In today's 'A Conversation With...', we caught up with Joint Head of College, Sam Edwards, in the second and final special with our Heads of College. Now in his final year at Shiplake, we learn more about his plans for after Shiplake, as well as what some of his most memorable and proudest moments have been from his time at the College.
How long have you been a pupil at Shiplake and what are your roles?
I have been at Shiplake College since Year 9, where I was in Skipwith House. Now, I am in College House. My roles are both Joint Head of College and the Head of Skipwith House.
What subjects are you studying and why?
Currently, I am studying geography, English and history. Although these subjects are very different in their premise, they have taught me a variety of helpful skills. For myself, I enjoy the mix of subjects that I study, and I also enjoy using and applying the different skills in each of my subjects. My main interest in these subjects grew from their relevance in society today, even when I am reading a Shakespeare book from 300 years ago!
What do you think is the best thing about Shiplake College?
There are many aspects to the school which has made it so perfect over the last few years since I joined. Personally, I do not think we sing the appraisal of the teachers enough and little things that they do behind the scenes, such as an extra study clinic after school hours or at lunch times, are often overlooked. This extends as far as the boarding houses where Housemasters, house staff and, most importantly, all matrons play a crucial role in all of our day-to-day lives. I have a lot of personal respect for the effort and consideration they put in.
What have you got involved in as Joint Head of College that you are most proud of?
I believe Phoebe may have mentioned this in her own feature, but I too was very proud of our idea to hold ‘Splat the Teacher’ charity event. It was a very fun way to get everyone included in raising money for charity. It also meant the pupils had the chance to get back at their teachers (in a friendly manner of course!).
I have also really enjoyed the opportunity to be able to represent the school at conference events, prospective parents’ days, and open mornings where I have been able to deliver my own opinion of the school; all of which has been an honour and privilege for the time I have had at Shiplake.
What have been some of your most memorable moments from your time at Shiplake?
Personally, I do not have a most memorable moment. However, over the years, I have really enjoyed the time that I had in my old house in Skipwith with my peers. We have all made great friendships from the four years that we spent there together.
We recently announced the next Heads of College and Deputies; what is your advice/tips for them as they take on the role next year?
Firstly, well done to them all for getting the place as being the next Heads and Deputies of the College. They will understand the large role that they have in the school for the next year, and I would encourage them to take every possible opportunity that comes their way in the next year.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I enjoy seeing my friends and family. I enjoy watching Wales play rugby when the Six Nations and Autumn Internationals are on. I have my money on Wales winning the 2023 world cup, but I think I am quite biased!
What do you hope to do when you leave Shiplake this summer?
I am looking forward to having a relaxing break over the summer, though I do have plans to be travelling to North Vietnam with my family, as well as interrailing around Europe with some fellow Shiplake Year 13s. Beyond then, with hopefully all going well with my results, I’ll be off to university to go and study geography. After university, the plan runs dry, but I’m sure whatever I end up doing afterwards, the skills and attributes that I have picked up from Shiplake will help me along the way.
