In the recent memory of most, Shiplake College has taken on pupils from Year 7 and carried them right the way through their school career, to the end of Year 13. However, this hasn’t always been the case. In fact, it was only seven years ago that Shiplake took a leap of faith and opened its doors to Year 7 pupils. And what an impact Lower School has made; the vibrancy and charisma that the pupils bring is infectious, and a joy to have around the College site. And 2016 is a particularly special year, as it marks the year that the very first Year 7 pupils leave Shiplake as Year 13s, destined to become Old Vikings and lead bright futures. It hardly seems real that seven years have passed since the first ever Year 7s joined the school, and yet they have completed their school journey, moving on to a variety of endeavours and adventures.
A drinks reception was held to celebrate the seven years of their time at the College, and to thank them – and their parents – for taking that leap of faith with the school, and signing them up as the first Year 7 pupils that Shiplake had ever had. Freddy Ellis, Chris Baker, Jack Tooley, Liam Peachey, Billy Sayers, George Greenaway, Alex Bradley, Sam Collett Fuzesi, Jonnie Meadows and Scott Parker are the pupils leaving us after seven years.
Tom Caston, the first Lower School Housemaster who helped set up the Lower School in 2009, was unfortunately able to make the event but sent his best wishes to all the boys and their parents. Headmaster Gregg Davies commented that 'it has been a pleasure to watch these boys grow and learn, and we wish them all the very best in their futures.'
