On Saturday 31 January, the Shiplake community came together for the inaugural Shiplake College Wellbeing Day, a brand‑new event bringing parents, staff, and expert speakers together to explore some complex wellbeing challenges facing young people today. More than 100 attendees took part in a full programme of talks, workshops, and discussions designed to support pupils and their families. The day began in the late morning with an energising welcome reception featuring homemade granola bars and ginger and turmeric shots—setting the tone for a day centred around health, positivity, and shared learning. Headmaster Mr Howe formally opened the event, reflecting on the importance of collaboration between home and school: “This is our Shiplake way of trying to help you, to help them, and in the same way that helps us – because it is about triage between students, parents and the school.” He also introduced the College’s Paws for Thought fundraising campaign, a major initiative to create a new, purpose‑built Wellbeing Centre to enhance provision for both physical and mental health.
Following his welcome, the day’s host—broadcaster Ginny Buckley—guided guests through the schedule with warmth and professionalism, ensuring smooth transitions between an impressive lineup of speakers. The keynote talk was delivered by Alicia Drummond, CEO and Founder of The Wellbeing Hub. Her session, ‘Every Teenager Needs a Parrot’, struck a chord with many in the audience, offering relatable and research‑informed insights into how parents can help teenagers build resilience and emotional regulation. Next, Dr Shilpa McQuillan shifted focus to an equally important topic: the Menopause and Perimenopause. With clarity and empathy, she provided a clinically grounded overview that resonated strongly with parents.
One parent commented on the day’s programme: “The variety of talks has been so informative and fascinating, it’s been a really positive feeling all day.” Guests continued conversations over a nutritious afternoon tea in the Great Hall, featuring healthy sandwiches and wraps, detox cookies, oatmeal and honey scones, and even a low‑sugar carrot cake—fuel for the afternoon’s specialist breakout sessions.
In the afternoon, attendees joined focused workshops tailored to specific areas of teenage wellbeing:
- ‘The Teenage Brain & Nutrition’ – Michelle Smith (Forage Nutrition) delivered a compelling talk on how food choices influence mood, cognition, and athletic performance.
- ‘Safety Beyond the Gates’ – Simon Faulkner OV (85E) offered practical guidance on preparing teens for independent travel, from navigating London to planning global gap years.
- ‘Understanding ADHD’ – Rory Abery provided an engaging masterclass on the ADHD brain, sharing actionable strategies for supporting young people both at home and in school.
To conclude the day, Shiplake’s Pastoral Leader Mrs Frost spoke about managing exam stress and anxiety, offering practical techniques for students and their families. Mr Howe then returned to the stage to close the event, thanking the speakers, Ginny Buckley for hosting, Mrs Spearing and Miss Pasmore for organising the event and all attendees whose participation and ticket purchases helped raise funds for the Paws for Thought campaign. The first Shiplake College Wellbeing Day was a powerful example of community spirit and shared purpose—an important step forward in supporting the next generation.
For Shiplake parents: Access Alicia Drummond’s talk and hundreds more resources via The Wellbeing Hub.
Support the Paws for Thought Campaign to help build our new Wellbeing Centre.
