The Chisholme Institute

A vast amount of work hs been undertaken by students and volunteers to restore Chisholme House and its grounds.

This collectivity of support means that Chisholme is owned by no-one and everyone

Chisholme House was built in 1752. It is set in an estate of nearly 200 acres in the Scottish Borders. For four hundred years, it was the seat of the southern branch of Clan Chisholme, but it went out of the family's possession in the early part of the 20th century. (For more information see Early History)

In the 1950s the estate was abandoned and the house fell into serious disrepair. Its fortunes turned in 1973, when it was taken on by a group of intrepid young people who were looking for a suitable place for a school and retreat centre. In the true pioneering spirit of that time, they embarked on a huge renovation project, despite total lack of funds or the most basic facilities such as electricity, hot water, or even just glass for the windows. Over subsequent years, the original band of young people has grown into a steady stream of visitors, volunteers and students. With their help the once derelict estate became transformed into a suitable place for the work of the Beshara School. (For more information see History)

The School is now BAC accredited.

How Chisholme is financed

The funding of the School at Chisholme is based on a very simple principle. As many people as possible give small sums and so share the benefit of generosity. This collectivity of support means that the School is owned by no-one and everyone. The School has never been dependent on single big donors or funding from any particular interest groups.

With this principle in mind, a covenant plan was established in 1980, to raise money for the renovation of the house and outbuildings. Covenants vary according to a person's means, but even a very small amount, given regularly, makes a huge difference over time. Many covenants together form a very strong whole.

Most of the fixtures and fittings, furnishings, tools, linen and crockery used at the school have been donated.

In short, Chisholme has come about through the joint efforts and participation of many dedicated people. The principle of the covenant scheme – that the school should be owned by no-one and everyone – holds true on every level.

For more details on Finances, Appeals and Donations.