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Victoria, Grecian (Year 13)

Victoria’s experience at CH has been life-changing, from being a Monitor, Principal Clarinettist and Band Captain to representing CH in the 1st teams for hockey and netball and competing at county level in athletics. She now hopes to read medicine at university and to become a paediatric surgeon.

Captivated by CH

I grew up as a naturally shy child who rarely stepped out of her comfort zone, even though I was always bright and eager to learn. From the moment I stepped onto the grounds, I was captivated. I fell in love with the atmosphere, the sense of community, and the endless opportunities available to the students. I remember being especially in awe of the marching band and since I had already been playing the clarinet in primary school, I made it my mission to one day be part of it. By the time we left that open day, I knew this was exactly where I wanted to be.

Self-belief through bursary

Without my bursary, I would never have had the chance to come to Christ’s Hospital, a place that has transformed my confidence and shaped me into who I am today. It has opened doors I could never have imagined, from singing with the Gospel Choir at incredible venues like Royal Albert Hall and St Paul’s Cathedral, to being part of the band, a community that I am genuinely proud to belong to.

Photo: Victoria with the clarinet section of the CH band

Most importantly, it has allowed me to foster and grow my love for sport. Thanks to the bursary I have received, I’ve been able to take part in every sporting opportunity available - especially netball and athletics - and I’ve even reached county level in both. This bursary hasn’t just given me opportunities; it has given me belief in myself, and that has made all the difference.

Photo: Winning medals in hockey

A journey of academic growth

CH has helped me grow significantly academically, especially by offering such a wide range of subjects that broadened my knowledge and helped me discover what I’m genuinely passionate about.

When I first arrived, the subject I found most challenging was Biology - the pace and depth felt demanding at first - but with the support of Ms Dotor Cespedes, who is both my biology teacher and my Medicine tutor, I gradually built confidence and understanding. Her guidance made a huge difference, and over time, Biology became my strongest subject, with me consistently performing at the top of my year.

Looking back, I can see how much more confident, focused, and independent I’ve become in my learning, and I’m grateful for how CH has helped shape the student I am today.


Teamwork and sporting achievements

Sport has been a real inspiration for me at Christ’s Hospital, and it has continually motivated me to push myself. There is no better feeling than stepping onto the pitch with my teammates and sharing the excitement of a hard-fought match. I have represented CH in several sports to a high standard, and some of my proudest achievements include playing in the 1st teams for both hockey and netball, as well as competing at county level in athletics for the 200m and high jump.

Photo: Victoria with the 1st team for netball


A leading role in music

Alongside sport, becoming Principal Clarinettist and a Band Captain in the school’s band has been a huge milestone for me, especially as I have been dedicated to the clarinet since Year 7. Being part of the Gospel Choir, performing in wonderful places that have made my time at CH even more special.

A particularly memorable experience was band tour, travelling to different countries to perform. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that combined my love for music with the joy of sharing it with others.

Photo: Lady Mayor's Show 2025


Memorable moments

It’s difficult to choose just one happiest memory at Christ’s Hospital, because being at CH as a whole has been the best and happiest part of my life. I would say, though, that most of my happiest memories have one thing in common: the friends and community I’ve made here. I am also incredibly proud of earning my role as a monitor and being able to lead my peers.

Whether it’s in-house nights, big year group events like House Singing, or on the sports field with my teammates, the memories I’ve made are ones I will hold onto for a lifetime, alongside the friendships I’ve gained—something I never expected when I first arrived.

Photo: Band Captains 2025

Looking to the future

I plan to go on to medical school, and I’m proud to have already received interviews for the universities I have applied to. Christ’s Hospital has supported me hugely in this ambition through the Medical Society, science enrichment opportunities and teachers who have encouraged my interest in medicine.

My volunteering through community action, which includes going to care homes or preschools, has strengthened my desire to become a paediatric surgeon, showing me how much I value caring for others. Looking ahead, I hope to gain more medical experience, travel, and continue volunteering to broaden my understanding of healthcare. CH has prepared me academically and personally, giving me the confidence and determination to pursue my future in medicine.

Thank you for a life-changing opportunity

If I could thank a donor personally, I would say thank you - not only for giving me the chance to attend Christ’s Hospital, but for believing in the potential of students like me who might never have imagined having access to such an opportunity. Your generosity has changed my life in ways I could never have expected, from academic support to the friendships, leadership roles, music and sporting opportunities that have shaped who I am. CH has become a home to me, a place where I have grown in confidence, discovered new passions and begun working towards a future in medicine. Your support doesn’t just fund an education; it creates possibilities, unlocks potential and transforms lives. I hope you continue supporting CH, because there are so many more young people whose futures could be changed just as much as mine has been.

 

Support 21 Futures

'A CH bursary has made it possible for me to receive a world-class education. I have been able to grow academically, musically and athletically, surrounded by my closest friends and supportive teachers.'

Whittaker's journey shows the difference your support can make. Join the 21 Futures campaign and ensure 21 more students get the same life-changing opportunities.  DONATE

Professional photos by Toby Phillips Photography. All rights reserved. (June 2026)