Reigate Grammar School 1875
“The Changing Lives, Building Futures campaign is the next exciting chapter in Reigate Grammar School’s rich tapestry, providing the framework to deliver a decade of philanthropic celebration that will benefit Reigatians and the wider community over the coming years.” Shaun Fenton OBE, RGS Headmaster
The butterfly effect Reigate Grammar School was founded in 1675 through a single act of generosity, when Henry Smith bequeathed £1,000 in his Will to educate local ‘poor boys’ in Reigate. This act of philanthropy ignited a chain of events, akin to a butterfly effect, which continues to have an impact on Reigate and the surrounding area almost 350 years later.
the next 350 years
In 2025, RGS will celebrate its 350 anniversary, a significant milestone that provides us the opportunity to look ahead to the next 350 years. To celebrate, we have launched a decade of philanthropic celebration, in partnership with our Reigatian community, aimed at securing a sustainable and ambitious future. Through our new Changing Lives, Building Futures campaign, we aim to establish a legacy that our community can take pride in for generations to come. Like the metamorphosis of a butterfly, this new campaign embodies growth, transformation and celebration. The Changing Lives, Building Futures campaign gives birth to new ideas, activities and qualities. Ideas that will be shaped, developed and nurtured – laying the foundation of RGS for the next 350 years.
“I hope that by seeing Connor reach his own potential, it will inspire other young people to see that it is possible to reach their own personal goals and fulfil their dreams.” Cindy Morris (RGS parent of bursary student)
a decade of philanthropic celebration
Philanthropy is about looking after the welfare of others. On behalf of the Reigatian community, we are committed to helping others and promoting the true meaning of philanthropy over this next decade. We have exciting plans that will reinforce this commitment, and encompass a variety of initiatives linked to our decade of philanthropic celebration.
“I’m an advocate and supporter of the Changing Lives, Building Futures campaign because I’m excited by the direction in which RGS is heading over this next decade. As a former student and member of the Reigatian family, I truly believe that RGS provides a brilliant platform for adult life, opening doors of opportunity for all students.”
James Reader (RGS 1987-1992)
IMAGINE doing good for others IMAGINE being able to offer more bursary places at RGS than ever before IMAGINE being the catalyst to start something good in your community IMAGINE working with our charity partners to magnify the impact of their work IMAGINE finding your fit
Scan the QR code to learn more and find your fit
Support our decade
Anniversary: We will host a series of celebratory events bringing together our Reigatian community across locations worldwide to commemorate our 350 anniversary throughout the 2025 academic year.
Charity Partnerships: We will collaborate closely with charity partners to amplify the impact of their work, engage in volunteer efforts and educate students about the significance of philanthropy and the act of helping others.
Working closely with local charities
Laying the foundations for the next 350 years
Environmental Sustainability: A pledge to consider the environmental impacts of daily decisions and be responsible in this area through our newly formed Sustainability Committe, educating students so that they can make choices which will will benefit the long term.
CCF cadets planting 350 trees at Hartswood “I’ve recently reconnected with the Reigatian community, and it’s been an enriching experience. Re-establishing ties with like-minded individuals has opened up new avenues of opportunity and collaboration for both myself and my business. I would encourage all Reigatians to find their fit and utilise this powerful network.” Rebecca Puttock (RGS 1998–2006)
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of philanthropic celebration
RGS will embark on a fundraising campaign which will continue with the expansion of bursary provision alongside major capital developments, ensuring that our facilities replicate the first class educational experience students receive.
Increasing the standard of facilities across the campus
Changing Lives: We are committed to offering more bursary places than ever before, enriching the lives of local families and children. Over the next ten years, our goal is to double the number of bursary places, raising the percentage from 15% to 30% with a target fund of £20 million.
Doubling bursary provision over the next ten years
Building Futures: Our ambitious £10 million project aims to elevate the quality of facilities at RGS, ensuring that our campus aligns with the exceptional educational experience our students receive and will benefit the wider community.
To achieve these ambitious goals and create our own legacy requires support and investment. It requires an investment of time, resources, energy and financial support.
finding your fit There is an opportunity for you to support at whichever level you feel most comfortable.
White
Advocating for RGS Foundation Mentor/Careers Advice/Skills/Work Experience/Internships Volunteering with charity partners
• White pin badge • Annual Supporters’ Soirée
Bronze
Any amount up to £3.50 per month / £42 per annum 3-year commitment
• Navy pin badge • Annual Supporters’ Soirée • Naming in Impact Report
Up to £35 per month/£420 per annum 3-year commitment
• Navy pin badge • Annual Supporters’ Soirée • Naming in Impact Report • Invite to school event (drama, music, sport, CCF)
Up to £3,500 per annum over 7 years
• Navy pin badge • Annual Supporters’ Soirée • Naming in Impact Report • Invite to school event (drama, music, sport, CCF) • Invite to additional school event
Silver
Gold
Henry Smith Club membership (and annual dinner) is granted if you pledge from £140 per month / £1,675 per annum for 7 years OR after £11,725 cumulative giving.
Platinum
Up to £35,000
• Navy pin badge • Annual Supporters’ Soirée • Invitations to RGS events • Headmaster hosted events • Benefactors’ Board
Diamond
Over £35,000
• Bespoke stewardship plan
Legacy gift with signed pledge
• Navy pin badge • 1675 Society member & Legators’ Lunch • Annual Supporters’ Soirée • Naming in Impact Report • Invite to school event • Legators’ Board
Sapphire
One-Off donations: We welcome one-off donations of any level and will look to recognise these appropriately. Email foundation@reigategrammar.org to discuss in greater detail.
Registered Charity Number: 1081898
“In an increasingly challenging and fragmented world, building connections, friendships and community has never been more important. We are proud that the RGS Foundation has already created a connected community; re-kindling old friendships, creating new connections and bringing together people across the globe united by a shared history and values. As a Reigatian community, we have the opportunity not only to enrich each other’s lives, but also to help others who are less advantaged and to support the continuing journey of the institution through this decade of philanthropy.” Mark Elsey (RGS Chair of Governors, RGS 1974-1978)
“When I left RGS in 2009 on a bursary, I threw myself into my career - fast forward a decade later and I am now able to give back; as a Henry Smith Club Member helping others with their RGS journey and offering advice or guidance to students. I have also benefitted from the wide and varied professional community who have been very generous in helping me build the next stages of my career. I would encourage you to find your fit and throw yourself into our great Reigatian Community.” Say Vivekanantham (RGS 2002-2009)
“As a mother of a current bursary recipient, I knew that I wanted to do something to help and give back so that more children can benefit from a wonderful education at RGS. While I don’t have the means to support the Changing Lives, Building Futures campaign in my lifetime, I know first-hand the impact that leaving a legacy can have, which is why I have left a proportion of my estate to this initiative.” Claire Minter (RGS parent of bursary student)
RGS Foundation Reigate Grammar School Reigate Road Reigate Surrey RH2 0QS foundation@reigategrammar.org 01737 222231