

The Design Technology viewing this evening showcased the Year 13 students and gave us all a chance to enjoy their stunning products. They included from a beautiful TV table made by Oliver Fogden, a kayak roof rack by Jamie MacLeod, a nursery school chair by Ed Sykes and an ingenious BBQ table by David Hawes. Others whose work was on display were Harry Coaker, Sam Evans, Joe Southwell and Elliott Quelch. Many congratulations to all the boys; surely we have designers of the future in our midst!

Rowing success at Schools' Head

2011-03-18T06:37:00.000-07:00

Many congratulations to the 1st VIII on their superb result in yesterday's Schools' Head. They came fifth out of 29 crews, behind Abingdon, Eton, Shrewsbury and Radley. Tom Crisford, Head of Rowing says that "it is one of the finest performances Shiplake has achieved for some time. The Year 13 members of the crew are cox, Chris Troup, Toby Bownass, Sam Evans, Nick Gordon, Jamie MacLeod, Adam Roels and Captain of Boats, Ollie Vizard.

Head of Lower School Sport

2011-03-09T12:17:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to James Wood on being appointed Head of Lower School Sport. James' contribution to 1st XV rugby and 1st XI hockey and cricket make him the perfect recipient of this new title.

New Prefects

2011-03-09T12:11:00.000-08:00

At Senior Assembly today, Heads of House David Hawes and Ed Sykes were appointed as School Prefects. The appointments which are very well deserved, recognise both boy's efforts in running their respective Houses, Everett and Skipwith. Many congratulations to them both!

Hockey success on Barcelona tour.

2011-03-08T02:18:00.000-08:00

The recent hockey tour to Barcelona was a huge success. Tour captain, David Hawes gave a glowing report of the tour, both on and off the pitch and was was able to tell Senior Assembly that two games were won and only one was lost. As well as some excellent hockey (Year 13 tourists were, Oliver Fogden, Nadal Sarkytbayev, Ed Bowers, David Hawes and George Reeves) the tourists also managed to catch a Barcelona FC game, walk miles soaking up the cultural sights of the city and enjoy a relaxing time on the beach.

Academic excellence!

2011-03-08T02:15:00.000-08:00

Many congratulations to Year 13 pupils whose hard work and academic achievement was recognised in the most recent round of Progress Review awards. They were: Ed Bowers, Sam Quelch, James Warren, Freddie Wilcox, Tom Morgan, Oliver Fogden and James Wood.

Have a good Half Term!

2011-02-17T15:07:00.000-08:00

We hope you all have a great Half Term and manage to re charge what are, in many cases, some very run down batteries!

A2 Music Recital

2011-02-17T15:02:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to A Level musicians Freddie Wilcox and Nick Woodford on their performances tonight in their final recital. Freddie played a movement from Mozart's clarinet concerto and a very taxing piece by Gerald Finzi. Nick sang Stars from Les Miserables and Always on my mind, by James and Christopher. Both boys performed superbly and showed what very accomplished musicians they are.

Lower School Master Chef.

2011-02-17T15:00:00.000-08:00

A number of Year 13 pupils helped on Wednesday with the Lower School cooking competition. Year 7 and 8 pupils took over a number of kitchens around the campus to produce some culinary delights.

BTEC band goes out with a bang!

2011-02-17T14:52:00.000-08:00

The BTEC band, AKA Gracie's Gods played their final gig last week to a loyal and appreciative audience in the Tithe Barn. Gracie Miller, Alex Roberts, Fred Mallin, Tom Woodford and Nick Ellis treated us to a blend of Scissor Sisters, My Chemical Romance, Paramore and The Fray but the highlight, complete with backing vocals, had to be Blame it on the Boogie. This was their final exam recital and a sad day for their loyal roadies, myself included.

CCF Success

2011-02-17T14:45:00.000-08:00

Ed Bowers, Shin Hashimoto and Oliver Fogden along with a number of Year 12 pupils represented the College in the RAF CCF Air Squadron Trophy Competition on Sunday. They were placed 7th out of fourteen schools, beating the likes of Charterhouse, Merchant Taylors, Mill Hill and Wellington. This was a superb achievement and we congratulate the boys involved.

Shin spoke very well in assembly this week, telling us all what was involved.

