2024/25 Impact Report

Welcome

Welcome to ‘Because of you…’, the impact report that celebrates the difference that you, our supporters and volunteers, make to our Schools.

Everything you read in this year’s edition of 'Because of you...' has been made possible by your support. Through your generosity, pupils are supported by bursaries, scholarships, and hardship funding at the moments they need it most. Your commitment enables pupils to benefit from music, sport, leadership opportunities, and mentoring, while your willingness to give your time and experience enriches learning well beyond the classroom.

The past year has been very challenging for many within our school community. The introduction of VAT on school fees has placed additional pressure on families, and demand for financial assistance continues to grow. In this context, your support has been more important than ever. Over the past year, your philanthropy has helped pupils access education, experiences, and opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach, while your volunteering efforts have strengthened our vibrant community.

The stories that follow reflect the many different ways in which support is given. From long-term scholarship funding and gifts in Wills, to collective funds, prizes, and volunteering, each contribution plays a part. Together, they reflect a shared belief in potential, fairness, and opportunity, values that have shaped our Schools over many years.

As you read on, I hope you can see the real and lasting impact of your support. The opportunities created, the confidence built, and the futures shaped are all possible because of you.

Thank you for everything you do to support our pupils and our Schools.

Stuart Swan Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

2025 £1.1m

Total donated to support pupils and opportunities across the Schools

26 Number of bursaries awarded because of donations

60 Number of families supported through hardship and sporting grants

88 Number of donors who supported the Schools this year

43

Number of 1495 Society Members

25.7% Percentage of bursaries and scholarships that are funded by donations

107

Number of pupils supported through sport and athlete pathways

26

Number of gifts in Wills pledged to support future pupils

67

Number of volunteers who gave their time and expertise

A journey made possible

Because of you... a journey made possible

When a pupil joined Loughborough Amherst School as the first recipient of the Tilsley Scholarship, generous donor support made it possible for her to take up an opportunity she once believed was out of reach. As she explains, “education has always been the key to unlocking a better life for myself.” The Scholarship allowed that belief to become a reality.

She grew up as a looked-after child and experienced multiple school moves before settling with her permanent family. Despite the disruption this brought, she remained determined to succeed, driven by a strong belief in the opportunities education could provide. The idea of attending an independent school for Sixth Form, however, felt “virtuallyimpossible”. She recalls losing hope altogether until she learned about the Tilsley Scholarship, an opportunity that opened doors she never imagined possible.

From the outset, the pupil embraced life at Amherst. She describes the welcome she received as transformative: “Thestudentsandstaffwereextremely supportive…ensuringthetransitionfrommyprevious schoolwasassimpleaspossible.” Feeling secure and supported allowed her to focus entirely on her studies and personal development.

The academic transition brought challenges, particularly in subjects that initially stretched her confidence. She responded with determination, actively seeking support and adapting her approach to learning. This persistence led to significant progress, with teachers noting that she exceeded expectations in several subjects and consistently contributed thoughtfully in lessons.

Beyond the classroom, the Scholarship enabled her to immerse herself fully in school life. She particularly valued enrichment activities that helped her build confidence and friendships, saying, “ThethingIhave enjoyedthemostistheCCF…Ienjoymixingwithnew people.” Staff observed that she integrated seamlessly into the Sixth Form community, forming positive relationships across the year group and demonstrating emerging leadership qualities.

Importantly, the Scholarship also provided stability during a period of personal challenge. While navigating complex family circumstances alongside her studies, she showed what one teacher described as “remarkableemotionalmaturity”, maintaining focus and commitment during a difficult time.

Reflecting on her experience, the pupil is clear about the difference the Scholarship has made. “So many doors have been opened for me,” she says. “So many options are available to me, which without this opportunity wouldn’t have been the case.” She describes her time at Amherst as challenging but transformative, adding, “I have madefriendsthatI’msureIwillkeepforlife,aswell asfindinganewfoundgratitudeforhowdifficulties canchangemeforthebetter.”

Now preparing for the next stage of her journey, she is taking some time before beginning her studies in Law and Sociology at university. Inspired by the support she received, she hopes to pursue a career in humanitarian law and to support others in the future. In a message to the donor of her Scholarship, she said, “Iaimtofollowinyourfootsteps,andhelp moreyoungpeoplelikemeachievewhat theywanttoachieve.”

