DEVELOPMENT
Life Changing Bursaries
One Year on from Giving Day
Philanthropy has been at the heart of the College’s growth and success since its inception. Our founder, Nathaniel Woodard, financed his new schools from donations and subscriptions, inspiring others with his vision for education. Today, the school continues to flourish thanks to the commitment of our community – parents, alumni, staff and friends – whose collective support enhances every aspect of school life.
One year on from the College’s first ever Giving Day, donations have funded a range of new boats and equipment for the Reservoir Activity Centre, including RS Venture, a 16-foot dinghy that comfortably carries up to eight sailors. Spacious and stable, this versatile boat is the perfect introduction to sailing for beginners and younger students. These early experiences on RS Venture might just ignite a passion that lasts a lifetime.
We are also the proud owners of two new rowing boats, which will increase the capacity of our rowing programme, enabling more students to get involved. Students voted on the shortlist of names for the new coxed training fours – and we’re delighted that Lord Fourquad and This Way Up have taken to the water! Giving Day donations have also helped fund new wing-foiling kit. This rapidly-growing and accessible water sport combines elements of surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, and offers an exciting addition to the programme. The sensation of gliding is apparently second-to-none!
Donations have also funded life-changing bursaries, giving outstanding young people the opportunity to experience an Ardingly education. This year, 22 students have been supported with bursaries, including 12 students on fully-funded places. One of those students is Wilfie.
“I wouldn’t have been able to come here without that bursary, and the fact that I was able to has pretty much changed my life… If I was still at the school I was at for GCSEs, I would never be where I am now, going off to a conservatoire to study music.”
Wilfie tells his story far better than I ever could, so I encourage you to take a moment to listen to him now.
Huge and heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported the College this year. For more information, take a look at our most recent Giving Report.
