At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts for a transformative £5 million project at Fairley House.
- Company: Join a passionate community dedicated to changing lives through education.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape your career in a respected specialist school.
- Other info: Collaborate with committed colleagues and build strong community connections.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on neurodiverse learners and their futures.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising, relationship management, or similar roles.
The predicted salary is between 31885 - 38971 £ per year.
We have acquired a new school site at 202 Lambeth Road, creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring our Junior and Senior Schools together on a purpose-designed campus in the heart of London. Located alongside Archbishop's Park, the new site will provide specialist teaching spaces, dedicated therapy facilities, enhanced wellbeing provision and opportunities for outreach and professional learning that will extend our impact far beyond our own pupils. To realise this vision, Fairley House is embarking on an ambitious £5 million capital campaign to refurbish and equip the new building.
This is far more than a fundraising role. It is an opportunity to play a central role in one of the most exciting specialist education projects in London and help create a lasting legacy for generations of neurodiverse learners. Working closely with the Head, Governors and senior leaders, you will help develop and deliver our fundraising strategy, secure philanthropic support, strengthen alumni engagement and build lasting relationships with parents, trusts, foundations, corporate partners and supporters. Whether you already have fundraising experience or bring transferable skills from relationship management, communications, business development, education or the charity sector, this role offers the opportunity to make a real and lasting difference.
Key Responsibilities
- Help deliver Fairley House's major capital fundraising campaign.
- Identify and research trusts, foundations, corporate supporters and major donor prospects.
- Prepare compelling funding applications, proposals, presentations and impact reports.
- Build strong relationships with donors, supporters, alumni, parents and community partners.
- Establish and develop a new alumni engagement programme.
- Support fundraising, donor cultivation and community engagement events.
- Maintain accurate records and stakeholder databases.
- Produce engaging communications and campaign materials.
- Monitor fundraising activity and produce reports on progress and opportunities.
- Help raise the profile of Fairley House and develop strategic partnerships that support the school's long-term vision.
About You
We are looking for someone who is:
- An excellent communicator and confident relationship builder.
- Highly organised, self-motivated and able to manage multiple priorities.
- Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively.
- Skilled at writing persuasive and engaging content.
- Curious, proactive and resourceful when researching opportunities.
- Passionate about education, inclusion and improving outcomes for young people.
- Energised by the challenge of contributing to a transformational fundraising campaign.
Essential Experience
- Experience in fundraising, business development, relationship management, marketing, communications or a similar role.
- Experience within education, charity or not-for-profit settings.
- Experience producing high-quality written proposals, applications or reports.
- Strong research and analytical skills.
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel and Outlook.
Desirable Experience
- Knowledge of trusts and foundations fundraising.
- Experience of donor stewardship, alumni relations or supporter engagement.
- Experience using CRM or fundraising database systems.
- Understanding of specific learning difficulties and specialist education.
Why Join Fairley House?
At Fairley House, you will join a community united by a clear purpose: changing lives. Every day, we see young people arrive having lost confidence in themselves and their ability to learn. Through specialist support and a deep understanding of neurodiversity, we help them rediscover their strengths, achieve success and move forward with renewed belief in their future.
This role offers the opportunity to:
- Help deliver a landmark £5 million capital project.
- Create a lasting legacy for current and future pupils.
- Build and shape an emerging development function.
- Work alongside passionate and committed colleagues.
- Develop your fundraising and development career within a highly respected specialist school.
- Contribute directly to improving the lives of children and young people who learn differently.
Fundraising and Development Officer in London employer: Fairley House School
Fairley House School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for Paediatric Occupational Therapists dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children with Specific Learning Difficulties. With a strong emphasis on professional development and collaboration within a multidisciplinary team, employees enjoy a warm, inclusive culture that prioritises wellbeing and personal growth, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fundraising and Development Officer in London
✨Get Involved with Local Charities
Dive into the local fundraising scene in your area! Volunteer for events or get involved with committees at organisations you admire. Not only will you gain experience, but you'll also make connections that could lead to that coveted full-time role at places like Fairley House School.
✨Network through Fundraising Events
Attend fundraising galas, charity auctions, and networking events. These gatherings are perfect for meeting industry professionals and perhaps even landing an interview on the spot. Plus, if you mention how you love the mission of Fairley House School, you’ll definitely make an impression!
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Don’t just sit back; actively connect with fundraisers on LinkedIn! Join groups related to fundraising development and share your insights or experiences, which can position you as a knowledgeable candidate for full-time roles. This is a platform where visibility really counts in our industry.
✨Showcase Your Passion through Content
Consider writing articles or creating posts about fundraising strategies, non-profit success stories, or your experiences in the field. Sharing this content can help establish your expertise and draw attention to yourself for full-time positions like that at Fairley House School. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Fundraising and Development Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the world of fundraising, we want to see your genuine enthusiasm for the mission that Fairley House School supports. Be sure to weave in your personal connection to the cause in your cover letter. This isn't just a job for us; it's about making a difference, so let your passion shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, focus on any past experience related to fundraising, community engagement, or donor relations. If you've organised events or developed marketing materials for a charity, make sure we see it front and centre. Quantify your achievements where possible—donor retention rates or funds raised can make a huge impact!
Use Engaging Language:When crafting your application, use engaging language that reflects the tone and values of Fairley House School. We're looking for enthusiasm and creativity in how you present your experience. This is especially key in fundraising, where storytelling can connect potential donors with our mission.
Tailor Your Application:One size does not fit all! Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically for the Fundraising and Development Officer role at Fairley House School. Research us to understand our specific initiatives and align your skills with our goals. A personalised approach shows that you’re genuinely interested and willing to put in the effort—qualities we absolutely love!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fairley House School
✨Display Your Passion for the Cause
Let’s face it, fundraising is all about passion! Show up to your interview with genuine enthusiasm for the mission of Fairley House School. Share specific experiences that demonstrate your commitment to similar causes, and don't shy away from discussing why this role and this organisation matter to you.
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Brush up on different fundraising strategies and tools that are common in the industry, such as grant writing, event planning, or online campaigns. Be prepared to discuss which methods you've used successfully before and how they could translate to your work at Fairley House School.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios and Challenges
Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll have to talk about how you’d tackle potential challenges in fundraising. Whether it’s overcoming donor objections or streamlining donor processes, think about examples from your past that showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Network Building
Fundraising is rarely a solo effort; collaborative skills are key! Talk about how you've worked with different teams to achieve fundraising goals, and mention any networks you have that could be beneficial for Fairley House School. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