Her story shows what donor-funded scholarships make possible for pupils across the Foundation. More than financial support, scholarships and bursaries offer belief, stability, and opportunity. In the pupil’s own words, “This Scholarship and the opportunities it has brought along have and will change my life.”

Thisstoryissharedanonymouslytoprotectthe privacyofthepupil.

Because of you... music gave Chloe freedom

When Chloe joined Loughborough High School as the recipient of the Harry Humber Music Scholarship, donor support made it possible for her to rebuild a relationship with music that had sustained her through some of the most challenging periods of her life. Funded by the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers’ Charitable Trust, the Scholarship is named in memory of Harry Humber, a Past Master of the Company who attended Loughborough Grammar School between 1919 and 1924. Today, it continues his legacy by enabling talented young musicians to access an education shaped by opportunity, care and belief.

Chloe’s relationship with music began early. She remembers sitting in a primary school corridor at the age of ten, waiting for one of her first cello lessons, listening as her teacher played the piano nearby. “I felt a bit excited and a bit scared”, she recalls. What followed was something entirely new. “In class, there was always a right and a wrong answer, but with music, there wasn’t one fixed answer. There was a sense of freedom in that.”

After early success, including achieving her first grade with distinction, Chloe’s musical journey

was interrupted. Her secondary school had no string provision, and without the means to pay for private lessons or hire an instrument, she stopped playing. Years later, a secondhand cello given as a Christmas gift reignited something important. “I didn’t think it would goanywhere”, she says. “ButIfoundmyself wantingtogetbetter.”

As her commitment to music deepened, Chloe’s wider circumstances became increasingly unstable. Following a no-fault eviction, her family experienced prolonged homelessness, moving between temporary accommodations for almost two years. During this time, education became secondary to survival. “Schoolstopped beingaboutlearning”, she reflects. “It became somewhere to be warm and feel normal for a bit.”

For a period, Chloe stopped playing altogether. Then, at a breaking point, she returned to her cello in a hotel stairwell, playing the same piece repeatedly, each time expressing a different emotion. “That was when I realised thatmusicissomethingthatgives metheabilitytoreallyexpresshow I feel”, she says. “Even if nobody else ever hears me, I still have my music.”

Joining the Leicestershire Schools Symphony Orchestra marked a turning point. It was there that Chloe first heard about the Harry Humber Music Scholarship. Initially convinced she was not the sort of candidate they would consider, she almost did not apply. Encouraged by her mother, she took a chance. “If younevertry,you’llneverknow”, she was told.

Visiting LHS for the first time, something clicked. Hearing music echoing through the corridors and seeing pupils working closely with their teachers, Chloe knew she had found the environment she needed. “This is where I want to be”, she remembers thinking.

“I’dliketoextendmytremendousgratitude onbehalfofmyselfandmyfamilyforallof thesupportthatboththeWorshipfulCompany ofPlaisterersandLSFhavegivenmeonmy journey.Regardingacademicandfinancial input,IgenuinelydonotbelievethatIwould have made it this far in such a short span of time. I’m thankful for the opportunities that this Scholarshiphasgivenme,andforthefriends that I have made as a result. I can’t thank everyoneinvolvedenough,butIhopethatthis statement is a start.”

Receiving the Scholarship was a moment of profound relief and joy. “We were still homeless,” she says, “but for the first time inages,somethinghadgoneright.” Starting at LHS transformed her daily life. Surrounded by music, supported by specialist teachers, and encouraged to aim high, Chloe flourished. Her musical progress has been remarkable, advancing rapidly through the grades and performing regularly with orchestras and ensembles, including major concerts beyond school.

Equally important has been the impact on her confidence and sense of belonging. “I genuinelyfeellikeI’mpartofafamilyhere,” she says. Teachers and staff describe a pupil who is diligent, thoughtful and increasingly selfassured, with a growing belief in her own ability.

Looking ahead, Chloe is exploring a future that may combine academic study with music and teaching. Whatever path she chooses, she is clear about the role the Scholarship has played in her life. “To have someone believe in me, when I didn’t always believe in myself, has meant everything”, she reflects.