Orchard victorious in House Music Competition

2011-02-06T14:11:00.000-08:00

An entertaining hour on Friday afternoon saw the Houses battling it out in the highly competitive House Music Competition. Johnnie B Goode was the chosen song and each House produced a distinctive performance. More variety was provided with the second song which was chosen by the Houses themselves. Orchard were the eventual winners with Burr coming a close second.

Hockey season starts

2011-02-02T13:56:00.000-08:00

We are now four weeks into the hockey season and a large number of Year 13 boys are representing the school in this popular sport.

Congratulations to Ed Bowers on his appointment as Capatin of Hockey and to David Hawes and James Wood as Vice Captains. George Reeves is also a regular in the 1st XI.

Ed Sykes has been made Captain of the 2nd XI and is joined by Nadal Sarkytbayev and Jordan Jacobs in that team.

James Warren captains the 3rd XI and has, under his command, none other than Elliott Quelch, Oliver Fogden, James Dobree-Carey and Alex Humphreys.

George Singleton, Tom Morgan and Shin Hashimoto are regulars for the 4th XI.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-05T14:24:00.000-08:00

A very happy and successful 2011 to everyone and a warm welcome back to College House.

There are a number of points that I would like to make:

This term is crucial in our quest for the best possible A Level grades for your sons. This process starts with AS re sits in a week or so and continues with the preparation and revision they carry out thereafter. In the House, prep and private study time will be monitored even more closely and I will be in close contact with the boys' teachers and tutors. Many of the boys now have good university offers and I hope these act as an inspiration and spur to them to work hard.

Can I remind everyone that any medical issues that have arisen over the holidays must be conveyed to the Medical Centre and any new medications must be registered.

Thank you all for responding so swiftly to my weekend arrangement emails. It makes my life so much easier and hopefully reassures us all that the boys are where they should be!

There are a wide range of activities planned this term for weekends and the boys have been made aware of this.

Thank you all for your very generous gifts, cards and comments at the end of last term. All were very much appreciated. Postcards from Cornwall should be arriving shortly for many of you!

Finally, I hope that we can continue to steer the boys in the right direction and that they respond to all the support and advice offered. Sadly the next six months will fly by!

As ever, please do not hesitate to contact me with any comments or concerns.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

2010-12-15T02:11:00.001-08:00

May I take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Chritmas and a prosperous and successful New Year!

"Tom Morgan Enterprises"!

2010-12-15T02:08:00.001-08:00

A huge "thanks" from us all to Tom Morgan who provided entertainment and food for our social on Monday evening. Tom provided the PS3 so that many could enjoy a game of football and, for the more robust, a chance to shoot each other! Tom's efforts were very much appreciated, not least by a Housemaster who was running short of ideas!

More Awards!

2010-12-15T02:03:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to James Warren and Ed Bowers on their recent academic effort awards and to Tom Morgan and David Hawes for their certificates recognising the number of "Excellent Slips" they have been given.

Special congratulations to Ed Bowers for being awarded his Owl Tie. This recognises the huge effort Ed puts in to a wide range of school activities and the tireless devotion he shows to The College.

Rugby Players Honoured

2010-12-08T14:36:00.000-08:00

The annual Rugby Club Dinner was held on Tuesday evening and the highlight was the awards ceremony where a number of Year 13 received awards. For the 2nd XV, Freddie Wilcox was chosen as the players' player and skipper Bertie Piasecki-Jarvis was awarded his half colours. 1st XV awards included half colours for Joe Jenkins, Adam Roels and Sam Quelch and full colours for James Dobree-Carey, Theo Duthoit and Joe Southwell. The players' player was Theo and skipper Elliott Quelch was the coaches' player and also received the much-coveted Blazer Badge.

Well done to all who received awards and all the others who played senior rugby this term.

Year 13 Musicians

2010-12-02T14:52:00.000-08:00

The musical talents for many of our Year 13 boys were on display tonight at the Christmas Concert. The Headmaster payed tribute to four boys in particular who have shown great loyalty and commitment to College music since their arrival in Year 9. Freddie Wilcox, James Warren, David Hawes and Oliver Fogden were asked to take a bow of their own in recognition of all they have done. Nick and Tom Woodford, Fred Mallin, Nick Ellis, Harry Coaker and Alex Roberts also performed in various groups and ensembles throughout a very enjoyable and lively concert.

