Whittaker, Grecian (Year 13) Excelling at playing the trumpet, physics and in sport and leadership roles, Whittaker has made the most of every opportunity at Christ’s Hospital. Following a gap year travelling around Europe discovering different musical cultures and languages, he hopes to complete an integrated masters reading general engineering at Durham. His dream is to pursue a career in designing aircraft or building rockets to help develop our capabilities for space travel. Where it began 'When I was first offered a place at Christ’s Hospital, I was nervous to leave my home and friends. Now, it has become my favourite place and has shown me the immeasurable value of a CH education - an opportunity I hope many more children will be able to experience.' The life-changing opportunity of a CH bursary '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. The facilities here are second to none, and all of this would have been out of my reach if not for the generosity of CH donors.' Photo: Whittaker as Squash Captain Discovering a passion for music 'I have always had an interest in music, and I began playing the trumpet at the age of 10. When I joined CH, music quickly became central to my experience there. I took part in a wide range of ensembles, where I met people from diverse backgrounds who shared a mutual passion for music. Photo: Whittaker playing with the school band at St Matthew's Day, London With the support of the musical provision at CH, my understanding of music and performance ability improved drastically. This progress led to opportunities to perform externally at Jazz Nights in Brighton and London during the school holidays—experiences I had never imagined having. Through this journey, I developed confidence, discipline, and creativity, qualities that will stay with me long after I leave CH.' Academic growth and ambition 'CH has also shaped my academic journey. The science departments here have enabled me to progress as an aspiring STEM student. From starting my GCSE physics course in LE (age 13), to sitting the Physics Aptitude Test as part of my Oxford application, my love for physics continues to grow, driving my curiosity and broadening my knowledge.' Photo: Whittaker shaking hands with the Lord Mayor Leadership and personal development 'In my final years at CH, I have been given many leadership opportunities including Assistant Band Captain, Tennis Captain, Squash Captain, and School Monitor. These roles have strengthened my communication, organisation and leadership skills. In addition to this, the independence that I have gained from being immersed in boarding life has prepared me for my next step.' Photo: Whittaker in Senior Jazz Ensemble performing at a school Big Band concert (pictured alongside Ex-Senior Grecian Hoyeon Chang) Moments I will never forget Lifelong Bonds 'Playing the Last Post on Remembrance Day was the most emotional, moving and mentally challenging thing I have ever done, and I would say, my biggest achievement so far. Such a breathtaking opportunity to be given, especially at such a young age. Since then, my self-confidence in music, and in myself, has grown enormously.' Photo: Whittaker ready to perform in his final Lord Mayor's Show with the CH Marching Band Showcasing a talent for music 'More recently, a friend and I organised two, two-hour music concerts in the CH Theatre for over 700 people. These were the Junior and Senior showings of the ‘CH Live Lounge’; a concert that has very recently become an annual tradition and is an opportunity for all students to showcase their talent for music. Seeing students, staff and parents come together to celebrate music was unforgettable and showed me the power of teamwork and community.' Photo: Whittaker playing lead trumpet in the CH Big Band summer concert Future ambitions 'My application to Durham University is something I would not have been able to do without the support and encouragement of my tutors and teachers at CH. I hope to complete an integrated masters in general engineering at university, as physics and maths are where my interests and aptitude lie. I would love a career either in aircraft or rocket design, to support the development and capabilities for space travel.' Thank you to those who made it possible 'Words cannot describe the magnitude of the opportunity that CH and donor support gives to students like me. I hope to give back and support CH when I am further on in my life’s journey, to express my gratitude for the generosity and kindness of those who made this opportunity available to me.' 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. (May 2026)