Chloe’s story captures the true impact of the Harry Humber Music Scholarship. Made possible through the generosity of the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers, it has offered far more than access to music lessons. It has provided stability, belief and the freedom to imagine a different future. As Chloe puts it herself, “Sometimes one small decision can change everything.”

We are grateful to the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers’ Charitable Trust for choosing to continue their support, and we are now inviting applications for the next Harry Humber Scholar for entry in September 2026.

Why we give Why We Give

For John and Viv Wynn, giving to LSF comes from a long-held belief that education is shaped as much by experience as it is by lessons. It is a belief formed through years spent teaching, parenting and remaining closely connected to the Schools and the local community.

Their relationship with the Schools has grown naturally over time. As former teachers and parents, they found that connections never really faded. “We’vekeptintouchbymeetingex-parents, pupilsandstaffwhenoutandabout,” they say. That sense of familiarity strengthened further when their daughter Clare became a staff member at LHS and when events such as Concert, Cake and Company brought together people with similar ties.

John’s professional journey is closely bound to Fairfield Prep School. He still remembers passing it on a bus and telling Viv, “I want to work there.” Years later, he did, becoming Head of Year Six during the 1990s, while their children Clare and Chris attended the senior Schools. Looking back, what stays with them is the continuity. “The generationsjustkeepcoming,” they reflect. “It reallydoesfeellikeonefamily.”

Their shared outlook has also been shaped by earlier teaching careers in city centre schools. It was there that they saw how unfamiliar even small experiences could be for some children. “Somepupilshadneverseenacowbefore,” they recall. “Thatreallystayedwithus.” These moments reinforced their conviction that learning does not begin and end in a classroom. Experiences outside school walls, whether local or further afield, can shape confidence, curiosity and understanding in lasting ways.

It was this perspective that led John to join the 1495 Society after attending a Concert, Cake and Company event. Having read stories in the impact report shared by Clare, he felt it was the right time to offer support. “We were interested insupportingeducation,” they explain, “and thisfeltlikeapracticalwaytodothat.”The following year, Viv joined him as a donor in her own right, and together they chose to support co-curricular activities and trips across the Foundation. Clare is also a member of the 1495 Society, joining John and Viv in continuing the family’s shared commitment to the Schools.

For John and Viv, these opportunities matter because they recognise that not every family can afford them. “Webelieveactivitiesandtripsare justasimportantasthecurriculum,” they say. “Theyarepartofhowyoungpeoplelearnabout theworldandtheirplaceinit.”

Family sits at the heart of their giving. Having supported their own children through education, John and Viv see their philanthropy as a way of extending that support to others. “We have nograndchildren,sowewanttosupportothers inthewaywesupportedourownchildren.” For them, it is a conscious decision to help ensure that pupils are not excluded from experiences simply because of cost.

When they think about pupils today, their hope is straightforward. They want young people to be able to fully experience education, without families feeling additional financial pressure. They want pupils to leave school having seen more, understood more and felt confident in stepping beyond what is familiar.

For anyone considering giving, John and Viv encourage a moment of reflection. “Think aboutwhatyouoryourchildrengainedfrom anLSFeducation,” they suggest. “Couldyou helpsomeoneelsetoachievetheirambitions?”

Whether monthly, annual or one-off, they believe support at any level can play a meaningful role.

Above all, they see LSF as something enduring. A network of schools, families and shared memories that continues to shape lives across generations. Because of supporters like John and Viv, that sense of continuity remains strong.

Because of you... bursaries go further Bursaries go further

A bursary enables a pupil to attend our Schools, but families often face additional costs beyond school fees. Through the Beyond Your Bursary Grant scheme, donations provide extra financial support so that pupils who are funded by bursaries can take part fully in school life from the moment they arrive.

This support is not about responding to a crisis or a change in circumstances, but about ensuring that a bursary offers a complete and enriching experience of school life. That means joining school trips, taking part in activities, playing on sports teams, enjoying

music and drama, and sharing moments that build friendships, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

This year, donor support has helped pupils with means-tested bursaries across the Foundation feel included and thrive alongside their classmates.

For one LGS pupil, it meant representing the School on a hockey tour and spending time building friendships and team spirit beyond the classroom.