Headmaster's Choirmaster Appointed

2010-12-02T14:47:00.000-08:00

One of the most sought-after jobs in school was filled last week. The eagerly awaited appointment of Headmaster's Choirmaster was filled by none other than Alex Humphreys. Alex's joy at the news was plain for all to see. He now has the weighty job of preparing his carefully selected choir for their first public performance, at the Christmas Dinner. Rehearsals have started but the repertoire is a closely guarded secret. Good luck, Alex!

Cross Country

2010-12-02T14:42:00.000-08:00

It was their last chance to impress in one of the more gruelling competitions of the year, and Year 13 boys did not disappoint! Sam Evans finished second in the first race and Adam Roels came in third place in this week's race. That's it! No more cross country for Year 13 (ever?)!

GB Trials

2010-11-17T14:34:00.000-08:00

Toby Bownas and Nick Gordon set off on Friday for the GB rowing trials. The pair have already enjoyed success in a head of the river race in London and, most recently, on their USA tour, where they recorded an impressive victory. On saturday they compete in singles. Good luck!

Project FAT NG (AKA BTEC Band)

2010-11-17T14:26:00.000-08:00

BTEC groupies were treated to another fine performance by Gracie, Tom, Alex, Nick and Fred. Among the songs performed were James Blunt's High, Free falling by John Mayer and Always Attract by You Me at Six. The band are becoming a favourite and if you have not heard them yet, you should get along to their next gig.

South West Rugby Success

2010-11-16T23:50:00.000-08:00

Very well done to James Dobree-Carey who has been selected to play rugby for the South West Division. After a grueling selection process and a nail-biting hour long wait after the final selection match, James was told the good news. We wish him well as he starts his representative rugby and this incredibly high level.

Prefect Appointment

2010-11-16T23:45:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Nadal Sarkytbayev on recently being appointed a School Prefect. He is pictured here (centre) on his recent Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition with Nick Hartley and George Reeves. Congratulations also to Claudia le Blanc who has also been appointed.

Half Term check list

2010-10-19T03:59:00.000-07:00

I wish everyone, boys and their families, a very happy and relaxing half term holiday. Good luck to the rowers who travel to America and those taking part in the Geography field trip to Iceland. I'm off to Belgium and France with Year 9, visiting the First World War battlefields.

Please don't forget:

UCAS applications
Holiday work
Sleep

Have a good time!

Boston Bound...

2010-10-19T03:50:00.000-07:00

Eight Year 13 boys head "State-side" today for a twelve day rowing tour of the USA. They start in Boston then move on to Philadelphia and finish in New York. They will train and compete in two races whilst, no doubt, fitting in a spot of sightseeing. Rumour has it they are due to watch an NBA basketball game.

Good luck to Jamie Macleod, Oliver Vizard, JB Brown, Sam Evans, Toby Bownass, Adam Roels and cox, Chris Troup (somehow missing from the photo!).

Success for Gordon and Bownass!

2010-10-19T03:47:00.001-07:00

Nick Gordon and Toby Bownass achieved a superb result in a recent Head of the River race in London. The pair came third in the Junior Pairs Competition. Well done.

Progress Review Success

2010-10-19T03:37:00.000-07:00

Sam Quelch, Nadal Sarkytbayev, Nick Ellis and James Warren all received certificates from the Headmaster in a recent Assembly in recognition of their achievement and effort in the first Progress Review of the year. Congratulations!

BTEC Band plays Lady Gaga

2010-10-19T03:30:00.000-07:00

Gracie Miller, Tom Woodford, Alex Roberts, Fred Mallin and Nick Ellis, otherwise known as The BTEC Band played Plan B, The Raconteurs, Train and Lady Gaga in the recent A Level recital. They had the audience clapping and stamping in response to their lively and infectious performance. One of the highlights was the first public appearance of Fred's red ukulele!

House Committee

2010-10-08T06:32:00.000-07:00

The College House Committee met for the first time on Wednesday. A number of issues were discussed, ranging from safes to SKY TV and washing machines to Wii. It was agreed that
A Level artists would supply some new artwork and that some money would be spent on buying new pictures for walls in common rooms and corridors. It is hoped also that safes will be provided for every room.

