Thornton-Smith and Plevins Trust
We believe that every student deserves access to quality education.
Learn how you can receive financial assistance today.
How we can help
Thornton-Smith and Plevins Trust (‘TSP’) represents three educational trusts, two created by brothers Walter and Ernest Thornton-Smith, the first in 1954, and the third by Wilfred Plevins.
TSP provides financial assistance for UK students who are already at UK independent schools, or at UK state boarding schools.
Our support is limited to the second GCSE year (Year 11) and the two A level, Highers, Advanced Highers or International Baccalaureate years (Years 12 and 13).
It is expected that parents or guardians, who will be UK tax payers, will have had the necessary financial resources to fund their share of school fees when the student started secondary school, but these plans will have been thrown into disarray by an unexpected family crisis; usually bereavement, illness, desertion, divorce or loss of earnings.
We usually only help students who show high academic achievement or potential but, on occasion, we will assist on the basis of special educational or pastoral needs. In any event, the student is expected to be a good contributor to the school community, and the support of the school will always be needed.
The school, except in the case of some state boarding schools, will also be expected to provide a significant fee discount, usually at least as much as TSP is being asked to provide. Our advice to parents and guardians is to always discuss their financial situation with the school authorities first, before contacting us, and obtain their support for bursary funding in principle.
Please note that we will always make a detailed financial assessment, looking at assets and liabilities, income and expenditure, and as appropriate will ask for evidence to back up the figures. We also expect parents or guardians to make some contribution towards the school fees.
Testimonials
‘Thank you so much for my son’s grant. This is life changing for us and it will enable him to stay at his current school for sixth form studies where he is so happy.’
Ms V, Devon, June 2025
‘Thank you so much for your grant which allows me to stay at my school. I am so grateful for this opportunity. Your help means so much and has shown me the importance of charity. I hope to be able to give back to younger people who need it in the future.’
Mr M, Brighton June 2025
‘I just want to express my sincere gratitude to the Thornton-Smith and Plevins Trust for the support you gave my son. You helped him build a solid foundation for his future by offering him stability to stay in the same school he was in. It made a huge difference’
Ms N, Hertfordshire, June 2024
‘I just wanted to thank so much for giving me the most incredible opportunity to remain at my current school for A level studies. Your support has benefitted me in ways I will never forget. It has opened doors I never thought were possible. I’m truly grateful for your generosity and belief .’
Ms F, Yorkshire, June 2025
‘Thank you for your kindness, time and expertise in supporting my daughter to allow her to stay at her current school. Your reassuring presence whilst we went through the process made a big difference.’
Mr and Mrs S, Herefordshire, June 2024
Contact Us
For all enquiries and application form requests, please contact Mrs Sue Davis, Grants Secretary