“Bygoingonthistrip,Iwasabletorepresent theSchool,oneofmyfavouritethingsabout

playinghockey.Ialsoenjoyedspendingtime withmyfriendsandbuildingconnectionswith bothmypeersandcoaches.My family and I are extremely grateful for the opportunity to enjoy these experiences.”

For a pupil at LHS, it meant taking part in a field trip as part of the curriculum that brought her subject to life.

“BeingabletogoontheBiologyfieldtripmeant thatlearningcouldmovebeyondtheclassroom. Workingindifferenthabitatsandlaboratories helpedbringthesubjecttolife.”

For two LGS pupils, it meant sharing a residential experience that helped them feel part of the School community and more confident in themselves.

“ThetriphelpedmefeelpartoftheSchool. Itgavemeconfidencetostartthenextyear feelingmoreconnected.”

Your support has also helped pupils take part in music, drama, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and other activities that nurture confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging.

As one parent reflected:

“Yourkindnessandgenerosityallowedmy childtotakepartinsomethingthatreally mattered to them.”

Together, these experiences shape how pupils see themselves and their place in the School, helping confidence grow, friendships form, and a sense of belonging take root.

Because of you, pupils who receive bursaries are not just here. They feel part of the School community.

Everyday worries become lighter

Because of you... everyday worries become lighter

Across LSF, many families are facing new financial pressures that extend well beyond school fees. Changes in personal circumstances, alongside rising living costs and the addition of VAT, can and have placed sudden and unexpected strain on household finances, including for families who have previously been able to cover the full cost of fees. When circumstances change, everyday school expenses can quickly begin to feel overwhelming.

Uniforms, lunches, bus passes, music lessons, and school trips all play a vital role in helping pupils feel included, confident, and able to thrive. When circumstances change, even small costs can become barriers.

The Student Opportunity Fund exists to quietly and compassionately remove those barriers. It provides practical support to families facing financial pressure, particularly when circumstances change unexpectedly, ensuring that pupils can continue to access the full range of the School’s activities, regardless of changes in family circumstances or rising costs.

For one single parent, support for school lunches brought immediate relief during a challenging period:

What families describe most often is not just the practical difference, but the emotional impact of knowing that someone is there to help:

“I feel very grateful and relieved because of the support from LSF donors.”

One parent also spoke of the deeper meaning behind this support:

“Asasingleparentwithlimitedemotionaland financialsupport,Ihaveexperiencedincreased financialpressure.Supportforschooldinnershas helpedeaseday-to-daylivingcostsduringa challengingtime.It’scomfortingtoknowthatmy daughterisbeingfedanutritiousmealduringthe schoolday.Shealwayscomeshomehappywith whatshe’shadforlunch,especiallythedessert.”

Another family turned to the Fund when rising costs meant difficult decisions had to be made:

“With the addition of VAT to school fees and otherpersonalcircumstances,weneededtosave money.Pianolessonswereonthelisttohelpcut costs. With thanks to donations to the Student OpportunityFund,my child has felt very happy to be able to continue with the opportunity to learn how to play the piano.”

“Iwouldliketothankthedonorsforbelieving intheSchoolanditspupils.Yourgenerosity andkindnesshavemadeahugedifference.I amincrediblygratefulfortheopportunitiesmy daughterhasbeengiventhroughbeingpartof theFoundation,opportunitieswewouldnever havedreamedpossiblewithouttheStudent OpportunityFund.”

Because of your support, pupils can carry on with the ordinary parts of school life that matter to them, like having lunch with friends or continuing their co-curricular activities. Families know that help is available if circumstances change, and that reassurance makes a real difference.

Because of you, families feel supported, pupils feel included, and everyday worries become lighter.

A Community Response to Rising Pressure

The Student Opportunity Fund was established following an appeal to alumni and friends when the introduction of VAT on independent school fees was expected to place additional pressure on some families. Unlike means-tested bursary support, the Student Opportunity Fund exists to respond flexibly when families experience unexpected pressure.

We are very grateful to everyone who donated and to those who continue to support the Fund.

The generosity of alumni and friends made it possible to create the Student Opportunity Fund, offering timely, practical support to families when it was most needed.

This article reflects the difference that support continues to make.

