Old Waconians come together for launch of new 1 in 6 Campaign
Old Waconians gathered for a special evening to celebrate the official launch of the 1 in 6 Campaign, a bold initiative to expand bursary support at CHS. The event brought together current Old Waconian President, Susan Bullock (Class of 1977), alongside former Presidents Katie Derham (Class of 1988), Karim Khalil KC (Class of 1980), and Paul Atherley (Class of 1974).
Hosted by fellow Old Waconian Jonathan Guthrie, Class of 1982, the evening featured one-on-one interviews with each President, offering insights into their career highlights and personal journeys since leaving CHS. The conversation then turned to shared memories, as fellow Old Waconains reminisced about their time at school, favourite teachers, and the lasting impact of a CHS education.
During the event, Old Waconians learned about the new 1 in 6 campaign, an ambitious initiative to ensure that more bright and talented young people can access a CHS education, regardless of their financial background.
Currently, 1 in 11 students at CHS receives financial assistance. Over the next six years, we aim to increase this to 1 in 6, reinforcing our long-standing belief that a diverse and inclusive school community benefits all students, preparing them for the world beyond CHS.
Speaking at the event, Lee Richardson, Head reflected on his 25 years at the School and the importance of ensuring that CHS remains a place of opportunity for all:
“CHS has always been at its best when it reflects the real world. A broad mix of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences creates a richer education for everyone. The ‘1 in 6’ ambition is about ensuring that CHS remains a school where bright and ambitious young people, no matter their circumstances, can thrive and contribute to a vibrant, forward-thinking community.”
The campaign was introduced against the backdrop of the introduction of VAT on school fees from January 2025, a challenge for families across the sector. However, CHS has been preparing for this for some time, and together with Governors, staff, and supporters, remains committed to ensuring CHS is accessible for families of all backgrounds
Old Waconian and current teacher, Oli Abbott also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of continuing the school’s long-standing tradition of providing bursaries.
“The 1 in 6 campaign is built on the belief that an inclusive CHS is a stronger CHS. Learning alongside peers from different walks of life broadens perspectives, builds understanding, and ensures that every young person leaves CHS ready to thrive in the wider world”
“Generations of Old Waconians, parents, and friends of the school have played a part in shaping CHS, whether through fundraising for new facilities or bursaries. The ‘1 in 6’ campaign is the next step in that legacy, ensuring that future students, whatever their background, can benefit from the same life-changing opportunities. But this is about more than just bursary recipients—every student at CHS benefits from being part of a diverse, socially inclusive environment that prepares them for life beyond school.”
The event was an opportunity to celebrate this vision and to hear from students and Old Waconians whose lives have been shaped by the generosity of the CHS community. To learn more about the campaign and the impact of bursaries at CHS, click here.
