Donor Impact Report 2022 - 2023

BEDE’S DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

DONOR IMPACT REPORT 2022 - 2023

Our Vision

Where every child finds joy in their pursuit of brilliance

Our Mission

We continue to craft a more joyful education. Cultivating a vibrant learning experience, motivating us to pursue our individual best.

Providing a festival of opportunity, enabling us to discover new passions and develop new talents.

Building a kind-hearted community, inspiring us to enhance the lives of others.

Our Values

Be Compassionate

Because a caring community fosters belonging. We expect our community to show kindness to people of all ages, genders and ethnicities, maintaining campuses where every person feels joyful and energised.

Be Courageous

Because fortune favours the brave. We challenge our community to stand up for what is right, providing them with a safe environment where they can take bold action in pursuit of brilliance.

Be Curious

Because wisdom can be found off the beaten track. We encourage our community to discover unlikely passions and hidden niches, releasing them into a wealth of opportunities inside and outside the classroom.

Be Conscientious

Because dedication is a spearhead of success. We ask our community to throw themselves wholeheartedly into every endeavour, taking responsibility for their journey and inspiring others to do the same.

Welcome from Head & CEO

The Bede’s Trust together with the Bede’s Development Foundation is committed to providing educational opportunities for pupils, irrespective of their financial circumstances. Bede’s has long been a school recognised for its commitment to supporting children from a diverse range of backgrounds with a range of different talents and needs. We firmly believe that these transformational bursaries will not only transform the lives of their recipients but also increase the diversity of Bede’s, thus enriching every member of our community. We want to make a difference to the lives of young children who never ever thought they would be able to access a Bede’s education.

Unlike many independent schools, Bede’s does not benefit from historic endowments or legacy funds. Large projects, such as the building of our new Dorms Boarding House, have only been possible as a result of careful financial planning. We rely on the fees paid by parents every year to run the School, fund improvements across the campuses and provide a limited number of bursaries.

Despite this, Bede’s has worked hard to carve out a strong reputation for helping those most in need, providing a place where every member of our community feels a strong sense of belonging and is thus able to flourish and succeed. For over a decade now we have awarded in excess of 20 transformational bursaries at Bede’s, working with a range of partnerships. This programme has had a significant, positive impact, not only on the recipients of these bursaries but on pupils and staff across our community. Through the establishment of the Bede’s Development Foundation we aim to build on this success, increasing the number of transformational bursaries we provide for pupils who are most in need.

Each year we are approached by highly motivated pupils who are full of potential, and who, if given the opportunity of a Bede’s education, could achieve heights they never thought were possible, whether that be in sport, the arts or academically. Our peerless reputation for providing the highest standards of pastoral care has uniquely equipped us to unlock this type of potential and that is why we are so grateful to our donors and the support that they are providing to make our vision a reality.

We believe that ultimately, it comes down to social mobility, to creating a ripple effect across our school, local and wider communities where every single person is afforded the opportunities that a Bede’s education provides - no matter their background.

As we look towards the 50th anniversary of the Senior School our aim is to provide 110% transformational bursaries for five pupils in each year of the Sixth Form by 2029. Through the establishment of our Development Office and the Bede’s Development Foundation we aim to sustainably provide future transformational bursaries by securing an endowment fund, legacies and through gaining donations and commitments from members of the Bede’s community and its friends. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who have supported us as we begin this journey and would ask those who are interested in giving to take a moment to look back on everything you and your family has gained from your Bede’s journey, whatever stage you are at and to consider helping us reach our goal.

Bede’s is a place which we believe wholeheartedly transforms children and we hope that, through your experiences, you agree. We would be deeply grateful if you would consider helping us continue to transform the lives of those who would otherwise not be able to benefit from a Bede’s education by donating to the Bede’s Development Foundation.

Peter Goodyer Head, CEO & Trustee

A message from the Chair of the Foundation

Bede’s transforms all who live, work, study and seek to fulfil their passions there because its culture, environment and raison d’etre is about enabling each and every member of the community to flourish. Bede’s is transformational because it offers the time, space, commitment and wisdom to encourage, challenge and support everyone in their joyful pursuit of brilliance. The single aim of the Bede’s Development Foundation is to open up the opportunity of a Bede’s education to those who would most benefit from it but without a transformational bursary would never be able to attend.

My motivation for being a Governor at Bede’s was twofold. Firstly, to help Bede’s to grow and continue to be an outstanding place of learning - known and respected around the world for its pupils’ achievements. And secondly because its values of compassion, courage, conscientiousness and curiosity resonated with my own personal and professional values. I could only be a Governor at a school that prioritises the community and its pupils’ wellbeing and development in the way that Bede’s does.

In my role as a Trustee I wanted to go beyond my role as a Governor in making a difference to the lives of those who have not yet joined Bede’s but wish to. I want Bede’s to be a place with a global reputation for excellence but more importantly a local reputation for generosity. I want to help make a difference which will be felt for years to come.

Education, at Bede’s, is about equipping children with the tools to change the world and instilling an ambition to do so. By supporting the Bede’s Development Foundation you will be not just enabling individuals with limitless opportunities to fulfil their ambitions here at Bede’s and then beyond, but positively impact upon their community whilst enriching our own.

