The Bedford Charity

(The Harpur Trust)

The Bedford Charity (The Harpur Trust) is a local grant making charity that is a major contributor to valuable community activities within the Borough of Bedford. Last year alone we awarded over £1million to organisations and individuals in the Borough through our grants programme.

We also administer the Harpur Trust Schools, two Almshouse schemes, employ over 1,400 people in Bedford and are a co-sponsor of the Bedford Academy.

Grants Programme

Through our grants programme we work with the local community, and a range of voluntary and public sector partners to improve the quality of life for residents of the Borough. Find out more about our grant giving and how to apply for a grant.

Almshouses

Our two almshouse schemes in Bedford and Bromham provide secure and affordable accommodation for older people. Bedford Citizens Housing Association (BCHA) currently manages the almshouse provision on the Charity’s behalf.

Harpur Trust Schools

The Charity is most well known for administering the four main schools of the Harpur Trust all of which take pupils from 7 to 18 years;

• Bedford School – a boys’ boarding and day school

• Bedford High School – a boarding and day school for girls*

• Dame Alice Harpur School – a day school for girls *

• Bedford Modern School – a co-educational day school

• Bedford Girls' School - a day school for girls

We have also set up Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School to offer education to children from 3 months to 7 years.

*  The Charity’s two existing girls’ schools are in the process of merging and will be known as Bedford Girls’ School. The merger will be completed by September 2012. More information >>> 

Bedford Academy Sponsorship

The Charity is co-sponsoring, with Bedford College, John Bunyan Upper School to become the Bedford Academy. The Academy will open in September 2010. For more information >>>.

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