Work has officially begun on an exciting new chapter for Shiplake College, with construction starting on the new Wellbeing Centre during the Easter holidays. The contractor compound has now been established on site, marking the first visible step in bringing this important project to life.
A recent visit to the site highlighted the progress being made. Tony Forder, foreman for the contractor Francis Construction, shared that the foundations have now been carved out, making the footprint of the new building easy to see and bringing the plans firmly into reality. It is a crucial step forward as the Wellbeing Centre begins to take shape. The Wellbeing Centre will be constructed using a modular build approach, with the main structure assembled off site before being craned into position later in the project.
The new Centre will replace the current medical wing and provide a purpose‑built, modern space focused on supporting pupil health and wellbeing. Designed to offer a holistic approach, the Wellbeing Centre will include additional facilities for counselling, therapy and other wellbeing services, reflecting the College’s ongoing commitment to nurturing both the physical and emotional wellbeing of our community. Construction is scheduled to continue through the Summer Term, with the building due to be completed during the summer holidays.
Alongside the start of construction, the College is delighted to launch a Buy a Brick campaign as part of the wider ‘Paws for Thought’ fundraising initiative. This campaign offers members of the Shiplake community the opportunity to play a direct role in the creation of the Wellbeing Centre. Supporters can sponsor a brick on the Pathway to Wellbeing or become part of the building’s foundation, leaving a meaningful and lasting legacy for future generations of pupils. Funds raised through Buy a Brick and associated Paws for Thought events will go directly towards the development of the Wellbeing Centre and its facilities. Every contribution, large or small, helps bring this project one step closer to completion.
We look forward to sharing further updates as construction progresses and thank our community for their continued support as we break new ground for wellbeing at Shiplake College.