A rather well known Department Store once said “because some gifts are more than just a gift.” Your gift will make a difference in ways which cannot be measured, not now nor in the future but for which they and we will be eternally thankful. Thank you to all of those who have already joined us and given so much whether it be through a financial donation, their time or expertise. In particular, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Trustees of the Foundation, without whom we would not have made the rapid progress we have in our first year.

Simon Smith Chair & Trustee of the Bede’s Development Foundation

Thank you

“Bede’s for me has been a lot of fun, it has taught me to be open minded and to ask lots of questions because this is a place where everyone helps you. At Bede’s I have taken hold of so many opportunities which would not have been open to me if I had not come here.”

Bursary Recipient Camberlot

Objectives, Structure, Governance & Management

The objects of the Bede’s Development Foundation are to: Advance education at Bede’s School (the “School”) for the public benefit by providing funding, assistance and support in such manner as the charity trustees shall determine including (without limitation) the provision of:

(a) bursary support for the benefit of pupils at the School who would be unable to continue in education at the School or who would be unable to commence education at the School despite being accepted, without financial assistance; and

(b) funding to the School towards the development of its facilities.

Organisational Structure: Head Office

Head Office: Bede’s Senior School, Upper Dicker, Hailsham, BN27 3QH

Charity Number: 1203152

Bank Details: Barclays Bank Plc, Barclays Corporate, Level 27, 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP

Account Name: St Bede’s School Trust Sussex

Sort Code: 20-06-05

Account Number: 40794104

Reference: Transformational Bursary Fund

IBAN: GB15 BARC 2006 0540 7941 04

SWIFTBIC: BARCGB22

Organisational Structure:

Appointed Charity Trustees:

One former member of staff

One Alumnus

Three former parents

Three current parents

Ex-Officio Trustees:

Head & CEO

Bursar & COO

Director of Advancement & Alumni Relations

Nominated Trustees:

Two Governors from the School’s current Governing Body

Trustees of the Foundation are appointed for a term of 3 or 4 years, renewable in accordance with the Foundation’s Constitution.

A Message from our Founding Head

“Based on the schools I had been to and taught at, I wanted a place where people felt at ease, where there was equality and inclusivity. Where every pupil is put at the centre, as this gives confidence, so that they can find their niche and we can celebrate that; a place where we aimed to find out and develop what each pupil was good at and concentrate on and appreciate those things. A place where singing, sewing, painting were as valuable and important as excelling at games and in the classroom. Bede's has always been and is a place where everyone will always be valued and appreciated."

Roger Perrin Founding Head & Trustee

1978 - 2001

We established the Bede’s Development Foundation with a very clear vision and goal. One which is focused on transformational bursaries offered solely to those in need using a rigorous eligibility criteria which takes into account the circumstances of the applicant and their family. Our aim is to make a real difference to those whom without support would not be able to attend Bede’s and benefit from its vast resources from co-curricular activities to pastoral support and thus expand their horizons in a way they never dreamed was possible.

Bede’s has long proven itself to be a school which puts the individual at the very centre and has a reputation for the very highest level of pastoral care. It is this reputation which attracts parents to Bede’s and it is this care and focus on the individual which means that Bedians feel a true sense of belonging. This coupled with a wide array of challenging but supportive academic courses and a co-curricular programme offering over 100 different activities makes Bede’s a place where pupils are truly offered a festival of opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom.

In addition, Bede’s national reputation for its Looked After Children programme meant the Trust felt it’s next natural step was to establish a Foundation whose primary aim was to offer a Bede’s education to pupils who would highly benefit but for whom without financial assistance would never be able to access a Bede’s education.

The Foundation’s Board is formed of members who have a strong level of expertise and experience across a variety of fields from finance to the legal sector. Each trustee brings a unique set of skills and rigour to the Foundation. What unites our trustees is their steadfast commitment to the Bede’s Development Foundation and providing an opportunity of a Bede’s education to those who would most benefit but do not have the financial means. All of our trustees have a personal connection to the School and as you will read and grateful for the way that their families or they personally have been positively impacted by the School.

Charlotte Sutton Director of Advancement & Alumni Relations

Estabishing a Charity Statement of Trustee Responsibility

The charity Trustees shall manage the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) and may for that purpose exercise all the powers of the CIO. It is the duty of each charity Trustee.

(a) to exercise his or her powers and to perform his or her functions in his or her capacity as a Trustee of the CIO in the way he or she decides in good faith would be most likely to further the purposes of the CIO; and

(b) to exercise, in the performance of those functions, such care and skill as is reasonable in the circumstances having regard in particular to:

(i) any special knowledge or experience that he or she has or holds himself or herself out as having; and,

(ii) if he or she acts as a charity Trustee of the CIO in the course of a business or profession, to any special knowledge or experience that it is reasonable to expect of a person acting in the course of that kind of business or profession.

An Introduction to our Trustees

Simon Smith has over 25 years experience of teaching and leadership in boarding schools in Sussex, Kent and Hertfordshire. He is currently Deputy Head (Academic) at Tudor Hall School and a Trustee of Bede’s and sits on the Safeguarding and Education Committees. He has previously been a Governor of a large Prep School in North London. When not training for his next marathon, he is studying for an MA in School Leadership and Management. In his time as a teacher and a parent he has seen the impact of transformational bursaries on individuals, families and schools and wholeheartedly supports this cause.

