I n t r o d u c t i o n “The staff at Shrewsbury are of rare quality, combining their academic strength with a “ For us at Shrewsbury real desire to teach and develop the pupils.” the celebration of Parent individuals and individual talents is where true education begins.”
Mark Turner – Headmaster
I am delighted to anticipate welcoming you to Shrewsbury is a great school, combining a long Shrewsbury School. tradition of values and beliefs with an innovative and dynamic view of the future. For over 450 Shrewsbury is an ancient school, which for almost years the alchemy of brilliant teaching, genuine five centuries has been refining and evolving the care and joint endeavour has nurtured young quality of the education that it offers. We aim men and women of poise and ideas who have to provide a rigorous approach to learning, an left their mark in a thousand different fields. extraordinary variety of extra-curricular activities, personal pastoral support and an environment We are fortunate to enjoy one of the most that encourages young men and women to grow beautiful and well-equipped schools in the country, in understanding and become caring, thoughtful where your sons and daughters will develop so and confident members of society. that they leave Shrewsbury with the aim of making a real difference to the communities in which they At Shrewsbury we appreciate the trust that you will will work and live. Along the way we hope that be placing in us. We know that choosing the right they will cement strong friendships... and have fun. school can be a daunting process, one in which the emotional investment and financial commitment is considerable. At the same time we believe the rewards provided by inspirational teaching and the opportunity to live and learn within a community that is both challenging and supportive are immeasurable. T h e S i t e
“ The most beautiful playing fields in the world, spreading and mingling imperceptibly with the pastureland of Shropshire.”
Sir Neville Cardus, staff member, writer and cricket correspondent
High above a gracious curve of the River Severn, The school buildings surround the grounds as the School occupies a commanding position. a village does its green. We are lucky to enjoy Look one way to the heart of the medieval town wide horizons, immaculate playing fields and below; look the other, and the hills of Shropshire well-tended gardens and, like their surroundings, remind us that we are in one of the most beautiful Salopians have the reputation for being open, parts of England. generous and far-sighted.
This brings many advantages: the grounds are safe and secure; pupils can walk into town in ten minutes when they have free time; the countryside and hills all around offer countless opportunities for walking, canoeing, rock-climbing, field trips and Duke of Edinburgh expeditions; our rowers are at the boathouse in under two minutes.
Shrewsbury School Founded by Royal Charter in 1552 O u r P h i l o s op h y “They encourage you to be ambitious but “ I think Shrewsbury is a place where you most of all to find the can really be yourself and where everyone’s right thing for you.” Pupil personality has a place.” Sixth Form girl
Two statues at Shrewsbury sum up our educational Both combined rare talent with humility and a philosophy – those of Charles Darwin and Sir Philip strong conviction of service to their fellow human Sidney, both former pupils and icons for generations beings. This is what we seek to imbue in our pupils. of Salopians. We will welcome your son or daughter into our Sidney – diplomat, courtier, soldier, poet – a man community, discover where his or her talents lie, with breadth of vision and ability, symbolises nurture them, and give them the self-confidence courtesy, compassion and generosity of spirit. to achieve far more than they or you might have Darwin stands for enquiry, dedication and thought possible. They may be a specialist like intellectual rigour. Darwin or an all-rounder like Sidney. We will find out.
