Bright Futures Fund

THE NETHERHALL BRIGHT FUTURES FUND

At the Netherhall School and Oakes College, we have a vibrant and diverse community, and everything we do is underpinned by our three values of inspiring, individual and inclusive (read more here). Through our Bright Futures Fund, we provide support and networks for out most vulnerable students, parents and carers, to ensure that all our students are supported to engage and thrive in their education with us.

WHAT DOES THE FUND DO?

Engagement with education can have a profound and lasting positive impact on a young person, right through into adulthood. We believe that, regardless of personal circumstance, every student should have access to the nutrition, equipment and experiences that they, as individuals, need to thrive. Through The Netherhall Bright Futures Fund we support the most vulnerable members of our school community in response to their needs, including:

• Foodbank – through our weekly foodbank in school, we provide food and other basic necessities, to ensure that no student arrives at school hungry, nor has to do without a meal each evening.

• Extra-curricular activities – through financial support, we ensure that financial hardship is not a barrier to students accessing enriching extra-curricular activities.

• Equipment and books – through the provision of equipment and books, we remove the financial barrier to students accessing equipment and resources that they need to thrive in their own education journey.

• Mentoring – through group mentoring and activity sessions (such as boxing), we provide outlets for our most vulnerable students to explore and manage their struggles.

IMPACT

The Bright Futures Fund funds weekly boxing sessions for 15 students. These boxing sessions provide a weekly outlet to students to support their health and wellbeing.

“I’ve really enjoyed the sessions, especially the sparring. I feel like I’ve developed a whole range of new skills and now I am much more confident with my defensive skills.” year 11 student.

Our weekly foodbank provides essential sustenance to 30 families within our community facing challenging circumstances. What makes our program particularly special is the involvement of our own students, who help manage and run the operation. While developing valuable skills in organization, administration, and compassionate service, these young volunteers witness firsthand the impact of community support.

Thanks to our support program, over 100 students have stepped through the magical doors of Harry Potter World, marvelled at computing history in Bletchley Park, experienced French culture in Alsace, and discovered the vibrant energy of London’s world-class theatres. These aren’t just day trips – they’re transformative experiences that broaden horizons, spark new interests, and create lasting memories.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

The Fund relies primarily on grant funding. In addition to seeking corporate funding and donations, we invite and welcome donations from individuals and groups who are able to provide them. There are a few ways that you can support us:

• One off or regular financial donation through GoodHub (no account required) 

• One off or regular financial donation through WisePay

  (WisePay account required). If you need support in setting up payments, email finance@netherhallschool.org.

• Food and toiletry donations – we accept donations of non-perishable food items (unopened and in-date) and toiletries (unopened and unused) to be handed out via the foodbank, please drop these into reception at any time.

If you are able to support out most vulnerable students in another way, please get in touch by email to netherhallsupport@netherhallschool.org.

THANK YOU

The Netherhall School and Oakes College express thanks on behalf of the school and college communities for the support that enables the Bright Futures Fund to run. Some of our recent supporters include:

• Tesco Stronger Starts
• Peters, Elworthy & Moore (PEM)
• The Leys School
• Cambridge Freemason Lodges