History & Origin
Formally registered on 19 May 1982, the Charitable Foundation has been the philanthropic heart of Plumpton College for over four decades.
Foundation 1982
Established to provide financial support for student needs and activities that fall outside the college's normal funding.
Incorporating O.T. Norris
Established in honour of Oswald Thomas Norris, whose generosity and commitment to Sussex continue to create opportunities for future generations.
Queen Camilla, Patron
Her Majesty has served as Patron since 2009, underlining the importance of rural education to the nation.
The Legacy of O.T. Norris
The foundation's creation was tied to the generosity of Oswald Thomas "O.T." Norris, a farmer, wine and spirits merchant, and an early supporter of Plumpton. He served as the first Chairman of Governors, and the fund established in his name was known as the O.T. Norris Fund.
When the charity was officially formed with the Charity Commission, the reference to O.T. Norris was incorporated into the title of the charity, ensuring his philanthropic legacy would continue to empower those entering the land-based industries.
Sid Beard was a student at the college in the late 1930s and spent the war training the Land Army, before going on to manage O.T. Norris's farm at Tillgate Forest Lodge near Crawley. Sid was a great supporter of the college and keen that the fund continued.
Over the years, the Foundation has stayed true to this origin, continually adapting its support to meet students' most pressing needs—from bus passes and meals to larger projects like new training equipment.
Key Milestones
1982
Founding of the Charitable Foundation.
Officially registered as a charity (No. 284719) on 19 May 1982, tied to the legacy of benefactor Oswald Thomas Norris
2009
Royal Patronage Begins.
Her Majesty Queen Camilla becomes Patron, bringing national profile to the foundation’s mission.
2014
Royal Visit to Campus.
Royal Patron tour of the Wine Studies Centre, highlighting the Foundation’s role in supporting student endeavors.
2023
Charity of the Year Honour.
Selected as the South of England Agricultural Society’s Charity of the Year, boosting regional awareness.
2024
Queen’s Anniversary Prize.
Shared in the celebration of the highest national honour in education for excellence in wine education.
2026
Centenary of the First Student Intake and Royal Patron Visit
Major fundraising campaigns planned to secure resources for the next century of student support.
Unlocking Potential for Every Student
For Jack*, education offered a pathway to a brighter future and the chance to pursue a passion for Blacksmithing. However, following family job losses, the costs of course materials became overwhelming, putting their place at college at risk. A grant from the Foundation provided the support needed to keep them learning. As a result, Jack remained on course, achieving his academic targets. Without this support, his educational journey could have come to an end.
*Name changed to protect identity.
Contact us
Plumpton College,
Ditchling Road, Plumpton,
Lewes BN7 3AE
Email: charity@plumpton.ac.uk
Tel 01273 890454
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©2026 THE PLUMPTON COLLEGE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION (INCORPORATING O.T. Norris) Registered Charity Number: 284719