It is no secret that the education sector is going through hard times, with 70% of English schools facing real-time cuts since 2010 (according to data released in February 2024).

Correctly maintaining existing buildings, constructing new ones to accommodate new students and meeting equipment needs has, therefore, been extremely difficult for many educational facilities up and down the country. The need for adequate funding has never been more important, and The Wolfson Foundation has kindly stepped in to provide critical relief for secondary schools and sixth-form colleges.

This is a superb opportunity to bring in capital that lets you make real changes to your facilities, so learn how you can take advantage of it below.

What is The Wolfson Foundation?

The Wolfson Foundation is an independent grant-making charity based in London. Since 1955, it has awarded over one billion pounds across the United Kingdom, allowing education and research facilities to thrive.

What can The Wolfson Foundation funds be used for?

Grants range from £15,000 to £100,000 and can be used for new buildings, refurbishments and technical equipment.

Match funding is required for grants higher than £50,000. This does not mean you must match the grant amount exactly, but The Wolfson Foundation simply wants to see that there is enough capital in place to make the project viable and deliverable.

Who is eligible for the funding?

Schools or sixth-form colleges that apply must have the following characteristics to be eligible:

• Be state-funded
• Have at least two years of exam results available · Have an Ofsted, Estyn, HMIE or ETI rating of ‘Good’ or above
• ·e able to demonstrate an achieved level of excellence or at least display significant progress towards it
• Denominational or faith-based schools should have a non-discriminatory policy to religious allegiance, with at least one in ten pupils of other denominations, faiths or none

The Wolfson Foundation project requirements

During the application process, you will be asked for details about your proposed project. The Wolfson Foundation asks that your development costs at least £25,000 and focuses on the teaching of one or more of the following GCSE and A-Level subjects: Science, Computer Science, Design & Technology, Art, Languages, Music and Performing Arts.

The aim of the project should also be considered, with successful applications intending to achieve one or more of the following:

• Improved quality of teaching
• Increased number of students taking these subjects
• Enhanced learning outcomes for pupils

How do I apply for The Wolfson Foundation funds?

We recommend visiting The Wolfson Foundation’s funding for secondary schools & sixth form colleges page for application guidance.

Please note, schools or colleges that are members of a multi-trust academy (MAT) should submit applications on behalf of the MAT, not the individual educational institution.

When can I apply for the funding?

In 2025, The Wolfson Foundation is trialing a one-stage application process for this funding programme. The next funding round will open in March 2025, and a decision will later be made by Trustees at the foundation.

Let us support your funding application

We understand that securing funds for your school or sixth-form college can be stressful, which is why we are pleased to offer tailored support for grants from the likes of The Wolfson Foundation.

With over 180 years of experience, extensive education sector knowledge and highly-rated reviews online, you can depend on us to assist your application. Do not hesitate to call 0800 051 2593 or complete the form below to utilise our specialists. Be sure to read our case studies to see how we have helped other businesses and educational institutions in the past.