13 April 2026

Historic £5.3m Taunton education fund transferred to Somerset Community Foundation

A long-standing charitable fund supporting young people in Taunton will continue its legacy for generations to come, as Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) takes stewardship of the Bishop Fox’s Educational Foundation (BFEF).

With a history spanning more than 500 years, BFEF’s story can be traced back to the early 1500s, when Richard Foxe, Bishop of Winchester, endowed a Tudor grammar school in Taunton. That legacy of education and opportunity has continued to evolve, with the Bishop Fox’s Educational Foundation awarding grants since 1991.

Jane Barrie, Chair of BFEF, said: “Today, BFEF exists to promote education and opportunity for young people aged between 11 to 25 in the Taunton Deane area, particularly those in need of financial support. Over the past 35 years, it has awarded funding to thousands of young people pursuing their ambitions in education, the arts, sport and employment.

“We’re incredibly proud of the difference BFEF has made so far and after working with SCF for the last 3 years to administer grants, feel confident it’s in safe hands.”

Justin Sargent, Chief Executive of SCF, said: “It’s a great privilege to be entrusted with the stewardship of BFEF. Funds like this play a vital role in supporting social mobility and increasing opportunity in Somerset. I’d like to thank the BFEF trustees for their dedication and care in shaping the fund over many years, and for placing their trust in us to carry that work forward.”

“As a community foundation, one of our most important roles is to provide a safe, long-term home for Somerset’s philanthropic assets and direct funding to where it can have the greatest impact. By working closely with partners and fundholders, we can help strengthen and join up the local funding system for the benefit of local communities.”

BFEF’s funds were initially established using proceeds from the lease and then sale of 2 former school buildings. Carefully invested, these funds have a value of over £5.3 million, generating reliable and sustainable financial support for young people today and for generations to come in the Taunton area.  

BFEF’s history also reflects the dedication of individuals who’ve helped shape its journey, including former councillor and education leader Bea Roberts, who played a key role in establishing the charity. Her legacy will continue through a planned scholarship in her name.

For more information about co-funding, grant-making services, or transferring a charitable trust, visit: www.somersetcf.org.uk/trusts

To apply for BFEF funding, visit: https://www.somersetcf.org.uk/bfef

Photo: Calvin Livesey, who was recently awarded a grant to develop his sporting talent.

About Somerset Community Foundation

Somerset Community Foundation is a grant-making charity that helps build strong communities where everyone can thrive. They do this by funding local charities and facilitating local giving.

They provide simple, rewarding and impactful ways for donors to give locally, guided by research and their unrivalled local knowledge.

For small, local charities, community groups and social enterprises, they provide vital funding and support to help their organisations flourish. SCF awards over £4 million of funding to local groups every year.

SCF also works with individuals, families and organisations to establish and steward charitable funds and endowments. They’ve facilitated the transfer of 26 charitable trusts worth nearly £10.5 million, helping ensure long-term philanthropic assets continue to benefit communities across Somerset.

By inspiring local giving and funding social action, they support local communities to drive change and realise their dreams.