
A key development in the recent life of Clongowes was the introduction of the Alberto Hurtado Bursary Programme (AHP), in 2007. The AHP is a bursary scheme inspired by the desire to remove barriers to the unique educational experience that a seven-day boarding school can offer. The objective of the AHP is to offer opportunity to boys who might otherwise not fulfil their potential because of socio-economic disadvantage. Students are chosen on the basis of eligibility and suitability, family ambition and their potential to thrive in a boarding environment. As of the end of the past academic year, there have been 46 graduates of the programme and there are currently 39 bursary students in the College. The Foundation is actively involved in the financing of the AHP. Please see the attachment for further detail on the AHP.
The Foundation launched the Alberto Hurtado Bursary Endowment Fund ( AHEF ot the Fund) at the end of January 2020. The AHEF is a permanent fund managed by outside advisors. The long-term objective is to create a fund of some €20m that will secure the full financing of the AHP going forward. The Fund can be launched due to the generosity of a number of past pupils and the Jesuit Province. No withdrawals will take place through the first five years thereby allowing the fund to mature through its infancy. Existing pledges and legacies should see the Fund gain some mass over time but in order to fulfil its objective, the Fund will require further contributions and legacies. It is an ambitious project but a project, that the history of Clongowes tells us, can be achieved.
The Funding of the AHEF and the AHP is a key focus for the Foundation going forward. If you would like to learn more about it please contact Mr Joe Rooney at 045-838215 or Ms Emma Robinson at 045-902334 at the Foundation offices in the College.