The Wolfson Foundation: Special Schools and Colleges
Special schools and colleges can apply for funding of up to £75,000 for capital projects that help pupils develop employability skills and the ability to live independently after leaving education, with a focus on secondary and post-16 learners with special educational needs across the UK.
Eligible Organisations
The special school should be a registered or exempt charity or run by a local authority with, where applicable, a rating of at least good, such as from Ofsted or CQC, and it should also be registered with any relevant regulatory authority. Only organisations based in the United Kingdom are eligible.
Suitable Projects
The funding is typically awarded to capital projects, including new builds, refurbishments, or specialist equipment, with total capital costs of at least £50,000 and a minimum funding shortfall of £25,000. In addition, the capital project should aim to achieve one or more of the following: an increase in access to services for users, an improved quality and greater range of services, and/or greater financial stability for the organisation.
Application Process
Applicants are invited to apply online through a two-stage application process, beginning with a Stage 1 application requiring project details, funding shortfall, timetable, senior leadership approval, and submission of audited accounts for the previous two years. Successful applicants are then invited to submit a Stage 2 application by invitation only, usually requiring confirmed match funding and relevant planning permissions.
Important Dates
There are two deadlines a year, 5th January for the stage 1 application and 1st July for the stage 2 application. Funding decisions are made in June and December, following two annual funding rounds, and projects must not be completed before a decision is issued.
Funding Range
The minimum grant available is £15,000, although most grants fall between £40,000 and £75,000, and match funding is required for projects costing over £50,000, with at least 25% match funding expected for projects above £80,000.
