The Transformational Bursaries Programme exists to ensure that talented young people can access the opportunities of a Caterham education, regardless of their circumstances. Known to our staff as Wilberforce Scholars, these pupils join Caterham through partnerships with organisations including the Royal National Children’s SpringBoard Foundation, the East Surrey Learning Partnership and our own SaturdayPlus programme. These initiatives help us reach young people with exceptional potential whose families would not otherwise be able to consider an independent school education.

Every Wilberforce Scholar pupil and their family receives personalised pastoral support throughout their Caterham journey. This year, we are proud to have expanded our family of Wilberforce Scholars from 26 to 30, and our goal is to increase this to 40 places by 2030.

Earlier this year, we were delighted to reconnect with many of our Wilberforce Scholar alumni at a special reunion. All attended Caterham through the Transformational Bursaries Programme and are now pursuing inspiring futures at university, in apprenticeships and in a wide range of careers. Bringing together alumni aged 19 to 26, the evening provided a valuable opportunity to share experiences, celebrate achievements, and reflect on their journeys since leaving School.

More importantly, it was a powerful reminder of why the programme exists and the lasting difference it makes in young people’s lives. Our impact extends well beyond a pupil’s time at Caterham. Through our CaterhamConnected programme, Wilberforce Scholars, alongside all young alumni, continue to benefit from the strength of the Caterham community after leaving School. Professional networking opportunities, mentoring relationships, careers advice, and work experience placements help support young Old Caterhamians as they take their next steps at university and in the workplace and realise their potential.

We are immensely grateful to our Supporters’ Community, whose generosity makes Wilberforce Scholar places possible. To find out more about supporting the Transformational Bursaries Programme, please visit the Caterham School website or contact development@caterhamschool.co.uk.