About JET

How JET started:

JET was formed by several influential Heads of independent prep schools in the late 1960s under the auspices of IAPS (Incorporated Association of Preparatory Schools). They were conscious that there were many children of prep school age in difficult home circumstances who would benefit from boarding in an independent school. Trusts already existed that would support children at senior school and so it was decided to establish a Trust to help younger children. JET is still the only Trust whose sole purpose is to support such children.

How JET is organised:

Until the mid 1980s JET was administered by volunteers. The founders believed that, because they could afford to give a free boarding place, every boarding school in the country would be able to do the same. This soon proved not to be the case, and it quickly became necessary to fundraise in order to provide grant support. JET gradually increased the number of children it was able to help with the support of more schools, organisations, and private individuals. In the 1980s however, it became necessary to appoint a full-time Director. Today JET assists over 150 children, has two paid employees and 25 committed volunteers (who work nationally), and a strong body of Trustees.

How JET is funded:

The competition for the money available to fundraising charities such as JET is now enormous. JET has responded to the need for an increasingly professional approach by establishing both a Management Committee and a Fundraising Committee to work with the Director. JET’s work is limited by the amount of money it is able to raise, and we continue to reach out to new sources of funding as well as keeping close relationships with existing funders. Our work in providing Educational Grants advice is funded by the Independent Schools Council (ISC).

How JET works:

JET receives referrals from education, medical and social work professionals. Many families find out about JET from the Educational Grants Advice Line service and also from the internet, libraries and word of mouth. Schools also refer cases directly to JET. Our staff and volunteers visit every applicant being considered for help and collate all the necessary information. Each case is presented to the Screening Committee which has the responsibility of deciding which children can be assisted. Usually JET will seek to secure funding by arranging grants from other trusts as well as a bursary from the school. Once a child is given help JET maintains regular contact with the school and the family with an annual review taking place as long as the child remains within our criteria.