Pupils progress in sport and in life

Because of you... pupils progress in sport and in life

Across LSF, over 100 pupils, across a wide range of sports, take part in Player Pathway Programmes that support both their sporting development and their growth as individuals.

Each pathway combines specialist coaching, physical preparation, and guidance on mindset, wellbeing and balance. This allows pupils to develop their skills while also learning how to manage commitment, challenge and pressure alongside their academic work.

Donations play a vital role in making all of this possible.

Netball, building confidence as a team

Established in 2024, the Netball Player Pathway brings together LHS pupils from across the senior years, offering them access to high-quality coaching, strength and conditioning, and opportunities to reflect on their development. Sessions include guest coaching from elite-level netball staff and the introduction of Individual Development Plans, helping pupils set goals and track their progress.

Pupils have spoken about the impact this has had not only on their technical skills, but also on their confidence and sense of belonging within the team. The Pathway has helped pupils grow together, supporting one another through challenges and celebrating progress as a group.

Hockey, striving for excellence

In Hockey, pupils from across the Foundation train and compete together at a high level throughout the year. The Pathway supports them in fully committing to their sport while continuing to thrive academically.

Pupils benefit from regular training, video analysis, specialist coaching and the opportunity to test themselves in competitive environments. Several players have progressed into regional and national programmes, reflecting both their dedication and the strength of the support around them.

Last season, the High School’s First XI team were crowned Tier 2 National Champions, with the majority of the team coming through the Player Pathway and training together throughout the year.

Cricket, commitment and consistency

The Cricket Player Pathway supports pupils who show both talent and determination. Through additional training, individual feedback and access to specialist coaching, pupils are encouraged to

reflect on their performance and take responsibility for their own improvement.

In 2025, the LGS U15 team reached the English Schools T20 Finals Day for the first time in many years and came away with a bronze medal, reflecting both their commitment and the strength of the programme.

Pupils have spoken about the value of having time and space to focus on their development, and about how this has helped them grow not just as cricketers, but also in confidence and self-discipline.

Rugby, respect, resilience and teamwork

Rugby remains central to Loughborough Grammar School Sport, with more than 250 pupils representing their School this year, around a quarter of the pupil body.

The programme focuses on more than results. Rugby is used to develop respect, teamwork, resilience, self-awareness, and problem-solving, qualities that shape pupils for life beyond school.

Through training, competition and reflection, pupils learn how to manage pressure, support one another, and take pride in effort as well as outcome.

Football, a growing pathway

Football continues to grow across the Foundation and is now firmly embedded alongside other sports as a supported Player Pathway.

This year, with thanks to one supporter, pupils and coaches have begun using professional-level video analysis to review matches and training. This allows pupils to reflect on their performance, understand their strengths and identify areas for improvement, helping them become more thoughtful and self-aware in their approach to the game.

Beyond the pitch and court

“TheintroductionofthePlayerPathwayhasmade ahugedifferenceinimprovingbothourtechnical abilityaswellasphysicalfitness,butalsoin bringingusclosertogetherasateam.Wehave bondedgreatlyasagroup,andthepathwayhas allowedustomakelastingfriendshipsthathave improvedourteamperformancesonthecourt.”

Netball Player Pathway Participant

“ThePathwayhasbeenincrediblybeneficial; receivinginsightfromsomanyknowledgeable coacheshasbeeninvaluabletoourdevelopment.I amexcitedforthisopportunitytocontinuenextyear.”

Hockey Player Pathway Participant

“ThePlayerPathwayhasbeengreatformeto developmyskills.Beingabletohavetheextra trainingsessionandextracoachingorone-to-one sessionhasbeenvitalformydevelopment.”

Cricket Player Pathway Participant

“Weaimtocreatenotonlyexceptionalathletes, butalsoself-reliant,motivatedyoungmenwho understandwhatittakestothriveinelitesporting environments.”

Mr Emyr Lewis, Head of Rugby and Performance Sport

gain along the way. Confidence, discipline, teamwork, friendships and a sense of belonging are just as important as trophies or league positions.

Because of your support, pupils are given the time, expertise and encouragement to stretch themselves, learn from setbacks and discover what they are capable of, both in sport and in life.

