This is a great opportunity for schools looking for a way to celebrate the First World War centenary.

First World War: then and now is a programme run by the Heritage Lottery Fund. It is currently inviting applications for grants worth between £300 and £10,000 to help communities understand the war better, uncover its stories and explore its significance today. There is a particular interest in projects that work with young people aged 11 to 25 years.

The grants programme will run until 2019 – you can apply any time between now and then.

Who is eligible?

Applications are welcome from not-for-profit organisations. This includes schools and colleges, charities, community or voluntary groups, history groups, social enterprises and youth groups.

What makes a strong application?

There are 4 components to a successful application:

1. Say what First World War heritage your project focuses on.

2. Describe what you are going to do – in as much detail as you can. Think: what, where, who, how, how many?

3. Tell the reader how you will share the findings of your project with others.

4. Say what difference your project will make – what outcomes it will deliver. Think about the impact your project will have on knowledge, skills, awareness and understanding of the First World War, access to heritage, volunteering opportunities and so on.

What costs are covered?

You can use funding to cover direct project costs. This includes costs relating to project management, equipment and materials, training and promotion.

You can’t use funding to cover existing staff or organisational running costs.

How do I apply?

The application form has been designed to be quick and easy to complete so that anyone with a great project idea can apply.

The guidance notes contain valuable information to support your application. All application materials, including the guidance notes and the application form, are available on the Heritage Lottery Fund website.

Good luck!