Wellbeing Week 15-19 June

Shiplake pupils were certainly inspired this morning as Wellbeing Week kicked off before lessons, with Headmaster Mr Howe interviewing Old Viking and Olympic Gold Rower, Will Satch.

As part of the 'Be Inspired' theme for the day, Will spoke about his journey from Shiplake student to Olympic Rower, and how he has had to change his routine slightly during lockdown.

He talked about maintaining structure, as without it 'life can be very difficult'. So, as a result he still gets up at 6.00am to train, aiming for 200 kilometres a week on the ergo in his garage.

To add variety he also runs and has taken up 'wild swimming'. In fact last weekend, he swam the 15 kilometres downstream from Henley to Marlow!

When asked about being successful in the Olympics, he spoke about the small steps he took from an early age at Shiplake, where he actually started out on a rugby scholarship. He talked about how natural talent alone won't get you to the top of your game. Hard work and perseverance does. 

He said: 'Any pro you think of trains religiously - it is years of not winning that has made me successful.'

To watch the video in full, click below. 

During Wellbeing Week there are daily themes for pupils to reflect on and engage in. Each morning there will be a dedicated session that pupils will be invited to, as well as afternoon sessions which are for individual reflection and include the themes, Be Kind, Be Creative, Be You, Be Mindful, Be Free. For a full schedule of the week, see below:

We would love to see you engaging in the sessions or hear how you took part in the week. Please send your photos and stories to [email protected].