Benchmates Foundation
Bringing Every Child Closer to School
Two children share one school bench and one book. They become benchmates. Every child who joins a circle
leaves with a bench of their own in a school.
Two children share one school bench and one book. They become benchmates. Every child who joins a circle
leaves with a bench of their own in a school.
Five Steps from a Reading Circle to School
Children outside school
The Scale of the Problem
The Open Bench Pilot Targets
November 2026 to December 2027
Full pilot
Planning target: 100 children in seven circles in one community, with 67 placed and 60 still enrolled after three months.
Full pilot
November 2026 to December 2027
Planned start: February 2027
First Circle
15 children, three volunteers and five weeks of teaching.
First Circle
Planned start: February 2027
Planning targets
First Circle targets
10 children placed in school and 9 still enrolled three months after placement.
First Circle targets
Planning targets
Planning figure
First Circle cost
US$500 in full, about US$33 per child. The giving channel will open once the payment route and accounting controls are confirmed.
First Circle cost
Planning figure
Safeguarding Is Planned Into Every Circle
No adult is alone with a child. Volunteers are vetted, venues are visible, and concerns are reported
within 24 hours. Safeguarding and data protection policies are being finalised.
The Work Contributes to These Goals
Quality Education
Children reach school and learn to read and count.
No Poverty
Circles and school placement are free to families.
Reduced Inequalities
The poorest children are the ones most likely to be out of school.
Gender Equality
Boys and girls join on equal terms.
Partnerships for the Goals
Circles connect with communities, volunteers, local groups and education pathways.
