Photographs © Christ’s Hospital

Lesley Humphreys, Director of Development, Christ’s Hospital Foundation, says:

“I was lucky to have mentoring as part of my package. Although More Partnership had done the initial audit that recommended the reinstatement of the full-time development director role, I was free to choose anyone I wanted. In the end Rebecca [Rendle] came recommended by people whose judgement I trusted. I couldn’t be more grateful that she’s now my personal mentor.

“We tend to spend half a day together every two weeks, sometimes at odd times and in odd places. She always makes herself available to pass on her energy, enthusiasm and experience, which has been invaluable. I came from a marketing and development background but had only worked in one school. So it’s amazing to be able to tap into the vast breadth and depth of experience in More Partnership.

“This is an incredible school. The passion and loyalty of our alumni is extraordinary. We’ve been fundraising at a good level for a long time – about £1.8 million per annum in recent years. Trying to improve on that, especially in a time of institutional change, could be daunting. But it helps that Rebecca gets to grips with complexity so quickly.

“For example, as part of the mentorship arrangement, she has served on a working party to restructure one of our major fundraising pillars, whereby donors can become governors to specific pupils. She’s brought objectivity and authority into a situation where most other parties are closely linked with our community. And I love the way her mind works!

“After the initial six months, I was delighted to be able to renew the mentorship agreement. I think that says it all, really.”