Page 4 - Foundation400: After 5 years

Foundation overview

In 2024 it will be 400 years since George Heriot’s death. An early philanthropist and entrepreneur, George Heriot left a significant
sum of money in his will to found a school to educate the fatherless bairns of Edinburgh. During the intervening years, the school has
become a beacon of academic, pastoral and bereavement provision and support.

Today, there are 1,675 pupils breathing fun and laughter through Heriot’s corridors, turrets and classrooms. The Foundation
established by George remains at the heart of the school and, true to his vision, continues to educate and support children who have
lost a parent.
As well as Foundationers, the school admits a significant number of pupils who receive full and part-funded bursaries. Circumstances may
be different, but all supported pupils share academic ability: George Heriot’s is a school where children from any background can flourish.
The cost of Foundation and Bursarial support is approximately £1.3 million per year. The majority of fee income supports the day-to-
day operation of the school and as such does not underpin Foundation finances. Additional income to support our charitable remit
relies on the kindness of former pupils, parents and those on the outside of school who recognise the social mobility opportunity
offered by the school in supporting disadvantaged pupils.

Foundation400 5 year report