The new academic year got underway this week, with a record number of 449 pupils now attending the College. Housemasters greeted many new faces in Year 7, 9 and 12, but it is not just pupils starting a new chapter at Shiplake. We also welcomed a number of additions to our teaching and support staff.
One newcomer who needed little introduction is Mathematics teacher Mr Ellaby, who previously attended Shiplake as a pupil. Only having left in 2002, he can now count a number of his old teachers, including Mr Brown, Mr Alcock and Dr Snellgrove, as colleagues. Mr Ellaby is delighted to put his status as an ‘Old Viking’ on hold and looks forward to frequenting the senior common room, with permission! Also joining the Mathematics department is Mr Lehane-Kendrick, who previously taught at Hampshire Collegiate School.
The History Department is also welcoming two new faces. Mrs Munro, previously at Reading Bluecoat, joins as the new Head of Department. Mrs Munro is very familiar with Shiplake, having already lived on site for two years with husband Ian (Deputy Head Academic). As well as teaching, she is looking forward to coaching rowing down at the Boat House. Mr Gillespie-Payne has moved from slightly further afield, having taught in Dubai in recent years. After far too much sunshine, we are sure he is relishing a cold winter on the rugby field.
Mrs Morgan is the new Head of Theology and Philosophy, moving from a grammar school on the outskirts of Slough. Outside the classroom, Mrs Morgan is looking forward to leading Duke of Edinburgh’s award expeditions. Mrs Redey joins our English Department on maternity cover, after the Armstrong family welcomed a new addition – Ruairi – in the summer. Mr Rose joins a thriving Business department, which has once again proved the most popular subject amongst Sixth Form students. Mr Weait, who has lived in Henley-on-Thames for many years working as a professional photographer, joins the Art Department where he will lead our newest A Level option; photography. Mrs Coulehan has joined our widely-acclaimed Learning Development, and is looking forward to helping students to realise their potential.
Following long-serving David Greer’s retirement in June, we are pleased to announce that Roy Kemp has been recruited as our new Estate Manager. Roy previously held the post of Assistant Bursar – Facilities and Compliance, at St James Schools in London. Prior to this role, he was employed as an aircraft technician in the Royal Navy. We are also pleased to confirm that Richard Evans will assume the role of Assistant Estate Manager.
We wish all new staff members a warm welcome to Shiplake.