Prior to becoming the Head at Bede's Senior School, in September 2016, Peter Goodyer was the Deputy Headmaster of Colston’s School, Bristol, a co-educational school (11-18), a post he held for six years. Previously Peter was the Director of Co-Curricular at St John’s School, Leatherhead (Boys 13-18 and Girls 16-18) and also a Boarding Housemaster of a boys' house (13-18). Furthermore Peter ran the Psychlogy department for ten years, and was a senior examiner for Edexcel. Peter’s teaching career started in South Africa, at St Andrew’s College in Grahamstown. Peter thoroughly enjoys sport and has run school swimming teams, cricket teams and coached 1st XV rugby. Peter currently sits on two HMC (Headmaster/ mistress Conference) sub-committees, namely Sport and Inspection.

Jonathan ‘Noj’ Northway graduated as a medical doctor from Southampton and trained in general surgery. Noj worked in East Africa for nearly 20 years. During that time he managed a rural hospital in Tanzania before taking on the role of Bursar at a thriving international school in the Kenyan Highlands. He returned to the UK to work as Bursar at a Prep school in West Sussex prior to joining Bede’s as Bursar in 2016. His wife is a local GP and School Doctor and their younger son recently graduated from the Senior School. Noj is a keen runner and sailor and can often be found walking his dog Willow on the South Downs.

Charlotte Sutton graduated with a BA in Political Science and a Masters in Russian and East European studies before undertaking a PGCE in History teaching. Charlotte spent the first few years of her teaching career in Kent, establishing a Government and Politics department in a highly selective boys grammar school before moving to lead a large History department and work as the PGCE trainee coordinator for a large group of schools. Charlotte joined Bede’s in 2018 and has worked in several roles from compliance to Head of Sixth Form before becoming the Director of Advancement & Alumni Relations. When not talking about why the Foundation is so great, Charlotte enjoys travelling and doing something adventurous with her young family.

Roger Perrin was educated at Ardingly College in Sussex and Corpus Christi College, Oxford. With a degree in law and the Law Society’s finals behind him, he turned to teaching as a temporary occupation when, at the age of 23, he decided to change from a career as a solicitor to that of a barrister and joined the Inner Temple. He was at this point confronted by the need to ‘eat dinners’ for three years as a part of the process for qualifying for the Bar. Eating dinner 12 times a year in Hall, whilst it was entertaining, was hardly a full-time occupation! Two enjoyable years later the decision not to follow a career in the Law was easily taken. After 13 years spent firstly at the Dragon School in Oxford and subsequently at Brentwood School in Essex, Roger was asked to become the founding Head of a new co-educational school (St Bede’s) for boys and girls aged 13+ in Sussex.

Marios Pattihis is a specialist commercial property solicitor and is recommended by Legal 500. He was a co-founder of Healys LLP where he has been the Senior partner since 2009. He is a keen networker with a passion for connecting people to opportunities. As Senior partner he has spearheaded Healys business development both in the UK and internationally. In addition to his work as a trustee for the Foundation, Marios is also a trustee of Bede’s School.

Simon Cloke is a private investor, who spent 30 years in the banking industry, advising large corporates, particularly in the UK and Asia. In addition to this he also spent 10 years as a main Board Director of The Restaurant Group plc. Simon is a local Governor of a Prep school and has three children, one of whom recently attended Bede’s. Simon’s son’s positive experience of the School has led to his want to give back.

Stephen Castree is a qualified Chartered Accountant (‘ACA’) who commenced his career in London in 1995 with Price Waterhouse, prior to moving with the firm to Bermuda in 1998. After leaving public accounting, Stephen worked in financial services, joining Tranaut Fund Administration as a founding employee in 2000. After the acquisition of this organisation he worked for JPMorgan until 2007 when he founded Equinoxe AIS, a Global Hedge Fund Administration business. Stephen is also founder and non-executive President of The Development Initiative, a global Mine Action company operating throughout the Middle East and Africa as well as a Founder and Director of Climate Wise, a global organisation focused on assisting individuals, companies and communities reduce their impact on the environment. Stephen is a current parent of two pupils and one past pupil at Bede’s.

Max Jebsen is a former international boarding pupil of Bede’s Senior School. Max is currently studying for a Liberal Arts degree at Newcastle University and is a member of a private Danish nature trust Tanganyka, which focuses on rewilding and tree plantation. For Max Bede’s holds a firm place in his heart and he credits the School as helping him to develop into the person he is today. Max’s strong affinity to Bede’s has led to his decision to want to give back and contribute to the School in his new role as a Trustee of the Foundation.

Jim Gibson (MA Oxon FCA ICAEW) is CEO and co-founder of Big Yellow Self Storage with over 30 years experience in Business, Jim is also an investor and director of two other businesses in the UK and a founder investor in a Brazilian self storage business. Jim chairs London Children’s Ballet and the Big Yellow Foundation. He is a parent of one past and one present pupil of Bede’s. He is a strong believer in driving mobility through education and came aged 14 in the mid-1970s to the UK and has benefited from the opportunity to progress in the UK system.

