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Funding for Schools
About Funding For Schools
We understand that providing high-quality play equipment and outdoor learning spaces is an important priority for many schools. Access to engaging and active play opportunities not only supports pupils’ physical health, but also enhances wellbeing, social development and learning outcomes.
With budgets often under pressure, we wanted to share a range of practical funding options that schools can explore to help bring playground and outdoor projects to life.
Apply for Grants & Funding Programmes
National & Community Grants
Various organisations offer grant funding that schools can apply for to buy or improve play equipment:
- National Lottery Community Fund – Awards for All – Small to medium grants (approx. £300–£20,000) for community-benefit projects like outdoor play space upgrades.
- Tesco Stronger Starts / Tesco Community Grants – Up to around £1,500 awarded via public voting for projects encouraging healthy, active play. https://tescostrongerstarts.org.uk/contact/
- ASDA Foundation Grants – Typically £5,000-£10,000 for community-focused projects; schools and nonprofits can apply.
- Co-op Local Community Fund – Grants shared between local causes; schools can benefit with minimum awards in community rounds.
- Biffa Award / Veolia Environmental Trust / WREN (Waste Recycling Environmental) – Larger funding pots for community/landfill-related projects (often £10,000+), including outdoor spaces and play areas.
- Learning Through Landscapes – Offers outdoor play resources and small grants (e.g., £500 worth of equipment or training).
- People’s Postcode Trust / OneFamily Foundation / Greggs Foundation – Community grant programmes supporting various school and outdoor projects.
Tip: Most grants require you to show community benefit, a clear project plan, and evidence of need (e.g., photos, pupil feedback).
Fundraising & Community Support
In addition to grants, many schools successfully raise money directly from their communities:
Traditional Fundraising
PTA/Parent Events: Fun runs, bake sales, non-uniform days, school festivals, raffles, sponsored activities.
School Crowdfunding: Platforms like GoFundMe or JustGiving to collect wider community donations.
Local Business Sponsorship: Approach local businesses for financial or in-kind support (e.g., equipment, materials).
- Engagement & Visibility – Showcase the impact of play equipment on learning and wellbeing – using stories, photos, and pupil voices – to attract donors and strengthen funding bids.
Leverage School Budgets & Funding Rules
Some school funding streams can stretch to play equipment or outdoor activity resources:
- Primary PE & Sport Premium: In many cases this funding can be used for play equipment that supports physical activity, games, and movement (check eligibility).
- Talk to your local authority or academy trust finance team about whether capital or revenue funding can cover part of your play project.
Cost-Saving Strategies
Cooperative Purchasing
Some schools use pre-approved procurement frameworks to get better prices and save money that can be redirected to equipment.
Leasing / Phased Installation
Spread the cost of equipment over time through compliant leasing arrangements, allowing you to install sooner while managing budgets.
Final Tips for Success
Start early
Grant cycles often repeat annually.
Read criteria carefully
Some funds are only open to charities, others to schools or community groups.
Build a case
Explain how new or improved play equipment will benefit pupils’ health, learning, social skills and community engagement.
Combine sources
Many schools use a mix of grants, fundraising and sponsorship to meet their full budget.
