IRIS

The Institute for Research in Schools (IRIS) is an education charity which does three things: it gives students the chance to run real science research projects and share their findings with the wider world; it empowers schools to make research and innovation part of their culture, and it works with partners to put research in schools on the national agenda.

More than 10,000 students, mainly from the state sector, have carried out around 1,200 research projects. These projects are genuine rather than simulated - students work with universities and institutions on questions that have no textbook answer, from particle physics to DNA origami. Evaluation shows the impact is real, and not just in terms of enthusiasm: A-level Biology students who took part progressed three times faster than non-participants, more went on to study STEM post-18, and pilot schools recorded statistically significant gains in student confidence and STEM aspiration. Teachers also report renewed professional purpose.

IRIS has developed a bold strategy, and the Trustees have recognised that if the charity is to fulfil its ambitions, it needs to fundraise effectively. Following a thorough tender process, Gifted has been appointed to develop a robust fundraising strategy and then work with the charity to build sustainable external income streams.

“We are absolutely delighted to become IRIS’s fundraising partner,” says Chris Goldie. “The charity already does so much to encourage youngsters to embrace STEM but now it wants to do even more. We are determined that this exciting and important charity will become an effective fundraising organisation so that it can achieve its ambitions.”

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If your organisation is looking to undertake a strategic review of its fundraising operation, or you'd like to find out more about our full range of fundraising services, get in touch and request an initial conversation with one of our Directors.