Sir Philip Sidney (1554-86) Former pupil T h e C l a s s r o o m
“Education is about personal relationships... the age old themes of the individual and society,
Michael Charlesworth (1919-2008) the right to be oneself.” Former pupil, Member of staff, Senior Master, “Over my five years Secretary of Old Salopian Club Our pupils achieve such impressive results that The central curriculum is supported by a wide at Shrewsbury I some parents believe our intake must be variety of academic and cultural activities. Lectures, academically highly selective. In fact, we recruit debates and art exhibitions complement visits to have always felt pupils across the ability range. Our Oxbridge entry concerts, plays and galleries. Competitions, essay record, averaging around 15 places a year, places prizes and academic societies stock the mind, that I have been us in the very top bracket of schools nationally. stimulate interest and develop true learning. But we are just as proud of the less academic pushed to the best pupils who surpass expectations as we are of Outside the classroom, your son those who secure a host of A* grades at A Level. or daughter will have time for real of my abilities.” conversation – with friends, teachers, We believe that education goes way beyond the pastoral and support staff. This is Pupil criteria published by exam boards. Teachers at education at Shrewsbury. Shrewsbury are passionate about their subjects. Their enthusiasm, hard work and care for their pupils exceed the call of duty. We want Salopians to learn Lord Rees of Ludlow to think for themselves and grow in independence (former pupil, 1956-60) Astronomer Royal, Master as they prepare for university and beyond. of Trinity College, Cambridge and President of the Royal Society T h e H o u s e s
“ This is a ‘happy ship’ and that is due to the lead given by the staff and the caring
attitude that is instilled in the pupils.” Parent
There are thirteen houses at Shrewsbury: from such as sport, drama and music, learning to take September 2017, there will be seven boys’ responsibility for themselves and others. boarding houses, two dayboys’ houses and four girls’ houses for both boarders and daygirls. They The housemaster or housemistress will be a crucial each accommodate about sixty pupils between the figure, giving sound advice when necessary and ages of 13 and 18. But the houses offer more than encouraging pupils to build a rich and varied life at accommodation; they are the centre of each pupil’s Shrewsbury. He or she will also be keen to keep daily life, the very community to which they belong. in regular contact with you.
The house will be a real home, somewhere to The housemaster or housemistress is supported by relax and make friends, as well as work. It is a an assistant, a resident matron and a team of tutors, place where each pupil can feel free to be who will all get to know your son or daughter well. him or herself, where individuals flourish and The rapport between the pupils and the men and where the relationship between age groups women who look after them is based on a blend is natural and easy. Pupils become intensely loyal of informality, trust and mutual respect, which we to their houses and contribute to house activities, believe is very special to us at Shrewsbury. P e r s o n a l T u t o r i n g / C h a p e l “ The pastoral care is exemplary. The staff generate a sense of community which then expands in the mind of every pupil into a personal consideration for Personal Tutoring The Chapel the rights of others.”
Parent When it comes to pastoral care, Shrewsbury Shrewsbury is a Church of England foundation, and strongly believes in the personal touch. During Chapel retains its place at the heart of Salopian life. their first three years, all pupils have a personal We believe it is important to look after the spiritual tutor in their house who looks after them and needs of pupils, whatever their religious faith. takes a keen interest in their aspirations and Here, each week, the whole school spends time, for achievements, their progress and any problems worship, private prayer, or simply peaceful reflection. they may encounter. Formally and informally, tutors get to know their tutees very well. Salopians attend Chapel each Sunday morning and Your child will receive excellent personal, once during the week. They often take a leading academic and pastoral support. role, reading, performing or singing in the flourishing Chapel Choir. Late Sunday evening candle-lit services, Sixth Formers need very particular advice and when all are relaxed at the end of the weekend, are support in developing personal enthusiasms, sometimes held in place of the morning service. making the transition to A level, and selecting the The whole community values these occasions, right university and career. With this in mind, we which carry a very special atmosphere of their own. ask each Sixth Former to choose a teacher to be a tutor and personal mentor. He or she will look The School welcomes pupils of all faiths or after your son's or daughter’s academic welfare, none, and encourages attendance at appropriate helping them to develop their abilities and places of worship. achieve their full potential. S p o r t
“ Back passes to the goalkeeper were my speciality; indeed I scored my only goal this way, a back pass lofted
