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Our Values

Our Values

Organisational values are guiding principles that help to shape culture, improve employee engagement, support decisions and actions, and drive success, because they aid the communication of what is most important to the organisation.

For the Harpur Trust, our values have a role to play in our relationships with staff, pupils, parents, volunteers and the wider community.

They have been created in collaboration with staff from across The Trust when thinking about how we operate ‘at our best’.

A woven blue H beside the text Our values... RESPECT, INTEGRITY, INCLUSION, KINDNESS, AMBITION with certain letters highlighted to spell TRUST vertically. Background is dark grey.

RESPECT  – We demonstrate professionalism and regard for colleagues, pupils and beneficiaries, irrespective of position, background, or opinion

INTEGRITY – We act with honesty, fairness, reliability, accountability and strong ethical principles to build trust.

INCLUSION – We help create an environment where all individuals feel welcome and valued, regardless of their differences, so everyone is empowered to contribute.

KINDNESS – We consistently demonstrate empathy and consideration towards colleagues, pupils and beneficiaries.

AMBITION – We set high standards of performance so that we can realise our potential.

 

Our History

SIR WILLIAM HARPUR’S VISION

The Harpur Trust was founded over 450 years ago by Sir William Harpur, a local man born to humble beginnings who made his fortune as a merchant tailor and became Lord Mayor of London in 1561.

Today our activities are still inspired by Sir William Harpur’s vision. He understood the value of education, and he saw what needed to be addressed to support the people in his hometown of Bedford.

 

Find Out More

Featured News

27 Mar 2026

Year of Impact Celebrated as Harpur Trust Reaches 460th Anniversary

04 Feb 2026

Join The Harpur Trust’s Board as a Finance Trustee

16 Dec 2025

Year 12 Students Impress with Innovative Community Projects at Borough Leadership Event