Early years providers in England, Wales and Scotland who employ at least five members of staff and have a physical building – either stand alone or part of a school – are eligible to apply for £500 worth of equipment for outdoor learning and a two-hour outdoor training session. This is the first year since the project began in 2017, that nurseries and pre-schools have been eligible to apply.
The packages are customisable, enabling early years settings, infant, primary and secondary schools to choose from a menu of items which best suit their learners and their setting. All equipment selections have been pre-approved.
Kirsty Waterhouse, LtL project manager of Local School Nature Grants, said, ‘We want to work with schools and early years settings who are passionate about outdoor learning and play, and who will make great use of the equipment and training supplied by this programme.
'The ideal partners will include children in the decision making and will incorporate their local community. You don’t need to be an expert bid writer to apply for this funding.
'Applications will be assessed on the strength of the ideas expressed and not the writing skills.’
The two-hour training session for staff takes place at the setting and there are five EYFS options to choose from: eco warrior; buzz for biodiversity; getting the most out of loose parts and den play; increasing your outdoor provision for early years; and how to bring gardening into your setting.
Following the popularity of Local School Nature Grants in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 LtL have expanded the scheme for 2021 and are offering 625 grants and a wider mix of products and training to appeal to a broader range of ages, including the early years.
The project is open throughout 2021, and applications are being reviewed in four funding rounds. The cut-off application date for round two closes on 25 June and settings and schools will be informed if they have been successful on 9 July. Further rounds take place in September and November.
Learning through Landscapes Local School Nature Grants Programme is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.
- For more information visit https://naturegrants.ltl.org.uk