Isobel Muston is a mum of triplets and former parent of Bede’s Prep and Senior School. Her son attended the Prep school and as a result of the fantastic teaching there, so followed her other son and daughter when they all started at the Senior school. Isobel trained at Helen Arkell Dyslexia centre as a TA supporting children with SpLDs in 2015 and then worked as classroom TA in Year 3 for six years. Isobel has recently completed the Level 5 Diploma at Helen Arkell and qualified with Distinction as a Specialist Teacher of SpLDs (dyslexia). Isobel and her husband had three very different children with varying learning styles. Bede’s school was able to support them according to their individual needs and talents whilst the pastoral care was second to none.

Warrick Booth graduated from Auckland University in New Zealand with Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws degrees. He has worked in investment banking in London for 25 years and since 2016 has been Managing Director in the Macquarie Group’s European DCM team. He brings over two decades’ experience in investment banking, spanning markets in Europe, the UK, USA, Australia and New Zealand. This includes work in corporate lending, project finance, structured trade finance, high yield bonds and IPOs. Warrick is a current parent and having seen the astonishing, positive impact Bede’s has had on his son, he wanted to give back to this incredible Bede’s community.

Chris Davison has spent the last 20 years working in private equity. He is a Partner and leads Investor Relations and Fundraising for the firm globally and serves on the Firm Operations Committee. He joined Permira in 2005, having previously launched a PE research business at Almeida Capital/AltAssets and worked as a finance and economics writer and news agency reporter. Chris is also Chair of a national education charity and a parent of two former pupils at Bede’s.

With Special Thanks to: Mark Rimmington. Mark retired from teaching at Bede’s in 2020, having spent thirty exciting, stimulating and enjoyable years at the School. He says that it is a special place, somewhere that truly cares for pupils and puts them first, giving opportunities to all. It has been a delight to see young people flourish. Mark has been instrumental in helping to set up and support the Bede’s Foundation as he would like to give the opportunity of a Bede’s education to those who would otherwise not be able to attend the School. The trustees of the Foundation would like to give special thanks to all that Mark has done to help make the Foundation a reality.

Our Journey So Far

Vision 2029

Our Aim: Five 110% transformational bursary holders starting each academic year in the Sixth Form by 2029.

• This will include a mixture of day and boarding pupils

• Recipients of transformational bursaries will be from both the local area

• A 110% transformational bursary ensures a pupil faces no barrier to every opportunity avaliable at Bede’s and includes the pupil’s fees, transport, uniform and co-curricular programme.

Achieving Our Goal: The Trust needs to raise £1.6 million by 2029. This will enable us to increase our number of transformational bursaries year on year as follows:

A Parent’s Perspective

The impact Bede’s had on my son Theo was immediate. We came back from New Zealand in 2016. Theo is one of 4 children we had to settle back into the school system in the UK. We had settled on a school that was convenient, but it was clear to us that Theo was not happy. It was my sister-in-law who made a throwaway comment, saying “Have you ever heard of Bede’s? If we lived closer that’s definitely where we’d send our kids.” So, we thought we’d have to have a look. I remember the impact of the open day, and looking at Theo, who was literally on the edge of his seat. His body language was so different, and I thought that it looked like he wanted to join this school. From that moment on we sensed a very special connection, and from then it has continued to have a massive impact on him. He went from a lonely, introverted kid, to having a bunch of mates at the end of his first term. It even changed his physicality. As parents we could see this extraordinary transformation.

When the opportunity to contribute and take a place on the Development Board came up, we did not hesitate. We’d like to give back to the organisation that has given us as a family so much. And if there is the slightest possibility that we can help someone’s else’s journey feel even somewhat like Theo’s, it is our duty to do so. That is why we are so passionate about Bede’s and the Foundation. The opportunity to give other children this opportunity, the same our son got, is something we want to contribute to.

Warrick Booth Trustee & Parent

Our Commitment to Bursary Support

Bede’s believes that awarding a transformational bursary, within the environment of a supportive and high attaining school like ours, is one of the greatest forces for social mobility we could give. Our aim is to seek out pupils for whom a Bede's education is wholly out of reach and whose lives will be completely transformed as a consequence of attending the School.

Bede's takes this commitment incredibly seriously and will award these life changing bursaries to those who would most benefit from a Bede's education. This could be as a result of social disadvantage, challenging family circumstances or other barriers which a pupil may have encountered, which have limited a pupil's aspirations in ways beyond their control.

Bede’s education is transformative in a number of ways. It is transformative in terms of the social opportunities that it gives pupils to interact with those from diverse backgrounds, socially and internationally, as we are an international school. It gives pupils the chance to mix with a diversity of educational backgrounds. We have pupils who can achieve the highest possible grades, and others whom have extraordinary skills across sport, music, art and other areas. It gives pupils a real flavour of different life experience.

Whilst capital projects are important, a Bede’s bursary is something that will transform lives forever. Having a fund that we can establish that will be able to finance pupils and give them opportunities in perpetuity is different to building a building. Ultimately a building’s life span will finish, whereas this fund will give opportunities that will last their life time and further into the future as well.

On an individual level our bursaries our transformative of course. They transform the child, they give them opportunities to do and find skills within themselves that perhaps they never dreamt they had. It gives them the chance to try new things. It is transformative for the Bede’s community because by bringing in children who may otherwise would not have been here, we benefit from having those pupils as part of our community. It is transformative in the long-term because those children will go back out into society and be, we hope, better people because of their experience with us.