While results and performance matter, the deeper impact of the Player Pathways lies in what pupils

Ensuring that these opportunities remain sustainable for future pupils is a continuing priority, and we would be pleased to speak with anyone interested in supporting sport across the Foundation.

Pupils can keep playing sports they love

Because of you... pupils can keep playing sports they love

The Ed Thorpe Memorial Fund was established in memory of Ed Thorpe (LGS Staff 1964 - 1996) and continues through the generosity of his family, friends, and all those who give in his memory. Together, supporters of the Fund make it possible for pupils at LGS to continue participating in the sports they love, even when personal circumstances might otherwise make this difficult.

The Fund supports pupils who show commitment and passion for cricket and rugby, helping to remove practical barriers that might prevent them from training, improving, or representing their School. From coaching and equipment to kit and transport, these grants step in quietly when needed most.

One parent shared that support from the Fund would enable her son to attend a half-term cricket camp and receive one-to-one coaching.

“Withoutit,mysonwillnotbeable toattendthecricketcamp,asitis notpossibleformetoaffordit.Heis exceptionallycommittedtocricket and will make the most of this opportunityandputittogood usefordevelopinghisskillswhile representingLGS.”

Following the camp, she wrote again:

“Mysonhadanamazing timeatthecrickettraining over half term. He feels more confidenttogointotraining and the season with his classmates. Thankstothegenerousofferfromthe EdThorpeMemorialFund,mysonfeels moreconfidentandready. The one-to-one

sessionswereparticularlybeneficial,andhewas able to work on skills he can now take forward into the cricket season.”

For another family, a grant helped to cover the cost of essential kit so their son could represent the School.

When the grant was awarded, the parent wrote:

“Thisisamazingnewsandmeansthatthere’s nomorestressinhavingtoexplaintomyson thathecan’tplaycricketbecausewecan’t afford the uniform.”

Each of these grants is funded by those who want to support pupils in a practical way and in tribute to Ed. Sometimes that means a piece of kit, sometimes a training opportunity, sometimes simply removing a worry. In each case, it helps a pupil carry on with something that matters to them.

To everyone who supports the Ed Thorpe Memorial Fund, thank you. Your generosity makes a huge difference every day for pupils who can keep playing because of you.

Because of you, pupils are not held back by circumstance and are free to pursue the sports they love.

Because of you... memories become opportunities

Donating in memory of someone is a lovely tribute to their life and the memories you shared, or to a cause that meant a lot to them.

We are very grateful and honoured to receive donations in memory of loved ones, friends, former colleagues and teachers.

This year, two families have chosen to honour someone important to them by creating new opportunities for pupils across the Foundation.

Remembering David Lowe

David Lowe (LGS 1974) attended LGS on a scholarship and remained grateful throughout his life for the opportunities it gave him.

After David’s death in January 2025, his family and a close friend chose to honour him by creating the David Lowe Award at LGS. The Award provides financial support to pupils whose families may struggle with the costs of school life, including uniform, equipment and other essentials.

In this way, David’s own experience of being supported is now being passed on to others.

With thanks

We are deeply grateful to the families and friends who have chosen to give in this way. Their generosity honours the people they remember and creates something meaningful for pupils today and in the years to come.

Because of you, we are able to remember and honour alumni and friends whose memories become opportunities for our current pupils.

Honouring Catherine Hsu

Catherine Hsu (LHS 2008) was the first pupil at LHS to study Computer Science at A Level, before going on to study the subject at the University of Bath and build a career in digital visual effects. At the time of her death, Catherine was working as a Senior Pipeline Technical Director for Industrial Light & Magic in Sydney. She had recently contributed to major films, including Wicked and Alien: Romulus.

Those who worked with Catherine described her as someone who “set a new bar for what someone in her rolecanachieve,” and remembered her for her generosity, curiosity and dedication.

Following Catherine’s death, her family established the Catherine Hsu Most Innovative Programming Prize, recognising and encouraging A Level pupils across the Foundation who demonstrate creativity and originality in computing.

Through this gift, Catherine’s love of learning and innovation continues to inspire pupils who are just beginning their own journeys.

Memories become opportunities

Horizons are widened through recognition

Because of you... horizons are widened through recognition

With thanks to alumni, friends, and families connected to our Schools, pupils are discovering that learning does not stop at the classroom door. Through donations to prizes and awards, pupils are gaining confidence, independence, and a deeper connection to the subjects they love.

