State Schools and The Foyle Schools Library Programme

The Foyle Schools Library Programme

The majority of our funding for schools will now be directed to our flagship scheme The Foyle Schools Library Programme. This programme recognises that there is no statutory requirement for schools to have a library and that many school libraries are in a desperate situation through underfunding and underdevelopment. Encouraging children to read widely from an early age will provide a major boost to improving literacy levels, which is a current key educational objective.

Priority will be given to funding library/reading books. We will not fund textbooks/curriculum books. The Foundation will also consider contributions towards library software, necessary IT equipment and furniture etc in order to create a suitable library space, although these should represent a small proportion of the funds requested. We do not generally fund salaries. Preference will be given to schools which can clearly demonstrate that their library can be maintained and renewed in the future. Trustees are also keen to support schools that are working in partnership with other local primary/secondary schools to improve reading standards.

Other Projects

State funded secondary and primary schools can apply for other projects with direct educational benefit but must demonstrate why their project cannot be funded from statutory or other funding. Dedicated schools catering for those with Special Educational Needs (SEN) may also be supported.

Major school building projects, community or sports projects are unlikely to be supported. Private schools will not generally be supported.

Please note that the majority of grants to schools range from £3K to £10K.

How To Apply

If the school has a PTA, Friends or fundraising arm that is a charity, then this should be the applicant on behalf of the school. Otherwise the school can make the application.

All applications from schools must include the following:
1. A completed state schools application form (can be downloaded from "How To Apply" page)
2. A project budget
4. A summary of the latest OFSTED or Inspectorate report
5. The latest school budget (income/expenditure account), explaining any carry forward or deficit (Scottish schools should provide a copy of their devolved budget for staff development and sundries)
6. Annual accounts for the PTA, or Friends

Please send your application to

The Foyle Foundation, 2 Rugby Street, London, WC1N 3QU

Applications are acknowledged by email or by post within two weeks of receipt. If you do not receive this acknowledgement, please contact The Foundation to confirm safe receipt of your request.