Jonathan Northway Bursar & COO

Donations will be ring-fenced and only used to support pupils who will really benefit. We have a very robust selection process ensuring that we make awards to pupils who would make the very most out of a Bede's education. That money gives them those opportunities that they would otherwise never have, and allow these pupils to reach

Looking back on my school years, I am filled with a profound appreciation for the incredible place and people who moulded me into who I am today. My academic journey took a transformative turn when I received a bursary to attend Bede’s, or as it was then, St Bede’s Prep. This opportunity opened the doors to endless possibilities and instilled in me a profound sense of resilience, determination and drive. At Bede’s, I didn’t just receive an education. I gained confidence, a thirst for knowledge, empowerment and lifelong friendships that took me to where I am now.

Lillie Bede’s Alumna

Procedure for Awarding Bursaries

A Transformational Bursary offers 110% financial support and includes:

Registration fees

Acceptance deposit

Tuition Fees

Compulsory Sports Kit

School Bus Transport

Meals

Curriculum-based compulsory trips

One optional activity per term (e.g. sailing, LAMDA, music lessons etc.)

Public examination fees (e.g. A Levels and BTECs)

Equipment necessary for academic study

Additional learning enhancement lessons and any associated assessments

We have specific criteria regarding the awarding of bursaries, some based on a financial level, and other requirements focused on character, so that we can ensure that our decision can make the maximum impact. Pupils eligible for this programme must meet the following criteria:

The pre-conditions for admission are that:

• The applicant is of the appropriate age and sufficient maturity

• The applicant enjoys satisfactory general health

• The applicant’s learning difficulties and other special needs (if any) can, in the opinion of the Head, be managed within the School’s normal provision or can be met by the School making such reasonable adjustments as may be required

• The present school reports good attitudes and conduct on the part of the parents and applicant

How do we assess applicants for transformational bursaries?

• The primary caregivers of the pupil making the application should be eligible for or claiming universal credit.

• The pupil and their siblings have studied solely in a state school setting.

• The pupil lives in the local area.

• The primary caregivers of the pupil and the pupil themselves can demonstrate that they would benefit from and fully take part in the wide range of both academic and co-curricular opportunities available at Bede’s and fully support the School’s ethos.

Step by Step Guide on Applying

Step by step guide to the application process:

Applicants who meet the means tested criteria are invited to take part in a selection process designed to identify those with the potential to make the most of the opportunities provided by the Trust.

Step 1: Initial visit

Applicants visit the School for a tour and introduction from our Registrar or member of the Admissions Team to assess whether the Trust is a good fit for you.

Step 2: Registration

When registering, please indicate on the Registration Form that you would like your child to be considered for a bursary and ensure your child completes an ‘All About Me’ form.

Step 3: Complete Statement of Financial Circumstances Form

Submit your Statement of Financial Circumstances Form along with any other supporting evidence requested. If you are deemed eligible, at this point you will be asked to provide all of the necessary supporting documents.

Step 4: Home Visit

All families under consideration for a bursary will receive a home visit from Bursary Administration Limited.

Step 5: Interview

Eligible applicants will be invited for an interview with the Transformational Bursary panel which will include the Bursar and Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations, complete Yellis testing and meet with the Head for an informal chat.

Step 6: Offers

Successful applicants will be notified and receive their offers in writing. This offer is held until a specified deadline, by which time parents must make a decision. To firmly accept your child’s place, you will need to return the Acceptance Form, Terms and Conditions, Medical Form, School reports, birth certificate and copy of the child’s passport. This must be done by the deadline we give you – otherwise we cannot guarantee your child a place.

Step 7: Transition meetings and events

There will be school transition meetings and events in the summer term for pupils and their families who are joining in September with key pastoral staff including the Sixth Form and House teams.

A detailed Joining Pack will be provided in the spring or early summer prior to your child starting at Bede’s. The pack is full of information about joining the School, including details of transport, uniform, school rules and Behaviour Policy and will include some forms to complete including academic option forms if relevant. For Senior School applications, Parents are welcome to express a preference for a particular Day or Boarding House but the School makes the final decision on House allocation.

Step 8: Confirmation of a place

On GCSE results day if applicants have successfully met the academic requirements for their selected courses they will be admitted to the Sixth Form.

Our 110% transformational bursaries are designed for pupils who without economic support could not attend Bede’s. We recognise that offering this opportunity truly changes lives. But we do not act solely from financial information. By looking at the character of prospective bursary recipients, we make sure that the pupils we choose will be those who will engage with the wide array of extra opportunities, so that they can truly reach their full potential and make the most of their time at Bede’s.

Bede’s Foundation Launch

In September 2022 we created the Bede’s Development Foundation and launched our Bede’s Transformational Bursary Fund, showing that we are a school that puts its values into action. Then, on Wednesday 21st June we also celebrated the launch of the Bede’s Development Foundation. Here is Simon Smith talking about the launch evening:

I am very proud to act as the Chair of the Foundation, and it was an absolute pleasure to present the Development Foundation Launch on Wednesday 21st of June to those who attended so that they could learn more about our newly established charity is about.

