This week we had A Conversation With... Josh Howard, our 2018-2019 Head of College. Most people will see Josh around the College with the group of prefects, or on the rugby pitch or cricket field. Josh joined the College in Year 9, and now studies Chemistry, Maths and Physics.
How long have you been at Shiplake for?
I have been at Shiplake for five years. I started in Year 9 in Orchard House. It was a really great experience, especially as there were 25 boys in my year, which was quite a lot for a day house. I loved my four years in Orchard with Mr Mallins as my Housemaster, but equally I have really enjoyed being in College House.
What does your average day entail?
I wake up around 6.30am, which is something I definitely won’t miss! This gives me enough time to get ready for my day before I get the bus at about 7.20am, which gets me in for 7.45am. On Monday and Wednesday, I head to chapel or assembly, then it's various lessons throughout the day: including Physics, Chemistry and Maths. Normally, I have sport in the afternoons. Before I go home I manage to fit in a couple of hours of revision and dinner as well. Recently, when I’ve been getting home I also do some work for my upcoming exams.
What do you consider to be your best quality?
I would say I am a good listener, which helps being in the leadership role that I am in. Especially with a large group of prefects that come up with lots of good yet different ideas, to be able to listen to them and then pick out the ones that will have the best outcome. But also when younger pupils come to me, whether it’s advice or even just to have a chat, I think it is a really crucial quality to have in this role.
What have you learnt from your time at Shiplake?
Do absolutely everything the College has to offer for you. The Headmaster always said, opt into everything that you can here and I’m confident that I have. I’ve been involved in music, a range of different sports, CCF and of course, academics. I’ve also been able to go on rugby and cricket tours to the most amazing places. Shiplake has enabled me to do all of this and I am extremely happy that I came here.
What has been the biggest challenge as Head of College?
I think that is yet to come! Singing with the Headmaster, I am musical but singing is not my thing. I’m sure on the night it will all go smoothly but I am still very nervous.
What has been the highlight of your time at Shiplake?
Almost too many to count but definitely the different sports tours. Last year, going to Antigua was just amazing, we had the perfect balance of fun and playing cricket, although we didn’t win too many! Another highlight is when it’s sunny, and being on the front field with friends, passing a rugby ball or playing a bit of cricket. I can’t quite explain just how good it actually is.
What has been your favourite rugby and cricket match that you have played?
My favourite rugby match has got to be playing Friday Night Lights in Year 12. I didn’t expect to start so that was a bonus; winning that was just the best feeling. The best cricket match for me was when we played against Millfield. Unfortunately we lost, but we did get a very nice tea afterwards!
What does the future hold for you?
I’m looking to travel next year, experience the world a bit and see what it has to offer. Then I’m looking to go to university, either at Southampton or Surrey, to study aerospace engineering but I need to get the grades first!
