Foundation Trustees

Foundation Trustees

King Edward VI’s School at Chelmsford Foundation is a registered charity (Charity no. 1207412) established as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). It carries forward the historic legacy of the Foundation created under the Charter granted in 1551 by King Edward VI to Sir William Petre, Sir Walter Mildmay and others, to establish and maintain a school in Chelmsford.

The original Foundation (Charity no. 310861) fulfilled this role for many years. Its assets, activities and responsibilities are now in the process of being transferred to the CIO, and the historic charity is being formally wound down. The CIO is now the principal charitable body responsible for the Foundation’s ongoing work.

Role of the Foundation

The Foundation Trustees are responsible for the stewardship of assets associated with King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford, including land, buildings and investments. These assets include the Broomfield Road site and the Bedford Playing Fields (opened in 1977), together with buildings developed and supported by the Foundation over time.

The Foundation has played a significant role in the development of the School estate, including major projects such as the Music School and Learning Development Centre (450th anniversary appeal), the Darwin Centre (2009), the extension to the Learning Development Centre (2011), and the Art Block (2014). The land and buildings are leased to the Academy Trust under a long-term arrangement.

The Foundation also maintains a close relationship with the governance of King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford, including representation within the Academy Trust structure.

Supporting the School

In addition to its custodial responsibilities, the Foundation provides ongoing financial support to King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford.

In recent years, this has included:

· Significant contributions to capital and infrastructure projects, including facilities, equipment and site improvements

· Support for enrichment and co-curricular activities, including music, cadets and student initiatives

· Targeted funding to enhance the School environment and support long-term sustainability

This support reflects the Foundation’s aim to ensure that the School continues to thrive and to provide outstanding educational opportunities.

Bursaries and Student Support

The Foundation operates a Bursary Scheme to support students at King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford who may face financial barriers to participation in educational activities.

Bursaries are typically awarded in the range of £150 to £500 (or up to 80% of the cost of an activity) and are primarily used to support participation in educational trips and visits. Applications are assessed on the basis of financial need and are treated in strict confidence.

The Foundation also provides funding for prizes and awards to recognise academic excellence, independent research and achievement beyond the standard curriculum. These awards celebrate the high standards and ambition of students at the School.

A Continuing Legacy

Through the transition to the CIO, the Foundation has modernised its governance structure while preserving its historic purpose.

The Foundation Trustees continue to:

· Safeguard and manage the School’s assets

· Provide financial support for capital and educational initiatives

· Enable access to opportunities through bursaries

· Recognise and reward student achievement

· Support enrichment and co-curricular provision

This ensures that the Foundation remains well placed to support King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford for generations to come.

Structure of the Board – 15 Trustees in total

· 2 ECC Nominated Trustees – 4 years

· 2 CCC Nominated Trustees – 4 years

· 4 OCA Nominated Trustees – 4 years

· 2 Elected Parent Trustees – 4 years

· 5 Ordinary Trustees – 4 years

April 2026