The Harpur Trust
Visit websiteAbout The Harpur Trust
The Harpur Trust is a historic charitable foundation based in Bedford, England, originally established in 1566 using the legacy of Sir William Harpur. Today, it stands as one of the most prominent educational and grant-making charities in the region. The Trust owns and manages four leading independent schools in Bedford—catering to pupils from pre-preparatory age through to Sixth Form—while also operating an extensive bursary programme to widen access. Beyond its independent schools, the Trust sponsors a multi-academy trust in the state sector, provides housing for older people, and awards millions of pounds in grants to support local community organisations and vulnerable individuals across the borough.
Associated Schools(4)
Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School is a co-educational independent day school located in Bedford, catering for children aged from three months to seven years. Part of The Harpur Trust, the school provides an enriched pre-prep and nursery setting set within its own spacious grounds featuring a substantial wooded area. The curriculum is centred on nurturing children's natural curiosity and creativity through purpose-built facilities and creative teaching models. The school offers comprehensive wrap-around care, specialist music tuition, and a wide range of extracurricular clubs designed to support young learners.
Bedford Girls' School is an independent day school for girls aged 7 to 18, located in Bedford, England. Operated by the Harpur Trust, the school was formed in 2009 through the merger of Bedford High School and Dame Alice Harpur School, both originally established in 1882. The school offers a comprehensive academic curriculum encompassing GCSEs, A Levels, and the International Baccalaureate, supported by extensive campus facilities and co-curricular opportunities.
Bedford Modern School is a co-educational, academically selective day school located in Bedfordshire, catering for pupils aged 7 to 18 across its junior school, senior school, and sixth form. The school provides a balanced curriculum alongside pastoral care, encouraging students to develop through a culture of ambition and community engagement. It offers wide-ranging opportunities in sport, the arts, and leadership to support the development of well-rounded individuals.
Bedford School is an independent day and boarding school located on a 50-acre site in Bedford, England. Catering for pupils aged 7 to 18, the school comprises a preparatory school and an upper school. Administered by the Harpur Trust, it offers a broad academic curriculum alongside extensive sporting, musical, and co-curricular opportunities. The campus features notable Gothic Revival architecture, including a Grade II listed main building and chapel.