What is it?

The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) funds projects that seek to improve the educational attainment of pupils who are eligible for free school meals. Projects should be cost-effective and replicable.

The EEF is looking for projects that have been well planned, with a clear explanation of how they will be implemented within schools or educational settings. They should also have evidence that shows how the approach taken will be effective. You can use wider research literature for this, but it should link specifically to your approach. Projects should also be scalable; that is, it is possible for the project to be delivered by other teachers and other organisations in England.

This round has particular interest in projects in the following areas:

• Early years, including early language development, self-regulation, parental engagement/home learning, and professional development in early years settings.
• Interventions aimed at improving literacy outcomes in primary school children, that could be tested in schools in the North East.
• Secondary school subject teaching.

How much funding is available?

There is no minimum or maximum grant. Past grants have ranged from £90,000 to £1.8 million.

Who can apply?

Any not-for-profit organisation can apply for funding from the EEF. This includes primary and secondary schools, charities, local authorities, academy chains, universities, social enterprises and community interest companies.

How do I apply?

You need to make an initial application. Successful applicants at this stage will be invited to work with independent evaluators to develop their project plans and budgets before going before the final grants committee for review.

The deadline for the initial applications is 1st April 2016.

Applications can be made through the online portal on the EEF Foundation website. You can also find guidance notes here.

For more information: EEF website