“After a telephone call with Jo, I was sold on the potential of how easy it would be to work with her, and her team and I wasn’t wrong. The set-up is very professional with a friendly, approachable feel.”
“Jo and her team at Bursary Assessment Associates have helped transform how we manage our Bursary process.”
Who Are We
Bursary Assessment Associates (BAA) was founded in 2017 by Jo Beer, whose belief in the power of education
to change lives continues to guide us today.
Jo’s Journey
From growing up in one of the most deprived areas of the country to a successful career in senior finance, procurement and as a school bursar – shaped her vision for an organisation that would open doors for others. She knew firsthand how life-changing opportunity a great education can be, and she dedicated her career to helping children from all backgrounds access it.
What began as Jo’s personal mission has grown into a business which has become a trusted national partner for schools and charities across the UK. Her warmth, empathy and integrity remain woven into everything we do — from the way we support families to the partnerships we build.
Our Purpose
At BAA, our purpose is simple yet profound: to help organisations deliver life changing opportunities through fair, transparent and compassionate financial assessments. We work with independent schools, charities and educational foundations, supporting them to make confident, informed and equitable decisions about financial awards.
Our team combines professional financial expertise with genuine empathy for each family’s circumstances — a balance that reflects Jo’s enduring values. Every process we design, every report we prepare and every conversation we have is rooted in our key principles: fairness, dignity, integrity and care.
What We Do
Comprehensive Financial Assessments
Independent, detailed evaluations of each applicant’s
financial position, presented clearly, accurately and in line with organisational policy.
Secure Online Applications
A seamless, confidential platform that enables applicants to submit
information safely.
Empathetic Family Support
Dedicated, respectful guidance for every applicant, ensuring each family
is treated with the kindness and understanding Jo built the business upon.
School Support and Partnership
We work closely with schools to streamline their bursary process,
offering tailored advice, data insights and ongoing communication throughout each assessment cycle.
Our aim is to give schools complete confidence in their decision-making and help them demonstrate
the true reach and impact of their bursary programmes.
Organisational Insight and Support
Expert advice on policy, analysis and reporting to further help
partners measure and strengthen the reach and impact of their programmes.
Our approach is professional yet personal – built on trust, expertise and long-term partnership with every organisation we serve.
Jo’s Enduring Legacy
Jo passed away in June 2025 after a long illness, yet her warmth and vision continue to inspire every part of BAA today.
Her compassion, humour and authenticity touched everyone she met — from the families she supported to the schools she partnered with. Those qualities remain the foundation of BAA’s culture.
Every assessment we complete, every family we support and every relationship we build carries forward Jo’s belief that that education should change lives – and that kindness and fairness must always lead the way.
Jo leaves behind her beautiful daughter, Pippa, and a legacy that continues to inspire us daily.
With love,
The Bursary Assessment Associates Team
Testimonials
“Jo and her team at Bursary Assessment Associates have helped transform how we manage our Bursary process.”
Bursary Assessment Associates
Company Number 11078885
ICO Reference Number A8422092