King William’s College and The Buchan School is pleased to confirm that it has secured a fully repayable grant of £2.2 million from the Isle of Man Government’s Department for Enterprise (DfE). This support will assist with construction costs associated with the School’s campus consolidation project, forming part of a broader strategy to ensure a sustainable future for the Island’s only independent school.
The offer of the fully repayable grant was received and formally accepted by the Governing Body at its meeting on Friday 4th April, following an application under Appendix 5 of the DfE’s Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS). The FAS forms part of the Department’s discretionary schemes which are designed to encourage economic development and help protect and grow jobs in the Island.
Earlier today, the matter was raised in the House of Keys, demonstrating the openness of the process and the Government’s ongoing support for key sectors within the Island’s economy.
King William’s College and The Buchan School is a significant employer in the south of the Island, providing nearly 200 jobs and generating substantial annual benefit for the exchequer. The School also plays a vital role in offering high-quality education to both local and international families, contributing to the Island’s broader economic health.
Peter Clucas, Chairman of Governors, commented: “This is a fully repayable grant rather than a gift or subsidy. The funding enables us to move forward with an important capital investment project that underpins the School’s long-term financial sustainability. We are grateful for the support from the Department for Enterprise through the application process.”
The project will consolidate and enhance the School’s facilities, supporting transformational change that aligns with the School’s sustainable business plan and financial forecast. The works are being carried out by local contractors, with support from Manx professional advisers, ensuring that the investment benefits the wider community.
Enabling works for the project are already underway. The School will confirm the construction schedule with contractors this week, working towards a completion date later this year. An update will be provided at the start of the summer term, and it is hoped that tours of the site will be available during the School’s Open Day on Monday 5th May.
Mr Clucas concluded: “This investment represents an important step forward for King William’s College and The Buchan School. It ensures that we can continue to deliver an exceptional education while supporting the Island’s prosperity and long-term future.”
