the GIFT OF WINGS
“The inspiration behind my regular gift to the Dragon is simply to facilitate access to the kind of education I had for those from less financially able backgrounds.”
(OD 1992, Regular Donor)
The Dragon School has always been committed to making this unique education accessible to the children who will benefit most from it, despite their family’s financial circumstances.
The Transformational Bursary Programme was launched in 2002 to coincide with the School’s 125th anniversary, and as we approach the 150th anniversary, we are ever more committed to safeguarding this vital scheme.
The Transformational Bursary Programme costs around £500,000 each year and is entirely underwritten by donations. It really is the case that every gift – be it £10 a month or £1,000 a year – makes a genuine contribution to recipients: for instance, the child who has been able to “discover her voice, to lead, to explore new interests”; the boy who is “more motivated and confident in his abilities”; or the girl who has developed from “quite a shy girl hiding in books to a sociable, confident and resilient young woman.” (You’ll be pleased to hear that she still loves books!) And finally, through our Springboard Bursary, your support will help people like the care experienced child who has found in the Dragon “a place of safety, enjoyment and care”, and whose love of learning has been encouraged and nurtured.
These quotes from the parents and carers of our bursary holders demonstrate the impact your donation will have.
Give a Gift
Over 100 children have been given wings since the launch of the Dragon’s Transformational Bursary Programme, with huge thanks to the generosity of our community.
Make a difference by supporting Dragon Bursaries.
Transformational Bursary Programme
A bursary allows a child to discover their passions, achieve their potential and reach for the sun, whether they are from a background of privilege or not.
The Dragon launched its Transformational Bursary Programme over 20 years ago to coincide with its 125th anniversary. The first four children funded by the scheme joined in 2003 and, since then, over 100 pupils have benefitted from a life-changing Dragon education.
The Dragon funds up to five bursary places in each year group, with up to 25 children in total across the Prep school at any one time. Applying families must first submit a financial questionnaire, which is then approved through independent, external review. Once financial need is established, candidates are assessed for admission like any other Dragon. Many factors are considered and, ultimately, we accept children who can both positively contribute to and gain from the School, whether academically, in sport, the arts or through their disposition and personality.
A bursary to study at the Dragon acts as a springboard to further opportunities, and many of our bursary holders go on to achieve scholarships and means-tested support from their future schools. Students who receive bursaries come from a wide range of backgrounds and have many talents, representing the diverse community and unique character found here at the Dragon.
In these testimonials, current and former bursary pupils and their families share stories of their Dragon days, and why bursaries are truly transformational.
If you’re able and inclined to contribute to our Transformational Bursary Programme to support the next generation of Dragons, please email the Development Office at [email protected] or telephone +44 (0)1865 315 537.
The Ridler family generously donated the 1960s film clips at the Dragon featured in the above film. Captured at the Dragon by Vivian Ridler, the parent of Colin Ridler, who was then at the school.
(Re)Discover the Dragon
Dates for your diary
From regular reunions to Dragon Drinks, Remembrance Sunday to the Dragon Sale, there are lots of opportunities to come back to Bardwell Road.
Keep Connected
Moved house? Changed Email? Update your details with us to keep connected with the Dragon.
Support Us
In 1886, it was parents’ faith and financial support which enabled the fulfilment of an extraordinary vision – to found a school that would inspire and nurture each child’s unique gifts.