The Stringfellow Travel Award

One such example is the Stringfellow Travel Award, created in memory of Beryl Stringfellow, a much-loved former Classics teacher at LHS. The Award enables pupils to experience the ancient world beyond their textbooks through visits to museums, historical sites, and cultural landmarks.

This year, pupils explored classical collections in London and walked in the footsteps of the Romans along Hadrian’s Wall, bringing their studies vividly to life. In doing so, they not only deepened their academic understanding but formed a more personal connection with the ancient world. Through this award, Beryl’s passion for Classics continues to inspire new generations.

“Itbroughttheancientworldtolife andmadeourlearningfeelreal.”

The Harvatt Travel Prize for Languages

The Harvatt Travel Prize supports pupils in enriching their language studies through first-hand cultural immersion. Named in honour of former LHS Headmistress Julien Harvatt, the Prize enables pupils to travel abroad, practise their language skills in real contexts, and gain a deeper understanding of the cultures they are studying.

This year, a pupil travelled to Berlin, navigating a new city, engaging with native speakers, and experiencing German culture first-hand. The experience helped build confidence, independence, and a genuine connection with the language, transforming it from a classroom subject into a lived experience.

“ThistripturnedwhatIwaslearningin classintosomethingreal,personal,and unforgettable.”

The Deniz Gunbey Economics Prize

The Deniz Gunbey Economics Prize recognises outstanding achievement in Economics and encourages pupils to believe in their potential. Awarded to a Sixth Form pupil for academic excellence, commitment, and contribution to school life, the Prize provides recognition at a pivotal moment as pupils prepare for university and beyond. It serves not only as a reward for hard work but as a powerful signal that ambition, curiosity, and dedication are valued and supported. It also highlights the relevance of Economics beyond school, acting as a springboard into further study and careers in economics and finance.

“Winningthisprizegavemeawonderfulboost ofconfidenceasIbeganmytimestudying Economicsatuniversity.”

Together, these prizes and awards show how generosity can open doors, widen horizons, and help young people grow in confidence and curiosity as they take their next steps.

Because of you, pupils are discovering new worlds, growing in confidence, and shaping the futures they believe in.

Time, talent and experience are shared

Because of you... time , talent and experience are shared

In 2024/25, 67 alumni and friends generously gave their time to support our Schools through special workshops, ceremonial roles, anniversary celebrations, and careerfocused activities. From music and the arts, to leadership, service, and professional pathways, volunteers play a vital role in bringing learning to life and helping pupils see what is possible beyond the classroom.

A

celebration

of community and creativity

On Friday 23 May, the community came together in Queen’s Park to celebrate 100 years of Houses and 175 years of Loughborough High School. Pupils and staff enjoyed a day of music, food, and shared memories, including the School Hymn played on the Carillon Tower by Caroline Sharpe (LHS 1997). Caroline, now a professional singer, conductor, and carillonneur, has built a life around music since leaving school, and her contribution was a reminder of how the talents nurtured at school often stay with pupils for life.

“Music has been a constant thread throughoutmylife.”

Opening doors to future careers

On Thursday 5 June, Ben Webster (LGS 2021) returned to Loughborough Schools Music to work with Music Technology pupils. Ben, who recently graduated from the Tonmeister course at the University of Surrey, shared real-world projects, studio experiences, and insight into careers in sound engineering and professional recording.

By connecting classroom learning with professional practice, Ben helped pupils better understand the pathways available to them and what it takes to succeed in specialist creative industries.

“Itwasawonderfulinsightintotheworldoffurther studyandprofessionalrecordingpractice.”

Mr Abba, Music Technology teacher

Inspiring leadership and service

In May, Captain Amy Cooper (LHS 2009) returned to campus as the first female Inspecting Officer at the Annual CCF Review and later as guest speaker at the Loughburians’ Dinner. Amy reflected on the confidence, ambition, and belief instilled in her at school, and encouraged others to challenge stereotypes, support one another, and pursue ambitious paths in whatever field they choose.

Her message about leadership, resilience, and championing women, offered powerful reassurance to the next generation.

