Paloma was awarded a place in the School Leadership Award Programme with The Rank Foundation in recognition of her extensive community action work, supporting the elderly and nursery children, and for her outstanding leadership potential. The award offers work placements with non-profit organisations and mentoring opportunities, to develop leadership skills, as well as a grant to support her future studies and continued social impact.

As well as her community action work, Paloma is embracing the opportunity of drama that are offered at Christ's Hospital and performed in the 2024 production of Les Misérables.

Photo: Paloma starring in Les Misérables as the Bishop

'I joined Christ's Hospital in the LE. I am studying art, drama and English for my A levels, which are so enjoyable thanks to the incredible facilities and staff at Christ's Hospital.

In UF, I was introduced to Community Action and chose to take part, thinking it might be something I would enjoy. I began working in a nursing home, inspired by my experiences with my grandfather and I loved spending Tuesday afternoons there. The next term I stepped out of my comfort zone and worked in a nursery. It was so fun, that I have gone back to nurseries ever since and find it such a valuable way to spend my time. Without Community Action, I may never have realised how much I enjoy working with children. 

A place on the School Leadership Award Programme with The Rank Foundation is a wonderful opportunity. This programme involves the opportunity to participate in community action placements around Britain. In addition, there are workshops and video calls, to build leadership and teamwork skills. 

I recently created a film to raise awareness of the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, which was fascinating, I aspire to be a film director and use my work to raise awareness and speak out. The grant will help me pursue English and Film at university.’