The Robert Pile Trust (RPT) - Educational Charity
What is the purpose of the Educational Charity?
It was set up by Robert Pile who was a Tenant Farmer in Alton Barnes in the 19th Century who paid for the building of Alton Barnes School. When the School closed in the 1970s both Wiltshire Council and the Salisbury Diocese claimed ownership of the School building, however a group of Villagers led by Guy Stratton who was the Tenant Farmer in Alton Barnes at that time proved that it was actually owned by the descendants of Robert Pile. After a lengthy legal process to trace any relatives it was proved that there were none. It was then decided to form a Trust which would provide financial assistance to the residents of Alton Barnes, Alton Priors and Honeystreet (who have been resident for over two years) who want to undertake an educational related activity. Financial assistance can be provided to cover a percentage of the costs of applied for.
What types of educational activities would the Trustees consider supporting?
• Professional qualifications
• Courses around personal development and growth
• College or University fees - both part and full time courses
• School trips that have a clear educational benefit
• Courses relating to music, the arts and drama
• Driving lessons
How do I apply to the Trustees for an educational grant?
Please contact the Clerk to the Trustees (pollycaravans@gmail.com) for an application form.
Who are the Trustees and what is their role?
• David Carson (Chair)
• Polly Carson (also Clerk to Trustees)
• Reverend Mark Windsor
• Kate Thompson
• Arthur Johnson
• David Mayes
Their primary role is consider and assess applications for funding and to ensure that the aims of the Charity are met and in accordance with the Charity's governance.
Registered Charity Number: 1005434
January 2025
