The Harpur Trust

06/09/2026

In an interview with Youth TV , our Chief Executive, David Steadman, discusses the major investment programme across our independent schools. Speaking with Urban Judge, he explores the rationale behind Bedford School's move to become co-educational from September 2027, the vision behind this investment across all Harpur Trust schools, including exciting new facilities planned for Bedford Girls' School, continued campus development at Bedford Modern School, and how these developments will enable our schools to continue delivering an outstanding educational experience for generations to come.

https://youtu.be/97ZOuCEkx88?si=KUJEYuZhpGnk_qzN

David Steadman, Chief Executive of The Harpur Trust, joins YouthTV'...

05/09/2026

This International Day of Charity, we're highlighting CVS Bedfordshire, a charity that supports local voluntary and community organisations throughout the borough.

Through our grant funding , we’re proud to support CVS, whose work helps local charities, community groups and volunteers make a difference across Bedford. By providing advice, training and volunteer support, CVS strengthens the local voluntary sector and helps communities come together. Find out further information at www.cvsbeds.org.uk

04/09/2026

As part of our commitment to supporting diverse, inclusive, and thriving communities, The Harpur Trust is delighted to be sponsoring Bedford Pride 2026, taking place in Bedford town centre, at The Harpur Suite tomorrow (Saturday 5 September).

Organised by Rainbow Bedfordshire, Bedford Pride brings together people from across our community to celebrate inclusion, creativity, visibility, and belonging. The event features live entertainment, workshops, community stalls, performances, and activities for all ages.

We'd encourage you to come along and join the celebrations in Bedford this Saturday. We look forward to seeing the town filled with colour, community spirit, and pride.

01/09/2026

Today, we are pleased to announce a significant programme of investment across our four schools: Bedford School, Bedford Girls' School, Bedford Modern School and Pilgrims Pre Preparatory School.

Following extensive research, consultation with parents and careful consideration of the changing landscape for independent education, these developments reflect our ongoing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of families and strengthening the outstanding education we provide for future generations.

Highlights include Bedford School becoming co-educational from September 2027, enhanced facilities and opportunities at Bedford Girls' School, continued campus developments at Bedford Modern School, and expanded childcare funding provision at Pilgrims.

Read more about our exciting plans at www.harpurtrust.org.uk/the-harpur-trust-announces-major-investment

25/08/2026

We were delighted to support this year's Wootton Food & Music Festival as one of the event sponsors, helping to make another brilliant free family day possible for the local community.

From live music and entertainment throughout the day to an incredible range of food, drink, market stalls and family activities, the festival brought people together for a day full of fun, laughter and community spirit. It was wonderful to see so many families, friends and local residents enjoying everything the event had to offer.

A big well done to the organisers, volunteers, performers, vendors and everyone who attended and contributed to the event's success. Community events like this play such an important role in bringing people together, creating connections and celebrating the vibrant local area we are proud to be part of.

We're pleased that our sponsorship helped support this fantastic event and look forward to seeing it continue in the years ahead.

24/08/2026

We are proud to have sponsored this year's Ukrainian Independence Day celebrations in Bedford on Sunday.

Run by PBIC, this special community event brings people together to celebrate Ukraine's independence, share Ukrainian culture, and strengthen connections across our communities.

Our Community Programmes Director, Lucy had a great time at this free, family friendly event with live performances, children's activities, arts and crafts, and plenty of opportunities to experience and celebrate Ukrainian heritage.

At The Harpur Trust, we are proud to support events that bring people together, and echo our community priority, "Stronger Communities."

We regularly support events like this which enable Bedfordians of all backgrounds to find out more about the different pieces of the fascinating Bedford jigsaw. Watch out for the next one!

21/08/2026

A special congratulations to Bedford School, Bedford Modern School and Bedford Girls' School on their outstanding GCSE results. These achievements are a testament to the hard work, dedication and resilience of students, teachers, staff and families across our community.

We would also like to congratulate all schools across Bedford Borough celebrating GCSE results yesterday. Behind every grade is a great deal of effort, commitment and perseverance, and every student should be proud of what they have achieved by reaching this important milestone.

Whatever your results may be, remember that there are many different pathways to success. GCSEs are just one step on your journey, and there is a wide range of opportunities available after 16, including sixth form, college, technical qualifications and apprenticeships.

Congratulations to all our Bedford young people and best wishes for whatever comes next.

19/08/2026

We were proud to sponsor the Pakistan Culture & Heritage Festival 2026 in Bedford, supporting an event that brought together almost 300 people to celebrate and share Pakistani heritage, strengthening connections across different communities, cultures and faiths.

As a sponsor, it was a privilege to contribute to a festival that not only celebrated Pakistan's 79th Independence Day, but also created opportunities for people from different backgrounds to come together, learn from one another and build meaningful relationships. Bedford has a proud history of diversity which many places could learn from, and it’s opportunities for conversations like this which help keep our community a positive and inclusive one.

We take great pride in supporting initiatives like this that make a positive impact and bring people together, and this festival was a wonderful example of how culture can unite communities through shared experiences, conversation and understanding. From traditional food and music to cultural performances, it was inspiring to see so many people celebrating diversity, inclusion and togetherness.

Thank you to the British Pakistani Welfare Association for organising such a meaningful event and for bringing our community priority “ Stronger Communities” to life.

18/08/2026

We’re looking forward to the Wootton Food & Music Festival on Saturday (22 August) we’re sponsoring for the community to come together on Harris Way Playing Fields.

Alongside live bands and entertainment throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a fantastic selection of food and drink from local vendors. There will also be plenty for younger visitors to enjoy, including inflatables and family-friendly activities.

We're delighted to support an event that strengthens community connections and creates opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy a fantastic day together.

12/08/2026

We are proud to sponsor the British Pakistani Welfare Association Culture & Heritage Festival this Sunday (16 August), at 1pm, at Great Denham Community Hall. The festival aims to bring people from all backgrounds together to celebrate the rich heritage of Pakistan and the diversity that makes Bedford such a vibrant community.

Experience Pakistani culture, share food and enjoy live Qawwali at this special event, which BPWA describes as an afternoon dedicated to building friendships, encouraging understanding and strengthening community connections.

Everyone is welcome. Bring your family and friends and join in the celebrations!