From the Headmistress

The Bramston Bursary Fund will help St Swithun’s to remain true to the vision of our founders. We all rejoice in the fact that St Swithun’s was founded to provide an education for girls that would not only rival anything on offer for their brothers, but one which was not exclusively for the daughters of the privileged few. Many Old Girls with whom I speak tell me how indebted they feel to St Swithun’s for giving them a tremendous start in life. Many parents confirm that the inclusiveness of the School remains an important factor for them in choosing St Swithun’s.

In addition, following changes in Charity Law, St Swithun’s faces a new and significant challenge to its future. Historically the provision of education was automatically seen to be of public benefit and therefore a charitable activity. The new law removes this automatic assumption and if we are to retain our charitable status we now need to demonstrate that we are providing wider public benefit. Put simply, this means increasing the number of bursaries available.

Importantly, simply relinquishing our charitable status and operating as a commercial concern is not an option. The School’s assets are charitable assets: if we fail to meet the requirements of the Charity Commissioners they will have the power to impose changes upon us, including, ultimately, changes in Governance. This has the potential to significantly alter the character and independence of this successful school.

So, it seems not insignificant that 125 years ago Anna Bramston was seeking funding by public subscription to open the School and I shall now be devoting my last year at St Swithun's to building up the Bramston Bursary Fund. We have already made a good start and I hope that you, as former pupils, will consider supporting your old school.



Ms. Jane Gandee
Headmistress