Stroud and Rodborough Educational Charity

Stroud and Rodborough Educational Charity, registered in 1962 with roots in longstanding local endowments, is a hyper-local grant-giving trust dedicated to advancing education for young people under 25 residing in Stroud, Rodborough, and neighbouring Gloucestershire parishes. Its mission centers on removing financial barriers to educational opportunities, providing special benefits beyond those of local authorities—particularly for Marling, Stroud High, and Archway Schools—while prioritizing those in financial hardship. Guided by values of equal access, holistic enrichment, and direct impact, it supports academic, vocational, artistic, and personal development through agile, needs-led grants that foster experiential learning and unlock potential.

The charity funds individual grants for educational trips (including abroad for academic or gap-year purposes like World Scout Jamboree or African placements), specialist equipment (digital tools, musical instruments, audio/stage gear, books, dancewear), and tuition for music or drama. It also backs school projects, such as art kilns, performance audio, and outdoor education bikes, serving primary pupils to university students and local institutions.

Eligible applicants include individuals under 25 from the strict geographic area, academic institutions, and community groups, with no income limits or size restrictions but a focus on financial need; unsolicited applications are welcomed via downloadable form emailed before quarterly deadlines (next: 19 December 2025 for 14 January 2026 meeting). Typical grants range £50–£1,000 (£50–£500 for individuals, higher for schools).

Exclusions encompass non-educational activities, core costs, and capital builds; its distinctiveness lies in exclusive local focus, deep school ties, and responsive support for diverse educational enrichment, eschewing rigid priorities for tailored, meaningful aid.