Decisions

Headmasters have to make tough calls sometimes. I enjoyed this email exchange, and hope the authors don't mind me quoting them:


To: Davies, Mr AGS
Subject: Periods 8 and 9 - Monday 2nd February [Scanned]

Dear Mr Davies

I am writing to you not as one voice but the entire voice of Shiplake College to miss Periods 8 and 9 to have fun in the snow.

I am sure when you were our age you would have wanted to the same. The Orchard boys have been allowed home after lunch so I think it is only fair if you let the borders have fun as well. Don’t you agree?

I think we deserve this as we have all worked very hard this morning. All other schools in the local area have been given the whole day off. I am sure the teachers would support you in this responsible decision.

We must be allowed out in this white wonderland. You cannot say s’no!

Regards,

English Set 3 Year 9.

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Dear English Year 9 Set 3

I appreciate you taking the time to email me with this request. To be clear, not all Orchard pupils will be going home. Certainly those who live some distance away will have that opportunity, others have asked to board overnight.
I can certainly remember enjoying some fun when it snowed but I can not remember ever being allowed to miss school. You will have an opportunity at 3pm to go to the New Field to play. Also I have asked Housemasters to select a snowman-building team to go on the front field. This will be judged by the Art Department and a prize given.
So, sorry, it seems I can say “No”!

Regards Gregg
A.G.S. Davies
HeadmasterShiplake College
www.shiplake.org.uk

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PS Burr seemed more interested in practical ballistics, so our snowman remains a dream.