Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School (BVGS) has confirmed seventeen Corporate Partners as part of its Corporate Partnership Programme which officially launched Thursday 9th February. The launch was celebrated with a networking event for the Corporate Partners, giving the new affiliates a chance to engage with those involved with the initiative.

This exciting programme has been developed as a result of the school diversifying its business activities to support a sustainable business model to help overcome challenges the public education sector faces with ongoing reductions in government funding. BVGS has identified the potential in taking a proactive approach to generating new revenue streams to support the continuing ‘inspiration and excellence’ the school provides for all its students.

The Corporate Partnership is mutually beneficial to all involved, explains Brian Davies, Development Director and Deputy Sports Director at the school. “We’ve had a fantastic response so far, and lots of interest from other businesses including ex-BVGS students who have started their own business ventures.

“This has always been a forward-thinking school with a lot to offer businesses and the local community. The school is already well established within the community, and we’re aware that having a connection with the school can help to raise the profile of local businesses. The expertise of the corporate partners will also help to drive the schools commercial ambition as an academy.

“We have invested in an online platform to support the Corporate Partnership Programme. It’s a place where our school staff, alumni and the Corporate Partners can connect with other members, and post updates about their business. For us it’s an opportunity to announce the great things we’re doing at the school, keeping everyone in the loop.

“The first to join the programme was Clive Poole, Director at X2 furniture. Clive has worked with the school before and has experienced first-hand the benefits of supporting a good cause within the community.”

Clive Poole, X2 furniture commented: “I attended BVGS in the sixties and seventies and enjoyed my time there enormously, feeling proud to be part of such a well-respected school. I have kept in touch, and in the last few years I have developed a healthy business partnership with BVGS.

 “I have already benefited from business secured via the sponsorship of their annual golf day from both parents and other sponsors. I was thrilled to hear about the formation of the Corporate Partnership as I know from experience it will be mutually beneficial to everyone involved. We look forward to continuing to build strong relationships with the other Corporate Partners.”

The networking event to launch the initiative was a great success, concludes Davies: “We had a good turnout and it was gratifying to see that everyone involved is as enthusiastic as I am. The response so far has put us in good stead to further grow our Corporate Partnership Programme, to reach out to other local businesses looking for exposure by supporting the school and helping to enrich the lives of our students.”