What is it?

The Kids Fund is a grant programme from the Field Studies Council (FSC). The FSC is an environmental education charity which aims to provide informative and enjoyable opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to discover, explore and understand the natural environment.

Through the Kids Fund, disadvantaged children and young people have the chance to attend a course run by the FSC.

Who is eligible to apply?

Voluntary youth groups and school groups in the UK and Republic of Ireland are eligible to apply. School groups must be able to demonstrate how the funding will provide benefits which are additional to the school curriculum or clearly show added value, depth and breadth to the curriculum. Applications for standard curriculum-related courses will not be supported.

The funding must benefit groups of disadvantaged children or young people aged between 4 and 18 years (or up to 25 years for those with special needs). Groups must be made up of 10 or more children or young people.

What is available?

Grants that cover up to 80% of the fees for FSC courses are available. Courses must be non-curriculum days or residential courses taking place at an FSC Learning Location. The grant will help to cover equipment, tuition and waterproof hire costs. Food and accommodation will also be included for residential courses. One free adult place is provided for every 12 young people.

Full eligibility criteria and terms and conditions are available on the FSC website – please read this carefully.

How do I apply?

If you would like to apply for this opportunity, please download the application form from the FSC website. It should be posted to the address provided.

There are 3 deadlines each year:

• 1st March
• 1st June
• 1st November.

Good luck!