Future projects include looking at producing hoodies for the House, buying an ipod docking station for the games room, a DVD stand for the Day Room and purchasing a new washing machine, such is the popularity of the boys' new-found domestic skills!

The Committee also intends to arrange a number of social events this year.

House Football

2010-10-08T06:27:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Skipwith for their crushing defeat of Welsh in the first round of the House Football Competition! Burr and Everett shared the honours in a tightly contested game, finishing with three goals a piece.

Local Sporting Award

2010-10-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

Rowing scholar "JB" Brown has been awarded the Easington District Sports Achievement of the Year by his home town. He has now been nominated for the Durham County award which will be announced later this month. Congratulations!

Trip to Premiership Rugby

2010-09-19T15:12:00.001-07:00

A number of Sixth Formers made the short journey through Reading today to the Madejski Stadium to witness London Irish beat Gloucester.

Prefects and Chapel Wardens Blessed by The Bishop

2010-09-19T15:01:00.000-07:00

This year's Prefects and Chapel Wardens were commissioned and blessed by Colin, Bishop of Dorchester, last week. In a special chapel service, these senior pupils promised to serve the community as best they can and to ensure that all those in their care are looked after to the best of their ability. Congratulations to Prefects Jamie MacLeod (Head of College), Ed Bowers, Toby Bownass, Ollie Vizzard, Elliott Quelch, Bertie Piasecki-Jarvis, Nick Woodford, James Warren, JB Brown, and James Dobree-Carey.

Well done also to Chapel Wardens Ed Bowers, David Hawes, Fred Mallin, Joe Jenkins, Alex Humphreys, Oliver Fogden, and George Reeves.

Early Success for 1st XV

2010-09-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

The 1st XV enjoyed the taste of success early in the season; they convincingly beat King's School, Ely in their pre-season match and last Saturday produced a stunning second half perfomance against Reed's School to beat them 33-20.

Congratulations to Elliott Quelch on being appointed captain of Rugby.

Cycling for Charity

2010-09-15T12:28:00.000-07:00

Three Year 13 boys, Jamie MacLeod (Head of College), Ed Allen and Ollie Vizzard were among a group of five Shiplake pupils who cycled from Henley to Paris (roughly 270 miles). They were raising money for three very worthy causes; Help for Heroes, Face of Henley and the forthcoming Boat Club trip the America. Fatigue, saddle soar and the heat did not prevent them reaching their destination in just four days. They hope to raise a couple of thousand pounds.

Welcome to College House

2010-09-15T12:08:00.000-07:00

A very warm welcome to all our new Year 13 boys; we hope that you will be very happy and flourish in your new house. We extend this welcome to parents, families and friends, all of whom are welcome to come and see us at any time.

The Housemaster, Nick Brown, Resident Tutor, Emma Arnold and Matron, Fatma Bensaad are always available to talk to you and will do all they can to ensure that you settle in and enjoy your final year at Shiplake.

College House is a very special place and should provide all its residents with a peaceful and happy environment where all can enjoy the company of their peers. The boys have already made a fantastic start and I have enjoyed the atmosphere they have created. We adhere to the very simple philosophy that if they behave like adults, they will be treated like adults.

I hope everybody has a happy, fruitful and memorable year and wish everyone "good luck" as they enter what is, without doubt, the most important year of their schooling.

Mitchem hits 76 to secure first victory for 2nd XI.

2010-05-12T12:41:00.000-07:00

The 2nd XI cricketers secured their first victory today, beating Henley College in a nail-biting finish. Shiplake batted first scoring 164, with skipper Ben Mitchem scoring an impressive 76. In reply Henley reached 156, needing 10 off the last over. Zac Bigley bowled a tight final over conceding only 2 runs. Well done to Y13 players, Ben Mitchem, Harry Wilson and Oly Watkins-Murphy.

Four in a row for cricketers!

2010-05-05T15:11:00.000-07:00

Our 1st XI have enjoyed four victories on the run with such impressive scalps as Magdalen College School and Bloxham. Skipper, Olly Gould and James Luscombe, James Black and Tom Whittingham have all made significant contributions to these fine wins. Particularly noteworthy are the half centuries by Olly and both James B. and James L. Well done, and good luck against Reeds on Saturday!

Drama success!

