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Support St John’s College – Make a Monthly Gift

From your first day on the Bailey to your last formal dinner, John’s was your community – a place where friendships were made, traditions were upheld, and students were known and supported.

Whether you were here in the 1970s or just graduated, you’ll remember what made John’s special: the warmth, the welcome, and the sense that people looked out for one another. Now, you can help pass that experience on. By setting up a monthly gift, you’ll ensure students can thrive – both in their studies and in the life of the College for generations to come.
Set up a monthly gift
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Why Give Monthly?

A regular gift –  even £20 a month – helps students make the most of their time at John’s. Your support will:

  • Fund the student enrichment and support which makes John’s so special – from free formals and coffee, to strong student support staffing and opportunities for students to lead, volunteer and create – regardless of background.
  • Help make our historic College spaces more inclusive and welcoming for all.
  • Keep the John’s spirit alive ensuring access, connection, and community for every student.

Even a small monthly gift makes a big difference—because when many give a little, it adds up to a lot. The predictability of monthly giving also helps us plan ahead and support students more effectively throughout the year.

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This note made all the difference

students board a boat in the snow

Nigel made the most of his time at John's getting involved with the rowing club and helping to start the first women’s rowing team at the college.

A Gift That Changed a Life: Nigel’s Story

Nigel Hollington was the first in his family to attend university but in his second year at John’s in the 1970s, he thought he’d have to leave. Money was tight and family simply couldn’t help. But then, thanks to quiet generosity from friends, he was able to stay. That support meant everything—it kept him in college and set him on the path to becoming a teacher. That act of kindness changed the course of his life. Today Nigel is a regular donor to the College himself.

Read a student interview with Nigel to learn more about his story:

Making a Difference Today

Thanks to generous alumni donations, the David Wilkinson First Generation Scholarship supports today’s Johnians. Ahmed, one of this year’s scholars, shares his experience at John’s:

University student
I believe that John’s is exactly what it describes itself to be – a place that thrives on kindness. It’s a place where you can grow and truly flourish into a version of yourself that you may not have imagined before. John’s attracts people who genuinely want to help – whether that’s in small acts like holding a door open or smiling on the street, or in bigger ways like organizing major events such as Bailey Ball. Each of us helps shape the college in our own way, and that’s what makes it such a meaningful and inspiring place to be and grow.
Ahmed
David Wilkinson First Generation Scholar 2024-2025

Will You Make the Difference?

With around 960 students and staff, St John’s is one of Durham’s smallest colleges—but our size is our strength. Your monthly gift helps preserve the intimacy, warmth, and opportunity that define life at John’s. 

Set-up is simple, and you can change your amount any time.

Set up your gift today

Thank You

Gratitude is one of our core values. Every act of support, big or small, helps us continue to nurture the community that makes John’s so special. Monthly giving is one more way to stay connected and make an ongoing difference.

Whether you’re a long-time supporter or considering giving for the first time — thank you. You are a vital part of our community. With your help, John’s will continue to be a place where every student feels seen, supported, and able to flourish.