Trustees’ Annual Report
Adopt-a-School Foundation UK Charity Number: 1210261 Reporting Period: 30 September 2024 to 30 June 2025
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Objectives and Activities
Adopt-a-School Foundation UK (“AAS UK”) exists to advance education for the public benefit, particularly by supporting schools and educational initiatives through grant-making and partnerships, as set out in its Constitution.
During the reporting period, the charity operated in a start-up phase. Activities were focused on establishing governance structures, developing key policies (including safeguarding, complaints, and conflicts of interest), and preparing for future grant-making and programme delivery.
The trustees confirm that they have had regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit when planning and undertaking activities.
Grant-making is intended to be the primary mechanism through which the charity delivers its objectives. A structured grant-making framework and supporting policies have been developed and are pending final Board approval.
The charity is operated entirely by volunteer trustees.
Achievements and Performance
The charity has made significant progress in establishing the foundations necessary for effective future operations.
Key achievements include:
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Formal establishment and registration of the charity as a CIO
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Opening and management of banking arrangements
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Development of a suite of governance and operational policies
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Establishment of a clear strategic direction and delivery model
While no grants were made during the period, this reflects a deliberate and prudent approach to ensure appropriate governance, controls, and readiness prior to programme delivery.
The charity received £91 in donations during the period and undertook no formal fundraising campaigns.
Financial Review
The charity remains in an early-stage financial position, reflecting its start-up status.
Total income for the period was £91, with no expenditure incurred. The charity holds minimal funds across current and savings accounts.
The charity does not yet have a formal reserves policy. This is recognised as a priority and is currently under development.
Given the absence of liabilities and minimal operating costs, the trustees consider the charity to be a going concern.
Principal risks include:
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Limited financial resources
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Early-stage operational capacity
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Dependence on successful future fundraising
These risks are mitigated through careful financial management, phased development, and strong governance arrangements.
Structure, Governance and Management
The charity is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) governed by its Constitution.
Trustees are appointed in accordance with the governing document. The Board comprises individuals with a range of relevant experience and meets as required to oversee the charity’s development.
The charity is currently trustee-led with no employees or paid staff.
Policies and procedures are being progressively formalised, including safeguarding, complaints handling, and conflicts of interest. Trustee induction and ongoing development are undertaken on an informal basis at this stage.
Forward Strategy and Plans for Public Benefit Delivery
In the next reporting period, AAS UK will transition from establishment to delivery.
Key strategic priorities include:
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Finalising and formally adopting all governance and operational policies
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Launching structured grant-making in line with the charity’s objectives
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Developing partnerships with schools and delivery organisations
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Establishing a sustainable fundraising pipeline
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Implementing formal financial controls and a reserves policy
Plans for Public Benefit Delivery (Year 2):
The charity intends to begin making its first grants once governance, funding, and operational readiness thresholds are met. Grants will be targeted at educational initiatives aligned with the charity’s mission, ensuring measurable impact and responsible stewardship of funds.
The trustees will prioritise a cautious and phased approach to scaling activity, ensuring that all grant-making is supported by appropriate due diligence, monitoring, and evaluation processes.
Reference and Administrative Details
Registered Address: 34B York Way, London N1 9AB
Trustees:
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Guy Dunlop (Chairman)
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Steven Lebere
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Dr Tshepo Motsepe
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Wendy Parsons (Treasurer)
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Edward Rising
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Yvonne Themba
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Dean Worrall
Declaration
The trustees declare that they have approved this report.
Signed on behalf of the trustees:
Name: Guy R S Dunlop
Position: Chairman
Date: 5 May 2026