Elllingham Community Trust’s Training, Education and School Support Scheme is open to all parishioners. An application for a maximum of £250 per applicant per year can be sought from the ECT to support study, for full time education or a training course at a higher or further education establishment or youth activities that promote health and wellbeing. Costs could also include equipment required for the course, and uniform not provided by employers or school. Ellingham Community Trust assesses applications at monthly meetings.
The TESS scheme replaces the Personal Development Scheme.
Application Form
Click here for an application form (pdf)
Click here for an application form (word)
Case Study : Catherine Metcalfe
In 2026 Catherine Metcalfe applied to Ellingham Community Trust for match funding to support her World Challenge expedition to Nambia. The World Challenge expedition is a student-led trip focused on wildlife conservation, cultural immersion, and leadership development.
Catherine learnt about conservation, teamwork and resilience and came home with a greater appreciation for the natural world. Catherine visited a local boarding school to meet the children, painted a library, and visited the local area to see how people support themselves and their family, such as fixing up cars and growing plants. Alongside this, she worked to build a protective wall and water pump system. Catherine also went to an elephant conservation society to learn how elephants are protected from poaching and how to help conserve the species to reduce the risk of further endangerment.
“It was a very eye-opening experience which will stay with me for the rest of my life.
I want to say thank you again to the Trust for providing support which allowed me to have these life-changing experiences.” Catherine Metcalfe.
Case Study : Angus Stockwell
In 2018 Angus Stockwell applied to Ellingham Community Trust for help setting up a new business. Angus was made redundant in 2017 from a national company and wanted to set up his own ‘Handyman’ business. He needed some extra qualifications to offer a full range of services.
Angus applied to Ellingham Community Trust for funding to support the training and equipment needed for his business start-up. After a considered discussion, the Trustees approved the training element of the grant. Angus has now completed his training and is able to offer a range of services to Parishioners. Ellingham Community Trust have not only helped a parishioner to set up his own business, but also widened the offer of businesses available to parishioners.
“I have started my company and having this professional accreditation is a real benefit for both my own competence and ability but also to give confidence to people who hire me.
As my work progresses I will apply again for equipment but I appreciate that I will need to demonstrate the business is working before asking for such.” Angus Stockwell
