Surprise Guest at Assembly

Shiplake pupils were treated to a talk from a very special guest at the Whole School Assembly this morning.

By introduction, Headmaster, Mr Howe talked about how it is always refreshing to hear someone from outside the school talk about the values that Shiplake holds so dear. The three Is - Inclusive, Individual and Inspirational - and how the little things do matter, along with being kind, always.

He then played a video to introduce the special guest.

Mr Howe said: “Tommy Bowe is not only an Ulster, Ireland and Lions Legend, he also one of the kindest people in the profession, and he is so kind that he recorded a message for all of the Shiplake Community.”

“Hello to everyone in Shiplake College, it is Tommy Bowe here, former International Rugby Player. I just wanted to send you a quick message of support and hope that everybody is coping OK in these difficult times. 

“One thing that I cannot wait for is being able to go and catch-up with my friends again. This lockdown has certainly shown me how important it is to get out and enjoy your time with your friends. But it’s also about being kind. Even the small things by being nice to a neighbour, being nice to your parents, being nice on social media, make such a big difference.

“Well done on getting through this year, enjoy the summer, and if you are not going back to Shiplake again, enjoy whatever comes next.”

He then surprised pupils and staff by appearing live!

Tommy talked about how Mr Howe was a fantastic rugby player ‘back in the day’ and his wife who is a nurse, who has just had a baby.

He paid tribute to the amazing work the health service is doing, and how the little acts of kindness that cost nothing can make a big difference, and the ‘world certainly needs it at the moment.’

Tommy Bowe also played for Welsh rugby club, Ospeys, so Mr Jones asked the question: “Looking back over your time in Wales, were there any players who stood out for you?"

Tommy said: “I’ve played with some incredible rugby players with the British and Irish Lions, with Ireland, with Ulster and the Ospreys. 

“Shane Williams though, he scored the most tries for Wales, he’s only 5 foot 8 (or 10 he might say), so he doesn’t fit the mold of these huge rugby players that everyone talks about. But his speed, the way he was able to get involved and get over the try line - he was someone who I really learnt so much from. He and Brian O’Driscoll are probably the best players I ever played alongside.”

He then went on to talk about meeting Daniel Craig who plays James Bond who came into the changing room after the third test of the Lions in 2013, when they won the series, and Usain Bolt who he has always idolised.

Tommy finished his assembly chat with Mr Howe, by saying a personal happy birthday to all those lucky pupils who are celebrating this week.

Thank you very much for joining us today Tommy, you have really helped us to start the week on a high!

To watch the assembly in full, click on our YouTube video below.