“LoughboroughHighSchooldidn’tjustprepare meacademically;itgavemeconfidence,drive, and belief in what I could achieve.”

Together, these moments reflect the breadth and generosity of our volunteering community.

Because of you, pupils meet inspiring role models, gain insight into future pathways, and see what is possible beyond school.

The 1495 Society is making a difference

Because of you... the 1495 Society is making a difference

In September, we were delighted to welcome members of the 1495 Society back to campus for the annual 1495 Society Dinner, an evening that brought together supporters, friends, and scholars to celebrate the impact of giving and the opportunities it creates.

The 1495 Society honours those who choose to give £1,495 or more each year in support of our Schools. Together, members play a leading role in ensuring that pupils receive an outstanding education and that opportunities remain open to young people from all backgrounds.

In 2024/25, members of the 1495 Society have pledged and donated more than £1.5 million, funding bursaries and supporting initiatives including Sport Player Pathways, STEM programmes, hardship grants, and direct financial support for pupils and their families.

The dinner offered a powerful reminder of that impact. Members heard from Flight Lieutenant Tom Johnson (LGS 2016), who reflected on his time at school, the Scholarship he received, and his journey into a career in the Royal Air Force.

For many members, another meaningful part of the evening was meeting the pupils and scholars whose lives have been touched by their generosity. Conversations across the tables were filled with curiosity, pride, and encouragement, as members heard first-hand about ambitions, challenges, and future plans.

As one member reflected, hearing about the difference their support makes is deeply rewarding. Another spoke of how

inspiring it was to see the confidence, warmth, and ambition of the scholars in the room. These moments of connection sit at the heart of the 1495 Society.

The 1495 Society is not only about financial support; it is about belonging to a community that believes in education, invests in young people, and chooses to make a lasting difference. Members are united by a shared commitment to opportunity, excellence, and care for future generations.

Because of you, the 1495 Society is changing lives and opening opportunities for young people across our Schools.

We warmly welcome others who wish to join this community and help shape what comes next.

“Itwastrulyapleasuretomeetsomanygenerous andinspiringmembersoftheSociety.Ifelt honouredtosharemystory.” LHS Scholar

“Listeningtohowthedonationshavesuchahuge impactonpupils’livesisincrediblyrewarding.” 1495 Society Member

“ListeningtoTomwasinspirationalandhisimpact on the scholars in the room was unmistakable.”

Because of you... futures are built

Gifts in Wills are amongst the most meaningful ways our alumni and friends choose to create a lasting legacy. Since the very first bequest, made by Thomas Burton in 1495, enabling the foundation of our Schools, other such gifts have been offered quietly and thoughtfully for more than 500 years. Each one reflecting a deep connection to our Schools and a shared belief in the transformative power of education to shape young lives.

In the past year, gifts given through Wills have totalled £111,217.61, providing vital support across our Schools. Most of these gifts have been directed towards bursaries or to where the need is greatest, allowing the Foundation to respond to the evolving needs of pupils and staff, and to ensure opportunities remain open to pupils from all backgrounds.

The Thomas Burton Society

The Thomas Burton Society recognises those who have chosen to support the future of our Schools by including them in their Will.

By planning ahead, members of the Thomas Burton Society help secure the long-term strength of our Schools and ensure that their support and impact endures for years to come.

To learn more about the stories featured in ‘Because of you…’, or to explore how your continued support could build futures across our Schools, please scan the QR code.

What makes choosing to give a gift in your Will so special is its lasting impact. A future gift can support pupils for years to come, open doors, build confidence, and shape lives long after the gift is made. Many supporters tell us that giving a gift in their Will feels like a natural extension of their relationship with the Schools, a way of ensuring that their support and connection can continue for future generations.

Every gift, whatever its size, contributes to something enduring. It is an amazing act of generosity that can help secure the future of our Schools and the futures of the pupils who will pass through their doors for many years to come.

Because of you, opportunity does not end with one generation; it endures, quietly and powerfully, into the next.

Stay in touch Make sure you keep your details up to date to hear the latest news from us.

Loughborough Schools Foundation is a Registered Charity, number 1081765, regulated by The Charity Commission and The Fundraising Regulator

Scan the QR code to update your details You can also contact our team by emailing development@lsf.org or by calling 01509 638915.