At Shiplake, we strongly believe that physical activity is an integral part of rounded personal development, and each girl is therefore required to participate in the sporting side of our diverse co-curricular activity programme.
Girls compete in three major sports across the three terms; hockey, netball and rowing, with fixtures regularly arranged against other schools in the local area. Given the small number of girls at the College, Shiplake performs admirably against much larger opponents, and often achieves positive results.
There is currently one girls’ hockey teams at Shiplake, which compete in local school leagues. It is a sport which we are particularly motivated to grow and the girls will train and compete in hockey during the winter term.
Netball is incredibly popular and there are a number of high achieving players within the teams. The girls are coached by well qualified and knowledgeable staff to ensure they progress and three teams compete in the local netball leagues.
Rowing is an option throughout the year and several girls choose to join the Shiplake College Boat Club. We have a number of successful oarswomen and crews. The girls’ 1st IV are given the opportunity to qualify for the Henley Royal Regatta each year.
Whilst these sports make up the majority of the sport for girls at Shiplake, the sports programme is supplemented with other options for those who prefer individual sports. There is also a fitness programme, which involves regular use of the new gym facilities and yoga, Pilates and Zumba classes with qualified instructors. The girls will also be able to try out for the tennis teams or join the Harriers running club. During the summer term, the girls will also have the opportunity to try some new sports, such as lacrosse and cricket, as well as playing friendly Rounders matches.
Girls have use to the main school gym and fitness facilities. Swimming in the school’s outdoor pool is also a popular recreation activity for the girls, particularly during the warmer months, where they have exclusive access to the pool.
The College sporting programme caters for all interests and abilities. For example, in recent years, Shiplake girls have been selected for regional and national teams, including the England Touch Rugby team and South Regional netball. Nevertheless, there is generally a focus on inclusivity and participation rather than performance outcome. All of the girls are given the opportunity to represent the College, should they wish to do so.
Shiplake offers girls’ the opportunity to become a Sport Scholar at the school should they currently compete at a high level inside or outside of school. Our Sport Scholars are fantastic role models and help to motivate and encourage others to participate in sport. If you think you could contribute significantly to the sport at Shiplake, you can find more information on the scholarship application page.
Shiplake aims to instil a ‘lifelong fitness’ mentality that encourages our girls to enjoy physical activity and stay fit and healthy. We hope that through providing a wide range of activities, every student will find a sport that they enjoy and can participate in for years to come.