The Gerry Thornton and Andy Wilson Bursaries: A Groundbreaking Collaboration

In a significant UK first, Alleyn's and Dulwich College are pleased to announce the creation of the Gerry Thornton and Andy Wilson Bursaries: a very special collaboration that will provide funding for free places in each school for talented children from the Camberwell and surrounding areas, enabled by the outstanding generosity of the Thornton and Wilson families. 

Two of the UK’s leading independent schools, co-educational Alleyn’s and Dulwich College for boys already share long-standing philanthropic credentials, originating in 1619 with the charitable Foundation established by the playwright, actor and Shakespearean contemporary Edward Alleyn. 

Alleyn's and Dulwich College share a deep commitment to providing an outstanding education for young people from all backgrounds. There is much we already collaborate on educationally and within our community – but this new initiative offers us the opportunity to extend that collaboration to the work both schools do to widen access to the education we provide to talented pupils in our local community regardless of their financial circumstances. 

“It is not an understatement to say that this represents a watershed moment; an exciting and inspiring opportunity for even deeper collaboration between Alleyn’s and Dulwich College. We are very grateful to the Thornton and Wilson families and hope that their pioneering donations will pave the way for ever closer partnership, as we work together, with our wonderful benefactors, to transform the lives of children.” 

- Jane Lunnon, Head of Alleyn’s 

The Thornton and Wilson families have a distinct and deeply meaningful connection to each of the Foundation schools – beginning with Gerry Thornton’s time as a master at Dulwich College, through James’ and Damian’s period as pupils there and Emma at JAGS, and concluding with their children attending Dulwich and Alleyn’s. This family, more than most, knows the individual character of Alleyn’s and Dulwich College but also our shared commitment to social mobility, and it was their instinct to celebrate the lives and values of their late father Gerry and of Emma’s late husband Andy by establishing these named awards. 

“All of us here at Dulwich College are delighted to be working with the Thornton and Wilson families to help more children from the local area benefit from the education we provide. To create a named bursary in memory of a beloved former colleague is a very special moment for us all.”

- Fiona Angel, Acting Master of Dulwich College 

Gerald (Gerry) Thornton (1926-2007) was a deeply loved former member of Dulwich College staff who devoted 31 years of his career to serving the community from 1955-86: as former Assistant Master, Housemaster of Ivyholme, master in charge of cricket, and as a teacher of English literature, among other responsibilities.

Gerry's service to the College was exemplary, and he is fondly remembered by generations of Old Alleynians and by former colleagues. Known for his kindness, humour and (sometimes acerbic) wit, Gerry was a distinctive character and much missed by all who knew him.

Andy Wilson was an inspirational man of great humanity, who is remembered fondly throughout the Alleyn’s and wider Dulwich community. The Wilson and Thornton families have been part of the Alleyn’s community for over 30 years with seven cousins attending the school.

“Andy was the man that I have admired most in my lifetime: a man of extraordinary energy, wisdom, integrity and compassion; unconditionally devoted to his family, friends and community.” 

- Damian Thornton OA (1976-80)

It is the family’s sincere hope that alumni and parents of both schools will also choose to contribute to support this initiative, and with that in mind we are planning a fundraising dinner on 18 March 2025. More details will be advertised in due course. If you would like to learn more or would like to support the Andy Wilson Bursary at Alleyn's please contact [email protected] or donate via the link below.

Make a Gift to The Andy Wilson Bursary

“We can’t think of a more fitting tribute to the memories of our father and Andy than to create awards in their names that will benefit local children now and in the future. The groundbreaking nature of the collaboration between the two schools is especially meaningful for our family as well beautifully aligned with the founder’s original intent."

 - James Thornton OA (1967-75), Emma Wilson, and Damian Thornton OA (1976-80)