Throughout the last seven decades, members of the Shiplake community have been making us proud with their exceptional achievements in both their public and personal lives. We would like to recognise those inspirational Old Vikings who have made an outstanding contribution and are thrilled to build on previous awards, with nominations now open for the Old Viking of the Year 2024 Awards. In order to win one of these prestigious awards, the recipient will have demonstrated notable achievements or excellence in their profession or voluntary work, over the past 12 months (2024). They will have acted as an outstanding role model for Shiplake’s alumni and pupil community, and have personified Shiplake College’s core values, the 3Is: ‘Inclusive, Individual, and Inspirational’. Whilst nominations are anticipated to come under one of five categories, the criteria for nominations is broad. We would like to see entries from across all sectors including business, sport, science, the arts and sustainability, to name just a few. All we ask is that the nominations show a clear demonstration of someone who has excelled or made a major contribution during 2024.

The Headmaster, Mr Tyrone Howe, says: "We are excited to build on the success of our Old Viking of the Year Awards, which are a demonstration of our pride in the wider members of the Shiplake community, as well as showing our current Shiplake pupils and Old Vikings that we value their contribution to society as highly as their career goals and other aspirations. I'm really looking forward to receiving the nominations."

Shortlisted nominees and winners will be chosen by a poll issued to all Old Vikings.

Charity or Community Champion

This award could go to an Old Viking who has helped with a charity or good cause whether through fundraising or volunteering time. Or someone who has made exceptional contributions to a community (in the UK or abroad), through giving up their time for a community group, charity, school or sports club. Perhaps the nominee has achieved an act of heroism? Or perhaps they deserve a nomination for outstanding dedication to the care and/or development of others.

Ones to Watch (OVs Under 30)

This award is open to recent Old Vikings aged under 30 years old, as well as current Year 13 pupils, who are in the early stages of their career or area of talent and showing promising signs for the future. This could shine a spotlight on a young entrepreneur or someone on course for stardom or success in an area such as sport or the creative arts.

Arts and Media

This award will recognise Old Vikings who are working in or involved in arts and culture. Nominees may be demonstrating ingenuity, influence or creativity in areas such as art, drama, design, media (including YouTube and social media), video, TV, and music.

Sporting Achievement

This award is for Old Vikings who are demonstrating achievement or contributing to any sport, at a local, national or international level.

Business and Industry

This award aims to recognise alumni who are initiating and contributing to new ideas, solutions and business opportunities, or achieving entrepreneurial excellence, demonstrating growth, impact or commercial success. This could be within any industry sector.