Support Us
Philanthropy is the golden thread that runs through the Dragon’s history.
From the very first donations that established our School at Bardwell Road to the scores of parents and ODs who give generously today, the School would not be what it is without the support of our community. As we look to our 150th anniversary in 2027, our focus is on securing the diversity and inclusivity of our student body through the Transformational Bursary Programme.
Give a gift
online
There are many ways to make a gift to the Dragon. You can find further information below on the available options or give a single gift online.
Ways of Giving
Transformational Bursary Programme
Over the last 20 years, parents and ODs have collectively given the gift of a Dragon Education to more than 110 children. Our Transformational Bursary Programme is entirely funded by donations, and in recent years a significant proportion of the funds raised each year has come from our annual A Block Leavers’ Appeal. From academic and sporting success to performing in plays and ensembles, the generosity of our community helps these young Dragons to thrive: making friends, discovering their passions, developing their talents and finding their voice.
The School welcomes up to five new bursary holders each year, with around 25 in the school at any one time, receiving an average of 80% remission on their fees; you can find out more about the application and selection process here. We also have two Springboard bursaries in partnership with the Royal National Children’s SpringBoard Foundation, who are with us for two years and receive a 110% bursary. Our vision is for every Dragon and their family to feel included, for diversity to be celebrated and equality championed. We therefore work hard to ensure that our bursary holders are carefully and compassionately integrated and supported by a network of staff to help them thrive in their new environment.
Bursaries are offered to those who will make the most of everything the Dragon has to offer whilst also making a positive impact on their school community. With your support, we can offer future cohorts of children the space and freedom to find their wings. For more information or to discuss a donation, please contact Frances Wheare, Director of Development and Social Impact at [email protected] or phone +44(0)1865 315415
Transformational Bursaries In Numbers
Years
The Dragon launched its Transformational Bursary Programme over 20 years ago, in 2003, to coincide with the School’s 125th anniversary.
Children
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.
Places
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.
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 the below testimonials, former bursary pupils, and their families, share stories of their Dragon days, and why bursaries are truly transformational.
(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.
Development Team
The Development Office exists to help our community stay connected to the School beyond their Dragon Days.