Old Blue Trevor Tomkins (60-66, MaA, ColB) generously pledged a £30,000 match gift to inspire others to give, increasing the impact of their support for Christ's Hospital students.

After reconnecting with Christ's Hospital in the 1980s through the Friends of Christ’s Hospital in the US, he is now back in the UK, remaining closely involved with the school as a Donation Governor supporting a current CH student.

'I feel inspired by what the school is today—the diversity of students, the holistic education, and the life-changing opportunities it provides students from all backgrounds. My own education at CH gave me a strong start in life, and I’ve been fortunate in my career. Now I’m in a position to support the school and encourage others to do the same.'

Trevor believes in the power of the CH community coming together to make a difference:

'I hope that my gift will inspire others to support the school on an ongoing basis. I really encourage everyone who has any association with CH—Old Blues, parents, relatives and friends—to get involved. I know they will find it inspiring, just as I have.”

“There is nothing more important than education. In today’s world, it’s not just about academic achievement—it’s about preparing young people for life and instilling values that will make our world a better place. CH does that, and I encourage everyone to support the school and inspire those around them to do the same.'

Photo: 'Receiving our largesse from the Lord Mayor of London in c.1964 with Head Teacher C.M.E. Seaman to the left of the Lord Mayor and Sir Barnes Wallis with the glasses.'

Trevor’s time at CH helped shape his future:

'Perhaps my most important CH memories revolve around how I was encouraged to follow my hopes and dreams of specialising in the biological sciences. The teachers I had at that time were truly great motivators, and I sense the same of today’s teachers that I have been fortunate to meet. Ultimately, when we are young, we all need to feel that someone cares about who we are and our destiny. CH does that, and for me, that is why I want to give back.'

Photo: Outside Maine A, in 1965 with L to R: John Lloyd (PrepB, MaA, PeA 59-66), Tim Isaac (ColB, MaA 59-67), Geoff Fordham (MaA 59-66) and Trevor Tomkins.

After Christ's Hospital, Trevor co-founded a dairy business in the US and later dedicated his retirement to supporting small subsistence farmers in developing economies. His work, which provides access to capital, modern technology, and fair markets, has had a profound impact on communities across India, East Africa and Central America, and the values instilled at CH have remained a guiding force:

 

Photo: 'Working with a small dairy cooperative in Kenya to help improve milk yields of small dairy farmers.'

'Today, I have been privileged to see some of my work changing lives— through lifting small-scale farmers out of poverty while they focus on caring for the land.'

'CH instilled in me the belief that everyone has a role to play in our world. It is our responsibility to help people achieve their goals – just as CH did for me. I hope that we, as a community of supporters, can do the same for future generations through our giving.'

Photo: 'One of our purpose-built dairy barns in India, where we now have over 1500 small farms from whom we are collecting milk.'

Trevor’s commitment echoes The Charge, read to every student as they leave Christ's Hospital:

Trevor’s matching gift supported our 21 Futures campaign to help secure 21 bursary places for students amid rising costs. For every new or increased regular gift, £150 was unlocked from the match fund, making your support even more impactful. This match ran throughout our summer telephone campaign, during which supporters had the opportunity to speak with our recent leavers—offering a unique chance to connect with the youngest Old Blues.

Hear why Trevor’s chosen to give, and why he’s urging others to join him.

We are incredibly grateful for Trevor’s generosity and for the inspiring response from the CH community whose regular gifts helped unlock this extra support.

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