This evening presented a unique opportunity for those who attended to hear about the aims and work of the Foundation from the Trustees themselves. The evening included a presentation on the origins of the Foundation, what it has already achieved, and its overall goals for the future. Alongside this, we heard from current pupils, staff, alumni and Trustees of the Foundation, who all explained why they feel passionate about the Foundation, and the impact they believe it will have. Following these talks, we ended on a Q&A with Head & CEO Pete Goodyer, Director of Advancement Charlotte Sutton, Bursar & COO Jonathan Northway and parents and Trustees Warwick Booth and Simon Cloke; with myself, the Chair of the Bede’s Development Foundation, presiding over the event, relaying the questions from the audience.

It was an amazing occasion to really explore what the Foundation can achieve, and discuss not only our goals, but how we intend to get there with those who have an interest in learning more about our Foundation.

Simon Smith

Chair & Trustee of the Bede’s Development Foundation

It was a real privilege to attend the launch of the Foundation and to hear directly from current pupils and alumni and their parents about how their Bede’s experience has shaped their lives. A recurring theme was how Bede’s goes beyond a classic education to enable pupils to find and follow their passions in whatever field is right for them. Being able to provide this unique opportunity to more families through the Bede’s Foundation will make a real impact on communities across our local community.

”

Nicholas Mercer Governor

A Parent’s Perspective

I am the father of a recent pupil. Myself and my wife, Claire, chose Bede’s Senior School for Robbie, our son, because of the particular focus that the School gave to the pastoral care they offer to all children. The learning experience that Robbie enjoyed at the School was magnificent and he left Bede’s brimming with quiet confidence, with many friends, with good exam results and perhaps most importantly, with many happy memories.

I wanted to give something back to the Bede’s community after Robbie left. Becoming a Trustee of the Foundation, with a view to helping others enjoy the same opportunity to make progress in their lives as Robbie had, seemed an obvious way to do that.

The role of a Trustee is not as complex as some might perceive it to be. It is a prerequisite to be honest and transparent and engaged as well as to support the Foundation’s overall objectives, which are set out in policy documents. It is important to commit to supporting the Foundation, with practical help, with some financial contribution and by offering some advice and support in the aspects of the Foundation’s work where I have existing expertise (e.g. in finance). The work is fun and rewarding. Being able to give back is truly priceless!

Simon Cloke Trustee & Parent of Alumnus

Thank you

“Bede’s is a place which accepts everyone, it has opened up so many doors for me, especially when thinking about universities. It has given me so many opportunities to express myself and do what I want to do rather than pushing me down the usual generic routes. I feel much more open-minded to the different opportunities open to me.”

Bursary Recipient

Charleston

Our Community’s Impact: Bede’s Giving Day

Since our school began, Bede’s has had philanthropy rooted at its very core and many pupils have benefit from transformational bursaries, demonstrating that our core ethos of Compassion, Courage, Conscientiousness and Curiosity is a living and breathing part of everything that we do. On 21st - 22nd June 2023, over 36 hours we celebrated Bede’s first ever Giving Day.

During this time, our focus was on making a difference to the lives of others in our local community. Every single member of the Bede’s community, from the pupils in our Nursery to our Sixth Form, our teaching and support staff and our Governors worked together, volunteering across our local community at over 40 different projects, completing in excess of 5,000 hours of voluntary work.

Crossways

These volunteering projects were focused on a whole host of different areas from the environment, helping in local primary schools or those with disabilities; supporting people from overseas, the elderly and local food banks.

The goal of our very first Giving Day was to inspire the Bede’s community and its friends to support the Bede’s Development Foundation and raise vital funds for our Transformational Bursary Fund. This was to enable the Foundation to increase the number of 110% transformational bursaries on offer at Bede’s, with the goal of offering in excess of 20 x 110% bursaries by 2029.

The Bede’s community response was nothing short of overwhelming and an extraordinary £155,542 from 398 donors. Every single challenge was met and many surpassed as a result of every part of our community joining together in support of the Foundation from parents past and present, to pupils, alumni, governors, staff and friends of the School. All inspired to give as a result of the volunteering work of our Bedians. This was truly an incredible event to be a part of and one which impacted so many lives in so many different ways. We could not be more proud of the work of our community and cannot thank our generous donors enough.

“Small tasks inspire massive differences. No question about it, volunteering can appeal to anyone and be suited to their abilities and strengths.” Deis

Mary Leggett Head of Partnerships and Social Responsibility

Phil Wise Deputy Head Operations

“Just go for it. It’s really about having fun while helping others around you so we can all make a positive difference to our local community.”

Donor Messages

On our Giving Day, those who donated had the opportunity to leave a message to say why they were supporting the Bede’s Development Foundation and what the School has meant to them. It has been truly inspiring to read through these and to hear the impact Bede’s has had on so many over the years. We would like to share with you just a few of the lovely message which we received:

Donor Messages

The School Prefects’ Charity Work 2022-2023

As we come to the end of our tenure we have been reflecting on our aims and what we have achieved. One key focus that we have had in our sights this year has been supporting the launch of the brand new Bede’s Development Foundation. The Foundation’s goal is to increase the number of transformational bursaries the Trust offers to pupils who would not otherwise be able to come to Bede’s, specifically targeting pupils from deprived backgrounds across our local community. These bursaries are priceless for the pupils receiving them, but the opportunities are only available thanks to the generous donations of others.

