The event brought together different generations of Old Viking women, as they reminisced about their time at Shiplake and the impact it had on their lives. From the trailblazing first female students (six in the first year, three in the second) who paved the way for future generations, to the 64 current female students who continue to thrive in the co-educational environment, it was an evening filled with laughter, joy and (even after a gloomy start) lots of sunshine!

Following a drinks reception on the Skipwith terrace and dinner served from the OVR, our attention was turned to the speeches. We were treated to an opening speech from Harriet Reed-Ryan (01W) who eloquently explained the impact of the relationships she formed amongst her peer group of girls whilst at Shiplake. Describing them as ‘crown fixers’ (by delicately fixing hers and the ‘wonky crowns’ of others without them knowing they needed to be fixed) her beautiful words delivered a standing ovation and rapturous applause from the room.

Following on was a fantastic speech by Year 13 pupil Emily Over, current Head of Gilson House, who spoke of progress. Progress that perhaps until compiling the speech, she hadn’t thought deeply about. She thanked those who had come before, including past pupils and staff, for being the pioneers and for fighting the corner of girls at Shiplake to provide equality and harmony throughout the school.

Mrs Lovelock, Head of Girls Sport at Shiplake, then went on to highlight just how much progress had been made through sport over the past 25 years. She touched on the impact girls’ sport has had, through the significant wins but perhaps more poignantly, she shared the stories of quieter moments where success was less measured by trophies, but more about building self-esteem, teamwork and a lifetime love of sport. With 74 Sixth Form girls expected in September 2024, along with 44 girls in Years 7 and 8 as the College continues its transition to being fully co-educational, it is a very exciting time for Shiplake.

A final summation of the evening was delivered by Headmaster Tyrone Howe, who called on the unique bond between the girls to help drive further progress and success. He gave a call to arms for the past and future generations of females at Shiplake with a plea to encourage lost girls to get in touch with the College for future events and celebrations.   

Over the past 25 years, Shiplake College has continued to grow and evolve, offering a wide range of opportunities for all students, regardless of gender. The College has maintained its commitment to excellence in education, while also fostering a supportive community where students can live the values of the College; Inclusive, Individual, Inspirational.

As we look back on 25 years of co-education at Shiplake College, we celebrate the achievements of all the young women who have walked through its doors and look forward to the bright future ahead for the College and its students.