high into the top corner of the net.” Michael Palin CBE (former pupil, 1957-61)
We are passionate about sport. We are firm in Girls train and compete locally and nationally in our belief that sport is part of a balanced hockey, netball, tennis, fives, rowing, lacrosse, cricket education and therefore encourage every Salopian and cross-country. Pupils are also able to access a to participate at the level that suits them. whole host of other sports including fencing, squash, badminton, athletics, swimming and sub-aqua. Shrewsbury is a leading school in many major sports and our facilities are world class. Salopians Whatever their ability, we want all pupils to enjoy compete internationally, particularly in rowing and their sport and to be well coached. Many will play cricket, and we are one of the strongest football in a school or house team and every pupil in their schools in the country. Rugby is also played to first year is taught by the School’s top coaches as a high standard. Every pupil is also introduced part of their weekly curriculum. to the historic and fast-moving sport of fives in which we excel. We are one of the top schools Inter-house sport thrives and gives each pupil a for boys' and girls' running, gaining national team chance for a moment of glory. There is no greater medals in recent years. joy for us than to see the boy or girl of modest talent score the winning goal – the look of pride on their James Taylor face says it all. A moment to remember for ever. (former pupil, 2003-08) Former England and Nottinghamshire CCC cricketer “He has made some The following Some recent super new friends, and sports are on offer sporting seems to be making the at Shrewsbury: successes:
most of the vast range • Football • Golf • National U15, U17 and U18 • Rugby • Fencing Cricket Champions of opportunities • Rowing • Lacrosse • Winners of the Cricket Silk Trophy • Cricket • Basketball • Independent Schools National • Fives • Badminton Football Champions available.” • Athletics • Shooting • National Schools Regatta Champions Grandparent • Cross-Country • Sub-Aqua • Hockey • Canoeing • National U21, U16, U15, Beginners • Netball • Kayaking and Ladies Fives Champions • Tennis • Yoga • Medallists in all National Schools’ • Squash • Country Sports Cross-Country Competitions • Swimming • Archery • Polo T h e A r t s
“ The Shrewsbury musical experience is second to none. Every child has the opportunity to enjoy a huge range of musical activities, in one of the best musical facilities in the country.”
The performing and visual arts are a source of Versatility across the whole musical spectrum is inspiration and fun at Shrewsbury and Salopians strongly encouraged: boys and girls grappling with are always keen to be involved. A wealth of the complexities of a Shostakovich symphony in plays, concerts, shows and exhibitions provides Birmingham's Town Hall one week may well be the opportunity for pupils to make their own singing evensong in one of the great cathedrals the contribution and to experience the excitement next, having played in a rock concert in between. of working creatively together. Many of our top musicians go on to pursue professional careers, but the School prides itself on As one would expect from one of the strongest providing the richest possible education to musicians music departments in the country, the breadth of all abilities across a huge range of instruments. and quality of music-making is remarkable. The focal point is the award-winning Music School, complete with its own concert hall and state-of-the-art recording studio.
Paul Foot, Christopher Booker, Willie Rushton et al (former pupils, 1950-56) T h e A r t s “ Shrewsbury School sets new standards for any other musical that wants to
brave The Fringe.” The Scotsman
Drama Visual Arts
Drama forms a major part of Shrewsbury life. The Art School is an ideal space for creative work From the outset, boys and girls are encouraged with many large and light studios, two galleries for to take part in a varied programme of theatrical exhibitions, a History of Art lecture room, a dark activity, including shows devised and directed room and a ceramics room. All pupils study Art by themselves. Each year there is a thriving in their first year, and beyond GCSE Art, four programme of house plays, and two whole-school separate A levels are on offer: Painting and productions. We have a fine tradition of innovative Drawing; History of Art; Ceramics; Photography. music theatre, written and composed by members The Art School hosts a continuous programme of staff - and we regularly take our shows to the of exhibitions by professional artists as well as Edinburgh Fringe and London's West End. by our most talented pupils.
There are numerous trips to galleries and museums Dr Nicholas Penny - within this country, across Europe and in America. (former pupil, 1963-67) Director of the National Gallery 2008-15 and Clore Curator of Renaissance Painting at the National Gallery, 1990-2000 B e y o n d t h e C l a ss r o o m
“ Four years to the day after leaving home, I crossed the Bosphorus once more. I had made it around the world.”
Alistair Humphreys (former pupil, 1990-95) Round-the-world cyclist, author and motivational speaker. National Geographic Adventurer of the Year 2012.
