Whittaker

Whittaker achieved three A*s at A level plus A* in his EPQ. Following a gap year travelling around Europe he is going to Durham to do an integrated master’s in general engineering.

I have always been interested in music and started playing the trumpet when I was 10. At CH, music quickly became a big part of my life. I joined lots of different ensembles, met people who shared my passion and had opportunities to perform at Jazz Nights in Brighton and London – something I never imagined I’d get to do. Music has given me so much confidence and has taught me discipline and creativity.

Playing the Last Post on Remembrance Day was probably my biggest achievement at CH. It was one of the most emotional and challenging things I’ve ever done, but also an incredible opportunity. Since then, my confidence in music and in myself has grown enormously.

More recently, a friend and I organised two CH Live Lounge concerts in the Theatre for more than 700 people. Seeing students, staff and parents all come together to celebrate music was unforgettable. It’s now become an annual CH tradition, which is something I’m really proud to have been part of.

CH has also had a big impact on me academically. I’ve always been particularly interested in physics and maths, and my teachers and tutors have really encouraged that interest and supported me throughout my time here. Their encouragement played a big part in helping me get to Durham. In the future, I’d love to work in aircraft or rocket design and contribute to the development of space travel.

I’ve also had lots of opportunities to take on leadership roles, including assistant band captain, tennis captain, squash captain and monitor. These have helped me become more organised and confident and have taught me how to work with lots of different people. Boarding has also given me a real sense of independence, which I know will be useful as I move on to university.

I’m incredibly grateful for everything CH has given me. I’ve grown academically, musically and personally, and made some of my closest friends along the way. When I look back at how nervous I was about leaving home when I first joined, it’s amazing to think that CH has now become my favourite place. I’m excited to see where the next chapter takes me.