Centenary Celebrations for Sir David Attenborough

Shiplake College marked a truly special occasion this week as pupils and staff came together to celebrate the 100th birthday of Sir David Attenborough, one of the world’s most influential voices for the natural environment.

The celebrations began on Tuesday with a commemorative tree planting, organised as part of the Year 7 English curriculum on environmental awareness. The event brought together pupils, staff and members of the College’s Eco Committee, including Sixth Form students Izzy Fawcett and F Smalley, to honour Sir David’s extraordinary legacy. Year 7 pupils gathered to witness the planting of the tree by Grounds Team member Michael, with each student invited to take part by adding a shovelful of soil. The symbolic act reflected the College’s shared commitment to environmental stewardship and the importance of caring for the natural world.

As part of the ceremony, Year 7 students Maia Elshafey, W James and Archie Neil read aloud a poem to mark the occasion:

A little dirt, a little sun
A new journey has begun
With roots down deep, and branches high,
Reaching up to meet the sky

On this day, a gift of green,
One of the best you’ve ever seen.
To mark the year and watch it grow,
More beautiful as time shall flow

We plant this tree today to honour a century,
Happy birthday Sir David Attenborough
May we be, strong and rooted, like this tree.

Reverend Medlicott also shared a moving prayer, giving thanks for Sir David Attenborough’s lifetime of work and the inspiration he has provided. In her words, "May this tree serve as a reminder of our need to care for all of creation and as it grows, may our mission to care for the world grow."

The event concluded with birthday cake, enjoyed by both staff and students, adding a celebratory touch to a meaningful occasion. The week’s activities continued on Friday 8 May with a whole-school litter picking initiative, organised by English teacher Miss Mattey in conjunction with a wider national campaign, aptly named the ‘Great Attenborough Clean-up’. Lower School and Year 9 pupils took part during lunchtime, while the wider school community, including families and staff, were encouraged to get involved wherever they are. Participants are invited to help keep their local environments clean and green, in the spirit of Sir David’s lifelong dedication to protecting the planet. Those taking part are encouraged to share photographs of their efforts with the College by emailing [email protected].

Through these activities, Shiplake College not only celebrates an extraordinary milestone in Sir David Attenborough’s life but also reinforces its commitment to environmental responsibility, ensuring that his message continues to inspire future generations. From everyone in the Shiplake College community: Happy Birthday Sir David Attenborough!