Education should never end in a classroom. Sports, music and art tours, study visits and Your son or daughter will be introduced to adventure training take Salopians to all parts extra-curricular activities that will often become a of the globe. life-long passion. From bee-keeping to Model United Nations, from creative writing to robotics, a An impressive array of weekend activities includes vast range of interests and enthusiasms are also theatre and cinema trips, concerts, go-karting, catered for through our many societies and clubs. paint-balling, trips to sports matches, shopping trips Our thriving CCF and Duke of Edinburgh to Birmingham and quizzes. programmes exploit to the full our enviable geographical location within easy reach of For the past 40 years parties of Salopians have Snowdonia, the Lake District, the Brecon Beacons visited the School’s farmhouse at Talargerwyn, high and the Long Mynd. A vast range of other up in a remote forest in Snowdonia. Well placed interests and enthusiasms are also catered for for hill walking or for beach football at Harlech, through our many societies and clubs. ‘Tally’ is greatly in demand at weekends, providing a retreat from the often frantic pace of school life. S h r e w sb u r y i n t h e W o r l d
“ My deep social conscience was fostered at “I would like to thank the Shrewsbury by trips to Shrewsbury House in staff at Shrewsbury for Everton; experiences that have never left me.” ‘lighting the flame’”
Jonathan Crown (former pupil, 1977-82) Founder of Project Harar Ethiopia Adam Booth (former pupil, 1995-2000) Climbed Everest in May 2013 - the seventh former pupil to reach the summit or climb within 800 metres of it, the first being Sandy Irvine in 1924
We want Salopians to be outward-looking, Exchange programmes, musical collaborations and thoughtful and compassionate. Many volunteer gap-year placements give our pupils valuable insights for weekly community service, offering company into life in Thailand and into a region that will play and conversation at local residential care homes, an increasingly important role in world affairs. carrying out conservation work, or helping In 2018 we will open an international primary children in a local primary school. school in Hong Kong.
More than a century after its foundation, Without realising it perhaps, you will read or hear Shrewsbury House, a youth club founded by the about our former pupils every day. In every walk School in a deprived area of Liverpool, is still going of life - business, the professions, politics, the arts, strong. Residential visits to the club often have a the media and sport - Old Salopians have made lasting effect on the social outlook of our Sixth their mark and will continue to do so. Formers. In return, every summer the School welcomes a large party of Everton teenagers to Shrewsbury will provide your son or daughter with strengthen the bond between the two communities. expert advice on the crucial steps after school to university and beyond. Our Careers staff have an We have strong links with Shrewsbury exceptional knowledge of Higher Education and International School in Bangkok, founded in 2004. offer the most careful and comprehensive guidance on work experience and employability. T h e F u t u r e “ This school has given me so many opportunities to show “ The ideal is to preserve a sane balance between my colours and drive myself work and play, to play just as hard as you work.” to my own limits. And for
Robert Tisdall (former pupil, 1921-26) 1932 Olympic Gold Medal Winner, 400 metre hurdles that I am forever grateful.”
Sixth Form boy
This prospectus embodies our understanding of Darwin taught us that to evolve is to remain Shrewsbury. It is a remarkable place inspirationally strong. With the move to full co-education in influenced, over so many years, by remarkable people. 2014, these are exciting times for Shrewsbury.
The great figures of the past will always resonate If you share our vision, we invite you to come in Salopian history. Yet their greatness lies not so to Shrewsbury to meet the pupils and the staff much in their individuality as in the principles they who work here, and find out more about us. exemplify, which continue to inform our minds and ways and lead us to place notions of humanity, A warm and personal welcome awaits you. compassion, worthy exploration, true excellence and high achievement at the centre of our lives. These remain the values on which our vision for Salopian education is founded.
Mark Turner – Headmaster Unless attributed directly, all quotations are spontaneous comments made by parents and pupils currently or recently at Shrewsbury School.
The Schools, Shrewsbury, SY3 7BA Tel: 01743 280 552 Email: [email protected] www.shrewsbury.org.uk www .qs designs .org.uk