In the UK today, being brilliant and working hard is not enough. Where you are born and your family income are still the strongest predictors of the career you will have, how much you will earn and your future health and happiness. Attending a competitive university is the most effective way of opening up opportunity, but it is a route too often out of reach.
A quarter of all children in England now qualify for free school meals based on low household income and eligibility for benefits. These children are only half as likely to achieve a strong pass in their English and maths GCSE exams as their better off peers. They are also three times less likely to progress to the most competitive universities.
But it’s not just household income that impacts progression. Where a young person lives can have a significant impact on their education outcomes.
Higher education offers transformative benefits for individuals, communities and society. University graduates are more likely to be employed and will earn more over the long-term than those who do not access higher education. Between the ages of 23 and 31, the average earnings of university graduates grow at more than twice the rate of non-graduates.
For disadvantaged students, the economic returns of going to university are even greater, with earnings rising at three times the rate of non-graduates.
Beyond supporting students to unlock their potential, universities provide the innovation, talent, and skills needed to power local regions and drive economic growth.
Join our community of supporters and create a society where every child has a fair chance to unlock their brilliance, regardless of where or how they grow up, and where positions of influence are open to everyone, not just the most advantaged.
By supporting The Brilliant Club, you will drive social mobility in three ways:
The Scholars Programme will be the spark.
By supporting The Brilliant Club, Trusts and Foundations drive social mobility through the power of education and create equal opportunities for young people in the UK.
The Brilliant Club wants to work with businesses who are committed to supporting more young people from diverse backgrounds to access the most competitive universities and contribute to a skilled workforce.
As a philanthropic supporter of The Brilliant Club, we will work with you to find the best way to match your philanthropic aims with our mission.
One-off or regular, monthly gifts help sustain The Brilliant Club's work, providing immediate support and reliable, ongoing funding.
Our supporters play a vital role in enabling our mission.
We would like to thank everyone who has helped to make a positive difference for young people, including partner organisations, individuals and those who wish to remain anonymous.
If you are interested in supporting the charity, we would love to hear from you!
Please get in touch with our Head of Fundraising, Eve Saunders, via the button below.
The Brilliant Club is registered with the Fundraising Regulator and adheres to the Code of Fundraising Practice.
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