In search of Great Aunty Gwen Can you shed any more light on one of the Homes' longest-serving teachers?There's no question about it - 2025 has been a Busy Year for Dr Graham's Homes. The centrepiece was, of course, the 125th birthday party in Kalimpong, a week-long celebration that brought hundreds of visitors to DGH to celebrate a major milestone in the school's history. But it was far from the only highlight over the past 12 months. In case you missed them, here are some other favourite moments from a memorable year...
Celebrations in Kalimpong
Plans for the "Quasquicentennial" party had been in the works since 2024, and it all finally came to a boil in September. Friends, family members, and supporters from across India and around the world travelled to Kalimpong to join the staff and pupils for several days of activities and parties. The school laid on a fantastic programme, from sporting competitions and singing contests to dramas, presentations and an extremely well-attended charity run. DGHUK trustees Esther, Amanda and Pat were on site to celebrate with them.
Songs of Praise in London
Only slightly less ambitious in scale, DGHUK held a service in London to give thanks for the past 125 years. The venue was (of course!) St Columba's in Knightsbridge, a church that Dr Graham himself knew and loved (and that shared an architect with the Katherine Graham Memorial Chapel in Kalimpong). There were speeches from friends near - not least our Honorary VP John Webster - and far, including alumni chairman Tenzing Norsang. "Through wars, recessions and changing times you have stood firm, vital and steadfast, giving thousands of children the chance to dream and to learn," he said.
St Columba's Church in London, a favourite of Dr Graham
Encouraging news from our students
Over the summer, we had some updates from two pupils who graduated from DGH last year. Christina and Cynderella are former sponsored pupils who have now moved to Kolkata to continue their studies. Both are being supported through their courses with Extended Sponsorships from DGHUK sponsors. And we were delighted to hear they're thriving and making exciting plans for the future - both are looking to pursue careers in the hospitality industry after college. “I’m so grateful for the support DGHUK gave me to do the course," Christina told us. "It has given me the opportunity to pursue something I love.”
A fond farewell to Ian and Anji
In May, we were sad to say goodbye to our tireless Sponsorship Secretaries, Ian and Anji Russell - though happy for them too, since they are now embarking on a well-earned retirement. Ian and Anji served DGHUK for five years, providing guidance through the turbulence of COVID and forging close ties to our sponsored young people in India. "They added a layer of professionalism, discipline, and empathy to the role, infused with a genuine compassion for the pupils and students whom DGHUK supports," wrote DGHUK Chair Jim Gibson.
Ian and Anji Russell
In search of Great Aunty Gwen Can you shed any more light on one of the Homes' longest-serving teachers?