Paloma

Paloma is going to Warwick University to study Film and Literature.

I joined in Year 9 and was fortunate enough to receive a bursary. My Donation Governor is lovely. We meet up regularly, and she’s become a real mentor to me.

It was the theatre that first drew me in. I remember seeing productions like West Side Story and thinking, ‘I want to be on that stage.’ I don’t think I realised quite how much I loved theatre and drama until I came here.

I’ve thrown myself into every production I possibly could, performed with the Choir and Schola Cantorum, sung at St Paul’s Cathedral and taken part in events such as Peele Fest and Live Lounge. Theatre has given me unforgettable experiences, but, more importantly, it’s given me lifelong friendships. There’s something incredibly special about creating a performance together and telling a story that’s much bigger than yourself.

Being a boarder built my confidence, strengthened my character and gave me some of the strongest friendships I’ve ever had. When you’re living side by side with the teachers and staff, you get to know them in a completely different way from an ordinary teacher. We have genuinely strong relationships.

I’ve also loved serving as a Monitor. What I enjoyed most was being there for the quieter students who weren’t always the centre of attention. I liked being someone they could come to. You become friends with the younger student and build incredibly strong bonds.

I’ve also been a tour guide for the museum. I’ve been doing the historical tours since Year 9 and this year I became a senior guide. I’ve absolutely loved it. You learn so much about the history of Christ’s Hospital, which makes you feel much more connected to the school. It also really develops your public speaking and communication skills, and one of my favourite parts is chatting with the visitors afterwards.

I’ve also helped with the school’s social media and taken part in societies such as the Mixed Heritage Society and Anti-Sexism Society. Every opportunity has encouraged me to speak up, meet new people and become more confident.

Ultimately, I’d love to work in theatre or film. Art has always been part of my life, but Christ’s Hospital gave me the confidence to realise what I was capable of and the freedom to discover who I am creatively.

I hardly recognise myself from the anxious student who first arrived. I was terrified of everything. Being in an environment where you’re encouraged to be yourself and to get on stage and sing without worrying that people are going to laugh at you, has made such a difference.

Everyone here wants everyone else to succeed. People are encouraged to be themselves. I think that’s one of the biggest differences about Christ’s Hospital. There isn’t a hive mentality where everyone feels they have to fit into the same mould. People are genuinely themselves. And that’s what I’ve gained. I’ve found myself.