Background

Founded in 1749, St Edmund's School Canterbury is one of the leading independent boarding and day schools in the country. It is immensely proud of its friendly, nurturing environment, excellent academic and sporting achievements. Boasting a combination of historic buildings and modern facilities, it offers excellent all-round education, first-rate pastoral care and an impressive range of extra-curricular activities.

Until 1996, St Edmund's School was wholly owned and financially supported by the Clergy Orphan Corporation. However, the 1996 Charities Act led to the devolution of the corporation resulting in the School achieving full independence and taking sole responsibility for its activities.

For the School to maintain its position as a top academic establishment, with an excellent reputation, the need for regular investment and continuous improvement is crucial. Without such, its capacity to continue to provide first-class education and meets its charitable purpose is limited.

In the past, investment in school buildings and equipment has been met largely through generous donations to the School. Within the last ten years, major developments have included the building of the Junior School, which opened in 1998, and the impressive, purpose-built Music School, The Francis Musgrave Performing Arts Centre, which opened in 2004.

Consequently, it has become increasingly recognised that the School needs to make greater efforts to supplement its income. Current income provides a well-rounded education for the pupils, although the income does not stretch to fund key development projects, bursaries or scholarships. Additional funds are needed for these two broad areas. Key development projects include investment in school buildings and equipment. The establishment of additional bursaries and scholarships will enable the school to financially support pupils.