Today is the 40th day of Easter, also known as Ascension Day. Traditionally, this day would be celebrated by Year 13 pupils and staff making an early morning pilgrimage to Maidensgrove Common, considered the highest point in the area around Henley, for a very important 'moving on' event.
It marks the beginning of Year 13 pupils, with the school's support, coming to terms with leaving Shiplake.
The event normally starts just before 7.00am with a prayer from The Rev in which he asks pupils to reflect on their time at Shiplake. Each pupil would be equipped with bubbles which, when blown represent their wishes and, maybe also, things that they regret.
Mr Nick Brown, Deputy Head Pastoral, said: "The sight of 30 or so 18 year olds prancing around the common, dressed quite often in pyjamas or onesies, blowing bubbles is something to behold!
"A hotly contested rounders match then takes place between two teams, captained by the Head Chapel Warden and his Deputy. The event finishes with breakfast prior to returning to school.
"It is, for all involved, a magical way to start the day and a very important step in preparing to move on."
Unfortunately because of the COVID-19 pandemic this year, the event in this format could not take place. So that our current Year 13 were not forgotten, a few members of staff and pupils went up to Maidensgrove early this morning and conducted a shortened version of this ceremony (socially-distanced).
Mr Brown and The Rev were met there by Head Chapel Warden, Sydney Burnand and Deputy, Charlie Bradshaw. They said a prayer and blew bubbles on behalf of the whole of Year 13.
Mr Brown continued: "It was sad that they could not be with us and they were sorely missed, but they were all very much in our thoughts."