We are all so grateful to have had the privilege to come to Bede’s and the idea that we could help to give those same opportunities to those who would not normally be able to attend Bede’s seemed too good an opportunity to pass up. We have all benefited in so many ways from being here, whether it be the incredible trips, sporting opportunities, creative arts outlets or academic offerings. We are all who we are today because of Bede’s.

The Bede’s Development Foundation is a cause that is very close to our hearts, and as a result this year we made it the School Prefects’ chosen charity.

To raise awareness and funds for the Foundation we have been running the School Tuck Shop, Sixth Form socials such as a Casino and Curry Night and also organised and carried out a Prefects’ Raffle. All of this has raised vital funds for the Foundation, something that we are all incredibly proud of.

The School Prefect Team 2022 - 2023

“There is no place better than Bede’s in encouraging pupils to get involved in so many different aspects of school life, whilst providing a comprehensive system that supports each pupil in doing so! Personally, I have found it was the only place where I could really throw myself into my academics whilst being supported with my music, but also enjoy myself on the football pitch two or three times a week.

I would encourage everyone to give back to this incredible Foundation, so that we can support others to benefit from the same opportunities and diverse range of activities that every Bede’s pupil has been offered. I am so proud to have been a part of the Foundation from its very inception and want to thank all of those who have supported and donated to the cause, especially those spearheaded by the School Prefects.”

Fearghus Beauchamp, Deputy Head of School & Pupil Head of the Foundation, 2022

The School Prefects’ Vision 2023-2024

Prefects 2023 - 2024

We are Mandy Zhang and Charlie Bennett, the Deputy Heads of School and Co-Pupil Head of the Bede’s Development Foundation. Mandy joined Bede’s in Year 5, and Charlie joined in Year 9, so Bede’s has been a huge part of our lives from a very young age. The supportive, caring and compassionate environment of the School has had a huge impact on us both and it is from this that our desire to give back and passion for the Foundation has grown. We were of course also very much inspired by the School Prefects work last year and the fundraising that they did, something which we aim to continue.

We are both recipients of Bede’s Scholarships, Mandy for Art and Charlie for Drama, and we know that a standard bursary is so often not enough for pupils to experience the vast opportunities available at Bede’s, opportunities which we have both benefited from and adored so much. It is an absolute privilege to attend Bede’s, and we recognise how lucky we are. We hope that through our work that we will be able to enable others most in need to benefit from the same opportunities and feel the same sense of pride and belonging that we have as part of this community.

Over the next academic year we aim to support the Foundation through a number of different ways including the School Tuck Shop, Sixth Form socials, the School Prefects sponsored Brighton Marathon run and the School Prefects’ ‘Auction of Opportunities’. We hope that through these events and activities that we can raise vital funds for this amazing charity, to give those the opportunity to attend Bede’s who otherwise could not.

Mandy Zhang & Charlie Bennett Deputy Heads of School 2023

Foundation Artwork

The Bede’s Development Foundation artwork has a particularly special meaning for the Trust because it was designed by Anthony Hammond, an artist who worked at the school for nearly thirty years, in many different roles from a Teacher of Ceramics, to Assistant Head. In his words here is the story and meaning behind the images he has created.

It has been a real honour to work on the illustrations for the Bede’s Development Foundation. Having worked at Bede’s for 28 years I have seen how much good the School can do, and has done, for so many pupils, especially those coming in on bursaries, so to be a part of this has been very exciting and extremely special to me.

During my years at Bede’s I have worked as Head of Ceramics, a Housemaster, an Assistant Head, Head of Teacher Development and a whole host of other roles. The pastoral side of the School is very important to me, and that is why I spent so much time focused on supporting teachers. It was very rewarding, as I knew that through helping the teachers directly, I would also be helping the pupils those teachers taught. It is this level of support which makes Bede’s the School that it is and why the Foundation is a natural next step.

The main inspiration for the logo, of the pupils with kites, came from the ‘It’s In The Air’ video that was created for Bede’s. I wanted to create a sketch that showed a lot of movement and energy, instead of being focused on too much detail, so that the people in it could be anyone and represent any pupil. When pupils look at these images whether they be applicants, current pupils or alumni I want them to be able to see themselves and their friends.

I wanted the strength of the kites with the Bede’s ethos of Compassion, Courage, Curiosity and Conscientiousness to be the prominent element of the illustrations. The kites are the only part of the drawings which feature colour so to immediately draw your eye and have the strongest impact on the viewer. The values of Bede’s are so important to what makes it a wonderful school, these words and the actions they inspire mean so much to every member of our community and so they had to be at the very centre of the sketches.

I then went on to select three iconic buildings and scenes from the School with the aim of giving a feeling of ‘home’ to our community when they saw them. For the illustration of the Prep School I wanted to focus on the detail of the historic buildings, making them the focal point and drawing the eye. As the drawing dissipates to the outer edges they become slightly more abstract. My aim was to create that rhythm of the coastline without detracting from the strength of the Bede’s Prep School, that wonderful building which means so much to so many I ensured was front and centre. Once I completed this drawing, I added the kites again closer to the coastline so that every image was linked and it felt like the pupils are at the end of the kites, hidden from view but still a focal point.

