Meet the trustees, ambassadors and our cutest little mascot willow.

The Trustees of the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF) have kick-started 2026 with a commitment of more than £60,000 in awards, to support the dreams and ambitions of young people throughout our community. This funding means that both individual young achievers and entire schools and youth groups will benefit from a host of new projects and opportunities in the year ahead.

This year’s pledge builds on the impressive legacy of 2025, in which the JTYAF distributed over £62,000, directly impacting 115 young people and funding 19 projects across local schools and youth groups. Awards last year ranged from £50, funding Duke of Edinburgh’s Award fees, up to £3,700 for Ferndown Upper School, helping refurbish its library and create a wonderful new space for students to study.

Support will be available to young people from 18 youth organisations, with two new partnerships, the Tall Ships Youth Trust and the Bournemouth Youth Marching Band. JTYAF bursaries will provide access to Tall Ships Adventures for young people from Dorset and Wilts who face financial barriers. Meanwhile, aspiring young musicians joining the Bournemouth Youth Marching Band will receive their instruments, thanks to JTYAF’s generosity.

Additional funding has been earmarked for young people not affiliated with current JTYAF-supported organisations, broadening the Foundation’s reach and reinforcing its commitment to inclusion and diversity. To discover all the groups benefiting this year, see the ‘Our Work’ section on the website.

Founded in 2008 in memory of Lieutenant John Thornton RM, who tragically lost his life serving with 40 Commando Royal Marines in Afghanistan, the Foundation remains dedicated to helping young people “climb as high as they can dream.” Whatever the ambition, JTYAF aims to offer inspiration, practical support, and the resources for young people to turn their aspirations into reality.

None of this would be possible without the extraordinary kindness of the Foundation’s supporters and the tireless efforts of the JTYAF’s volunteers, trustees and ambassadors. Each member of the team donates their time and energy to ensure John’s legacy continues to make a difference, one young achiever at a time.

The New Year has already seen nearly £6,000 awarded to young achievers, and with so much in store, 2026 promises to be an exciting chapter for the JTYAF and the youth it supports.