2010-05-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

Many congratulations to our A2 Theatre Studies students for pulling off a superb performance of their devised examination piece, Sam and Hal. This powerful and moving series of short plays combined the very distinctive styles of Samuel Becket and Harold Pinter. It has to be said that Miss Saker's interval summaries helped some of us to understand the action but the skill and energy of James, Kristian, Ed, Harry and Christian can not be denied. Well done!

Captain of Tennis

2010-04-20T02:16:00.001-07:00

Many congratulations to Chris Payne on his appointment as Captain of Tennis. We wish him luck for a successful season.

A Level Drama

2010-04-20T02:06:00.000-07:00

Next week sees performances of the A Level Theatre Studies production Sam and Hal. This devised piece forms a considerable part of the students' final A Level grade. Performances run from Wednesday 28 to Friday 30th April in the Tithe Barn.

We hope that Kristian Dyer, James Gifford, Ed Harris, Harry Wilson and Christian Young break their collective leg!

Congratulations to Harry for producing a most professional looking poster.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-01T04:14:00.001-07:00

May I wish you all a very happy and productive Easter holiday.

After a short and, hopefully busy break, the boys will return to their last term at Shiplake. Before their minds turn to The Leavers' Ball, the long summer ahead and other such temptations, there is the small matter of A Level examinations!

I hope all boys return ready for the immense challenges that lie ahead and can muster the energy, single-mindedness and cooperation that will give them the best chances of success. Quiet work and preparation will be the order of the day in College House from the evening of Tuesday 13th April. It is crucial that we create an atmosphere conducive to hard work and, to this end, Miss Arnold, my Tutors and I will be coming down very hard on boys who disturb others.

It is quiet possible to strike a balance between hard work, rest and play and I hope that all the boys will return ready for what awaits on the games fields, courts and river.

May I make a few other reminders:

Car owners must display a College permit, hand their keys to me and, with ever increasing congestion, park with sense and care.

All medication must be registered with the Medical Wing, even over the counter medicines such as paracetamol.

Weekend arrangements must be clear and transparent and I would ask parents to continue to support me in this.

Whilst we do not have exam leave at Shiplake, once a pupil has finished his exams, he may go home until the last week of term. Further details on this will follow.

Details regarding the Leavers' Ball will be sent separately. Parents are most welcome to attend this as they are the Leavers' Service which preceeds the prize giving ceremony on Speech Day.

See you next term!

Hockey Honours

2010-04-01T03:55:00.000-07:00

Fifteen Year 13 boys were honoured at the annual Hockey Club Dinner. The highest awards were made to long-standing members of the 1st XI, Callum Thomas (captain) and James Luscombe; both boys were awarded the highest sporting honour of a Blazer Badge, for three years of dedicated service, skill, sportsmanship and, no doubt, a huge stash of goals! James and Callum were also named as the two outstanding players of the season. Other awards are listed below:

Players' Player: Olly Gould (1st XI) and Alex Baker (4th XI)

Most Improved: Brough Downey (1st XI), Fred Versen (4rd XI)

2nd XI Colours: Jordon Foster, Nick Harper, Tom Imlay, Ben Mitchem, Harrison Lewis

Half Colours: Rob Skinner, Brough Downey, Chris Payne

Full Colours: Oliver Watkins-Murphy, James Luscombe, Olly Gould, James Black

Congratulations to all for a really successful season.

Seven of the best for old rivals!

2010-03-21T14:11:00.000-07:00

The 1st XI hockey team ended the season with a crushing 7-1 defeat of rivals Pangbourne College! Hatricks for James Luscombe and skipper Callum Thomas and a goal for Oli Watkins-Murphy could not have provided a more fitting close to a successful season.

In all, 25 members of Year 13 represented the College in senior teams. James Black, Brough Downey, Olly Gould, James Luscombe, Chris Payne, Rob Skinner, Callum Thomas and Oli Watkins-Murphy were all regulars for the 1st XI. Special congratulations also go to other senior captains; Jordon Foster (2nd XI), Billy Pinto (3rd XI) and Harry Wilson (4th XI). The College Housemaster would also like to pay tribute to the "dream team" of the season, his very own 5th XI!

The Hockey Club with be celebrating yet another successful season at the annual dinner to be held on Wednesday.

