At the end of the Autumn term, the Shiplake community bid farewell to three much-loved members of staff, who depart from the College to pursue new adventures and follow career paths. Mr Chris Ham leaves Shiplake to take up a post at the North London Collegiate School. Mr Joel Rowlinson leaves not just Shiplake, but England in its entirety, heading on to international school Markham College in Lima, Peru, and Mr Ross McSweeny leaves to tackle new opportunities and challenges.
Music teacher Mr Chris Ham leaves after more than two years at Shiplake. Chris has been a bright and innovative influence in the Music Department, organising lunchtime concerts and conducting at various events throughout the calendar. Musical highlights pepper Chris’ time at the College; from House Singing to the recent Winter Concert and Carol Service, the department has grown and flourished during his time at the school. Chris commented that ‘I will miss the caring atmosphere and ethos of the school, which is created by great colleagues and pupils alike. We are so lucky to have some fantastic facilities in a beautiful site on the bank of the Thames.’ Moving on to teach at the North London Collegiate School from January, Chris is excited to live near friends and family in London.
Design and Technology teacher Mr Joel Rowlinson leaves after four years at Shiplake College. Joel has experienced many different roles whilst at the College, including as Resident Tutor for College House and Head of Football. He commented that ‘most of all, I will miss the real sense of community at Shiplake, and the dedicated, hardworking colleagues that I can truly call my friends.’ Joel has certainly made his mark on the school; popular with staff and pupils alike as he is ever-willing to try his hand at something new, both coaching football teams and playing with the staff against local rivals. Joel leaves to follow his teaching career to Peru, where he and his work will take up teaching posts at Markham College, Lima.
Head of Marketing and Communications Mr Ross McSweeny leaves Shiplake after two years in the Marketing Department. Ross was instrumental in championing the brand of Shiplake, giving a unique and innovative voice to the College’s various social media outlets, as well as taking time to coach the boys’ football. Ross would never miss the opportunity to become involved with sport at Shiplake, participating in every cross country event and playing for the staff football team. Ross moves on to travel South America for four months, learning about local culture and seeing sites of natural and historic significance, before returning to England to pursue a career in marketing.
Each Shiplake leaver will be dearly missed, and Shiplake College would like to take this opportunity to thank departing staff for their dedication and commitment.
