Carol Service 2021

21 December 2021

After a two year hiatus, it was wonderful to welcome pupils and parents back to St Mary's Church, Henley-on-Thames for the annual Carol Service on Wednesday 15 December, the last day of term.

As parents and pupils walked up to the church they were entertained with Christmas songs played by Embassy Brass outside the entrance. After everyone was seated, Camerata commenced proceedings with a joyful rendition of Ding Dong Merrily on High followed by a warm welcome from the St Mary's Rector, Fr Jeremy Tayler and Shiplake's Chaplain, Revd Chris Briggs.

In Shiplake tradition, Year 8 pupil, Jack Dag then started the carols with a beautiful a capella first verse of Once in Royal David's City. He was then joined by Camerata for the second verse before the congregation joined in, albeit wearing everyone wearing face coverings.

There were also traditional carols from the Shiplake Chorus and the Male Vocal Group, and Christmas story readings by pupils from across all year groups, Head Chapel Warden Abi McCarthy, Deputy Chapel Warden Jed Blacknell and the Headmaster, Mr Tyrone Howe.

The service ended with the whole congregation singing Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and then a sea of Shiplake blazers adorned the streets of Henley as pupils and parents went off to start their Christmas break together.

Please enjoy this highlights video which captures the wonderful service into less than ten minutes.