The College is two and a half miles upstream from Henley on Thames. It is situated in beautiful countryside on the north bank of the river and has all the advantages of a country school and yet is within easy reach of London, Heathrow and the South of England.
Visitors soon recognize a special atmosphere. This is a product of Shiplake being a relatively small school with a recent foundation where there is a close working relationship between pupils and a stable staff.
Shiplake was founded in 1959 and is still evolving its customs and institutions. We respect and maintain traditional values but respond quickly to changes. For example, the educational world of the 1990s is reflected in our timetable and in the many building projects of recent years.
The feeling of community owes much to the school's size. There are about 310 pupils, it is possible for the teaching staff to get to know every boy and for boys to develop friendships throughout the school. There is a staff/pupil ratio of 1:9.
Shiplake offers a great variety of activities and experiences. There is an active cultural life, all major sports are coached to high standards, a wide range of clubs and societies also suggest a feeling of constant activity, energy and enthusiasm.
The motto of the College is Exemplum Docet and staff and boys are encouraged to respect it. An alternative motto might be 'maximum results with minimum fuss'. Whether in the classroom, in the orchestra, on the stage or on the sports field, boys are always expected to try their hardest.
