Platinum Ball Raises £13k for Charity

Shiplake parents danced the night away at the College's Summer Ball on Saturday 25 June, which was Platinum-themed in honour of the Queen's Jubilee. Despite a sudden rain shower in the late afternoon, the clouds cleared in time for over 200 guests to enjoy a welcome drink and canapes on the Front Field in the sunshine whilst Year 10 pupils Leo Slowikowski, Felix Collar and Henry Johnston, from their band Shockwave, provided musical entertainment.

Chair of the Parents' Association, Cindy Harper, and the Headmaster, Tyrone Howe, made welcome addresses. Following a fun Heads and Tails ice-breaker, the attendees heard from Harriet Barcella, a representative of the evening's chosen charity, the Chiltern Centre. Harriet spoke passionately about the young people who benefit from the support the Chiltern Centre gives, empowering them to live life to the full, promoting choice, positive self-image and individual identity.

In addition to a delicious meal from the College's catering team, Thomas Franks Ltd, there was a raffle and silent auction, with some amazing prizes provided by Shiplake families and local businesses. The guests were then drawn to the dance floor by the spectacular band Uptown Showdown, which performed hit after hit with incredible energy and relentless fun.

Chair of the Parents' Association, Cindy Harper, adds: "The headline of the event is that the school community raised over £13,000 for the  Henley Chiltern Centre! This charity does an amazing job supporting young people who have challenges to enjoy the many aspects of life that present difficulty for them, allowing them to meet with other teens and have days out with support. This fabulous result was due to the generosity of the donations from local businesses and parents of the College. The PA team, led by Sue Partridge, organised a night full of music by Uptown Showdown, dancing, silent auction, games and delicious food. Thank you to everyone who attended and if you missed this event look we look forward to welcoming you to the next one!"

Tyrone Howe adds: "This was a terrific evening filled with laughter, dancing and fun, and all for a good cause. It was really special to be able to have parents from across all the year groups socialising with one another, when it hasn't been possible for so long. A big thank you to the team of parents on the committee who worked so hard to organise such a successful evening."

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