New Prefect

2010-03-21T14:05:00.000-07:00

We were delighted to hear that Harrison Lewis has been made up to a School Prefect. Harrison proved his quiet and efficient approach to College life as one of the Year 7 Support Group leaders. Recently he and Hannah Fitzgerald organised a very successful Mothering Sunday Service in the Parish Church. Congratulations, Harrison!

Choosing the right path

2010-03-21T13:55:00.000-07:00

Continuing the series of talks by Heads of Houses, last week Welsh's Ross McCafferty talked about making the right decisions in life. He said that our lives reflect the choice and decisions we make and that choosing the right path is essential to our own happiness and that of others. He quoted the Headmaster when he said that "choice, risk and consequence" should never be far from our thoughts. Every path, he said, has hurdles and potential accidents and he quoted the statistic that more teenage road accidents are caused by speeding than by drink driving. He urged his audience to make a "life plan" and not to fall into someone else's and ended with the sound and empathetic advice, "never put your own happiness at the expense of others".

Captain Gould

2010-03-21T13:52:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Olly Gould on his appointment as Captain of Cricket. Senior cricketers have been hard at it in the indoor nets this term and we wish them luck for a successful season.

World Premiere!

2010-03-21T13:38:00.000-07:00

The Spring Concert provided a platform for a number of Year 13 pupils to perform. Foremost amongst these was James Gifford who performed, as part of a string quartet, a world premiere of his own composition, Devil's Tango. The imaginative and evocative piece, using long passages of pizzicato, was one on the highlights of a varied and most enjoyable concert. Later in the same concert James sang Purcell's plaintiff song Music for a while. Other Year 13 pupils taking part included Nick Harper and Sam Neale who sang in the Chamber Choir and Andrew Gilligan who played a very sexy Pink Panther on his alto saxophone.

Anonymous praise for the College House Blog!

2010-03-11T04:02:00.000-08:00

I'm a real novice when in comes to blogging, but this entire blog makes a fabulous read...so I couldn't resist giving someone something to read in return. Well done, Nick and well done everyone in College House.
PS: I especially like to read the sporting round-ups as we've just watched a magic match where the 1st XI hockey stormed through the freezing temperatures to win 4:3 at Reading Astro today. Luscombe, Black and Thomas shone as a tremendous threesome again but the whole team played with incredible skill and determination the whole match. Nationals standard, I'd say!

You don't have to be a saint!

2010-03-03T15:37:00.000-08:00

Continuing the series of talks in Assembly by Heads of Houses, this week it was the turn of Skipwith's Robert Skinner. Taking St David as his inspiration, Rob talked about the qualities of leadership and empathy. His central message to the assembled companies of Years 11, 12 and 13 was that you don't have to be a saint to make a difference. He concluded that we all possess courage and bravery and have the ability to do good; it is down to our own determination and resolve (or lack of it) as to whether or not we make a difference.

Y13 sing their hearts out!

2010-03-03T15:14:00.001-08:00

The annual House Music Competition always provides some memorable moments. This year Y13 boys and girls excelled in teaching, conducting, playing and singing. In the week leading up to the competition College House was deserted as all its members strove to encourage and rehearse their own Houses. The competition itself was keenly fought, with Burr just securing a win.

Academic excellence

2010-02-27T04:06:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to the following who received awards from the Headmaster in Assembly this week for excellent work and effort: Cornel Mgbangson, Oliver Watkins-Murphy and Tom Imlay.

I could have been a window cleaner.

2010-02-10T14:16:00.000-08:00

“Understanding my journey from a thirteen year old with no sporting talent to a scholarship at Shiplake College and then hopefully onto Harvard is an improbable story,” James Briggs told us at Senior Assembly this morning.

“My school reports read “able but must try harder” and when my friend asked me to join his window-cleaning business when I left school, I contemplated it. At that time his company consisted of him, a sponge, a ladder and a bucket,” said James.

One evening on Scarborough beach another friend invited James to have a go at rowing. Five months later James stood on the podium at the National Indoor Rowing Championships with a medal round his neck.

“When the offer of a sports scholarship to Shiplake came I had to think long and hard. It was 260 miles away and my friends were concerned that I would become a soft southern pansy.”

