Ever since we were founded by Sir William Harpur in 1566, The Harpur Trust has been both providing education and supporting some of the most disadvantaged people in Bedford.

Our charitable objects are, in summary, to promote education and to support the community in Bedford. We have grown and evolved hugely, yet we remain true to our roots.

Today, we run first class independent schools, operate a generous bursary programme, give grants to community projects and sponsor the HEART Academies Trust. All in all, we give millions of pounds each year to improve people’s lives in our community.

Our long-term strategic plan, Together for Bedford, commits us to invest in people’s futures, and to work for a whole generation to enable more children and young people facing disadvantage to achieve their potential.

We have created two innovative and collaborative community programmes supporting children and young people: the Accelerator Programme and Bedford Giving.

We can’t do this on our own. We need your help. By working together, we can mobilise the whole community in Bedford behind this common cause, and achieve much more together than we could working separately. Find out how you can get involved.

Together, we can help build a community where everyone can thrive.

You can also find out more about our fascinating history, going back to Queen Elizabeth I.

Today, our charity is governed by a Board of Trustees made up of volunteers from across our community, and we have a range of committees for our schools and other purposes, as well as a long term commitment to inclusion. Find out more about our governance and how you can be part of it.

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