A contemporary Thinking Space, state-of-the-art Lecture Theatre,
high tech Recording Studio and fully-equipped Music, Art and Learning
Development Departments are all housed in our brand new John Turner Building.
The impressive new building will provide a first class learning environment for
Shiplake pupils for decades to come. Last week, we invited all members of the
College community to join us in celebration, as John Turner himself declared it
officially open.
Pupils may have moved in at the start of term, but builders
and landscapers have continued to work hard behind the scenes to complete all
the finishing touches in time for John to cut the ribbon and allow a new era of
teaching and learning at Shiplake to fully begin.
On Thursday evening, donors who kindly supported the John
Turner Campaign and a number of special guests were invited to the VIP opening
ceremony. The Headmaster outlined the rationale behind the new build and the
lengthy process involved to get to where we are today. There are, of course,
numerous individuals to thank. Firstly, Mr Davies thanked Tim Eggar, Chairman
of Governors, for his courage to support such an exciting project. Most
prominently, instead of a traditional library, we have built a contemporary and
exciting resource centre, called the Thinking Space. This provides an
environment where young people can enjoy learning independently and
collaboratively with access to the best possible facilities.
The smooth and efficient construction would not have been
possible without College bursar Neil Walne, who project-managed the
construction from start to finish. We would also like to thank architect Mark
Webber and site manager Mike Walker for their vision, insight and commitment to
the project.
The building was named after John Turner, who joined
Shiplake in 1960 in the College’s second ever term. He then served as a
governor for the best part of four decades. John has been an integral part of
Shiplake’s progression over the past 50 years, and we are pleased now to place
him at the heart of our future.
After inviting guests into the building, they were treated
to surprises on every floor. In the Music Department, current pupils showcased
their talents and the technology available at their fingertips. Old Viking and
accomplished singer/songwriter Totie Southwell wowed spectators with her
performance in the Eve Lecture Theatre, generously sponsored by fellow OV and
College governor Charles Eve.
Upstairs, guests toured the new Learning Development
Department, which will be used to support pupils of all academic abilities and
help them reach their goals. Opposite is the striking brand new Thinking Space,
which caused a great deal of excitement amongst our adult guests. Several
commented it was perhaps time for them to return to school and send their
children out to work! The reading Hive, apprentice-style Seminar Room and
‘quiet zone’ Flow Room were particularly popular.
On the top floor, the Art Department unveiled their Secret
Postcard Exhibition, which featured 115 entries ranging from professional
artists to amateur enthusiasts. Sales flooded in helping to raise over £1,500. Meanwhile,
artist and former Shiplake parent Sheree Valentine Daines painted a magnificent
portrait of Mr Davies, while Art scholars created their own sculptures and
pictures.
On Friday, we hosted an ‘open house’ and invited parents and
members of the local community to have a look around. We have been delighted to
receive so much positive feedback following the events, and hope our pupils continue
to make the most of the outstanding new facilities.
There are still many beautiful postcards available to purchase, all for a bargain £10. You can view them online in our media gallery. If you are interested in buying one (or more) of them, please email Katherine Green.