“Looking back it is strange how luck, destiny or fate can shape such pivotal moments in our lives. But we must have the determination and perseverance to make the most of those opportunities. When I am asked to do a 5km ergo I have a choice. But to achieve we have to remove ourselves from our comfort zone, to broaden our outlook and to move on. Never say never.”

Latest news

2010-02-10T14:06:00.000-08:00

We have just survived two days of our initial ISI school inspection. Two inspectors spent Tuesday and Wednesday with us as part of an initial assessment prior to the full inspection starting on Monday 8th March. Year 13 boys helped by acting as guides and all pulled together to give a very good impression. Chris Payne, Jordon Foster, Harry Wilson and Charlie Emerson all spoke in Senior Assembly this morning, in front of an inspector and delivered their sports reports with great calm and confident delivery. James Briggs spoke about how he came to rowing (see above).

Last week we held a mufti day in order to raise funds for the Haiti Disaster Fund. We raised a grand total of £754.63. Heads of Houses were responsible for collecting the money and clearly their powers of persuasion worked.

Congratulations to Alex our house cleaner on the birth of his daughter, Alexandra.

Your starter for 10: What did the prefects do on Thursday night?

2010-02-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

Disney films, sporting heroes, world geography and College history were just some of the topics in Thursday night's Year 9 Inter-House Quiz. Each of the Prefects was asked to provide a round of questions for house teams of three Year 9 boys to do battle against each other. The consensus was that Rob Skinner's current affairs questions were the most taxing! Aless, Hannah and Abi managed the technology for the evening and judged who "buzzed" first, Parris acted as scorer and musical expert while Fred, Cornel, Chris and Alex acted as quiz masters. Everett House were the eventual winners and the Prefects, once again, showed their initiative and organisational skills. It is great to see our senior pupils involved in organising and entertaining the younger ones.

College House bedrock of 4th XI success.

2010-02-03T14:38:00.000-08:00

4th XI skipper, Harry Wilson commanded his troops both on and off the field with confidence and skill today. His leadership played no small part in an impressive win for the 4th XI hockey team over Henley College this afternoon. Ably assisted by Fred Versen, Harry controlled the mid field and enabled the fearsome threesome of Ben Brassey, Alex Baker and Bevan Hornsby to run riot up front. These three are becoming the scourge of South Oxfordshire schools hockey; not only are they displaying hitherto undiscovered talent but they are also bringing flair, humour and an element of the unknown to the game. Fergus Robertson-McIsaac, a convert from rowing, is also playing a key role in the team. Elevated from the 5th XI, goalie Ed Harris played his part in a fine 3-1 victory over the local rivals. An indication of the spirit in which the game was played was provided by Head of College, Alex Baker who, having collided with and knocked over one of the Henley female players, proceeded to apologise most graciously, at least four times!

The 1st XI recorded an impressive win over Reading Bluecoat School this afternoon. James Luscombe scored four times, Callum Thomas three and James Black once in a stunning 8-0 whitewash.

Three men in a boat (in Paris)

2010-01-27T01:43:00.000-08:00

Three members of College House (and their Housemaster) were part of the choir tour that visited Paris over the weekend. The joint choir tour with Queen Anne's School was a huge success and provided experiences that few of us have, or are likely again, to experience. A concert in La Madeleine, and Masses in Notre Dame and St Clotilde proved to be extremely well attended and popular. The highlight for many of us was taking part in Mass on Saturday evening in the cathedral of Notre Dame, attended by roughly 600 people! The gothic slendour of the building, the mystery of a full Catholic Mass and the phenomenal playing of international organ star Olivier Lattry all made for an unforgetable experience.

The three boys, James Gifford, Nick Harper and Sam Neale all played their part, with James performing a solo in the concert at La Madeleine. Monday morning, however, came as a bit of a shock! The three were straight back into the hectic life most boys have here; Nick was part of the Public Speaking team representing the College at the Kenton Threatre on Monday evening in "Youth Speaks", Sam sat a Business Studies exam in the afternoon and James returned to his busy Art and Drama schedule.

"Who is my hero?"

