& IDPE AND GIFTED PHILANTHROPY FUNDRAISING ENGAGEMENT

Louise Bennett and Chris Goldie examine the key findings from the latest benchmarking report which shows fundraising is back on track following the pandemic.

The IDPE and Gifted Philanthropy Schools’ Fundraising and Engagement Benchmarking report aims to provide an overall picture of schools’ development across the UK. Thanks to the record number of schools participating in this year’s survey – 215 development offices supporting development across 291 schools – the 2022 report is a more comprehensive overview of the schools’ development sector than ever before.

All schools can achieve fundraising success, but it takes time

The data shows that all schools can generate income. However, fundraising success is rarely instant. Schools’ development is about building relationships with your community: alumni, parents and staff, all of whom have a life-long connection to your school. It is, therefore, important to consider how you will develop lasting relationships with them, and school leaders must be both patient and realistic when it comes to achieving their fundraising ambitions.