In June 2024 The Faissola Foundation announced an extension of its strategic partnership with the London Academy of Excellence (LAE) in support of students from low-income households.
The extension of the partnership will make possible an annual university-style residency programme for a group of LAE Faissola Scholars. The scholars are chosen based on contextual factors, such as their family’s history of education and household income, as well as their exceptional academic achievement. The first residency took place at UWC Atlantic College, St. Donats Castle in Wales. Future residency programmes are planned in Liguria, Italy.
Founded by Michele Faissola, the Faissola Foundation has supported students at the LAE since 2022. The first round of LAE Faissola Scholars included students now studying at Oxford, Cambridge and the London School of Economics & Political Science.
The London Academy of Excellence, based in Stratford, East London, is the top-ranked state sixth form provider in England and Wales, according to The Sunday Times Parent Power Survey. The school, twice rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, recently became the first state school in the world admitted to the World Leading Schools Association.
The Faissola Foundation aims to tackle inequality caused by socioeconomic circumstance by providing support for young people in the UK and Europe. Founder Michele Faissola said: “Both of my parents were teachers. They taught me that all children can build a foundation for success given the right tools and resources. The Faissola Foundation is happy to support organisations such as the London Academy of Excellence that are devoted to addressing the current crisis in educational inequality.”
Alexander Crossman, Headteacher of the London Academy of Excellence, said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with the Faissola Foundation to provide ambitious, hard-working young people from low-income homes with the sort of educational opportunities that those from more affluent families take for granted.”