The lasting power of a donation governorship

‘There wasn’t just one moment that inspired me to become a donation governor for Christ's Hospital — it just felt like part of my journey. I took up jogging at around 30, eventually running marathons for various charities. In 2012, looking for a charity that resonated, I saw a news article about Christ's Hospital. Then a call from a Grecian during a Christ's Hospital telephone campaign led me to ask about their experience, and I learned of the mentoring, care and support at CH now. Back in my day, no one asked about my father, who died in a plane crash when I was four and I only discovered in my 30s that my godmother had sponsored me through CH — a reflection of the era when, at eight-and-a-half, I travelled alone from north Wales to Christ's Hospital.

Becoming a donation governor ticked every box for me, the opportunity to nominate a child whom I could continue to help and support.

To me, the role of a donation governor means personal involvement with my presentee, Beatrice, and her family. The aspect of the role that I’ve found most rewarding has been getting to know them. I feel that I make a difference to Beatrice and CH by showing that I care.

My advice to someone who is thinking about becoming a donation governor, is get to know your presentee and the family you are or are thinking of working with.'

David West-Watson

'When I first heard that I had been offered the place at Christ's Hospital, I was very happy. It almost felt too good to be true and I was extremely grateful that someone was willing to present me through CH.

The opportunities provided by a CH education are helping me to reach my full potential — not only academically, but also in sports and other extracurricular activities.

My relationship with my governor is sincere and friendly — it feels like I've known him much longer than I have. I'm truly fond of him and feel very fortunate to have him in my life and my family's life. The support of my governor has made me more determined to do my very best and make him proud.

When I first joined the school, I assumed I disliked hockey, but since the first hockey session at CH, I have been thoroughly enjoying hockey and it is now one of my favourite sports.

I don't yet have specific career aspirations, but I hope that during my time at CH, I will discover a passion or interest that can guide me towards a path that inspires me.'

Beatrice

‘I was familiar with the idea of donation governors from my own time at the school. I had felt slightly deprived that I didn’t have one!

I was initially the nominated governor for a group presentee from the Medical Foundation (a group of Old Blue medics). When I found that her younger sister was desperate to join the school, I presented her myself.
It was extremely rewarding to see both girls grow into mature and capable young women. Both are now at university, but we remain in touch and I will continue to follow their careers.

I enjoyed being involved in the life of the school, receiving regular copies of the girls’ school reports, attending school events and getting a better understanding of school policy at governors' meetings.

I formed a good relationship with my presentees' mother and we worked together on any problems. I visited most holidays and discussed progress, achievements and difficulties. I was able to put bad patches or critical reports into context and provide long-term reassurance. It was lovely to be able to reinforce their successes.

Being a donation governor brings the Charge alive and provides a most enjoyable
way of fulfilling it.’

Janet Porter

'I first met my governor, Jan de Walden (PrepB, LHB, MdA 64-71) and his wife Caryn nearly 13 years ago during the admissions process for CH. Since then, they have been like second parents to me, guiding me through my seven years at school and continuing to support me ever since.

What began as formal introductions very quickly grew into a genuine bond. From dinners and rugby matches to pub conversations and regular catch-ups, Jan and Caryn have been a constant presence through many highs and lows.
Their encouragement was especially important during the Covid pandemic, which cut short my time at CH and unsettled the start of university. Their belief in me carried me through that challenging period.

One of my proudest moments was telling them I would be graduating from the University of Liverpool with a Law degree. Their joy was palpable and made me reflect on our shared journey, from an 11-year-old with no clear sense of the future, to achieving something I had once only dreamed of.

Another moment I treasure was at Jan’s birthday party last year, when he introduced me to his friends and family as being ‘like a son’ to him and Caryn. That meant a lot to my family and me.

'The support of my governor has truly transformed my life and I will be forever grateful. To Jan and Caryn, I say simply: thank you for everything — I promise I will not let you down.'

Daniel Onyango