Newton Bursary Fund

The Newton Bursary Fund, established in 1992 as a charitable trust, promotes access to high-quality independent education at Newton Prep School in Wandsworth, London, by awarding means-tested bursaries to talented children from low-income families who could not otherwise afford fees. Governed by a volunteer board of trustees adhering to strict financial policies, its mission centers on inclusivity, fostering a diverse school community where academic potential trumps financial means. This singular focus on socioeconomic inclusion distinguishes it as a specialist funder embedded within one institution, enabling rigorous stewardship and measurable impact on educational equity.

It exclusively funds individual pupils entering Newton Prep from Year 3 onwards, covering up to 100% of day tuition fees based on household income and assets, with additional support for full bursary holders including uniforms, textbooks, travel, music lessons, and educational visits. Awards prioritize children demonstrating academic ability and character via school entrance assessments, supporting both attainment and social integration without backing groups, projects, or non-educational initiatives.

Eligibility is limited to families within commuting distance of Wandsworth who first secure a school place through academic exams; unsolicited applications from organizations are not accepted, and bursaries are unavailable for Nursery through Year 2 entrants. Applications go via the Head of Admissions post-assessment, requiring full financial documentation, with annual reviews adjusting aid as circumstances change. Grants have no fixed range, scaling to need and fees. The Fund does not support charities, capital projects, or areas beyond Newton Prep, setting it apart for its hyper-targeted, individual-only approach in the UK sector.