A school rooted in values.

Bootham School has been nurturing young minds since 1823, guided by its enduring Quaker principles of equality, fairness, peace and integrity. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to flourish, regardless of their financial background. That's why we're deeply committed to offering transformational bursaries to those most in need, and means-tested bursaries to support talented students awarded scholarships. These life-changing opportunities open doors to a Bootham education. But our mission doesn't stop there. We also strive to maintain and improve our beautiful school environment, ensuring it continues to be a place where students thrive in the classroom, on the stage or on the sports field.

Welcome

"I have the privilege of working with our incredible community of Old Scholars, parents and friends to help provide life-changing opportunities for Bootham students. 

Bootham is a truly special place full of compassion and hope. Whether you're considering a one-off or regular gift, or a gift in your Will, thank you for being part of this journey." 

 Diane Bond, Director of Development

We believe education should never be limited by financial circumstance. That's why transformational bursaries are central to our mission. 

We work with the Royal National Children's Springboard Foundation and Virtual Schools to identify children in care or from disadvantaged backgrounds who would thrive at Bootham and enrich our community. 

We also offer means-tested bursaries to support scholarship students in academics, creative arts or sport, and families facing temporary hardship. These ensure Bootham remains a place of fairness and opportunity, where no child is left behind.

How can you help?

01.

Make a one-off donation to one of our bursary funds

02.

Set up a regular gift and join The Bright Society, our community of committed supporters

03.

Make a significant donation to fully support a student for 2, 3 or 5 years of their Bootham journey

Leaving a gift in your Will to Bootham School is a powerful way to ensure Bootham's values live on for generations to come. It's a quiet, powerful act of generosity. 

For many supporters, a legacy gift is a way to reflect the values they hold dear. It's a way to ensure that Bootham continues to offer a transformative education to children who need it most. 

We understand that this is a deeply personal decision. If you'd like to explore your options or talk through how your gift could be used, we would be happy to speak with you. 

In 2026 we will be launching our new legacy club, which recognises and thanks all those who choose to leave a gift in their Will during their lifetime. More details to follow in due course. 

How can you help?

01.

Fund transformational bursaries for students from disadvantaged backgrounds

02.

Support families facing temporary hardship

03.

Maintain and enhance our school environment

The Bright Society is our community of regular givers who believe in the power of education to transform lives. By setting up a monthly gift, you become part of a movement that ensures Bootham remains open to all, regardless of financial background. 

Regular giving provides stability to our bursary programme, allowing us to plan confidently and support more students over time. Whether your gift is £5 or £50, it helps us say "yes" to a child who deserves a chance.

How can you help?

01.

Set up a monthly, quarterly or annual donation and become a member of The Bright Society

02.

Encourage others to join and grow our community

If you're a UK taxpayer, Gift Aid allows us to claim an extra 25p for every £1 you donate, at no extra cost to you. It's a simple way to make your generosity go even further. So, if you are eligible, please complete the Gift Aid Declaration form.

Bootham School is proud to be registered with the Fundraising Regulator, ensuring transparency, integrity and respect in all our fundraising practices.