Shiplake's Scholars form part of the Exemplum Docet Society (named after the school motto, meaning 'the example teaches'). The society is run by Master of Scholars, Mr Joe Player.
Scholarships and exhibitions are merit-based awards designed to reward excellence and celebrate and nurture exceptional talent. Scholarships are offered to pupils who demonstrate outstanding academic, sporting or artistic ability. The progress of scholars is closely monitored and they are expected to maintain an exemplary level of behaviour and commitment to their studies, as well as contributing actively to their field of scholarship.
Our scholars are identified around school by scholars’ badges and will receive additional enhancement and enrichment opportunities in their field of scholarship, such as trips, speakers and access to competitions.
Applying for a Scholarship
Generally, scholarships are available for pupils applying for all three of the major entry points, and you will find information about the criteria and application process for each on the College's Scholarships Admissions Page. Scholarships are also available to internal candidates moving into Years 9 and 12, and Shiplake pupils considering applying should discuss this with the appropriate head of department for advice and endorsement and we will also review a pupil’s behaviour record when considering them for an award.
Meet the Head Scholars
Zac Powell (Academic)
What opportunities are there for Scholars?
As a Scholar, I have had plenty of opportunities to help other pupils improve in my field. Also, I organized an inter-house competition which took place last year. This was a maths competition.
What has been your favourite part of being a Scholar?
The best thing about a Scholarship is representing your favourite subjects as an ambassador.
What do you think a Scholar should be doing at Shiplake College?
A scholar at Shiplake should be someone who is curious, eager to learn, and ready to dive into any task with enthusiasm. Scholars are the people who don't just achieve highly, but help those in their chosen field.
Tell us about a teacher or coach at Shiplake who has really helped you?
Mr Mackworth-Praed is not just my maths teacher, but also my coach. He helps with my understanding in applied and further maths in an easy and simple way.
Tell us about a fun fact about yourself!
I won a silver medal at National Schools' Regatta last year, rowing for the 2nd Eight.
E Young (Art)
What opportunities are there for Scholars?
At Shiplake, Scholars have the opportunity to be involved in all parts of school life; whether it be running clubs, representing on Open Mornings, or creating competitions in the area of their subject. Scholars also have Masterclass Mondays, where we are given a talk from a speaker. This is always really fascinating as all types of people come to Shiplake to share their experience in the world of work.
What has been your favourite part of being a Scholar?
My favourite part of being a Scholar was being given the opportunity to contribute to the Art Department. As an art scholar, the goal I set for myself was to begin running a Lower School art club every week. I found this so interesting and eye opening as I could see how everybody approached the tasks in their own unique way. Representing the Art Department on Open Mornings was just as great as I was able to show off the best part of art as a subject to prospective families as well as seeing what other years had been getting up to!
What do you think a Scholar should be doing at Shiplake College?
At Shiplake, Scholars should be trying their hardest in every aspect of school life, whether it be inside the classroom or outside. Scholars represent the best of the College, and we are role models to other pupils through strong worth ethic and a positive attitude towards things they are involved in. As a Scholar, it’s important to demonstrate academic perseverance but, just as importantly, the ethos of the school: kindness.
Tell us about a teacher or coach at Shiplake who has really helped you?
Miss Jiggens has been such a supportive mentor for me in both Year 12 and 13 as an Art Scholar. I have always been able to go to her for guidance and advice so that I could stay on top of work and try to be the best scholar I could. Thanks to her, I have been able to get so involved in art at Shiplake, through running art clubs and helping out in Open Mornings.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
A fun fact about me is that I love to sing which led me to join Camerata in both Year 12 and 13!