Foundation Artwork

When drawing the Lake, I wanted to play around with textures and make it quite sculptural. So that is what I’ve given to the trees and the leaves, but then again adding the pupils with their kites to give that constancy and flow to the artwork. I have also worked to highlight the lawn and how stunning this area is, as it is a place where so many Bedians have spent their days while attending the School and is the setting for so many milestones from school photographs and impromptu football matches, to theatre performances and the Leavers’ Ball.

The final illustration is of the senior School Manor House. Here I wanted to celebrate the beauty of the architecture. I didn’t want to place bricks or tiles in the drawing, instead I wanted to focus on the shapes. There are about 29 layers to this drawing as I explored the shape and the elements that take focus. It is such an inviting and beautiful building and one which for many embody Bede’s and evoke feelings of belonging - a sentiment which our community places a great emphasis on and is integral to the success and very existence of the Foundation.

It has been an honour and a privilege to provide the illustrations for such a worthwhile cause, to bring some fantastic pupils to the wonderful school that is Bede’s. I hope that you will enjoy these illustrations and what they represent as much as I have enjoyed creating them.

Anthony Hammond Bede’s Staff 1994 - 2022

Money Raised To Date

Money Raised To Date

Any gift, no matter its nature or size, will have a life-changing impact on pupils who without financial support could not attend and experience the vast opportunities on offer at Bede’s. A one-time donation will have an immediate impact on our fundraising, whereas a regular gift can allow us to plan for the future. Every gift matters, every gift makes a difference.

DONATE ONLINE:

One off or regular gifts can be made by Direct Debit on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis. Please scan the QR code to set up your regular or one-off gift. You can make a one-off donation using a credit or debit card.

LEGACIES:

The Bede’s Development Foundation is a registered charity (charity number: 1203152), meaning that all legacies made to the Foundation are exempt from UK Inheritance and Capital Gains Taxes. Under current rules, if you leave 10% or more of your chargeable net estate to charity, the Inheritance Tax (IHT) rate on the whole of your taxable estate is reduced from 40% to 36%. If you have already included, or intend to include the Bede’s Development Foundation in your Will, we would be grateful if you would let us know.

MATCHED GIVING:

Many companies support charities through matched giving initiatives. Some will match pound for pound while others will double match donations which employees make to registered charities. Please check with your Payroll as to whether your company operates such a scheme as this could increase the size and impact of your donation.

ASSETS:

Bede’s Development Foundation is able to accept gifts of assets such as property or land which is not subject to Capital Gains Tax or Capital Transfer Tax. Donors may consider making a bequest of cash or other assets, all of which would be free of Capital Transfer Tax on death.

EASYFUNDRAISING:

Easyfundraising is an organisation which allows you to raise donations for the Bede’s Development Foundation every time you shop online. Over 7,000 brands including all the big names such as eBay, John Lewis & Partners, Argos, ASOS, Expedia, M&S, Just Eat, Uswitch and many more, will donate, at no extra cost to yourself. All you need to do is sign up and remember to use Easyfundraising whenever you shop online.

Once signed up, simply start your shopping journey at the Easyfundraising website, use the donation reminder or app (information will be provided when you register) and the retailer you shop with will send us a donation based on how much you spend.

BENCHES

It is also possible to purchase a bench that will be placed on site (SPECIFIC LOCATION), with personalisation choices regarding what you would like it to say. These can be purchased for yourself, or as a gift, for the price of £500. With £40 from every bench being donated the the Bede’s Development Foundation. Please email: development@bedes.org

Thank you for your interest in supporting the Bede’s Development Foundation. Every donation is greatly appreciated and each gift leaves a legacy, helping Bede’s continue to offer a unique learning experience for all our pupils; helping to nurture individual lives both now and in the future. Please scan the QR code to find out more on how to donate.

Barclays Bank Plc, Barclays Corporate, Level 27, 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP

Account Name: St Bede’s Foundation

Sort Code: 20-06-05

Account Number: 70469122

Reference: Bursary Fund

IBAN: GB58 BARC 2006 0570 4691 22

SWIFTBIC: BARCGB22

We are incredibly grateful to the over 600 donors who have supported us this year at the very beginning of our journey. In just one year we have grown the Bede’s Development Foundation from an idea to a fully fledged charity in its own right which has raised enough money to support six Sixth Form 110% transformational bursaries. This has meant that the Foundation has been able to realise its aim of ensuring two transformational bursary recipients start in September 2023.

This would undoubtedly not have been possible without the Foundation’s Board of Trustees and the support of the Bede’s Trust’s Governing Board. What has become clear over the last 12 months is that the Foundation has been able to establish itself so quickly and achieve such milestones because of the support of Bede’s community whether that be the Executive, Governors, teachers, parents or pupils themselves.

The last twelve months have proven that the Bede’s vision “Where every child finds joy in their pursuit of brilliance” is a living and breathing reality. The values of compassion, courage, curiosity and conscientiousness which the Trust works to install in every pupil has been evident through the community’s coming together in support of the Foundation not only financially, but in time and effort.

We hope that after reading this that you feel proud of what we have created and join us on this journey.

The Bede’s Development Foundation Trustees

BEDE’S DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

Bede’s Senior School

Upper Dicker, Hailsham

East Sussex BN27 3QH

T 01323 843252

bedes.org