2010-01-20T13:08:00.000-08:00

Head of College, Alex Baker addressed the Senior School in Assembly this morning and made us all sit up and think. He posed the question "Who is my hero?" and, contrary to expectations, did not talk about a politician, a sportsman, a musician or even a film star. He chose a soldier, Chris Ryan. Ryan was a member of the SAS in the Gulf War. In 1991 on an aborted mission and having lost his two companions (one shot dead and the other captured and subsequently tortured) he made his way 200 miles into Syria (and safety) in just seven days armed only with a gun, some water and a packet of biscuits.

Alex went on to make the point that when we think we are having a "bad day" we should stop and consider the plight of others far less fortunate than ourselves; how easy it is to take things for granted. He ended his impressive talk with a prayer for all those suffering in Haiti.

Other senior pupils will be addressing assembly in the following weeks on topics that are important to them. Watch this space!

Meltdown!

2010-01-17T14:52:00.000-08:00

The sledges have been put away, the Catering Manager has his trays back, school uniform is laid out ready for the morning and the green fields of Shiplake are in evidence once more! The College House boys are getting back into the swing of things, many are sitting examinations this week and most are looking forward to the fast approaching Exeat (Friday 22nd January at 3.30pm.). Car drivers may drive to school once again and access to parking by the boathouses is available.

Saturday saw another Open Day and Year 13 pupils were at the forefront of hosting our visitors. As ever, the reception our pupils provided, the smiling and confident faces that met the guests and the excellent tours that were conducted proved once again how competent and confident our senior pupils are. We are most grateful to them for this.

Callum Thomas - Captain of Hockey

2010-01-17T14:42:00.000-08:00

It was announced last week that Callum Thomas (Orchard) is to be this year's Captain of Hockey. Many congratulations to him! It has obviously been a very frustrating start to the season with snow wrecking training and one set of fixtures. However, with the milder weather and the reappearance of green fields (and astroturf) we wish Callum and the 1stXI hopefuls every success for the coming season. Supporters are always most welcome at matches; the 1st XI play their home matches at Reading Hockey Club in Sonning.

Business as usual...

2010-01-10T15:00:00.001-08:00

The snow seems to be melting and looking out of my window hardly any is falling. We start on Monday morning with a full day of lessons, GCSE and A Level examinations and, weather permitting, a full games programme. The boys seem to have lost some of their enthusiasm for the snow, although the sledging slope was busy this afternoon!

Year 13 must, inevitably, turn their attention to revision, exams and coursework. They have been reminded that time is short and the pressure is on. Prep time and private study is sacrosanct and must, under no circumstances, be disturbed. During this period, consideration must be shown to those taking important exams.

Back to normal?

2010-01-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

After a day of revision and coursework sessions run by the staff who managed to brave the conditions, Year 13 will, tomorrow, resume their normal timetables as far as possible. This will be the case on Saturday as well.

The boys are free to go home after their final lesson of the week, although we would, naturally, advise caution. For those with examinations early next week it is essential that they return safely and well in time.

More snow!

2010-01-06T11:22:00.001-08:00

Estimates vary but we had somewhere in the region of eight to twelve inches of snow in Shiplake today. Few day pupils made it in but the boarders were kept busy. Year 13 worked all morning and for an hour in the afternoon; it was a good chance for them to catch up with work, continue with coursework and revise for the fast approaching AS and A2 exams. Staff were available for consultations throughout the day. In the afternoon Year 13 organised a mass snowball battle on New Field; others opted for sledging in fields nearby. We were all fed superbly by Steve Beaumont, our Catering Manager and a skeleton staff. With more snow forecast, the liklihood is that tomorrow will see similar arrangements.

Day pupils who find they do not have enough work to keep them occupied are very welcome to phone or email Nick brown who will find them more to do!

Local roads, while passable in four wheel drive vehicles, are still dangerous.

College House on 22nd December.

2010-01-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

A New Year.

2010-01-05T12:26:00.000-08:00

Welcome to 2010 and the new College House Blog!

We hope you have all had a very happy Christmas holiday and wish you a successful 2010.

Well done to most of you who made it back to school tonight, braving the snowy conditions. Looking out of my study window the snow seems to be falling thicker and faster by the minute. Quite what this means for the next few days is yet to be seen.

I hope that this Blog will provide you all with useful information about our activities here and a chance to see better what we get up to. It will not replace the emails we send out with important information, so please don't feel that you will miss this information if you do not check it. However, I hope that you will visit it regularly and feel more a part of your sons' final year at Shiplake.