The Gift of Opportunity

Now in its sixth year, the Harrodian Bursary programme is providing the gift of opportunity to a growing band of pupils. 

Thanks to funds provided by the successful fundraising at our 30th anniversary May Ball in 2024, Harrodian continues to financially support a number of successful bursary candidates at both 11+ and 13+ entry points. We now have bursary-funded pupils in the 13s up to the Upper Sixth, all of whom are thriving and enjoying Harrodian school life. 

Our bursary's mission statement is 'to give the gift of an extraordinary education to talented youngsters, who do not have the financial means but who could benefit enormously from studying at Harrodian.'  Those in receipt of the opportunity bursary places are in no doubt of their value.  'The bursary programme and Harrodian community have been tremendous for our family,' comments the parent of one current bursary pupil. 'Our child is continuously exceeding expectations in all subjects.'

Criteria for entry goes beyond academic achievement alone. A great deal of time and effort is taken to select the right candidate during the interview and home visit process. 'It is really important that our bursary candidates are not only academically able but also equipped to contribute to other areas of school life and to fit in socially,' explains Rachael Snaith, Bursary and Development Officer. 

To encourage all-round participation and social integration, the bursary also supports pupils financially so they can take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and extra-curricular activities and trips, including individual music lessons at school.

Lisa, a peripatetic music teacher at Harrodian, has been teaching violin to one of the bursary pupils and is amazed at the progress already made. 'It's the first time I've taught a bursary student at Harrodian and it's been quite a journey. The bursary purchased the violin, then my pupil started at absolute beginner level and is now getting ready for the Grade Five examination next term,' she says.

 The Bursary gives current and past families within the Harrodian community the chance to leave a legacy of their association with the school by providing financial support for the bursary scheme. A number of generous founder donor parents have given to the fund that supports the scheme in different ways. Contributions in the past have come from parents who have chosen to forgo the balance of their school deposits or to take up funds from internal scholarships and to contribute them to the Bursary instead. Others have made one-off donations or they have contributed by buying tickets to previous bursary events, by donating prizes or purchasing items at the 30th anniversary ball auction. 

'Supporting the bursary is a practical way for me to show a little appreciation to all the great teachers and staff at the school,' says one parent of his generous contribution. 'It's a way to spread a little good now that will go a long way and last a long time.'

Fundraising during the current economic climate has obviously been a challenge, particularly following the pandemic.

We'd like to extend huge thanks to all those who have already been involved in helping with the Bursary. All forms of support are greatly appreciated, as Headmaster James Hooke acknowledges: 'We are delighted with the support we receive from both within and outside of our community to help talented and deserving children from families who would not otherwise have the means for a private education.'

For further information on how to donate or help, please get in touch with Rachael Snaith on 0208 748 6117 (extension 153) or on her email address.