The Good Schools Guide Review

Shiplake College recently had a visit from the Good Schools Guide. An independent and impartial British directory, the Good Schools Guide is written by parents, for parents, and provides helpful insights and details about schools. The resulting review has been very positive, and we are thrilled to be sharing it with you.

The Good Schools Guide describes the guide as: ‘is compiled by a team of editors who visit schools on a regular basis, interviewing parents, staff and pupils and collecting the valuable knowledge and insights that data and league tables alone cannot provide.’ The creators describe it as ‘the straight-talking, independent. Unbiased and fun-guide to UK state and private schools.’ The review has been absolutely glowing, describing the College as ‘creative and innovative in how it instils a healthy learning attitude in pupils.’ The editors also write: ‘Shiplake has found a head who perfectly reflects and holds dear those values that have made it stand out as a uniquely nurturing school for half a century or more […] it is highly unlikely that anyone will leave here with a feeling of having failed […] the key to success, however, is a whole-hearted commitment to contributing to the community – in whatever way suits.’

Headmaster Gregg Davies is described as ‘intimidating and benign, humorous and serious, mischievous and earnest […] immediately likeable, he not only has a twinkle and warmth, but is the kind of man you would be pleased for your son (or daughter) to have as a role model.’ About the academic matters at Shiplake, the Good Schools Guide say: ‘very small class sizes, maximum 16 in a class, allowing each child to get individual attention and creating strong value added scores.’ The review also looks at extra-curricular options, such as sport and the arts. ‘There is tremendous enthusiasm for sport throughout the school and this is the arena where many of the students grow their confidence and self-esteem.’ The review goes on to say that ‘boarding comes in all varieties here and is tailor made to meet the demands of the families.’ The review also looks at the background and atmosphere of the school, pastoral care, well-being and discipline, pupils are parents, entrance processes, post-Shiplake paths and fees. It was a fully comprehensive guide to Shiplake, and we high recommend that families, friends and prospective pupils take the time to read it.

You can read the full review here.

Alongside the glowing report, the 2016 Good Schools Guide Awards have been drawn. Shiplake College are the proud winners of three awards:

• Best performance by Boys taking Additional science at an English Independent School (GCSE Full Course)
• Best performance by Boys taking Mathematics at an English Independent School (GCSE Full Course)
• Best performance by Boys taking Design and Technology Resistant Materials at an English Independent School (GCSE Full Course)