Frequently asked questions - who, where, what and how?

Below are some frequently asked questions about The Savoy Educational Trust.

What is the Savoy Educational Trust?

The Savoy Educational Trust is an independent,  grant making charitable incorporated organisation for educational purposes, mainly though not exclusively, in relation to the hospitality industry. The main aim of the Trust is the advancement and development of education, training and qualifications within the hospitality industry.

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Are you part of the Savoy Hotel?

In short, no! The Savoy Educational Trust was founded in 1961 by four directors of The Savoy Hotel Ltd as a completely independent, grant-giving charitable Trust. April 1998 marked a turning point in the history of the Trust as the Trustees, after taking legal and financial advice, agreed to sell their entire holdings of A and B shares in The Savoy Hotel plc to Blackstone Hotel Acquisitions Company. The proceeds of the sale form part of the expendable endowment of the Trust and are now invested in such a way as to maximise total return while providing a level of income agreed annually by the Trustees.

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What sort of projects do the Savoy Educational Trust normally fund?

The Trustees award funding for a wide variety of hospitality related projects. If you wish to read more about recent projects that have received funding, please have a look at the annual report which is located on the news page of the website.

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To whom and how much funding does the Savoy Educational Trust normally award?

Educational establishments/Associations/Charitable Trusts - The Trustees do not have a set limit on the amount an organisation can request. However we suggest you contact the office for guidance for your individual project. Grants are awarded on an individual basis at each meeting. Matched funding is normally required. Sufficient evidence must be supplied with each application to show the benefits for both present and future beneficiaries and that there is a need for the project. Individuals - In order for an individual to be eligible for a grant from The Savoy Educational Trust they should be studying for a hospitality related course at a college or university within the United Kingdom. The course should also lead to an accredited qualification. The maximum grant that is awarded is £500 and this is made payable to the relevant University, College or supplier, whichever is relevant. The grant may be used to help pay for fees, clothing, equipment or books that may be required for the particular course.

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What sort of projects does the Savoy Educational Trust not normally fund?

  • Projects that are non hospitality related
  • Overseas projects
  • Individuals undertaking expeditions either in the UK or abroad
  • Leisure industry or outdoor activity projects such as outward-bound courses, recreational activities and adventure experiences
  • Individuals who are studying a non hospitality related course
  • Requests for retrospective funding
  • Core costs for industry competitions
  • Projects where the Trust is the sole funder
  • Research projects
  • Feasibility studies
  • Projects where government should provide core expenditure

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How do I or how does my organisation apply for funding?

Please refer to the How to Apply section of the website for full details. You should follow the appropriate heading depending on which category of applicant you are.

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Do I need to have matched funding in place before applying?

Not necessarily before you apply, but you will need to demonstrate that the Trust will not be the sole funder of the project. You will need to explain which partners you are approaching and what level of funding you expect to receive.

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Do you fund research?

The Trustees are unlikely to fund research unless the applicant can demonstrate there will be a practical impact and immediate benefit for the hospitality industry.

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What information should I include with my first stage application?

Please refer to the How to Apply section.

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If my application is refused at either the first or second stage, may I apply again?

You may come back to the Trust at any time with a revised proposal or a new project. You must wait for a decision on one application before submitting another.

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How often do the trustees meet?

The Trustees meet every quarter, normally in March, June, September and December. At the time of applying you will be informed which of these meetings is suitable for you to submit your application and be given the relevant deadline.

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How will I know if my application has been successful?

Completed application forms and requested accompanying documentation are submitted to the Trustees at one of their quarterly meetings as outlined in the answer to the above question. You will receive a letter very shortly after the Trustee meeting informing you of their decision.

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What happens if my application is successful?

You will be expected to comply with our standard terms and conditions which you can find on our application form. You will also need to report to us on your progress with the project the Trust is supporting. We will provide you with advice on what we like to see in a progress report. For further details please refer to the evaluation page of the website.

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How do I contact the Savoy Educational Trust?

It is best to contact us by email in the first instance
The Savoy Educational Trust
6 Trull Farm Buildings, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8SQ
Email: [email protected] Website: www.savoyeducationaltrust.org.uk

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